Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary-General/African Union Summit, France, Yemen & other topics – Daily Press Briefing

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    – Secretary-General/African Union Summit
    – Secretary-General/France
    – Yemen
    – Namibia
    – Security Council/Syria
    – Occupied Palestinian Territory
    – Democratic Republic of Congo/Peacekeeping
    – Democratic Republic of Congo/Humanitarian
    – Bangladesh
    – International Day
    – Guest Tomorrow
    – Financial Contribution

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/AFRICAN UNION SUMMIT
    On Thursday morning, the Secretary-General will arrive in Addis Ababa, in Ethiopia, to take part in the 38th African Union Summit.  While there, he is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with the leadership of the African Union Commission, Ethiopian authorities as well as Heads of State and Government from the continent.
    On Friday, he is also scheduled to take part in meetings of the AU Peace and Security Council at the level of Heads of State and Government, concerning the situations in Sudan and the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
    On Saturday morning, the Secretary-General will attend the opening session of the African Union Summit. He will deliver remarks, during which he will reaffirm that the partnership between the United Nations and the African Union has never been stronger.
    He is also expected to reiterate his calls for reforms of the international financial architecture, as well as for permanent representation of African countries at the Security Council.
    On Saturday, the Secretary-General is also scheduled to hold a press conference. 

    SECRETARY-GENERAL/FRANCE
    Before leaving Paris for Addis Ababa to attend the African Union Summit, the Secretary-General visited the headquarters of Reporters Sans Frontières, where he met with its Director General, Thibaut Bruttin.
    Addressing the staff, the Secretary-General said that organizations like RSF are on the front line in the common fight for truth against fiction, for science against conspiracy, and for the fight against impunity when journalists face violence and even death. 
    The Secretary-General said the struggle to defend freedom of the press and the journalists themselves is essential to preserve our democracies.

    YEMEN
    The Secretary-General strongly condemned the death in detention on 10 February of a World Food Programme (WFP) colleague who had been arbitrarily detained by the Houthi de facto authorities since 23 January 2025. The circumstances surrounding this deplorable tragedy remain unclear, and the United Nations is urgently seeking explanations from the Houthi de facto authorities.
    The Secretary-General has called for an immediate, transparent and thorough investigation and for those responsible to be held accountable. In his statement, he said that the continued arbitrary detention of dozens of personnel from the United Nations, national and international non-governmental organizations, civil society organizations, and diplomatic missions, is unacceptable. He renewed his call for their immediate and unconditional release.

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/ossg/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=12+February+2025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2VnzpsJw4U

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Watch live: Lords marks Holocaust Memorial Day 2025

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    Find out more and see who’s taking part https://www.parliament.uk/business/news/2025/february/lords-marks-holocaust-memorial-day-2025/

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • X: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/houseoflords.parliament.uk
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3nK1VWCdSI

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI USA: Smoke Billows From Bushfires in Tasmania

    Source: NASA

    In early February 2025, bushfires ignited in northwestern Tasmania, where they have continued to burn on the island for more than a week amid windy, warm, and dry conditions.
    Smoke from the fires is visible in this image, acquired at about 4 p.m. local time (05:00 Universal Time) on February 12, 2025, by the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) instrument on NASA’s Aqua satellite.
    Starting on February 3, lightning strikes from dry thunderstorms ignited multiple fires in the state’s North West region, according to news reports. By February 12, more than a dozen fires had burned around 50,000 hectares (190 square miles).
    An emergency warning, updated on February 13 by the Tasmanian government, indicated that one of the fires was progressing toward Sandy Cape, a popular spot for beach camping, and was expected to be “uncontrollable, unpredictable, and fast-moving.” (Note that Sandy Cape is covered with smoke in this view.)
    Fire was also approaching the town of Corinna, where a “watch and act” warning remained in effect on February 13. Beekeepers have already abandoned hives near the town, according to news reports, where leatherwood trees supply nectar for bees that support much of the region’s honey industry.
    According to a heatwave warning from Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), much of the state’s west coast saw severe heatwave conditions on several days during the week of February 10. The region has also been exceptionally dry. For example, the past 12-month period has been the driest on record (since 1900) along the coastal areas near Sandy Cape.
    Forecasts called for damaging winds with gusts of up to 90 kilometers (55 miles) per hour ahead of an approaching cold front. Cooler, wetter weather was expected toward the end of the week.
    NASA Earth Observatory image by Michala Garrison, using MODIS data from NASA EOSDIS LANCE and GIBS/Worldview. Story by Kathryn Hansen.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom announces appointments 2.12.25

    Source: US State of California 2

    Feb 12, 2025

    Kate Hoit, of Sacramento, has been appointed Deputy Secretary of Communications at the California Department of Veterans Affairs. Hoit has been the PACT Act Enterprise Program Management Office Communications and Outreach Lead at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs since 2023. She was a Communications Lead in the Veteran Experience Office, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs from 2021 to 2023. Hoit was the California State Director at the Vet Voice Foundation from 2018 to 2021. She was the Military Marketing Manager at National University from 2017 to 2018. Hoit was the Director of Content and Communications at Got Your 6 from 2014 to 2017. She was a Public Affairs Specialist at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs from 2011 to 2014. Hoit served in the U.S. Army Reserve from 2001 to 2009. She is a Pat Tillman Scholar and a member of the Truman National Security Project. She earned her Master of the Arts Degree in Non-Fiction Writing from Johns Hopkins University, and a Bachelor of the Arts in Journalism from the University at Albany, State University of New York. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $154,860. Hoit is a Democrat.

    Shaun Spillane, of Gold River, has been appointed Chief Deputy Inspector General at the Office of the Inspector General, where he has been Chief Counsel since 2023, and was Attorney IV from 2013 to 2023. Spillane was Labor Relations Counsel II at the California Department of Human Resources from 2009 to 2013. He was a Graduate Student Assistant in the Office of the Inspector General from 2007 to 2009. Spillane earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Michigan. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $201,972. Spillane is registered without party preference.

    Michael “Mike” Detoy, of Hermosa Beach, has been appointed to the California Public Employees’ Retirement System Board of Administration. Detoy has been Councilmember and Mayor of the City of Hermosa Beach since 2019. He has been Fire Captain for the City of Riverside since 2011. Detoy is President of the Riverside City Firefighters Association. He earned a Master of Public Administration degree from California Baptist University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from Santa Clara University. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Detoy is a Democrat.

    Christopher Gonder, of Brawley, has been appointed to the Commission on Correctional Peace Officer Standards and Training. Gonder has been a Correctional Officer at the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation since 2016. He is the Vice President of the California Correctional Peace Officers Association, Calipatria Chapter and President of the Chicano Correctional Workers Association, Calipatria Chapter. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and there is no compensation. Gonder is registered without party preference.

    Hellen Hong, of Los Angeles, has been reappointed to the Civil Rights Council, where she has served since 2021. Hong has been Chief Executive Officer at CalBar Connect since 2020. She was the Director at the Office of Access and Inclusion at the State Bar of California from 2019 to 2020. Hong held multiple executive positions at First Place for Youth from 2014 to 2019. She was the Executive Director of the Los Angeles Center for Law and Justice from 2007 to 2014. Hong was a Public Interest Attorney from 2004 to 2007. She was Assistant Director of State Government Relations at the University of California from 2002 to 2004. Hong earned her Juris Doctor degree from Loyola Law School. This position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Hong is a Democrat

    Hugh Crooks, of Los Angeles, has been reappointed to the California Veterans Board, where he has served since 2017. Crooks was a Human Resources Operations Manager at the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk from 2000 to 2005. Crooks was Head of Administrative and Facility Services at the Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History from 1991 to 2000. He was Safety Police Chief III for the Protective Services Division at the Los Angeles County Safety Police from 1969 to 1991. Crooks was a Rifleman in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1969. He is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, 9th Infantry Division Society, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Advisory Group. Crooks was a National Executive Committeeman and Chief Financial Officer of the American Legion, Department of California. This position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Crooks is a Democrat. 

    Press Releases, Recent News

    Recent news

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:Karen Morrison, of Sacramento, has been appointed Director at the California Department of Pesticide Regulation. Morrison has held multiple positions at the Department of Pesticide…

    News What you need to know: Across all of state government, highly-specialized personnel and response equipment are on the ground working to protect communities statewide from storm impacts.  Los Angeles, California – With another significant winter storm system…

    News What you need to know: Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order today ordering the state to ensure that childcare providers impacted by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles are aware of their potential eligibility for Disaster Unemployment Assistance and…

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2025-23 DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL HOSTS FIRST EVER ONLINE ASSET FORFEITURE AUCTION

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    2025-23 DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL HOSTS FIRST EVER ONLINE ASSET FORFEITURE AUCTION

    Posted on Feb 12, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL

    KA ʻOIHANA O KA LOIO KUHINA

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    ANNE LOPEZ

    ATTORNEY GENERAL

    LOIO KUHINA

    DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL HOSTS FIRST EVER ONLINE ASSET FORFEITURE AUCTION

    News Release 2025-23

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                               

    February 12, 2025

    HONOLULU –The Department of the Attorney General, Civil Recoveries Division’s Asset Forfeiture Program is conducting a live, online auction beginning February 18. It is the first time Hawaiʻi is staging an online auction for this program.

    “Prior to the COVID pandemic, we previously held live auctions quarterly at the Blaisdell Center,” said Asset Forfeiture Program Manager Kern Nishioka. “While online auctions are not a new idea, the launch of our auction website is a first for our office.”

    The initial selection is primarily cars and trucks. Other items for sale include a commercial fishing boat and trailer, and Morgan silver dollar coins. The department’s Auction Items Preview page has a list of the cars, trucks and SUVs that will be featured in the upcoming live online auction.

    The first items will go live on the department’s online auction page starting at 3 p.m. on February 18. Listings will be added as they become available. Auction closure dates will vary between items.

    To participate in the online auction, a free eHawaii.gov account is required. Participants must be 18 and over. To register, and for more information on the requirements/restrictions and how to place bids, go to the department’s online auction page as well as the Department of the Attorney General’s Asset Forfeiture Program page

    The proceeds generated from auctions are used to fund law enforcement activities such as training and equipment, as well as to support program expenses.

    # # #

     

    Access to the Auction Car Dropbox video album is here – Auction Cars Video

     

    Media contacts:

    Dave Day

    Special Assistant to the Attorney General

    Office: 808-586-1284                                                  

    Email: [email protected]        

    Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov

    Toni Schwartz

    Public Information Officer

    Hawai‘i Department of the Attorney General

    Office: 808-586-1252

    Cell: 808-379-9249

    Email: [email protected] 

    Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – MEPs want to suspend EU-Rwanda deal on sustainable value chains for critical raw materials

    Source: European Parliament 3

    The Rwandan government must withdraw its troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo’s territory and cease cooperation with the M23 rebels, Parliament says.

    In a resolution adopted on Thursday, 13 February, MEPs strongly condemn the occupation of Goma and other territories in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) by M23 rebels and the Rwandan defence forces as an anacceptable breach of the DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    MEPs denounce the indiscriminate attacks involving explosive weapons as well as unlawful killing, rape, and other apparent war crimes in populated areas of North Kivu by all parties. They deplore the use of forced labour, forced recruitment, and other abusive practices, by M23 with the support of Rwanda’s military, and by the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC).

    Critical humanitarian situation

    Calling for an immediate end to the violence, particularly the mass killings and the use of rape as a strategic weapon of war, Parliament urges the DRC and Rwanda to investigate and prosecute those responsible for war crimes, including sexual violence, under the principle of command responsibility. MEPs also say that any attack on United Nations-mandated forces is inexcusable and may be considered a war crime.

    MEPs are extremely concerned about the critical humanitarian situation in the country and demand the immediate reopening of Goma airport and the creation of humanitarian corridors to re-establish humanitarian operations in eastern DRC.

    Immediate suspension of EU Memorandum of Understanding with Rwanda

    Parliament regrets the European Union’s failure to take appropriate measures to address the crisis and pressure Rwanda to end its support for M23. It urges the European Commission and the Council to immediately suspend the EU’s Memorandum of Understanding on Sustainable Raw Materials Value Chains with Rwanda, until the country ceases all interference in the DRC, including exporting minerals mined from M23-controlled areas.

    MEPs also call on the Commission, EU member states and international financial institutions to freeze direct budget support for Rwanda until it allows for humanitarian access to the crisis area and breaks all links with M23. The Commission and EU countries should also halt their military and security assistance to the Rwandan armed forces to avoid contributing directly or indirectly to abusive military operations in eastern DRC.

    MEPs are concerned about the consequences of Russian interference in the conflict, as well as the increasing presence of Chinese actors in the DRC’s mining sector and in wider region and working without respect for economic and social responsibility.

    Support for peace negotiations

    Parliament welcomes the joint SADC and EAC peace summit held in Dar es Salaam on 8 February and expresses its full support for the Luanda and Nairobi peace processes. MEPs call on all countries in the Great Lakes region, in particular the DRC and Rwanda, to urgently pursue negotiations under these frameworks.

    The resolution was adopted with 443 votes in favour, 4 against and 48 abstentions.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI: Brookfield Wealth Solutions Announces Year End 2024 Results and Declares Quarterly Distribution Increase

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BROOKFIELD, NEWS, Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brookfield Wealth Solutions (NYSE, TSX: BNT) today announced financial results for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024.

    Sachin Shah, CEO of Brookfield Wealth Solutions, stated, “Our strong results for 2024 underscore our growth over the past year having doubled the size of the business in that time. Our scalable North American annuity platform, coupled with our leading investment capabilities, will serve as the foundation for our business as we expand internationally in 2025.”

    Unaudited
    As of and for the periods ended December 31
    (US$ millions, except per share amounts)
    Three Months Ended   Year Ended
      2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Total assets $ 140,460     $ 61,643     $ 140,460     $ 61,643  
    Adjusted equity1   12,872       8,969       12,872       8,969  
    Distributable operating earnings1   427       258       1,374       745  
    Net income   576       453       1,247       797  
    Net income per each class A share $ 0.08     $ 0.07     $ 0.32     $ 0.28  

    1.   See Non-GAAP and Performance Measures on page 6 and a reconciliation from net income and reconciliation from equity on page 5.

    2024 Highlights

    • Completed the acquisition of American Equity Investment Life Holding Company (“AEL”), doubling the size of our business
    • Deployed more than $17 billion across our investment portfolio at strong risk-adjusted returns
    • Generated $19 billion in annuity and pension risk transfer (“PRT”) sales across the business, consisting of approximately $14 billion of retail annuity sales, inclusive of a full twelve months of activity at AEL, and $5 billion of PRT deals
    • We closed our first U.K. reinsurance transaction, reinsuring £1.0 billion ($1.3 billion) of pension liabilities

    Operating Update
    We recognized $427 million and $1.4 billion of distributable operating earnings (“DOE”) for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, respectively, compared to $258 million and $745 million in the prior year periods. The increase in earnings for the current period reflects contributions from our acquisition of AEL as well as higher net investment income resulting from progress made in repositioning assets into higher yielding investment strategies. DOE further benefitted from strong annuity sales during the year.

    We recorded net income of $576 million and $1.2 billion for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, respectively, compared to net income of $453 million and $797 million in the prior year periods. Net income in the current period is the result of strong operating performance and contributions from our DOE, as well as favorable movement on reserves due to interest rate and equity market movements.

    Today, we are in a strong liquidity position, with approximately $31 billion of cash and short-term liquid investments across our investment portfolios, and another $21 billion of long-term liquid investments. These liquid assets will support the ongoing rotation of our portfolio into higher yielding investment strategies, while ensuring we have sufficient liquidity coverage for our liabilities in the case of any stress events impacting the broader market.

    Regular Distribution Declaration
    The Board declared a 13% increase in the Company’s quarterly return of capital to $0.09 per class A share and class B share (representing $0.36 per annum), payable on March 31, 2025 to shareholders of record as at the close of business on March 14, 2025. This distribution is identical in amount per share and has the same payment date as the quarterly distribution announced today by Brookfield Corporation on the Brookfield class A shares.

    Brookfield Corporation Operating Results
    An investment in class A shares of our company is intended to be, as nearly as practicable, functionally and economically, equivalent to an investment in the Brookfield class A shares. A summary of Brookfield Corporation’s fourth quarter and full year operating results is provided below:

    Unaudited
    For the periods ended December 31
    (US$ millions, except per share amounts)
    Three Months Ended   Years Ended
      2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net income of consolidated business1 $ 101     $ 3,134     $ 1,853     $ 5,105  
    Net income attributable to Brookfield shareholders2   432       699       641       1,130  
    Distributable earnings before realizations2,3   1,498       1,209       4,871       4,223  
    – Per Brookfield class A share2,3   0.94       0.76       3.07       2.66  
    Distributable earnings2,3   1,606       1,312       6,274       4,806  
    – Per Brookfield class A share2,3   1.01       0.83       3.96       3.03  

    1.   Consolidated basis – includes amounts attributable to non-controlling interests.
    2.   Excludes amounts attributable to non-controlling interests.
    3.   See Reconciliation of Net Income to Distributable Earnings on page 5 and Non-IFRS and Performance Measures section on page 8 of Brookfield Corporation’s press release dated February 13, 2025.

    Brookfield Corporation net income above is presented under IFRS. Given the economic equivalence, we expect that the market price of the class A shares of our company will be impacted significantly by the market price of the Brookfield class A shares and the business performance of Brookfield as a whole. In addition to carefully considering the disclosure made in this news release in its entirety, shareholders are strongly encouraged to carefully review Brookfield Corporation’s letter to shareholders, supplemental information and its other continuous disclosure filings. Investors, analysts and other interested parties can access Brookfield Corporation’s disclosure on its website under the Reports & Filings section at bn.brookfield.com.

    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

    Unaudited     December 31
                December 31  
    (US$ millions)       2024               2023  
    Assets                  
                       
    Insurance invested assets                  
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 12,243         $ 4,308      
    Investments   92,966           39,838      
    Reinsurance funds withheld   1,517           7,248      
    Accrued investment income   860       107,586       280       51,674  
    Reinsurance recoverables and deposit assets       13,195               3,388  
            120,781               55,062  
                       
    Deferred policy acquisition costs       10,696               2,468  
    Other assets       8,983               4,113  
    Total assets       140,460               61,643  
                       
    Liabilities and equity                  
                       
    Policy and contract claims       7,659               7,288  
    Future policy benefits       14,088               9,813  
    Policyholders’ account balances       83,079               24,939  
    Deposit liabilities       1,502               1,577  
    Market risk benefits       3,655               89  
    Unearned premium reserve       1,843               2,056  
            111,826               45,762  
                       
    Corporate borrowings       1,022               1,706  
    Subsidiary borrowings       3,329               1,863  
    Funds withheld for reinsurance liabilities       3,392               83  
    Other liabilities       7,815               3,380  
                       
    Junior preferred shares                     2,694  
    Non-controlling interest   850           146      
    Class A and class B   1,470           1,591      
    Class C   10,756       13,076       4,418       6,155  
    Total liabilities and equity     $ 140,460             $ 61,643  

    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

    Unaudited
    For the periods ended December 31
    US$ millions
    Three Months Ended   Year Ended
      2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net premiums and other policy revenue $ 4,307     $ 1,432     $ 9,048     $ 4,550  
    Net investment income, including funds withheld   1,325       621       4,440       2,121  
    Net investment gains (losses), including funds withheld   115       176       615       241  
    Total revenues   5,747       2,229       14,103       6,912  
                   
    Benefits and claims paid on insurance contracts   (4,003 )     (1,194 )     (8,162 )     (3,939 )
    Interest sensitive contract benefits   (710 )     (355 )     (1,874 )     (687 )
    Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs   (370 )     (180 )     (1,237 )     (632 )
    Changes in fair value of insurance-related derivatives and embedded derivatives   396       210       234       41  
    Changes in fair value of market risk benefits   299       85       (107 )     166  
    Other reinsurance expenses   (6 )     (5 )     (26 )     (21 )
    Operating expenses   (332 )     (244 )     (1,356 )     (777 )
    Interest expense   (96 )     (68 )     (362 )     (249 )
    Total benefits and expenses   (4,822 )     (1,751 )     (12,890 )     (6,098 )
    Net income before income taxes   925       478       1,213       814  
    Income tax recovery (expense)   (349 )     (25 )     34       (17 )
    Net income for the period $ 576     $ 453     $ 1,247     $ 797  
                   
    Attributable to:              
    Class A and class B shareholders1 $ 4     $ 2     $ 14     $ 5  
    Class C shareholder   559       453       1,200       791  
    Non-controlling interest   13       (2 )     33       1  
      $ 576     $ 453     $ 1,247     $ 797  

    1.   Class A shares receive distributions at the same amount per share as the cash dividends paid on each Brookfield class A share.

    SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL RESULTS

    RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME TO DISTRIBUTABLE OPERATING EARNINGS

    Unaudited
    For the periods ended December 31
    US$ millions
    Three Months Ended   Year Ended
      2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net income $ 576     $ 453     $ 1,247     $ 797  
    Unrealized net investment gains, including funds withheld   (115 )     (176 )     (615 )     (241 )
    Mark-to-market on insurance contracts and other net assets   (367 )     (104 )     589       105  
        94       173       1,221       661  
    Deferred income tax expense (recovery)   260       47       (195 )     14  
    Transaction costs   32       24       213       40  
    Depreciation   41       14       135       30  
    Distributable operating earnings1 $ 427     $ 258     $ 1,374     $ 745  

    RECONCILIATION OF EQUITY TO ADJUSTED EQUITY

    Unaudited
    As of December 31
    US$ millions
      2024       2023  
    Equity $ 13,076     $ 6,155  
    Add:      
    Accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss   (204 )     120  
    Junior preferred shares         2,694  
    Adjusted equity1 $ 12,872     $ 8,969  

    1.   Non-GAAP measure – see Non-GAAP and Performance Measures on page 6.


    Additional Information

    The statements contained herein are based primarily on information that has been extracted from our financial statements for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2024, which have been prepared using generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“US GAAP” or “GAAP”).

    Brookfield Wealth Solutions’ Board of Directors have reviewed and approved this document, including the summarized unaudited consolidated financial statements prior to its release.

    Information on our distributions can be found on our website under Stock & Distributions/Distribution History.

    Brookfield Wealth Solutions Ltd. (NYSE, TSX: BNT) is focused on securing the financial futures of individuals and institutions through a range of wealth protection and retirement services, and tailored capital solutions. Each class A exchangeable limited voting share of Brookfield Wealth Solutions is exchangeable on a one-for-one basis with a class A limited voting share of Brookfield Corporation (NYSE, TSX: BN). For more information, please visit our website at bnt.brookfield.com or contact:

    Communications & Media:
    Kerrie McHugh
    Tel: (212) 618-3469
    Email: kerrie.mchugh@brookfield.com
      Investor Relations:
    Rachel Schneider
    Tel: (416) 369-3358
    Email: rachel.schneider@brookfield.com

    Non-GAAP and Performance Measures

    This news release and accompanying financial statements are based on US GAAP, unless otherwise noted.

    We make reference to Distributable operating earnings. We define distributable operating earnings as net income after applicable taxes excluding the impact of depreciation and amortization, deferred income taxes related to basis and other changes, and breakage and transaction costs, as well as certain investment and insurance reserve gains and losses, including gains and losses related to asset and liability matching strategies, non-operating adjustments related to changes in cash flow assumptions for future policy benefits, and change in market risk benefits, and is inclusive of returns on equity invested in certain variable interest entities and our share of adjusted earnings from our investments in certain associates. Distributable operating earnings is a measure of operating performance. We use distributable operating earnings to assess our operating results. We also make reference to Adjusted equity. Adjusted equity represents the total economic equity of our Company through our class A, B and C shares, excluding Accumulated other comprehensive income, and the junior preferred shares issued by our Company. We use adjusted equity to assess our return on our equity.

    We provide additional information on key terms and non-GAAP measures in our filings available at bnt.brookfield.com.

    Notice to Readers

    Brookfield Wealth Solutions Ltd. (“Brookfield Wealth Solutions” or “our” or “we”) is not making any offer or invitation of any kind by communication of this news release and under no circumstance is it to be construed as a prospectus or an advertisement.

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian provincial securities laws, “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Canadian provincial securities laws, “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and in any applicable Canadian securities regulations (collectively, “forward-looking statements”). Forward-looking statements include statements that are predictive in nature, depend upon or refer to future results, events or conditions, and include, but are not limited to, statements which reflect management’s current estimates, assumptions and expectations regarding the operations, business, financial condition, expected financial results, performance, prospects, opportunities, priorities, targets, goals, ongoing objectives, strategies, capital management and outlook of Brookfield Wealth Solutions, Brookfield Corporation and their respective subsidiaries, as well as the outlook for North American and international economies for the current fiscal year and subsequent periods. Particularly, statements regarding international expansion plans and future capital markets initiatives, including statements relating to the redeployment of capital into higher yielding investments constitute forward-looking statements. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “seeks,” “intends,” “targets,” “projects,” “foresees,” “forecasts” or negative versions thereof and other similar expressions, or future or conditional verbs such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would” and “could.” In particular, the forward-looking statements contained in this news release include statements referring to the growth of our business, international expansion, investment opportunities and expected future deployment of capital and financial earnings. Although we believe that our anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and information are based upon reasonable estimates, assumptions and expectations, the reader should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond our control, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Brookfield Wealth Solutions or Brookfield Corporation to differ materially from anticipated future results, performance or achievement expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and information.

    Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: (i) investment returns that are lower than target; (ii) the impact or unanticipated impact of general economic, political and market factors in the countries in which we do business; (iii) the behavior of financial markets, including fluctuations in interest and foreign exchange rates and heightened inflationary pressures; (iv) global equity and capital markets and the availability of equity and debt financing and refinancing within these markets; (v) strategic actions including acquisitions and dispositions; the ability to complete and effectively integrate acquisitions into existing operations and the ability to attain expected benefits; (vi) changes in accounting policies and methods used to report financial condition (including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and estimates); (vii) the ability to appropriately manage human capital; (viii) the effect of applying future accounting changes; (ix) business competition; (x) operational and reputational risks; (xi) technological change; (xii) changes in government regulation and legislation within the countries in which we operate; (xiii) governmental investigations and sanctions; (xiv) litigation; (xv) changes in tax laws; (xvi) ability to collect amounts owed; (xvii) catastrophic events, including but not limited to, earthquakes, hurricanes, epidemics and pandemics; (xviii) the possible impact of international conflicts and other developments including terrorist acts and cyberterrorism; (xix) the introduction, withdrawal, success and timing of business initiatives and strategies; (xx) the failure of effective disclosure controls and procedures and internal controls over financial reporting and other risks; (xxi) health, safety and environmental risks; (xxii) the maintenance of adequate insurance coverage; (xxiii) the existence of information barriers between certain businesses within our asset management operations; (xxiv) risks specific to our business segments; and (xxv) factors detailed from time to time in our documents filed with the securities regulators in Canada and the United States.

    We caution that the foregoing list of important factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive and other factors could also adversely affect its results. Readers are urged to consider the foregoing risks, as well as other uncertainties, factors and assumptions carefully in evaluating the forward-looking information and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking information. Except as required by law, Brookfield Wealth Solutions undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether written or oral, that may be as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Past performance is not indicative nor a guarantee of future results. There can be no assurance that comparable results will be achieved in the future, that future investments will be similar to the historic investments discussed herein, that targeted returns, growth objectives, diversification or asset allocations will be met or that an investment strategy or investment objectives will be achieved (because of economic conditions, the availability of investment opportunities or otherwise).

    Certain of the information contained herein is based on or derived from information provided by independent third-party sources. While Brookfield Wealth Solutions believes that such information is accurate as of the date it was produced and that the sources from which such information has been obtained are reliable, Brookfield Wealth Solutions does not make any assurance, representation or warranty, express or implied, with respect to the accuracy, reasonableness or completeness of any of the information or the assumptions on which such information is based, contained herein, including but not limited to, information obtained from third parties, and undue reliance should not be put on them.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: YieldMax™ Unveils New Weekly Pay 0DTE Covered Call Strategy ETF on the Nasdaq 100 Index

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, MILWAUKEE and NEW YORK, Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YieldMax™ announced the launch today of the following ETF:

    YieldMax™ Nasdaq 100 0DTE Covered Call Strategy ETF (Nasdaq: QDTY)

    QDTY Overview        
    QDTY follows an active management approach that utilizes a synthetic covered call strategy designed to generate weekly income while also providing exposure to the price return of an Index.

    • QDTY is designed to generate weekly income, while also providing exposure to the price return of the Nasdaq 100 Index (the “Index”).
    • QDTY seeks to generate income primarily by utilizing zero days to expiry (“0DTE”) options on the Index and/or passively managed ETFs that tracks the Index’s performance (the “Index ETFs”).

    Index
    The Nasdaq 100 Index is a benchmark index comprising 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market, based on market capitalization. This large-cap index, heavily weighted towards the technology sector, represents various industries, including consumer discretionary, healthcare, communication services, and industrials, reflecting Nasdaq’s historical strength.

    QDTY’s Option Strategy

    QDTY employs a synthetic covered call strategy by selling and purchasing call options on the Index or Index ETFs. Each business day, typically at market open, the Fund sells out-of-the-money (OTM) call options with zero days to expiration (“0DTE”), which expire the same day they are sold. OTM options have a strike price above the current Index value. QDTY’s synthetic covered call strategy is established by combining the call options sold to generate income with buying call options for exposure to the Index.

    QDTY’s Return Profile and Index Performance

    QDTY earns income by selling out-of-the-money 0DTE call options daily. The premiums from these options add to income but limit participation in Index gains. If the Index rises past the strike price, losses on sold options can offset gains. This strategy balances income generation with limited Index upside exposure while premiums can help mitigate losses if the Index declines.

    QDTY’s Distribution Schedule
    Like all YieldMax™ ETFs, QDTY aims to generate income for investors. With respect to distributions, QDTY aims to make distributions on a weekly basis, and its first weekly distribution is expected to be announced on February 26, 2025.

    Why Invest in QDTY?

    • QDTY seeks to generate weekly income, which is not dependent on the value of the Index (or the Index ETFs).
    • QDTY aims to participate in a portion of the Index gains, which may be capped.

    Important Information

    Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. For a prospectus or summary prospectus with this and other information about each Fund, visit our website at www.YieldMaxETFs.com. Read the prospectus or summary prospectus carefully before investing.

    There is no guarantee that any Fund’s investment strategy will be properly implemented, and an investor may lose some or all of its investment in any such Fund.

    Tidal Financial Group is the adviser for all YieldMax™ ETFs.

    THE FUND, TRUST, AND ADVISER ARE NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY UNDERLYING REFERENCE ASSET.

    Risk Disclosures

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Referenced Index Risk. The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Index (or the Index ETFs). This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of companies that comprised the Index or an ETF that tracks the Index, even though it does not.

    Indirect Investment Risk. The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way. Investors in the Fund will not have the right to receive dividends or other distributions or any other rights with respect to the companies that comprise the Index but will be subject to declines in the performance of the Index.

    The Nasdaq 100 Index Risks. The Index’s major risks stem from its high concentration in the technology sector and significant exposure to high-growth, high-valuation companies. A downturn in the tech industry, whether from regulatory changes, shifts in technology, or competitive pressures, can greatly impact the index.

    Call Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s call writing strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in the positive price returns of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold call options and over longer periods.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other Index (or ETFs that track the Index’s performance)holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary Index (or ETFs that track the Index’s performance) securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying instrument, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given period. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next. Additionally, monthly distributions, if any, may consist of returns of capital, which would decrease the Fund’s NAV and trading price over time.

    High Index (or Index ETF) Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings. A high Index (or Index ETF) turnover rate increases transaction costs, which may increase the Fund’s expenses.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

    New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of call option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in increases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Call Period.

    Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    YieldMax™ ETFs are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC. Foreside is not affiliated with Tidal Financial Group or YieldMax™ ETFs.

    © 2025 YieldMax™ ETFs

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Defiance ETFs Launches Battleshares™ ETFs, Introducing ELON (Tesla vs. Ford) as Flagship Fund

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Defiance ETFs is excited to introduce Battleshares™ Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs), an innovative suite of ETFs designed to capture competitive market dynamics and capitalize on strategic market rivalries within leading industries. The suite will feature a range of distinct ETFs, each crafted to help investors benefit from evolving market competition.

    Introducing ELON: The First in the Battleshares™ Series
    The first ETF in the Battleshares™ lineup is the Battleshares™ TSLA vs. F ETF (Ticker: ELON). This actively managed fund embodies market competition, highlighting the dynamic rivalry between what the advisor believes to be an industry disruptor Tesla (TSLA) and legacy competitor Ford (F). The Fund’s strategy involves a leveraged long position in TSLA, generally targeting +200% of the Fund’s net assets, paired with a leveraged short position in F, generally targeting -100% of the Fund’s net assets. ELON provides investors with a unique opportunity to gain exposure to the ongoing transformation within the automotive sector, capitalizing on the divergence between innovation and tradition.

    A Competitive Edge for Forward-Thinking Investors
    Battleshares™ ETFs employ a unique long/short investment strategy, going long on industry innovators while shorting their legacy competitors. This approach enables the funds to potentially generate returns across various market conditions while focusing on single-stock opportunities. The funds will cover sectors such as technology, retail, financial services, and automotive.

    “We are thrilled to introduce Battleshares™ ETFs, starting with ELON,” said Sylvia Jablonski, Chief Executive Officer & CIO of Defiance ETFs. “This suite is designed to empower investors with strategic tools that harness industry disruption and market evolution.”

    Key Features of the Battleshares™ ETFs:

    • Actively Managed Strategies: A long/short investment approach to capitalize on market dynamics.
    • Industry-Specific Focus: Targeting sectors including semiconductors, financial services, and renewable energy.
    • Leveraged Exposure: Structured to magnify returns through leveraged long and short positions.
    • Innovation-Driven: Funds such as ELON prioritize transformative market trends and technological advancements.

    The Battleshares™ TSLA vs. F ETF (Ticker: ELON) will be listed on the NYSE, offering investors a unique opportunity to participate in the competitive dynamics of transformational growth sectors.

    About Defiance ETFs
    Established in 2018, Defiance leads in ETF innovation. Our pioneering leveraged ETFs enable investors to amplify positions in innovative strategies, offering precise leveraged exposure without requiring a margin account.

    For more information about Battleshares™ ETFs and the Battleshares™ TSLA vs. F ETF (Ticker: ELON), please visit https://www.battle-shares.com.

    Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. For a prospectus or summary prospectus with this and other information about the Fund, please call (866) 532-3886 or visit our website at www.battle-shares.com. Read the prospectus or summary prospectus carefully before investing.

    None of the Fund, the Trust, the Adviser, or their respective affiliates makes any representation to you as to the performance of TSLA or F. THE FUND, TRUST, AND ADVISER ARE NOT AFFILIATED WITH TESLA, INC. or FORD MOTOR COMPANY.

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible. As an ETF, the funds may trade at a premium or discount to NAV. Shares of any ETF are bought and sold at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the Fund. A portfolio concentrated in a single industry or country, may be subject to a higher degree of risk. There is no guarantee that the Fund’s investment strategy will be properly implemented, and an investor may lose some or all of its investment.

    TSLA Risk (Long Position). The Fund invests in TSLA either directly or indirectly through derivative instruments (i.e., via options and swaps). Through its long position, the Fund is subject to the risk that TSLA’s share price decreases. If the share price of TSLA decreases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses. Therefore, as a result of the Fund’s exposure to the value of TSLA, the Fund may also be subject to the following risks: Indirect Investment in TSLA Risk. Tesla, Inc. is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way and has no obligation to consider your Shares in taking any corporate actions that might affect the value of Shares. Investors in the Fund will not have voting rights and will not be able to influence management of Tesla, Inc. but will be exposed to the performance of TSLA (the underlying stock). Investors in the Fund will not have rights to receive dividends or other distributions or any other rights with respect to the underlying stock but will be subject to declines in the performance of the underlying stock. Tesla, Inc. Performance Risk. Tesla, Inc. may fail to meet its publicly announced guidelines or other expectations about its business, which could cause the price of TSLA to decline. Electric Vehicles Risk. The future growth and success of Tesla, Inc. are dependent upon consumers’ demand for electric vehicles, and specifically, its vehicles in an automotive industry that is generally competitive, cyclical and volatile. If the market for electric vehicles in general and Tesla, Inc. vehicles in particular does not develop as Tesla, Inc. expects, develops more slowly than it expects, or if demand for its vehicles decreases in its markets or its vehicles compete with each other, the business, prospects, financial condition and operating results of Tesla, Inc. may be harmed.

    Ford Price Appreciation Risk (Short Position). As part of the Fund’s short strategy, the Fund may sell F shares short, either directly or through the use of derivatives. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the share price of F, the Fund is subject to the risk that F’s share price increases. If the share price of F increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses. The Fund may also be subject to the following risks: Ford’s ability to gain market share in the electric vehicle market may enhance its market position and result in increased stock prices. Market share gains against key competitors, such as TSLA, in the electric vehicle market may further support Ford’s stock performance. Moreover, strategic partnerships and successful acquisitions could drive significant growth and lead to stock appreciation. Favorable macroeconomic and industry conditions, including strong global demand for automobiles, may contribute to robust financial performance for Ford. Ford may benefit from favorable geopolitical developments, including advantageous trade policies or improved relations with key markets, such as China, which could positively impact its operations and stock performance. Conversely, any significant challenges faced by competitors, such as product delays or supply chain issues, may reduce competition and contribute to Ford’s stock outperformance.

    Leveraging Risk. The Fund’s use of leverage amplifies both potential gains and potential losses, which can result in significant volatility and higher risk for investors. Specifically, TSLA, the Fund’s leveraged long position (“Long Position”) and, F, leveraged short position (“Short Position”) expose the Fund to heightened risk if the Long Position performs poorly while the Short Position performs well. If the value of the Long Position declines, the Fund’s leveraged exposure could result in losses that are magnified by the leverage factor, potentially exceeding the losses that would occur in an unleveraged position. For example, if the Fund’s Long Position is at +200% of net assets, a 10% decline in the value of the Long Position could translate into a 20% loss for the Fund’s net asset value attributable to that position. Conversely, if the value of the Short Position increases, the Fund’s leveraged short exposure could also lead to magnified losses. If the Short Position is at -100% of net assets, a 10% rise in the value of the Short Position could result in a 10% loss for the Fund’s net asset value attributable to that position.

    Derivatives Risk. The Fund’s derivative investments carry risks such as an imperfect match between the derivative’s performance and its underlying assets, and the potential for loss of principal, which can exceed the initial investment.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund. As a result, a decline in the value of an investment in a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers could cause the Fund’s overall value to decline to a greater degree than if the Fund held a more diversified portfolio.

    New Fund Risk. As of the date of the prospectus, the Fund has no operating history and currently has fewer assets than larger funds. Like other new funds, large inflows and outflows may impact the Fund’s market exposure for limited periods of time. Brokerage Commissions may be charged on trades.

    Distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Calian Reports Results for the First Quarter

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    (All amounts in release are in Canadian dollars)

    OTTAWA, Ontario, Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Calian® Group Ltd. (TSX:CGY), a diverse products and services company providing innovative healthcare, communications, learning and cybersecurity solutions, today released its results for the first quarter ended December 31, 2024.

    Q1-25 Highlights:

    • Revenue up 3% to $185 million
    • Gross margin at 31.8%, slightly down from 32.5% last year
    • Adjusted EBITDA1 of $18 million, down from $21 million last year
    • Operating free cash flow1 of $13 million, down from $17 million last year
    • Net debt to adjusted EBITDA1 ratio of 0.6x
    • Repurchased 101,350 shares in consideration of $4.9 million
    • Guidance reiterated
    • Announced new U.S. subsidiary to focus on U.S. government and defence
       
    Financial Highlights Three months ended
    (in millions of $, except per share & margins) December  31,
      2024   20232   %
    Revenue 185.0   179.2   3 %
    Adjusted EBITDA1 17.8   21.4   (17) %
    Adjusted EBITDA %1 9.6 % 11.9 % (230)bps
    Adjusted Net Profit1 10.5   14.0   (25) %
    Adjusted EPS Diluted1 0.88   1.17   (25) %
    Operating Free Cash Flow1 13.1   17.2   (24) %
           
           

    1 This is a non-GAAP measure. Please refer to the section “Reconciliation of non-GAAP measures to most comparable IFRS measures” at the end of this press release.
    2 Certain comparative figures have been reclassified to align with the current year’s presentation. For more information, please see the selected consolidated financial information section of the management discussion and analysis.

    Access the full report on the Calian Financials web page.
    Register for the conference call on Thursday, February 13, 2025, 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time.

    “We closed the quarter as expected and are seeing positive momentum across our diverse end markets, while continuing to benefit from the strong contributions of our recent acquisitions in UK, the U.S. and Canada,” said Kevin Ford, Calian CEO. “The accelerating global demand for defence solutions positions Calian’s expanding footprint to play a critical role in the years ahead. Additionally, discussions among Canadian leaders about increasing military investment and accelerating initiatives are a welcome development. We remain on track to deliver another record year and are making progress against our long-term objectives.”

    First Quarter Results

    Revenues increased 3%, from $179 million to $185 million, representing the highest first quarter revenue on record. Acquisitive growth was 8% and was generated by the acquisitions of Decisive Group, the nuclear assets from MDA Ltd and Mabway. Organic growth was down 5%, as growth generated in global Defence was offset by declines in the pace of domestic Defence training and delays in large projects in its Space and IT infrastructure markets.

    Gross margin stood at 31.8% and represents the 11th quarter above the 30% mark. Adjusted EBITDA1 stood at $18 million, down 17% from $21 million last year, primarily impacted by revenue mix and increased investments in our sales and delivery capacity. As a result, adjusted EBITDA1 margin decreased to 9.6%, from 11.9% last year.

    Net profit stood at $(1) million, or $(0.08) per diluted share, down from $6 million, or $0.46 per diluted share last year. This decrease in profitability is primarily due to increases in accounting charges related to amortization and deemed compensation expenses from acquisitions as well as increased operating expenses, which was offset by higher gross profit. Adjusted net profit1 was $10 million, or $0.88 per diluted share, down from $14 million, or $1.17 per diluted share last year.

    Liquidity and Capital Resources

    “In the first quarter we generated $13 million in operating free cash flow1, representing a 73% conversion rate from adjusted EBITDA1,” said Patrick Houston, Calian CFO. “We used our cash and a portion of our credit facility to pay contingent earn out liabilities for $11 million and make capital expenditure investments for $1 million. We also provided a return to shareholders in the form of dividends for $3 million and share buybacks for $5 million. We ended the quarter with a net debt to adjusted EBITDA1 ratio of 0.6x, well-positioned to pursue our growth objectives,” concluded Mr. Houston.

    Normal Course Issuer Bid

    In the three-month period ended December 31, 2024, the Company repurchased 101,350 shares for cancellation in consideration of $4.9 million.

    Announced U.S. Subsidiary to Focus on U.S. Government and Defence

    On December 4, 2024, Calian announced the launch of an independent U.S.-focused subsidiary, Calian US, Inc. It is committed to securing U.S. government contracts by ensuring full compliance with all relevant regulations. To facilitate this, Calian US will be established as an independent subsidiary and will pursue the necessary certifications to operate effectively within the U.S. market.

    Quarterly Dividend

    On February 12, 2025, Calian declared a quarterly dividend of $0.28 per share. The dividend is payable March 12, 2025, to shareholders of record as of February 26, 2025. Dividends paid by the Company are considered “eligible dividend” for tax purposes.

    Guidance Reiterated

    The table below presents the FY25 guidance based on the new definition of adjusted EBITDA.

      Guidance for the year ended September 30, 2025 FY24 Results   YOY Growth at Midpoint
    (in thousands of $) Low   Midpoint   High    
    Revenue 800,000   840,000   880,000   746,611   12 %
    Adj. EBITDA1 96,000   101,000   106,000   92,159   10 %
                       
                       

    This guidance includes the full-year contribution from the Decisive Group acquisition, closed on December 1, 2023, the nuclear asset acquisition from MDA Ltd., closed on March 5, 2024 and the Mabway acquisition, closed on May 9, 2024. It does not include any other further acquisitions that may close within the fiscal year. The guidance reflects another record year for the Company and positions it well to achieve its long-term growth targets.

    At the midpoint of the range, this guidance reflects revenue and adjusted EBITDA1 growth of 12% and 10%, respectively, and an adjusted EBITDA1 margin of 12.0%. It would represent the 8th consecutive year of double-digit revenue growth and record revenue and adjusted EBITDA1 levels.

    About Calian

    www.calian.com

    We keep the world moving forward. Calian® helps people communicate, innovate, learn and lead safe and healthy lives. Every day, our employees live our values of customer commitment, integrity, innovation, respect and teamwork to engineer reliable solutions that solve complex challenges. That’s Confidence. Engineered. A stable and growing 40-year company, we are headquartered in Ottawa with offices and projects spanning North American, European and international markets. Visit calian.com to learn about innovative healthcare, communications, learning and cybersecurity solutions.

    Product or service names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners. 

    Media inquiries:
    media@calian.com
    613-599-8600

    Investor Relations inquiries:
    ir@calian.com

    —————————————————————————–
    DISCLAIMER

    Certain information included in this press release is forward-looking and is subject to important risks and uncertainties. The results or events predicted in these statements may differ materially from actual results or events. Such statements are generally accompanied by words such as “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect” or similar statements. Factors which could cause results or events to differ from current expectations include, among other things: the impact of price competition; scarce number of qualified professionals; the impact of rapid technological and market change; loss of business or credit risk with major customers; technical risks on fixed price projects; general industry and market conditions and growth rates; international growth and global economic conditions, and including currency exchange rate fluctuations; and the impact of consolidations in the business services industry. For additional information with respect to certain of these and other factors, please see the Company’s most recent annual report and other reports filed by Calian with the Ontario Securities Commission. Calian disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No assurance can be given that actual results, performance or achievement expressed in, or implied by, forward-looking statements within this disclosure will occur, or if they do, that any benefits may be derived from them.

    Calian · Head Office · 770 Palladium Drive · Ottawa · Ontario · Canada · K2V 1C8
    Tel: 613.599.8600 · Fax: 613-592-3664 · General info email: info@calian.com

    CALIAN GROUP LTD.
    UNAUDITED INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
    As at December 31, 2024 and September 30, 2024
    (Canadian dollars in thousands, except per share data)
                   
      December 31,   September 30,
      2024   2024
    ASSETS              
    CURRENT ASSETS              
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 61,040     $ 51,788  
    Accounts receivable   157,542       157,376  
    Work in process   20,205       20,437  
    Inventory   29,442       23,199  
    Prepaid expenses   23,805       23,978  
    Derivative assets   31       32  
    Total current assets   292,065       276,810  
    NON-CURRENT ASSETS              
    Property, plant and equipment   41,234       40,962  
    Right of use assets   41,746       36,383  
    Prepaid expenses   7,157       7,820  
    Deferred tax asset   3,376       3,425  
    Investments   3,875       3,875  
    Acquired intangible assets   123,297       128,253  
    Goodwill   213,925       210,392  
    Total non-current assets   434,610       431,110  
    TOTAL ASSETS $ 726,675     $ 707,920  
    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY              
    CURRENT LIABILITIES              
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 123,945     $ 124,884  
    Provisions   2,454       3,075  
    Unearned contract revenue   40,263       41,723  
    Lease obligations   5,556       5,645  
    Contingent earn-out   29,709       39,136  
    Derivative liabilities   169       92  
    Total current liabilities   202,096       214,555  
    NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES              
    Debt facility   115,750       89,750  
    Lease obligations   39,425       33,798  
    Unearned contract revenue   17,256       14,503  
    Contingent earn-out   2,773       2,697  
    Deferred tax liabilities   23,738       25,862  
    Total non-current liabilities   198,942       166,610  
    TOTAL LIABILITIES   401,038       381,165  
                   
    SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY              
    Issued capital   227,561       225,747  
    Contributed surplus   4,555       6,019  
    Retained earnings   84,038       91,268  
    Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)   9,483       3,721  
    TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY   325,637       326,755  
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY $ 726,675     $ 707,920  
    Number of common shares issued and outstanding   11,765,055       11,802,364  
    CALIAN GROUP LTD.
    UNAUDITED INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF NET PROFIT
    For the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023
    (Canadian dollars in thousands, except per share data)
           
      Three months ended
      December  31,
      2024     2023
    Revenue $ 185,047     $ 179,179  
    Cost of revenues   126,246       120,961  
    Gross profit   58,801       58,218  
           
    Selling, general and administrative   38,105       34,145  
    Research and development   2,896       2,719  
    Share based compensation   1,091       1,190  
    Profit before under noted items   16,709       20,164  
           
    Restructuring expense   692        
    Depreciation and amortization   11,540       9,006  
    Mergers and acquisition costs   2,320       1,980  
    Profit before interest income and income tax expense   2,157       9,178  
           
    Interest expense   1,783       1,547  
    Income tax expense   1,350       2,106  
    NET PROFIT (LOSS) $ (976)     $ 5,525  
           
    Net profit (loss) per share:      
    Basic $ (0.08)     $ 0.47  
    Diluted $ (0.08)     $ 0.46  
    CALIAN GROUP LTD.
    UNAUDITED INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
    For the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023
    (Canadian dollars in thousands)
               
      Three months ended
      December 31,
        2024       2023  
    CASH FLOWS GENERATED FROM (USED IN) OPERATING ACTIVITIES          
    Net profit $ (976 )   $ 5,525  
    Items not affecting cash:          
    Interest expense   1,295       1,098  
    Changes in fair value related to contingent earn-out   558       726  
    Lease obligations interest expense   488       449  
    Income tax expense   1,350       2,106  
    Employee share purchase plan expense   174       162  
    Share based compensation expense   917       1,013  
    Depreciation and amortization   11,540       9,006  
    Deemed compensation   1,563       604  
        16,909       20,689  
    Change in non-cash working capital          
    Accounts receivable   (167 )     (11,189 )
    Work in process   232       (898 )
    Prepaid expenses and other   (2,739 )     (74 )
    Inventory   (6,241 )     (2,590 )
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities   (858 )     15,516  
    Unearned contract revenue   1,294       206  
        8,430       21,660  
    Interest paid   (1,783 )     (1,547 )
    Income tax paid   (2,265 )     (2,575 )
        4,382       17,538  
    CASH FLOWS GENERATED FROM (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES          
    Issuance of common shares net of costs   881       694  
    Dividends   (3,292 )     (3,314 )
    Draw on debt facility   26,000       56,000  
    Payment of lease obligations   (1,442 )     (1,171 )
    Repurchase of common shares   (4,926 )     (1,357 )
        17,221       50,852  
    CASH FLOWS USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES          
    Business acquisitions   (11,215 )     (47,457 )
    Property, plant and equipment   (1,136 )     (2,400 )
        (12,351 )     (49,857 )
               
    NET CASH INFLOW (OUTFLOW) $ 9,252     $ 18,533  
    CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF PERIOD   51,788       33,734  
    CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF PERIOD $ 61,040     $ 52,267  
                   

    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures to Most Comparable IFRS Measures

    These non-GAAP measures are mainly derived from the consolidated financial statements, but do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS; therefore, others using these terms may calculate them differently. The exclusion of certain items from non-GAAP performance measures does not imply that these are necessarily nonrecurring. From time to time, we may exclude additional items if we believe doing so would result in a more transparent and comparable disclosure. Other entities may define the above measures differently than we do. In those cases, it may be difficult to use similarly named non-GAAP measures of other entities to compare performance of those entities to the Company’s performance.

    Management believes that providing certain non-GAAP performance measures, in addition to IFRS measures, provides users of the Company’s financial reports with enhanced understanding of the Company’s results and related trends and increases transparency and clarity into the core results of the business. Adjusted EBITDA excludes items that do not reflect, in our opinion, the Company’s core performance and helps users of our MD&A to better analyze our results, enabling comparability of our results from one period to another.

    Adjusted EBITDA

         
        Three months ended
        December 31,
        2024       20231  
    Net profit $ (976 )   $ 5,525  
    Share based compensation   1,091       1,190  
    Restructuring expense   692        
    Depreciation and amortization   11,540       9,006  
    Mergers and acquisition costs   2,320       1,980  
    Interest expense   1,783       1,547  
    Income tax   1,350       2,106  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 17,800     $ 21,354  
                   

    Adjusted Net Profit and Adjusted EPS

         
        Three months ended
        December 31,
        2024       20231  
    Net profit $ (976 )   $ 5,525  
    Share based compensation   1,091       1,190  
    Restructuring expense   692        
    Mergers and acquisition costs   2,320       1,980  
    Amortization of intangibles   7,334       5,325  
    Adjusted net profit   10,461       14,020  
    Weighted average number of common shares basic   11,773,465       11,812,574  
    Adjusted EPS Basic   0.89       1.19  
     Adjusted EPS Diluted $ 0.88     $ 1.17  
                   

    Operating Free Cash Flow

         
        Three months ended
        December 31,
        2024       20231  
    Cash flows generated from operating activities (free cash flow) $ 4,382     $ 17,538  
    Adjustments:          
    M&A costs included in operating activities   199       650  
    Change in non-cash working capital   8,479       (971)  
    Operating free cash flow $ 13,060     $ 17,217  
    Operating free cash flow per share – basic   1.11       1.46  
    Operating free cash flow per share – diluted   1.10       1.44  
    Operating free cash flow conversion   73 %     81 %
                   

    Net Debt to Adjusted EBITDA

       
       
      December 31,     September 30,
        2024       20231  
    Cash $ 61,040     $ 52,267  
    Debt facility   115,750       93,750  
    Net debt (net cash)   54,710       41,483  
    Trailing twelve month adjusted EBITDA   88,602       65,987  
    Net debt to adjusted EBITDA   0.6       0.6  
                   

    Operating free cash flow measures the company’s cash profitability after required capital spending when excluding working capital changes. The Company’s ability to convert adjusted EBITDA to operating free cash flow is critical for the long term success of its strategic growth. These measurements better align the reporting of our results and improve comparability against our peers. We believe that securities analysts, investors and other interested parties frequently use non-GAAP measures in the evaluation of issuers. Management also uses non-GAAP measures in order to facilitate operating performance comparisons from period to period, prepare annual operating budgets and assess our ability to meet our capital expenditure and working capital requirements. Non-GAAP measures should not be considered a substitute for or be considered in isolation from measures prepared in accordance with IFRS. Investors are encouraged to review our financial statements and disclosures in their entirety and are cautioned not to put undue reliance on non-GAAP measures and view them in conjunction with the most comparable IFRS financial measures. The Company has reconciled adjusted profit to the most comparable IFRS financial measure as shown above.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Global: Decentralised social media offers an alternative to big tech platforms like X and Meta. How does it work? Podcast

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Gemma Ware, Host, The Conversation Weekly Podcast, The Conversation

    Koshiro K/Shutterstock

    When Elon Musk acquired Twitter in 2022, many users looked for alternatives, fuelling a wave of online migration from the social media platform. Musk says he’s using Twitter, now named X, to champion free speech and that “cancel culture has been cancelled”. But his closeness to Donald Trump and his use of X to support far-right political ideologies around the world, have driven even more people to explore new options.

    How do these alternative platforms differ from traditional social media, and what does the future hold for these online spaces? In this episode of The Conversation Weekly podcast, we speak to Robert Gehl, Ontario Research Chair of Digital Governance at York University, Canada, about the evolving landscape of decentralised social media.

    In 2018, technologists working at the World Wide Web Consortium built a new protocol for social media called ActivityPub. It would give birth to the Fediverse, a decentralised form of social media. Robert Gehl likens the Fediverse to email.

     ”A friend of mine can have a Gmail account, another friend can have an Outlook account with Microsoft. I could have an account with ProtonMail. And even though these are three different companies and three different locations in the world, I can email all my friends and they can email me back because all those email servers agree to speak a shared protocol.“

    ActivityPub does the same, but for social media. Somebody could set up a server that speaks that protocol and invite their friends to sign up. Somebody else could set up a different type of server, and those two could connect using ActivityPub’s protocol. Gehl explains: “You can build a big network out of all these little servers that removes a centre.”

     Examples of platforms on the Fediverse include micro-blogging site Mastodon, image-sharing site Pixelfed and video-sharing platform PeerTube. By comparison to these decentralised systems, traditional social media platforms like X, Instagram or YouTube centralise user data, content, moderation and governance and control how information is organised and distributed to their users.

    Other alternative platforms, which aren’t part of the Fediverse, include Bluesky, which  launched to the public in 2024. Bluesky grew out of Twitter, and Twitter’s founder, Jack Dorsey, used to be on its board. However, Gehl says analysts still see Bluesky as a quite centralised because of the way it’s designed.

     ”They’re building an architecture where all posts are accessible and then they let people build filters to go to that big stack of posts and pull out the things that they want to see …  I personally find Mastodon and the Fediverse to be a little bit more compelling because they’re federated systems. When you run a federated social media system, you install the software like Mastodon, and then it pulls in messages from the network as need be … so you don’t have the entire network on one box.“

    Listen to the interview with Robert Gehl on The Conversation Weekly podcast, which also includes an introduction with Nehal El-Hadi, interim editor-in-chief at The Conversation Canada.


    This episode of The Conversation Weekly was written and produced by Mend Mariwany with assistance from Katie Flood and Gemma Ware, Sound design was by Michelle Macklem, and theme music by Neeta Sarl.

    Clips in this episode from NBC News and CTV News.

    Listen to The Conversation Weekly via any of the apps listed above, download it directly via our RSS feed or find out how else to listen here.

    Robert Gehl has received funding from the Canada First Research Excellence Fund.

    ref. Decentralised social media offers an alternative to big tech platforms like X and Meta. How does it work? Podcast – https://theconversation.com/decentralised-social-media-offers-an-alternative-to-big-tech-platforms-like-x-and-meta-how-does-it-work-podcast-249758

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sellafield apprentices delivering social impact across Cumbria

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Sellafield Ltd Project Management Degree Apprentices helping local charities as part of the Association for Project Management Challenge.

    Volunteers at the North Lakes Foodbank’s Holiday Lunch Pack Scheme

    Sixteen Sellafield Ltd Project Management Degree Apprentices have entered the Association for Project Management (APM) Challenge, an annual competition for newcomers to project management that has been running for nearly a decade.

    Competitors form teams and are tasked with proposing and delivering a social impact project from concept to completion, using APM competencies and project management best practices, supported by an experienced mentor who will help nurture their progress.

    The competition is backed by regional networks and culminates in a final awards ceremony where the highest-scoring teams present their projects and winners are announced.

    One Sellafield team has focused their project on aiding improvements within the local Animal Concern Cumbria charity, which supports neglected and unwanted animals, striving to rehome them wherever possible.

    The team met with the charity to discuss priority renovations and plans to improve the indoor area and visitors’ room for potential adopters.

    They’ve already collected furniture donations and are considering holding a fundraising event to raise additional funds.

    Team members, Alana Quinn and Rachael Robbins said:

    The selection of Animal Concern Cumbria was driven by the fact it’s a local charity, rehoming rescue animals that solely rely on donations.

    The charity offers a secure and caring environment for animals whose owners, for whatever reason, are unable to care for them any longer and help them find permanent, loving homes.

    Our aim though the APM challenge is to raise money to improve key facilities. We are enhancing the well-being of the animals in the charity’s care whilst also contributing to the long-term development and sustainability of the local area and the charity’s future.

    The second group has opted to support the North Lakes Foodbank’s Holiday Lunch Pack Scheme, providing essential food to children during holiday periods.

    The charity plays a crucial role in helping the most vulnerable individuals in West Cumbria, and they are now grappling with an overwhelming 100% increase in demand year on year.

    The team is conducting a food collection campaign across the Sellafield site, including contributions from supply chain partners.

    They have already received support from various departments across Sellafield, as well as from their sponsor and mentor, and have made substantial progress with their collection so far.

    Team member, Luke Beresford said:

    Our team visited the foodbank at the beginning of the year to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges the charity faces and figure out how we could help alleviate those burdens.

    The Sellafield apprenticeship scheme has provided us with invaluable hands-on experience in demanding environments. Through networking and collaboration on complex nuclear projects, we’ve gained diverse insights across Project Management, Construction, and more. This blend of practical and academic learning has significantly advanced our careers.

    By completing a project proposal and carrying out this fundraising initiative, we hope to further enhance our skills and knowledge in project management while also benefiting our community.

    And finally, the third group from Sellafield is focused on improving road safety awareness among primary school students and reducing road accidents in West Cumbria.

    The team is doing this by organising a drawing competition where students develop road safety signs and slogans. The winners’ proposals will be turned into real signs displayed locally and around school zones.

    Before the competition, the team will conduct workshops and arrange guest expert speakers to host assemblies, raising students’ awareness of road safety.

    This initiative fosters creativity, encourages safer behaviour on local roads, and strengthens the community’s sense of shared responsibility for safety.

    Team member, Kate Starkie, said:

    We focused our project on road safety after learning that 3,400 children under 7 were injured or killed on UK roads in 2022. This statistic drove us to reduce children’s confusion about road safety and encourage good habits for their future.

    The project is progressing well. We’ve engaged with a local primary school’s headteacher and received valuable advice from our mentor at Sellafield.

    This is an excellent opportunity to enhance our project management skills and make a meaningful impact on local communities.

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: THE STATUS OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NATIONAL ELECTRIC MOBILITY MISSION PLAN

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 5:08PM by PIB Delhi

    The National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) 2020 provides a roadmap for the adoption and manufacturing of electric vehicles in India, aiming to enhance national fuel security and promote environmentally friendly transportation. As part of NEMMP 2020, the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) implemented the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India) Scheme in 2015 to promote the adoption of electric/hybrid vehicles.

    1. Phase-I was implemented up to 31 March 2019 with a budget of ₹895 crore.
    2. Phase-II was implemented for five years from 1 April 2019, with an outlay of ₹11,500 crore.

    Further, MHI is implementing the following schemes on pan-India basis to strengthen electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem and accelerate adoption of electric vehicle in the country.

    1. Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Automobile and Auto Component Industry in India (PLI-Auto): The Government approved this scheme on 23rd September 2021 for Automobile and Auto Component Industry in India for enhancing India’s manufacturing capabilities for advanced automotive technology (AAT) products with a budgetary outlay of ₹25,938 Crore. The scheme proposes financial incentives to boost domestic manufacturing of AAT products with minimum 50% Domestic Value Addition (DVA) and attract investments in the automotive manufacturing value chain.
    2. PLI Scheme for Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC): The Government on 12th May, 2021 approved PLI Scheme for manufacturing of ACC in the country with a budgetary outlay of Rs.18,100 crore. The scheme aims to establish a competitive domestic manufacturing ecosystem for 50 GWh of ACC batteries.
    3. PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme: This scheme with an outlay of Rs.10,900 crore was notified on 29th September 2024. It is a two-year scheme which aims to support electric vehicles including e-2W, e-3W, e-Trucks, e-buses, e-Ambulances, EV public charging stations and upgradation of testing agencies.
    4. PM e-Bus Sewa-Payment Security Mechanism (PSM) Scheme: This Scheme notified on 28.10.2024, has an outlay of Rs.3,435.33 crore and aims to support deployment of more than 38,000 electric buses. The objective of scheme is to provide payment security to e-bus operators in case of default by Public Transport Authorities (PTAs).
    5. Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India (SPMEPCI) was notified on 15th March 2024 to promote the manufacturing of electric cars in India. This requires applicants to invest a minimum of Rs.4150 crore and to achieve a minimum DVA of 25% at the end of the third year and DVA of 50% at the end of the fifth year.

    Other Ministries of the Government of India are also taking initiatives to promote EVs such as:

    1. Road Tax Exemption: States are advised to waive road tax on EVs to reduce their initial cost.
    2. Green License Plates: Battery-operated vehicles are given green license plates and are exempted from permit requirements.

    The progress in developing necessary infrastructure for EVs, such as nation-wide charging stations is detailed below:

    1. Under Phase II of the FAME India Scheme, ₹1,000 crore was allocated for the development of charging infrastructure. MHI sanctioned ₹800 crore as capital subsidy to Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) for establishing 7,432 public EV charging stations. Further, in March 2024, MHI sanctioned an additional ₹73.50 crore under FAME II to OMCs for upgrading 980 public fast charging stations by installing new chargers across the country. Subsidy of ₹51.45 crore has already been released to OMCs. In addition, 400 charging stations have also been sanctioned which were allotted through EOI to other entities in various states. Further, as per the information received from the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, as of 01.01.2025, OMCs have installed 4,523 number of EVCS at their Retails Outlets (ROs) under FAME-II Scheme out of which 251 EVCS have been energized. In addition to this, OMCs have set up 20,035 EVCS at their Retail outlet from their own funds as per details provided at Annexure.
    2. PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme: Under this scheme, ₹2,000 crore has been allocated for installation of EV Public Charging Stations (PCS).
    3. Ministry of Power has issued “Guidelines for Installation and Operation of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure-2024”, dated 17.09.2024. These guidelines outline standards and protocols to create connected & interoperable EV charging infrastructure network, which includes Battery Swapping/Charging stations. The salient features of the guidelines are as follows:
    1.  Setting up of Charging Stations declared as a delicensed activity.
    2. DISCOMs to provide electricity connections up to 150 kW with expedited timelines and clear Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to charging stations.
    3. Public land offered to Government/Public entity on a revenue-sharing model at Rs.1.0/ kWh for 10 years; and public land allocation to private entities via bidding with the same floor price (i.e. Rs.1.0 / kWh).
    4. Public tendering involving government land for setting up of charging station shall be technology agnostic.
    5. State Governments to ensure necessary permissions for round the clock operations.
    6. Provision of a single-part tariff capped at Average Cost of Supply (ACoS) till 31.03.2028, with a 30% discount during solar hours and a 30% surcharge during non-solar hours.
    7. Operators to provide data for mapping of charging stations on EV Yatra portal.

     

    1.  Green Energy Open Access Rules, 2022: The Ministry of Power notified these rules to accelerate renewable energy adoption, ensuring access to affordable and reliable green energy.
    2. Amendment of Model Building Bye-Laws: The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has amended building bye-laws to include charging stations in private and commercial buildings.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries, Shri Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.

    *****

    TPJ/NJ

    -4-

                ANNEXURE

    Details of EVCS installed / energized by PSU OMCs in States / UTs

    S. N.

    State/ UTs

    EV Charging Stations under FAME-II Subsidy Scheme

    Total No. of EV charging stations installed by OMCs from their own funds as on 01.01.2025

    No. of EV Charger installed as on 01.01.2025

    No. of EV Charging Stations energized as on 01.01.2025

     

    1

    Andaman & Nicobar

    0

    0

    6

    2

    Andhra Pradesh

    354

    20

    912

    3

    Arunachal Pradesh

    2

    0

    52

    4

    Assam

    83

    2

    448

    5

    Bihar

    58

    2

    517

    6

    Chandigarh

    0

    0

    23

    7

    Chhattisgarh

    30

    1

    498

    8

    Delhi

    41

    5

    316

    9

    Goa

    9

    0

    70

    10

    Gujarat

    312

    50

    1104

    11

    Haryana

    366

    3

    1068

    12

    Himachal Pradesh

    21

    0

    136

    13

    Jammu & Kashmir

    23

    0

    170

    14

    Jharkhand

    116

    0

    349

    15

    Karnataka

    370

    3

    1516

    16

    Kerala

    208

    0

    679

    17

    Ladakh

    0

    0

    11

    18

    Lakshadweep

    0

    0

    1

    19

    Madhya Pradesh

    154

    6

    1114

    20

    Maharashtra

    431

    121

    1595

    21

    Manipur

    8

    0

    57

    22

    Meghalaya

    25

    0

    54

    23

    Mizoram

    2

    0

    16

    24

    Nagaland

    10

    0

    41

    25

    Odisha

    114

    0

    661

    26

    Puducherry

    7

    1

    27

    27

    Punjab

    151

    2

    828

    28

    Rajasthan

    351

    7

    1482

    29

    Sikkim

    1

    0

    12

    30

    Tamil Nadu

    444

    6

    1448

    31

    Telangana

    238

    1

    1051

    32

    Tripura

    1

    0

    55

    33

    Uttar Pradesh

    269

    10

    2561

    34

    UT of Dadar and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu

    3

    0

    12

    35

    Uttarakhand

    41

    4

    212

    36

    West Bengal

    280

    7

    933

    TOTAL

    4523

    251

    20035

    *******

    (Release ID: 2102783) Visitor Counter : 60

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CONTRIBUTION OF PM E-DRIVE SCHEME IN GROWTH OF EV ECOSYSTEM

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 5:03PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government of India has notified ‘PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme’ on 29.09.2024 to provide impetus to the green mobility & development of EV manufacturing eco-system in the country. The scheme has an outlay of  ₹10,900 crore over a period of two years from 01.04.2024 to 31.03.2026. The Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme (EMPS) 2024 implemented for the period of six months from 01.04.2024 to 30.09.2024, is subsumed in PM E-DRIVE scheme.

    Salient features of PM E-DRIVE scheme:

    i.    Introduction of E- Vouchers: – The Ministry of Heavy Industry (MHI) has introduced E-vouchers for Electric vehicle buyer to avail the demand incentive under the scheme.

    ii.   Introduction of new vehicle segments: – An allocation ₹500 crore each has been done for deployment of e-ambulances and e-trucks under the scheme. This is new initiative  to promote the use of e-ambulances for a comfortable patient transport. Similarly, e-trucks have also been introduced under the scheme.

    iii.  Upgradation of testing agencies: ₹780 Crore has been earmarked for upgradation of vehicles testing agencies.
    The scheme has following three components:

    i.     Subsidies: ₹3,679 crore as demand incentives for e-2W, e-3W, e-ambulances, e-trucks & other new emerging EV categories.

    ii.    Grants: ₹7,171 crore for creation of capital assets i.e., e-buses, establishment of network of charging stations & upgradation of vehicle testing agencies identified under this scheme.

    iii.  Administration of Scheme including IEC (Information, Education & Communication) activities and fee for project management agency (PMA).

    The PM E-DRIVE scheme aims to boost demand for electric vehicles (EVs) through various incentives detailed below:

    i.  Demand Incentives: These incentives directly reduce the upfront cost of EVs for consumers at the point of purchase. The government reimburses the incentive amount to the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).

    ii.   Financial Support for Charging Infrastructure: The scheme allocates ₹2,000 crore for establishing public charging infrastructure for various vehicle categories.

    iii.  Grants for Capital Assets: The scheme has provisions of ₹4,391 crore as grants to support deployment of 14,028 e-buses and ₹780 crore as grants for the upgradation of vehicle testing agencies identified under the scheme.

    Yes, there is mechanisms in place to monitor and assess the implementation of the PM E-DRIVE scheme. Project Implementation and Sanctioning Committee (PISC), an inter-ministerial empowered committee, headed by the Secretary of Heavy Industries, is constituted for overall monitoring, sanctioning, and implementation of the PM E-DRIVE scheme. This committee is also responsible for removing any obstacles or difficulties that may arise during implementation.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries, Shri Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SCED at HKGCC Chinese New Year Dinner 2025 (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is the speech by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, at the HKGCC Chinese New Year Dinner 2025 today (February 13):
     
    Agnes (Chairman of the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce, Ms Agnes Chan), Commissioner Pan Yundong (Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)), Deputy Director-General Zhou Qiang (Deputy Director-General of the Economic Affairs Department and Head of the Commercial Office of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government (LOCPG) in the HKSAR), Deputy Director-General Xu Xiaolin (Deputy Director-General of the Coordination Department of the LOCPG in the HKSAR), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
         Good evening. It gives me great pleasure to join you all tonight. This festive occasion gives us a time to reflect on the past year and look forward with hope to the new one.
     
         In 2024, Hong Kong demonstrated to the world our resilience in times of uncertainties. Our city is ranked as the world’s third-largest financial centre, the world’s freest economy, and is at the fifth place in the global competitiveness ranking. We now have nearly 10 000 companies from the Mainland and overseas, as well as 4 700 start-ups. Both numbers are the highest that we have ever seen. These are signs of confidence in Hong Kong’s status as a prime business destination.
     
         But challenges will keep coming. In addition to conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, we also need to brace the rapid changes in the operating environment. The United States (US)’ imposition of tariffs will affect many economies and companies. On this, the HKSAR Government strongly disapproves. It rattles the fundamentals of a rule-based multilateral trade system, which took the whole world decades to build. As far as the tariffs on Hong Kong are concerned, we have decided to file a complaint to the World Trade Organization. We have always been a staunch supporter of free trade, and we will continue to hold tight to our beliefs.
     
         Risk management is key to a successful business. I am sure many of you saw the uncertainties coming from years ago. I was told that a lot of companies have already modified their business plans, the supply chains, asset distributions, etc, in anticipation of the changing external environment. I encourage you to continue to do the same.
     
         For Hong Kong, this term of Government attaches a lot of importance to exploring new markets. The US and Europe are traditionally among our largest trading partners, and they will probably continue to be so. We are happy with the businesses that we do with each other, which are mutually beneficial. But more importantly, we must not lose sight of the business potential in other markets. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), for example, if taken as a bloc, is now Hong Kong’s second-largest trading partners. Other emerging regions, such as the Middle East, are also catching up fast.
     
         In the past two years or so, we have led business delegations to ASEAN and the Middle East. We will continue to do so in the coming year. We will also step up our efforts to forge new trade and investment agreements with rising trading partners. Increasing our trade and investment with new markets will inject new impetus into Hong Kong’s economy. It will also help us mitigate the risks arising from geopolitics.
     
         Looking closer to home, we spare no efforts to drive changes to our economic structure. The Government sees the need to develop silver economy. The growing elderly population in Hong Kong is becoming an important consumer group, creating considerable demand for such products and services as medical and healthcare, leisure and recreation, and home and personal care catered for the elderly. These products and services also enhance the quality of life for the elderly of Hong Kong, which is equally important for us.
     
         We also encourage Hong Kong companies to embrace electronic commerce (e-commerce). This is a global trend in consumption pattern that is irreversible. To help our small and medium enterprises to upgrade their business models, we launched the “E-commerce Easy” under the Dedicated Fund on Branding, Upgrading and Domestic Sales last year to provide funding support. The Hong Kong Trade Development Council, the HKTDC, also organised the first Hong Kong Shopping Festival to showcase consumer products and brands on Mainland e-commerce platforms. The Festival was a huge success. We will organise the second edition this year. The HKTDC will also step up efforts in providing advisory support to enterprises in need when exploring the e-commerce market.
     
         I spent all my life in Hong Kong. In my entire career, I witnessed Hong Kong going through ups and downs. The world today is so different than the world I was in when I was in my twenties. One of Hong Kong’s biggest appeal is the “can-do” spirit of Hong Kong people. We are flexible, adaptive, determined, forward-looking, and we fight hard. We will rise above the challenges and come out on top.
     
         I would like to thank the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce for all the good you do to our business community. As we enter the Year of the Snake, let us draw inspiration from its attributes of versatility, intelligence and agility, and work together to build a better future for Hong Kong. I wish you all a year with good health, success and happiness. Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Shri George Kurian inaugurates symposium on “Aquatic Animal Diseases – Addressing emerging challenges and preparedness”

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Shri George Kurian inaugurates symposium on “Aquatic Animal Diseases – Addressing emerging challenges and preparedness”

    Union Minister underlines the importance of nutrition and biosecurity in aquaculture

    Shri Kurian emphasizes the need for continuous research and innovation in aquatic animal health management

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 4:43PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri George Kurian has inaugurated the symposium on ‘Aquatic Animal Diseases: Emerging Challenges and Preparedness’ organised at the ICAR Convention Centre, Pusa Campus, New Delhi today. The symposium was organised as part of the 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (14AFAF) meet being held here from 12-15 February, 2025 with the theme “Greening the Blue Growth in Asia-Pacific.

    Speaking on the occasion, Shri George Kurien said appreciated ICAR for its initiative in organizing the symposium and emphasized the “One Earth – One Family” approach, stressing the importance of nutrition and biosecurity in aquaculture. He highlighted that sustainable aquaculture practices are key to ensuring food security, livelihoods, and economic growth in India. He acknowledged the efforts made under various government initiatives such as PMMSY and emphasized the need for continuous research and innovation in aquatic animal health management. He called for a multi-stakeholder approach, involving government agencies, research institutions, and industry players, to work together towards strengthening disease surveillance, enhancing biosecurity protocols, and improving diagnostic and therapeutic measures.

     

    Dr. J.K. Jena, DDG (Fisheries Science), ICAR, and Convener of the symposium, provided an overview of the event, thanking the Government of India and Network of Aquaculture Centers in the Asia Pacific for their support. He emphasized about the need of strong biosecurity measures and discussed the ongoing NSPAAD Phase II and INFAR project, which aim to develop strategies for better disease control in aquaculture. He emphasized the Network project on Fish Health as a crucial initiative for advancing disease research and control in aquaculture. which focuses on disease management and early response mechanisms to mitigate potential risks in fish farming. Furthermore, he stressed that disease management will be critically important for the future in light of the diversification of aquaculture with introduction of new species, new systems, and the expansion of aquaculture. He also highlighted the importance of diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines for effective disease management in aquaculture.

    Shri Sagar Mehra, Joint Secretary, Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries and Animal Husbandry and Dairying in his address, highlighted the vital role of fisheries in supporting livelihoods and the economy. He stressed the importance of national, regional, and local-level strategies to combat disease outbreaks effectively. He underscored the need for proactive response mechanisms, recognizing that disease transmission is often linked to live animal movement. He called for enhanced biosecurity measures and early detection systems to safeguard the sustainability and economic viability of the aquaculture industry.

    Dr B.K. Behera, Chief Executive, NFDB emphasized the need to institutionalize fish disease surveillance programs in India to ensure systematic disease monitoring, early detection, and effective control. He highlighted the importance of establishing disease-free zones in key aquaculture areas to prevent the spread of infections and enhance biosecurity measures. Institutionalizing surveillance would require integrating it into national aquaculture policies, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and ensuring sustained funding and implementation across states.

    Dr. Eduardo Leano, NACA, Thailand provided insights into NACA’s mission since 1990, operating in 20 countries and spearheading five key disease surveillance programs. He highlighted the growing risk of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in aquaculture and stressed the urgent need for a sustainable, internationally coordinated approach to aquatic biosecurity.

    Earlier Dr. B.K. Das, Director of ICAR-CIFRI, delivered the welcome address, highlighting aquaculture advancements and the importance of strengthening disease management. He emphasized the Network project on fish health under National Surveillance Programme for Aquatic Animal Diseases (NSPAAD) as a key initiative for improving disease surveillance and fostering innovation in aquatic health solutions.

    Dr. P.K. Sahoo, Director, ICAR-CIFA, delivered the Vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of all dignitaries and participants.

    The Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (AFAF) is a triennial event of the Asian Fisheries Society with its Headquarters in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This 14AFAF is being jointly organized by the Asian Fisheries Society (AFS), Kuala Lumpur; Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi; the Department of Fisheries (DoF), Government of India; and the Asian Fisheries Society Indian Branch (AFSIB), Mangalore. This prestigious event is being hosted in India for the 2nd time after the 8AFAF held at Kochi in 2007.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: WEATHER AND CLIMATE SERVICES

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 3:56PM by PIB Delhi

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has been actively working for the development and implementation of a national framework for climate services (NFCS) to strengthen climate change adaptation by integrating weather and climate services with sectoral policies and programs. The NFCS aims to support decision-making in critical sectors such as agriculture, water resources, health, and disaster management. Some examples of the sector-specific weather and climate services are:

    • Establishment of Agromet Advisory Services (AAS) for farmers.
    • Collaboration with the Central Water Commission (CWC) for flood and drought forecasting.
    • Climate-sensitive health risk mapping and early warnings for vector-borne diseases.
    • Strengthening climate resilience through the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and State Disaster Management Plans.
    • Establishing a climate data portal for researchers and stakeholders.
    • Organizing stakeholder consultation workshops with State Governments to identify the gap areas and possible solutions.

    In October 2023, Climate Research & Services (CRS), IMD, Pune, organized a stakeholder consultation workshop on the NFCS-India at Pune. In collaboration with key ministries, the IMD continues to expand sector-specific climate services to ensure a science-based, policy-driven, and impact-oriented approach to climate resilience.

    The Ministry continuously enhances and upgrades meteorological observations, communications, modeling tools, and forecasting systems. The IMD uses the latest tools and technologies to predict severe weather events. This includes sophisticated dynamical numerical weather prediction models at higher spatial and temporal resolution, multi-model ensemble methods, artificial intelligence, and machine learning (AI/ML) & data science methodologies, complemented with improved ground-based & upper air observations and advanced remote sensing network for real-time monitoring and predictions. IMD uses the latest dissemination tools, including Common Alert Protocol (CAP), mobile apps, websites, APIs, and other social media platforms, to provide efficient, effective, and timely early warning services. IMD is constantly working to improve and adapt to the latest technologies.   

    The Ministry is making continuous efforts to make advancements in cyclone prediction systems to minimize the impact of cyclones in the country. The India Meteorological Department has demonstrated its capability to provide high-precision early warning for cyclones in recent years. The IMD provides heatwave forecasts and warning information to stakeholders, including ministries of the Union Government, State Governments, and local Government bodies. The IMD issues various outlooks/forecasts/warnings for the public and disaster management authorities to prepare for extreme weather events, including cyclones, heat waves, etc. While issuing the alert, a suitable color code is used to highlight the impact of the severe weather expected and signal disaster management about the course of action to be taken regarding an impending disaster weather event.

    The Government of India recognizes that weather and climate extremes disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including the poor, women, children, and marginalized communities. Multiple initiatives focusing on adaptation, resilience-building, social protection, and inclusive policies have been implemented to address these challenges. Some of the work related to the Ministry of Earth Sciences in collaboration with other ministries are:

    • Impact-Based Forecasting (IBF) provides localized risk assessments for vulnerable populations before extreme events like cyclones, floods, and heatwaves.
    • Heat Action Plans (HAPs) are implemented in various cities to protect vulnerable groups such as daily wage workers, older people, and slum dwellers.
    • Training and capacity-building programs for women, children, and marginalized groups through local NGOs and government agencies
    • Disaster management authority programs include strengthening climate-resilient housing and infrastructure in coastal, flood-prone, and drought-affected areas.

    Apart from this, initiatives from the other ministries of the Government of India include:

    • Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) provides employment in climate-resilient infrastructure, such as water conservation, afforestation, and drought-proofing.
    • National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC) funds projects that enhance the adaptive capacity of rural and vulnerable communities in agriculture, water, and disaster-prone areas.
    • National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) and State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCCs) incorporate gender and social inclusion measures.
    • Jal Shakti Abhiyan & Atal Bhujal Yojana focus on water conservation, groundwater recharge, and access to clean drinking water in drought-prone regions.
    • Public Distribution System (PDS) Strengthening ensures food security for low-income communities during climate shocks such as droughts and floods.

    This information was given by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union MoS for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav Inaugurates First National Stakeholder Consultation by FSSAI on pesticide residues; advocates good agricultural practices & collaborative efforts

    Source: Government of India

    Union MoS for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav Inaugurates First National Stakeholder Consultation by FSSAI on pesticide residues; advocates good agricultural practices & collaborative efforts

    Collective efforts key to addressing pesticide concerns: Shri Prataprao Jadhav

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 5:30PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Ganpatrao Jadhav inaugurated the National Stakeholder Consultation on Challenges in Monitoring Pesticide Residues in Food Commodities organized by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, here today. Emphasizing the need for a nationwide strategy for stricter monitoring of pesticide residues in food, Shri Jadhav urged all stakeholders to work collectively in promoting best practices for food safety and sustainability.

    This stakeholder consultation on pesticides is first in the series of such consultations with stakeholders on emerging issues like sustainable packaging, nutraceuticals, antimicrobial resistance etc. Addressing stakeholders, the Union Minister appreciated the initiative of FSSAI and stressed on the need to review existing practices in pesticide monitoring and to create a robust mechanism to address the challenges of pesticide residue. He also emphasized the importance of agriculture in sustaining millions of livelihoods and ensuring food security. Shri Jadhav added that today’s farmers are more adaptive towards use of new technology so it is easier to educate them on use of pesticides and about Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs). He also advocated for collaborative efforts from all the stakeholders to devise a concrete action plan to minimize pesticide residues in food commodities.

    Shri Jadhav also stated that the consultation would prove instrumental in identification of gaps, which can then be focused and deliberated upon to develop a robust mechanism of food safety and make food commodities free of pesticide residue. He also commended FSSAI’s efforts in strengthening food safety frameworks.

    Union Health Secretary, Ms. Punya Salila Srivastava, shared her valuable insights on the issue, emphasizing that the indiscriminate use of pesticides poses significant risks to public health. She stressed the importance of strengthening monitoring systems and raising public awareness about pesticide use, ensuring that every person has access to safe food. She advocated for the development of actionable strategies aimed at protecting public health, underscoring that the primary goal of this consultation is to ensure that everyone can enjoy safe and healthy food.

    Shri Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare delivered a special address wherein he highlighted the issue of spurious pesticide in the market and also advocated judicious use of pesticides to protect consumer health.

    Shri Subrata Gupta, Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries emphasized the need for all stakeholders in the food value chain to collaborate to address challenges related to pesticides. “Pesticides causes not only bad health but also bad commerce.”

    Shri G Kamala Vardhana Rao, CEO, FSSAI in his concluding remarks reiterated the FSSAI’s commitment to ensuring food safety through stringent monitoring and regulatory measures. He concluded that “By ensuring the safety of food, we protect not only public health but also our environment, the livelihoods of our farmers, and the future of international trade. The outcomes of this consultation will form the foundation for more effective policies and regulations that reflect the complexities of today’s agricultural and food safety landscape” He added that the insights and recommendations from this consultation will contribute to the development of more robust policies and action plans for improving pesticide residue monitoring and ensuring food safety across India.

    The National Stakeholder Consultation on Pesticide Residues marks a crucial step in strengthening food safety by addressing challenges in monitoring pesticide use and ensuring regulatory compliance. Recognizing the need for a coordinated approach, FSSAI convened this consultation to enhance surveillance, enforce safety standards, and mitigate health risks associated with chemical residues in food. By bringing together key stakeholders, the consultation fosters collaboration on best practices, emerging risks, and innovative solutions like bio-pesticides and precision application. As India aligns with global safety standards, this discussion is pivotal in safeguarding public health and promoting sustainable agriculture.

    The event brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, scientific experts, regulatory bodies, National Institutes, representatives from Industry Association, farmer organizations, consumer associations & pesticide manufacturer associations to deliberate on strategies and exchange valuable insights, which will help to devise concrete action plans.

    The consultation featured a technical session followed by a panel discussion on “Global Regulatory Frameworks and National-Level Challenges in Monitoring Pesticide Residues in Food Commodities. The panel featured experts from the Joint FAO/WHO Meeting on Pesticide Residues (JMPR), FAO, ICAR, CIB&RC, and FSSAI’s Scientific Panel on Pesticide Residues.

    Key discussions focused on emphasizing the importance of expanding national surveillance programs, enhancing laboratory capacities, discussions on aligning India’s Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) with international standards like Codex Alimentarius while considering India’s unique agricultural and environmental conditions.

    The post-lunch session featured an open forum stakeholder interaction involving stakeholders from agriculture, food processing, and consumer organizations to voice their concerns and recommendations. Key issues raised during the consultation included the challenges in implementing effective pesticide residue monitoring, the need for harmonizing India’s Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) with international standards, and concerns over off-label and excessive pesticide use. There was also a strong emphasis on enhancing farmer education and awareness, introducing digital traceability solutions, and promoting sustainable alternatives such as bio-pesticides and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to minimize health risks and trade barrier.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tagore National Fellowship for Cultural Research

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 5:27PM by PIB Delhi

    The objective of the Tagore National Fellowship for Cultural Research scheme is to invigorate and revitalize the various institutions under the Ministry of Culture (MoC) and other identified cultural institutions in the country, by encouraging scholars/ academicians to affiliate themselves with these 38 institutions to work on projects of mutual interest. With a view to infuse fresh knowledge capital into the institutions, the scheme expects these scholars/academicians to select specific resources of the institutions to use in their projects and take up research works that are related to the main objectives of these institutions. It is also expected that the research work would enrich the institution with a new creative edge and academic excellence.

    As per the scheme guidelines of Tagore National Fellowship for Cultural Research, already a sufficient number of Scholarship/Fellowship i.e. upto 25 Scholars and 15 Fellows in a year are awarded to the eligible beneficiaries.

    In order to ensure the quality of the research work carried out by the selected Scholars/Fellows under the scheme of Tagore National Fellowship for Cultural Research, their applications as well as six monthly progress reports are first scrutinized by the Institution Level Search-cum-Screening Committee (ILSSC) of the concerned Participating Institution. Thereafter, these application and progress reports are placed before National Selection Committee (NSC) headed by the Secretary (Culture), duly constituted by the Ministry, for giving its recommendation.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Preservation of Monuments

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 5:26PM by PIB Delhi

    There are 3698 centrally protected monuments/sites in the country under the jurisdiction of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The conservation and maintenance of these centrally protected monuments/sites is a regular process and is taken up as per the requirement and availability of resources. Scientific treatment and preservation is taken up as and when required by adopting key steps such as chemical treatment, consolidation, biocidal and hydrophobic treatment for mitigating the adverse effects of environmental factor. All the necessary conservation and development works of centrally protected monuments/sites are attended by following National Policy for Conservation, 2014.

    Periodical inspection is conducted by ASI for these monuments and methodology for preservation used by ASI is inspection of monuments, identification of preservation problem, chemical treatment, biocidal treatment, consolidation, strengthening and Hydrophobic treatment etc. The additional funds are allocated for conservation of these monuments as and when required.

    Public private partnerships is encouraged by the Government for the preservation, presentation and promotion of monuments through NCF and Adopt A Heritage 2.0 (AAH 2.0).  The National Culture Fund (NCF), a Trust under Ministry of Culture, established in 1996, has the primary mandate to establish and nurture Public Private Partnerships (PPP) in the field of heritage through catalysing relationships between private, public, government, non-government agencies, private institutions & foundations and mobilizing resources for restoration, conservation, protection & development of India’s rich tangible and intangible cultural heritage.

    The Government has launched revamped version of erstwhile Adopt a Heritage project initially launched in 2017 called Adopt A Heritage 2.0 (AAH 2.0) program on 04.09.2023. Under this program, the stakeholders are permitted to be engaged for non-conservational aspects viz. cleaning of monument premises, providing and maintaining basic tourist amenities like washroom, drinking water, child care room, benches, pathways, garbage bins, signage, sound & light shows, illumination etc. under the guidance and due consultation with ASI. So far 21 MoUs have been signed under the AAH 2.0.

    This information was given by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Parliament Question: New Employment Opportunities In The Public Sector And Government-Aided PSUs

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 3:51PM by PIB Delhi

    Employment generation coupled with improving employability is the highest priority of the Government. Accordingly, the Government of India has taken various steps to provide opportunities of employment to the youth of the nation.

    There is substantial investment in schemes like Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY), Deendayal Antodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), Deendayal Antodaya Yojana – National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM), Make in India, Start-up India, Stand-up India, Digital India, PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM-SVANidhi) Scheme, Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY), etc. for employment generation. Major step up in infrastructure viz. Roads, Railways, Airports, Ports, Waterways etc. has also boosted job opportunities in related sectors.

    Further, Government of India is running the National Career Service (NCS) Portal which is a one-stop solution for providing career related services including jobs from private and government sectors, information on online & offline job fairs, job search & matching career counseling, vocational guidance, information on skill development courses, skill/training programmes etc. through a digital platform [www.ncs.gov.inIn the Union Budget 2024-2025, the Government announced the Prime Minister’s package of 5 schemes and initiatives to facilitate employment, skilling and other opportunities for 4.1 crore youth over a 5-year period with a central outlay of Rs.2 lakh crore. The Union Budget 2025-2026 also aims to create multiple employment generation opportunities across various sectors such as tourism, manufacturing, fisheries, etc., and also includes various measures to support entrepreneurship and skilling for youth.

    The occurrence and filling of vacant posts in various Ministries/Departments is a continuous process. As part of Rozgar Melas, organized by the Government of India, vacant posts are being filled in mission mode, which will act as a catalyst in further employment generation across the Central Government Ministries/Departments, Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPUs) /Autonomous Bodies/Educational and Health Institutions etc. in a time bound manner. So far 14 Rozgar Melas have been held at central level in 45-50 cities across various State/Union Territories. Several lakh appointment letters have been issued during Rozgar Melas by the participating Ministries/Departments.

    This information was given by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government and 28 large corporates jointly launch new round of HYAB Scheme on Corporate Summer Internship on the Mainland and Overseas

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Government and 28 large corporates jointly launch new round of HYAB Scheme on Corporate Summer Internship on the Mainland and Overseas
    Government and 28 large corporates jointly launch new round of HYAB Scheme on Corporate Summer Internship on the Mainland and Overseas
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         ​The Government today (February 13) announced the launch of the HYAB Scheme on Corporate Summer Internship on the Mainland and Overseas 2025 in collaboration with 28 large corporates, providing young people of Hong Kong with quality summer internship placements on the Mainland and overseas to jointly promote youth development.           In the 2024 Policy Address, the Chief Executive emphasised that the Government would sustain its efforts in strengthening support for youth development. This includes continuing to implement various exchange and internship programmes on the Mainland and overseas to encourage young people to gain a deeper understanding of national development and global development trends. In this regard, the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau forged partnerships with large corporates to launch the HYAB Scheme on Corporate Summer Internship on the Mainland and Overseas to provide internship placements at the corporates’ Mainland and overseas operations, with the aim of cultivating a cohort of young talent with a good understanding of the country’s development and a global perspective. The Scheme provides young people with exposure to the work culture in large corporates in different parts of the world, and an opportunity to establish interpersonal networks outside Hong Kong, enabling them to seize national development opportunities.           The number of companies participating in the new round of the Scheme has increased to 28, and internship placements are offered in multiple Mainland provinces and cities, including various Mainland cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu and Hangzhou, as well as overseas countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Australia. The internship placements cover different industries, such as financial services, innovation and technology, logistics, property development, construction, retail, hospitality, entertainment and utilities (please refer to Annex for details of the internship placements). Applicants should be (i) a full time post-secondary student (including sub-degree, undergraduate, or postgraduate) holding a Hong Kong permanent identity card; or (ii) a local full-time post-secondary student (including sub-degree, undergraduate, or postgraduate) holding a Hong Kong identity card. The internship will take place between June and September this year. Participating companies will sponsor the interns for major expenses including transportation and accommodation costs, and assign dedicated personnel to provide training and support to the interns.           Details of the Scheme and internship placements are available on the dedicated webpage (www.ydc.gov.hk/scsi/en). Interested young people should submit their applications through the centralised application platform on the dedicated webpage on or before March 10. Each person can apply for up to three companies in one application. Upon receiving the applications, participating companies will contact suitable applicants directly for the assessment and selection process, and make placement arrangements for selected interns.

     
    Ends/Thursday, February 13, 2025Issued at HKT 17:50

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Towards a Cancer-Free India

    Source: Government of India

    Towards a Cancer-Free India

    Commitment to Prevention, Treatment & Innovation

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 3:31PM by PIB Delhi

    “In Cancer Care, collaboration is essential for cure. An integrated approach encompassing prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment is essential to reduce the burden of cancer.”

    • Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

     

    Introduction

    Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. In 2022, about 20 million new cancer cases were reported, and 9.7 million people died from the disease globally. Cancer also remains a critical public health challenge in India, with cases projected to rise significantly. In India, around 100 out of every 1 lakh people are diagnosed with cancer. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the estimated number of incidences of cancer cases was more than 14 lakhs in 2023 in India.

    The National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP) under ICMR has been tracking cancer incidence, burden, and trends since 1982, playing a vital role in gathering and analyzing data, enabling evidence-based policy decisions. The National Institute of Cancer Prevention & Research (NICPR) is the nodal agency research and screening guidelines under NPCDCS.

    The Government of India has introduced robust policies, strategic interventions, and financial assistance schemes to enhance prevention, early detection, treatment, and patient care nationwide. This article outlines cancer prevalence, government efforts, financial aid, research, and budget commitments to strengthen cancer care in India.

    Union Budget 2025-26: Prioritizing Cancer Care

    The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has been allocated a total of Rs.99,858.56 crore, with Rs. 95,957.87 crore designated for the Department of Health and Family Welfare and Rs. 3,900.69 crore for the Department of Health Research.

    The Union Budget 2025-26 underscores the Government of India’s dedication to enhancing cancer care through several key initiatives:

    • Day Care Cancer Centres: The government plans to establish Day Care Cancer Centres in all district hospitals over the next three years, with 200 centres slated for 2025-26.
    • Customs Duty Exemptions:
    • To alleviate treatment costs, 36 lifesaving drugs and medicines for treating cancer, rare diseases and chronic diseases fully exempted from Basic Customs Duty (BCD)
    • Six lifesaving medicines to attract concessional customs duty of 5%
    • Furthermore, specified drugs and medicines under Patient Assistance Programmes run by pharmaceutical companies fully exempted from BCD.

    Holistic Cancer Control: A Policy-Driven Approach

    1. National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS) The NPCDCS is a flagship initiative under the National Health Mission (NHM) focuses on controlling non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cancer. Three most common types of cancers (oral cancer, breast cancer and cervical cancer) are an integral part of NPCDCS. It is aimed at strengthening cancer control efforts, focusing on health promotion, early detection, and treatment infrastructure for cancer.

    Components

    • Cancer screening: For oral, breast, and cervical cancers at the community level.
    • Early detection & awareness: Through health workers and digital platforms.
    • Strengthening infrastructure: Establishment of tertiary cancer centers (TCCs) and state cancer institutes (SCIs).

    Under this program, the government has established

    • 770 District NCD Clinics
    • 233 Cardiac Care Units
    • 372 District Day Care Centres
    • 6,410 Community Health Centre NCD Clinics

    These facilities provide accessible and affordable cancer screenings, particularly for oral, breast, and cervical cancers.

    2.  Strengthening of Tertiary Care for Cancer Scheme

    It enhances specialized cancer care facilities with aims to decentralize cancer treatment, making services more accessible across states.

    Tertiary Cancer Care Network Strengthening

    • India has significantly expanded its cancer treatment ecosystem, with the establishment of:
      19 State Cancer Institutes (SCIs)
    • 20 Tertiary Care Cancer Centres (TCCCs)

    The National Cancer Institute (NCI) in Jhajjar, Haryana, and the second campus of Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute (CNCI) in Kolkata are playing a pivotal role in providing cutting-edge cancer treatment and research opportunities.

    3. Ayushman Bharat Yojana Launched in 2018, Ayushman Bharat is a landmark health initiative designed to provide universal health coverage, particularly for rural and vulnerable populations. The scheme plays an important role in ensuring timely treatment of cancer patients within 30 days. The scheme covers chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical oncology for cancer treatment for economically vulnerable families. Till 2024, over 90% of registered cancer patients have commenced treatment under this scheme, reducing out-of-pocket expenses and ensuring financial protection for millions.

    4. The Health Minister’s Cancer Patient Fund (HMCPF): The Health Minister’s Cancer Patient Fund under Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi (RAN) provides financial aid up to ₹5 lakh for cancer treatment to patients below the poverty line. The maximum financial assistance admissible under the Scheme will be ₹15 Lakh. It covers treatment at 27 Regional Cancer Centres (RCCs), with ₹50 lakh revolving funds allocated to each center. Established in 2009, the scheme ensures accessible and affordable cancer care for underprivileged patients.

    5. National Cancer Grid (NCG): The National Cancer Grid (NCG) was established in 2012 to ensure high-quality, standardized cancer care across India. Eight years later, it has grown into the world’s largest cancer network with 287 members, comprising cancer centres, research institutes, patient advocacy groups, charitable organizations and professional societies. Between the member organizations of the NCG, the network treats over 750,000 new patients with cancer annually, which is over 60% of all of India’s cancer burden. The NCG also works closely with Ayushman Bharat – PMJAY to provide affordable, evidence-based cancer treatment and streamline costs under the scheme. It has also played a key role in shaping the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) by contributing to the development of electronic patient health records.

    Advancing Cancer Research and Treatment

    1. India’s First Indigenous CAR-T Cell Therapy: NexCAR19 – A Breakthrough in Cancer Treatment

    In April 2024, India achieved a historic milestone in cancer care with the launch of NexCAR19, the nation’s first indigenously developed CAR-T cell therapy, created through a groundbreaking collaboration between IIT Bombay, Tata Memorial Centre, and ImmunoACT. This cutting-edge innovation offers a highly effective, next-generation treatment for blood cancers, bringing hope to thousands of patients. Designed to be affordable and accessible, NexCAR19 marks a critical step towards self-reliance in oncology care, reducing dependence on expensive imported therapies and strengthening India’s position in advanced cancer treatment and biotechnology research.

    2. Quad Cancer Moonshot Initiative

    In Sep 2024, India, in partnership with the US, Australia, and Japan, has launched the Quad Cancer Moonshot to eliminate cervical cancer across the Indo-Pacific region. This initiative aims to scale up screening and vaccination programs, advance cutting-edge research, and strengthen global collaboration to ensure early detection, effective treatment, and improved survival rates.

    3. Expansion of ACTREC

    In January 2025, the Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research, and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), a key arm of Tata Memorial Centre (TMC), embarked on a major expansion to revolutionize cancer research, treatment, and patient care. This initiative aims to accelerate clinical breakthroughs, enhance oncology care, and establish cutting-edge therapeutic facilities, reinforcing India’s leadership in advanced cancer treatment and innovation.

    Awareness Generation

    The Indian government is working to raise awareness about cancer prevention and treatment in several ways:

    1. Community Awareness – Preventive aspect of Cancer is strengthened under Comprehensive Primary Health Care through Ayushman Aarogya Mandir by promotion of wellness activities and targeted communication at the community level.
    2. Media Campaigns – Print, electronic and social media are used to increase public awareness. Healthy lifestyle is promoted through observation of National Cancer Awareness Day and World Cancer Day.               
    3. Government Support – The National Programme for Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) provides funds to states for awareness programs under the National Health Mission (NHM).
    4. Healthy Eating Promotion – The Eat Right India campaign by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) encourages nutritious food choices.
    5. Fitness Initiatives – The Fit India Movement by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports promotes physical activity, while the Ministry of AYUSH conducts yoga programs for better health.

    These efforts aim to educate people on leading a healthy lifestyle, preventing cancer, and seeking timely medical care.

    Conclusion

    India has made significant strides in cancer prevention, treatment, and research through policy reforms, expanded healthcare infrastructure, and financial assistance schemes. The Union Budget 2025-26 emphasizes strengthening cancer care with initiatives like Day Care Cancer Centres and customs duty exemptions on life-saving drugs. Programs such as NPCDCS, PMJAY, and HMCPF ensure affordable treatment and early detection, while research initiatives like NexCAR19 and the National Cancer Grid are advancing oncology care.  Despite progress, challenges remain in equitable access, early detection, and rising cancer cases. Greater investment in awareness, lifestyle interventions, and technology-driven solutions is crucial. With a multi-sectoral approach and sustained government efforts, India aims to build a comprehensive and inclusive cancer care system, improving patient outcomes nationwide.

    References

    Kindly find the pdf file 

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Various activities undertaken in Bihar to promote gender equality, empower the girl child, and ensure her right to education and holistic development

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 2:39PM by PIB Delhi

    Various activities have been undertaken in Bihar to empower girls through participation in sports, encourage their holistic development, reduce gender bias, improve education outcomes, and promote gender equality. These initiatives have been undertaken to promote gender equality, empower the girl child, and ensure her right to education and holistic development. The initiatives are collaborative as they involve government bodies, educational institutions, and community-based organizations to achieve the objectives of BBBP. Three districts, Kishanganj, Araria, and Nawada district of Bihar have demonstrated “Best Practices” under BBBP. 

    Kishanganj

    On 9th October, 2024,  sports event of various games was organized under the BBBP scheme at Shaheed Ashfaq Ullah Khan Stadium, Khagra, Kishanganj. Events included Kabaddi, Badminton, Basketball, Athletics, and other games. The girl students of middle schools, high schools, Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya, and Ambedkar Vidyalaya of Kishanganj district participated in the games. District Magistrate and other senior district officials were present to encourage the participants. The officials highlighted the importance of excelling in academics, arts, culture, and sports to showcase talents nationally and internationally. The programme is part of a broader implementation of the BBBP scheme in Kishanganj district, integrated with district-level initiatives to promote overall development of girls. Active participation and coordination between district administration, officials of Women and Child Development Corporation (WCDC), school teachers, students and their parents was organised . Awareness efforts and detailed communication was made  with students about the available government schemes for women and girls.

    Araria

    To ensure that the adolescent girls of Araria, get access to education and are  enrolled in schools, thereby reducing dropout rates and promoting the importance of girls education, Adolescent groups formed by Mahadalit Vikas Mission have been conducting regular meetings to identify and address barriers to education for girls, particularly those who have been denied school admission or are dropouts. The initiative under BBBP focused on resolving this issue engaging various stakeholders, including parents, the headmaster, the Vikas Mitra, and the district officials. This practice began as an initiative but has now been scaled up across various schools in the district, with successful enrolment and continued education of adolescent girls. The initiative has led to the successful enrolment of 7 girls in the middle school, Chatar, and 15 other girls in nearby schools (Gaira School and Bangama School) of Araria district.

    Nawada

    To empower girls, especially from marginalized Mahadalit communities, by connecting them to skill development programmes that enhance employability, boost confidence, and promote education. In Nawada district, an initiative was undertaken to provide skill development training to Mahadalit adolescents girls through Bihar Skill Development Mission for their holistic development. Five girls from Loharpura and Sikandra villages were enrolled in the Emergency Medical Technician (Basic) course. Parental engagement and counseling were used to address hesitations and doubts about girls’ participation. Regular meetings and exposure visits to skill development centers were also undertaken. These girls represent the first generation in their community to receive formal skill training. The initiative is a pilot effort in Nawada.

    Districts under the BBBP scheme, target specific villages, through active involvement and coordination with District Administration, NGO representatives and the community. Persistent parental counselling sessions are organised to address doubts and promote the programme’s benefits. Exposure visits are conducted to training centres to build trust and enthusiasm among participants.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Nationwide Special Campaign To Register on National Fisheries Digital Platform to be Organized from 14th to 22nd February 2025

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Nationwide Special Campaign To Register on National Fisheries Digital Platform to be Organized from 14th to 22nd February 2025

    Fishers, Fish farmers & Eligible Stakeholders Appealed to Register; Avail Benefits Under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 1:23PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Fisheries under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, is organizing a special nationwide campaign for registrations on the National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP) along with expediting registration approvals and mobilizing applications from eligible stakeholders for availing various benefits provided under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PMMKSSY) from 14th to 22nd February, 2025. This nationwide effort, in collaboration with State/UT Fisheries Departments,  National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), and Common Service Centers (CSCs), will focus on organizing camps in key fisheries hotspots and potential areas across the country aimed at expediting the registration process, enhancing approval rates, and encouraging eligible stakeholders to avail themselves of the numerous benefits under PMMKSSY, such as credit facilitation, aquaculture insurance and performance grants.

    Background

    The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PMMKSSY), a Central Sector Sub-scheme under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) with an outlay of ₹6,000 crore is under implementation since 2023-2024. Its main aim is to formalize the fisheries sector, enhance access to institutional finance, promote aquaculture insurance, improve value chain efficiencies, and strengthen fish safety and quality assurance systems. By addressing key challenges such as fragmentation, lack of credit access, and low value chain efficiency, PMMKSSY seeks to create a more resilient and sustainable fisheries sector, ensuring enhanced livelihoods for fishers and fish farmers.

    A key component of this sub-scheme is to create a National Fisheries Digital Platform (NFDP) to register fishers, fish farmers, vendors, processors, and microenterprises, facilitating their integration into formal financial systems and government programs. NFDP has specific modules for registration, credit facilitation, strengthening of Fisheries cooperatives, aquaculture insurance, performance grants, traceability and training & capacity building. So far, more than 17 lakh registrations have been made on the portal. This digital initiative, combined with targeted interventions under PMMKSSY, is expected to enhance productivity, expand domestic and global markets, and ensure long-term sectoral growth.

    Eligible stakeholders mainly, fishers, fish farmers, vendors, processors, microenterprises, etc. can register themselves on the National Fisheries Digital Platform at these camps such that they can avail the benefits under PMMKSSY. List of States/Districts organizing the camps annexed below for reference.

    Areas of Mobilization                                                                          

    Annexure 1

    Name of State

    Potential Area

    Exact Location/Camp Location

    District Name

    Madhya Pradesh

    Balaghat

    Balaghat

    Balaghat

    Dhar

    Dhar

    Dhar

    Seoni

    Seoni

    Seoni

    Chhattisgarh

    Durg division

    Rajnandgaon

    Rajnandgaon

    Raipur division

    Raipur

    Raipur

    Bilaspur division

    Korba

    Korba

    Bastar division

    Kanker

    Kanker

    Kerala

    Thiruananthapuram

    Thiruananthapuram

    Thiruananthapuram

    Kollam

    Kollam

    Kollam

    Alappuzha

    Alappuzha

    Alappuzha

    Ernakulam

    Ernakulam

    Ernakulam

    Thrissur

    Thrissur

    Thrissur

    Kannur

    Kannur

    Kannur

    Karnataka

    Raichur

    Raichur

    Raichur

    Shimoga

    Shimoga

    Shimoga

    Udupi

    Malpe fishing harbour

    Udupi

    Ramanugra

    Ramanugra

    Ramanugra

    Lakshadweep

    Kavaratti

    Kavaratti

    Lakshadweep

    Agatti

    Agatti

    Lakshadweep

    Telangana

    KarimNagar

    District Head Quarter

    KarimNagar

    Nizamabad

    Nizamabad

    Wanaparthy

    Wanaparthy

    Bihar

    Darbangha

    Polo Ground/Auditorium

    Darbangha

    Madhubani

    Benipatti

    Madhubani

    Muzaffarpur

    District school, Ramna (Pani Tanki)

    Muzaffarpur

    Nagaland

    Dimapur

    Dimapur-Lab cum awareness center

    Kiphire

    West Bengal

    Purbi Midnapur

    Purbi Midnapur

    Purbi Midnapur

    South 24 Pargana

    South 24 Pargana

    South 24 Pargana

    Assam

    Dhubur

    Dhubur

    Dhubur

    Goalpara

    Goalpara

    Goalpara

    Nagaor

    Nagaor

    Nagaor

    Cachar

    Cachar

    Cachar

    Barpeta

    Barpeta

    Barpeta

    Haryana

    Hisar

    District Fisheries Office

    Hisar

    Uttar Pradesh

    Jhansi

    Jhansi

    Jhansi

    Gorakhpur

    Gorakhpur

    Gorakhpur

    Lucknow

    Lucknow

    Lucknow

    Agra

    Agra

    Agra

    Moradabad

    Moradabad

    Moradabad

    Allahabad

    Allahabad

    Allahabad

    Rajasthan

    Churu

    Churu

    Churu

    Banswara

    Banswara

    Banswara

    Kota

    Kota

    Kota

    Tonk

    Tonk

    Tonk

    Tamil Nadu

    Chennai

    Chennai

    Cuddalore

    Cuddalore

    Nagapattinam

    Nagapattinam

    Bhavanisakar

    Erode

    Mandapam

    Ramanathapuram

    Rameshwaram

    Thoothukudi

    RK PURAM

    Tuticorin

    Kulachal

    Ganapathipuram

    Kanya kumari

    Manipur

    Shamushang

    Shamushang

    Imphal West

    Uchiwa

    Uchiwa

    Wangoi

    Wangoi

    Kodompokpi

    Kodompokpi

    Konthoujam

    Konthoujam

    Paobitek

    Paobitek

    Khumbong

    Khumbong

    Komlakhong

    Komlakhong

    Kumbi

    Kumbi

    Bishnupur

    Nambol

    Nambol

    Toubul

    Toubul

    Phubala

    Phubala

    Pukhrambam

    Pukhrambam

    Naorem

    Naorem

    Thanga

    Thanga

    Mizoram

    Buhchang

    Buhchang

    Kolasib

    Zawlnuam

    Zawlnuam

    Mamit

    Chhiahtlang

    Chhiahtlang

    Serchhip

    Champhai (Phaizawl)

    Champhai (Phaizawl)

    Champhai

    Meghalaya

    Tura

    West Garo Hills and South West Garo Hills

    West Garo Hills and South West Garo Hills

    Baghmara

    South Garo Hills

    South Garo Hills

    Williamnagar

    East Garo Hills

    East Garo Hills

    Resubelpara

    North Garo Hills

    North Garo Hills

    Arunachal Pradesh

    Namsai

    Namsai

    Namsai

    Ziro

    Ziro

    Ziro

    Sikkim

    Soreng DAC

    Soreng

    Soreng

    Rakdong

    Gangtok

    Gangtok

    Pakyong

    Pakyong

    Pakyong

    Geyzing

    Geyzing

    Geyzing

    Jammu & Kashmir

    Regional Fish Farmers Dev. Agency (RFFDA) ,
     Ghomanhasan Jammu

    FFDA Ghou Manhasan, Jammu

    Jammu

    The National Fish Seed Farm (NFSF) Manasbal,
     Kashmir

    Regional Fish Farmers Dev. Agency (RFFDA) ,Manasbal Kashmir,

    Ganderbal

    Trout fish farming project Kokernag

    Kokernag

    Anantnag

    Ladakh

    Leh

    Leh District

    Leh District

    Tripura

    West Tripura

    Khayerpur

    West Tripura

    Sepahijala

    Charilam

    Sepahijala

    Gomati

    Amarpur

    Gomati

    South Tripura

    Santirbar

    South Tripura

    Dhalai

    Fish Farmers Knowledge Centre, Dhumacherra

    Dhalai

    Andhra Pradesh

    West Godavari

    Bhimavaram

    West Godavari

    Nellore

    Nellore

    Nellore

    Vishakapatnam

    Vishakapatnam

    Vishakapatnam

    Kakinada

    Kakinada

    Kakinada

    Krishna

    Machilipatnam

    Krishna

    Himchal pradesh

    Pong Reservoir

    Nagrota Suriyan

    Kangra

    Odisha

    Ganjam

    Ganjam

    Ganjam

    Jagatsinghpur

    Jagatsinghpur

    Jagatsinghpur

    Bhadrak

    Bhadrak

    Bhadrak

    Balasore

    Balasore

    Balasore

    Jharkhand

    Ranchi

    Ranchi

    Ranchi

    Palamu

    Palamu

    Palamu

    West Singhbum

    West Singhbum

    West Singhbum

    Pakur

    Pakur

    Pakur

    Koderma

    Koderma

    Koderma

    Godda

    Godda

    Godda

    Hazaribagh

    Hazaribagh

    Hazaribagh

    Saraikela

    Saraikela

    Saraikela

    Bokaro

    Bokaro

    Bokaro

    Dhanbad

    Dhanbad

    Dhanbad

    GOA

    Ponda Taluka

    Shiroda Village

    North Goa

    Tiswadi Village

    Malim Jetty

    Canacona Taluka

    Palolem

    South Goa

    Salcete Taluka

    Benaulim Panchayat

    Puduchery

    Ariyankuppam

    Ariyankuppam

    Puducherry

    Karaikal

    Karaikal

    Karaikal

    Mahi

    Mahi

    Mahi

    Yanam

    Yanam

    Yanam

    Punjab

    Ludhiana

    Govt. Fish Seed Farm, Vil. Mohie

    Ludhiana

    Sri Muktsar Sahib

    Demonstration Farm-cum-Training Center, Vil. Ena Khera

    Sri Muktsar Sahib

    Ferozepur

    Govt. Fish Seed Farm, Malwal

    Ferozepur

    Uttarakhand

    Pithoragarh

    Director
    Fisheries
    Office

    Pithoragarh

    Udham
    Singh Nagar

    Brood-bank
    Khatima

    Udham
    Singh
    Nagar

    Dehradun

    Directorate
    of Fisheries

    Dehradun

    Gujarat

    Dandi

    Dandi Beach

    Surat

    Veraval

    Veraval

    Girri Somanath

    Mangrol

    Mangrol Bandar, Somanath Bhavan

    Junagad

    Porbandar

    Porbandar Harbor

    Porbandar

    Andaman & Nicobar

    Andaman

    Andaman

    Andaman

    North & Middle Andaman

    North & Middle Andaman

    North & Middle Andaman

    Nicobar

    Nicobar

    Nicobar

    Maharashtra

    Mumbai City/Suburban and Thane/Palghar / Raigad

    FSI & Sasoon Dock, Mumbai

    Mumbai

    Sindhudurga / Ratnagiri /Raigad

    Ratnagiri

    Ratnagiri

    Kolhapur/Solapur/Satara/Solapur/Pune

    Satara

    Pune

    Nashik/Ch.Sambhajinagar/Latur

    CH. Smbhajinagar

    Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

    Nagpur/Amravati

    Nagpur

    Nagpur

    Amravati

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Probationers of Indian Civil Accounts Service, Indian Post and Telecommunication (Finance & Accounts) Service, Indian Railway Management Service (Accounts) and Indian Postal Service call on the President

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 12:20PM by PIB Delhi

    A group of probationers of Indian Civil Accounts Service, Indian Post and Telecommunication (Finance & Accounts) Service, Indian Railway Management Service (Accounts) and Indian Postal Service called on the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (February 13, 2025). 

    Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the young officers have the opportunity to contribute directly to nation’s development and prosperity through their domain of functioning, be it managing public finances or ensuring seamless connectivity and communication across the country. She told them that as India moves towards sustainable and inclusive development while focusing on innovation and digital initiatives, young civil servants like them, have an important responsibility to shoulder. 

    The President said that there is an ever-rising expectation among public for greater speed and efficiency in service delivery, along with increased transparency and accountability. To cater to these requirements, it is essential for the government departments to modernize and digitize their systems by making best use of emerging technologies. Such technologies include machine learning, data analytics, blockchain technology and artificial intelligence. She urged young officers to keep themselves abreast of advanced technologies and skills, and strive to create more citizen-centric, efficient and transparent governance systems. She expressed confidence that they will make all efforts not only to excel in their individual careers, but also to contribute to effective delivery of government services to the people of India.

     

    Click here to see the President’s speech

    ***

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mahakumbh 2025: Millions of Devotees take the Holy Dip at Triveni Sangam during the Fourth Amrit Snan on Magh Purnima

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 13 FEB 2025 7:34AM by PIB Delhi

    The largest religious and cultural event in the world, the Mahakumbh 2025, saw the successful completion of the fourth Amrit Snan on the auspicious occasion of Magh Purnima today. Millions of devotees took the Holy Dip at the sacred Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj.

    Alongside Indians, a significant number of foreign devotees also participated in the Amrit Snan. According to data released by the State Government, by 6 PM on Magh Purnima a total of 1.90 crore devotees had taken the holy dip.

    According to the Hindu calendar, the bath on this auspicious day holds special significance, which is why long queues formed at the Sangam from the night. The period for the sacred bath on Magh Purnima began at 6:55 PM on 11th February and ended at 7:22 PM on 12th February.

    The Mahakumbh Mela administration had made extensive arrangements across the Mela grounds to ensure that no devotee faced any inconvenience. Additionally, devotees were continuously urged not to spend too much time at the ghats after taking the dip, to quickly proceed to their destinations. These efforts made the Magh Purnima Snan a highly organized and smooth event.

    To help manage such a massive influx of devotees and ensure their safe return after the sacred bath, large Variable Messaging Displays (VMDs) were set up across the Mela area from Tuesday night, providing essential instructions and messages for their convenience.

    On Magh Purnima, the Kalpavasis took their final dip in the Triveni during Brahma Muhurat and then returned to their camps. After performing their rituals, over 10 lakh Kalpvasis bid farewell to the Mahakumbh and began their journey home. Special arrangements were made by the Mahakumbh administration to ensure the safe return of Kalpvasis, which were effectively executed.

    The success of the Magh Purnima Snan festival was made possible through the combined efforts of the Mahakumbh Mela administration, local authorities, police, sanitation workers, volunteer organizations, boatmen, and various departments of the central and state governments, who worked tirelessly to ensure that this historic event was safe and well-organized.

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  • MIL-OSI: Brookfield Corporation Reports Record 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Distributable Earnings Before Realizations Increased 15% to a Record $4.9 billion or $3.07 Per Share

    Quarterly Dividend Raised by 13%

    BROOKFIELD, NEWS, Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brookfield Corporation (NYSE: BN, TSX: BN) announced record financial results for the year ended December 31, 2024.

    Nick Goodman, President of Brookfield Corporation, said, “We delivered record financial results in 2024, with strong contributions from each of our businesses. Our asset management business had inflows of over $135 billion, our wealth solutions business is now firmly established as a top-tier annuity writer in the U.S., and our operating businesses continue to generate high-quality and stable cash flows.”

    He continued, “We expect the positive momentum in each of our businesses to continue this year. Our access to scale capital remains very strong and with transaction activity expected to pick up throughout 2025, we are well positioned to continue to generate strong growth in our cash flows and intrinsic value.”

    Operating Results

    Distributable earnings (“DE”) before realizations increased by 24% and 15% on a per share basis compared to the prior year periods.

    Unaudited
    For the periods ended December 31
    (US$ millions, except per share amounts)
    Three Months Ended   Years Ended
      2024     2023     2024     2023
    Net income of consolidated business1 $ 101   $ 3,134   $ 1,853   $ 5,105
    Net income attributable to Brookfield shareholders2   432     699     641     1,130
                   
    Distributable earnings before realizations2,3   1,498     1,209     4,871     4,223
    – Per Brookfield share2,3   0.94     0.76     3.07     2.66
                   
    Distributable earnings2,3   1,606     1,312     6,274     4,806
    – Per Brookfield share2,3   1.01     0.83     3.96     3.03

    See endnotes on page 8.

    Total consolidated net income was $101 million in the quarter and $1.9 billion for the year. Distributable earnings before realizations were a record $1.5 billion ($0.94/share) for the quarter and $4.9 billion ($3.07/share) for the year.

    Our asset management business generated a 17% increase in fee-related earnings compared to the prior year quarter, benefiting from strong fundraising momentum and the scaling of its credit platform through strategic partnerships.

    Wealth solutions earnings nearly doubled compared to the prior year, on the back of the acquisition of American Equity Life (“AEL”), organic growth and the attractive returns on our investment portfolio.

    Our operating businesses continue to deliver stable and growing cash flows, underpinned by the strong earnings of our renewable power and transition, infrastructure and private equity businesses and 4% growth in same-store net operating income (“NOI”) from our core real estate portfolio.

    During the quarter and for the year, earnings from realizations were $108 million and $1.4 billion, with total DE for the quarter and for the year of $1.6 billion ($1.01/share) and $6.3 billion ($3.96/share), respectively.

    Regular Dividend Declaration

    The Board declared a 13% increase in the quarterly dividend for Brookfield Corporation to $0.09 per share (representing $0.36 per annum), payable on March 31, 2025 to shareholders of record as at the close of business on March 14, 2025. The Board also declared the regular monthly and quarterly dividends on our preferred shares.

    Operating Highlights

    Distributable earnings before realizations were a record $1.5 billion ($0.94/share) for the quarter and $4.9 billion ($3.07/share) for the year, representing an increase of 24% and 15% on a per share basis over the prior year periods, respectively. Total distributable earnings were $1.6 billion ($1.01/share) for the quarter and $6.3 billion ($3.96/share) for the year.

    Asset Management:

    • DE was $694 million ($0.44/share) in the quarter and $2.6 billion ($1.67/share) for the year.
    • Fee-related earnings grew by 17% compared to the prior year quarter, driven by an 18% increase in fee-bearing capital over the prior year to $539 billion as at December 31, 2024. Total inflows were over $135 billion in 2024.
    • Our latest round of flagship funds have raised approximately $40 billion across our second global transition fund strategy, our fifth opportunistic real estate fund strategy, and our flagship opportunistic credit fund strategy. Heading into 2025, we expect to hold final closes for our latest flagship funds and continue to actively deploy capital, which should contribute to strong earnings growth.

    Wealth Solutions:

    • Distributable operating earnings were $421 million ($0.26/share) in the quarter and $1.4 billion ($0.85/share) for the year.
    • Insurance assets increased to over $120 billion, as we originated approximately $19 billion of retail and institutional annuity sales in 2024. We continue to diversify the business by growing our pension risk transfer capabilities and expanding into new markets. An example of this is the completion of our first reinsurance transaction in the U.K., at $1.3 billion which closed in the fourth quarter.
    • The average investment portfolio yield was 5.4%, 1.8% higher than the average cost of capital. As we continue to rotate the investment portfolio, annualized earnings for the business are well positioned to grow from approximately $1.6 billion today to $2 billion in the near term.
    • We are raising close to $2 billion of retail capital per month via our combined wealth solutions platforms.

    Operating Businesses:

    • DE was $562 million ($0.35/share) in the quarter and $1.6 billion ($1.03/share) for the year.
    • Operating Funds from Operations in our renewable power, transition and infrastructure businesses increased by 10% over the prior year. Our private equity business continues to contribute resilient, high-quality cash flows. Our core real estate portfolio continues to grow its same-store NOI, delivering a 4% increase over the prior year quarter.
    • In our real estate business, we signed close to 27 million square feet of office and retail leases during the year. Rents on the newly signed leases were approximately 35% higher compared to those leases expiring in the fourth quarter. Also during the fourth quarter, our DE benefited from monetizing a land parcel within our North American residential operations.
    • As real estate markets continue to recover in the coming years, we expect earnings and valuations of the business to strengthen.

    Earnings from the monetization of mature assets were $108 million ($0.07/share) for the quarter and $1.4 billion ($0.89/share) for the year.

    • During the year, we closed nearly $40 billion of asset sales at strong returns, which include a portfolio of U.S. manufactured housing assets and several renewable power and infrastructure assets globally. With the pick-up in transaction activity, we expect this momentum to accelerate into 2025.
    • Total accumulated unrealized carried interest was $11.5 billion at year end, representing an increase of 13% over the prior year, net of carried interest realized into income. We recognized approximately $400 million of net realized carried interest into income in 2024, and we expect to realize significant carried interest as we actively monetize assets in the coming years.

    We ended the quarter with a record $160 billion of capital available to deploy into new investments.

    • We have record deployable capital of approximately $160 billion, which includes $68 billion of cash, financial assets and undrawn credit lines at the Corporation, our affiliates and our wealth solutions business.
    • Our balance sheet is robust and remains conservatively capitalized. Our corporate debt at the Corporation has a weighted-average term of 14 years and today we have no maturities through to the end of 2025.
    • Over the year, we returned $1.5 billion to shareholders through regular dividends and share repurchases, with total share buybacks of approximately $1 billion. In 2025 so far, we have repurchased over $200 million of shares.
    • We had an active year in the capital markets. We executed approximately $135 billion of financings, including issuing $700 million of 30-year subordinated notes and a $1 billion, 7-year non-recourse loan to a large institutional partner of ours, the proceeds of which will mainly be directed towards share repurchases.

    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

    Unaudited
    (US$ millions)
      December 31   December 31
        2024     2023
    Assets        
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 15,051   $ 11,222
    Other financial assets     25,887     28,324
    Accounts receivable and other     40,509     31,001
    Inventory     8,458     11,412
    Equity accounted investments     68,310     59,124
    Investment properties     103,665     124,152
    Property, plant and equipment     153,019     147,617
    Intangible assets     36,072     38,994
    Goodwill     35,730     34,911
    Deferred income tax assets     3,723     3,338
    Total Assets   $ 490,424   $ 490,095
             
    Liabilities and Equity        
    Corporate borrowings   $ 14,232   $ 12,160
    Accounts payable and other     60,223     59,011
    Non-recourse borrowings     220,560     221,550
    Subsidiary equity obligations     4,759     4,145
    Deferred income tax liabilities     25,267     24,987
             
    Equity        
    Non-controlling interests in net assets $ 119,406   $ 122,465  
    Preferred equity   4,103     4,103  
    Common equity   41,874   165,383   41,674   168,242
    Total Equity     165,383     168,242
    Total Liabilities and Equity   $ 490,424   $ 490,095


    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

    Unaudited
    For the periods ended December 31
    (US$ millions, except per share amounts)
    Three Months Ended   Years Ended
      2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Revenues $ 19,426     $ 24,518     $ 86,006     $ 95,924  
    Direct costs1   (11,977 )     (18,168 )     (58,199 )     (72,334 )
    Other income and gains   52       4,256       1,247       6,501  
    Equity accounted income   1,034       429       2,729       2,068  
    Interest expense              
    – Corporate borrowings   (183 )     (142 )     (727 )     (596 )
    – Non-recourse borrowings              
    Same-store   (3,474 )     (3,903 )     (14,889 )     (14,907 )
    Acquisitions, net of dispositions2   (136 )           (319 )      
    Upfinancings2   (186 )           (680 )      
    Corporate costs   (20 )     (16 )     (76 )     (69 )
    Fair value changes   (1,759 )     (1,326 )     (2,520 )     (1,396 )
    Depreciation and amortization   (2,417 )     (2,427 )     (9,737 )     (9,075 )
    Income tax   (259 )     (87 )     (982 )     (1,011 )
    Net income   101       3,134       1,853       5,105  
    Loss (income) attributable to non-controlling interests   331       (2,435 )     (1,212 )     (3,975 )
    Net income attributable to Brookfield shareholders $ 432     $ 699     $ 641     $ 1,130  
                   
    Net income per share              
    Diluted $ 0.25     $ 0.42     $ 0.31     $ 0.61  
    Basic   0.26       0.43       0.31       0.62  

    1. Direct costs disclosed above exclude depreciation and amortization expense.
    2. Interest expense from acquisitions, net of dispositions, and upfinancings completed for the year ended December 31, 2024.

    SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL RESULTS

    DISTRIBUTABLE EARNINGS

    Unaudited
    For the periods ended December 31
    (US$ millions)
    Three Months Ended   Years Ended
      2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Asset management $ 694     $ 649     $ 2,645     $ 2,554  
                   
    Wealth solutions   421       253       1,350       740  
                   
    BEP   107       102       428       417  
    BIP   84       79       336       319  
    BBU   8       9       35       36  
    BPG   351       218       855       733  
    Other   12       (8 )     (28 )     (43 )
    Operating businesses   562       400       1,626       1,462  
                   
    Corporate costs and other   (179 )     (93 )     (750 )     (533 )
    Distributable earnings before realizations1   1,498       1,209       4,871       4,223  
    Realized carried interest, net   108       100       403       570  
    Disposition gains from principal investments         3       1,000       13  
    Distributable earnings1 $ 1,606     $ 1,312     $ 6,274     $ 4,806  

    1. Non-IFRS measure – see Non-IFRS and Performance Measures section on page 8.

    RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME TO DISTRIBUTABLE EARNINGS

    Unaudited
    For the periods ended December 31
    (US$ millions)
    Three Months Ended   Years Ended
      2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net income $ 101     $ 3,134     $ 1,853     $ 5,105  
    Financial statement components not included in DE:              
    Equity accounted fair value changes and other items   448       1,097       2,679       2,902  
    Fair value changes and other   1,685       1,549       2,652       1,952  
    Depreciation and amortization   2,417       2,427       9,737       9,075  
    Disposition gains in net income   (659 )     (4,424 )     (1,234 )     (6,080 )
    Deferred income taxes   82       (416 )     (341 )     (897 )
    Non-controlling interests in the above items1   (2,560 )     (2,064 )     (10,570 )     (7,941 )
    Less: realized carried interest, net   (108 )     (100 )     (403 )     (570 )
    Working capital, net   92       6       498       677  
    Distributable earnings before realizations2   1,498       1,209       4,871       4,223  
    Realized carried interest, net3   108       100       403       570  
    Disposition gains from principal investments         3       1,000       13  
    Distributable earnings2 $ 1,606     $ 1,312     $ 6,274     $ 4,806  

    1. Amounts attributable to non-controlling interests are calculated based on the economic ownership interests held by non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries. By adjusting DE attributable to non-controlling interests, we are able to remove the portion of DE earned at non-wholly owned subsidiaries that is not attributable to Brookfield.
    2. Non-IFRS measure – see Non-IFRS and Performance Measures section on page 8.

    3. Includes our share of Oaktree’s distributable earnings attributable to realized carried interest.

    EARNINGS PER SHARE

    Unaudited
    For the periods ended December 31
    (millions, except per share amounts)
    Three Months Ended   Years Ended
      2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net income $ 101     $ 3,134     $ 1,853     $ 5,105  
    Non-controlling interests   331       (2,435 )     (1,212 )     (3,975 )
    Net income attributable to shareholders   432       699       641       1,130  
    Preferred share dividends1   (41 )     (43 )     (168 )     (166 )
    Net income available to common shareholders   391       656       473       964  
    Dilutive impact of exchangeable shares of affiliate   3       3       12       5  
    Net income available to common shareholders including dilutive impact of exchangeable shares $ 394     $ 659     $ 485     $ 969  
                   
    Weighted average shares   1,508.3       1,540.1       1,511.5       1,558.5  
    Dilutive effect of conversion of options and escrowed shares using treasury stock method2 and exchangeable shares of affiliate   81.1       40.8       73.1       29.7  
    Shares and share equivalents   1,589.4       1,580.9       1,584.6       1,588.2  
                   
    Diluted earnings per share3 $ 0.25     $ 0.42     $ 0.31     $ 0.61  

    1. Excludes dividends paid on perpetual subordinated notes of $2 million (2023 – $2 million) and $10 million (2023 – $10 million) for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, which are recognized within net income.
    2. Includes management share option plan and escrowed stock plan.

    3. Per share amounts are inclusive of dilutive effect of mandatorily redeemable preferred shares held in a consolidated subsidiary.

    Additional Information

    The Letter to Shareholders and the company’s Supplemental Information for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, contain further information on the company’s strategy, operations and financial results. Shareholders are encouraged to read these documents, which are available on the company’s website.

    The statements contained herein are based primarily on information that has been extracted from our financial statements for the periods ended December 31, 2024, which have been prepared using IFRS, as issued by the IASB. The amounts have not been audited by Brookfield Corporation’s external auditor.

    Brookfield Corporation’s Board of Directors has reviewed and approved this document, including the summarized unaudited consolidated financial statements prior to its release.

    Information on our dividends can be found on our website under Stock & Distributions/Distribution History.

    Quarterly Earnings Call Details

    Investors, analysts and other interested parties can access Brookfield Corporation’s 2024 Fourth Quarter Results as well as the Shareholders’ Letter and Supplemental Information on Brookfield Corporation’s website under the Reports & Filings section at www.bn.brookfield.com.

    To participate in the Conference Call today at 10:00 a.m. ET, please pre-register at https://register.vevent.com/register/BIf7f2f2b5bdd84f708b0fc3cd0fd714dd. Upon registering, you will be emailed a dial-in number, and unique PIN. The Conference Call will also be webcast live at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/5vbgiehc. For those unable to participate in the Conference Call, the telephone replay will be archived and available until February 13, 2026. To access this rebroadcast, please visit: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/5vbgiehc

    About Brookfield Corporation

    Brookfield Corporation is a leading global investment firm focused on building long-term wealth for institutions and individuals around the world. We have three core businesses: Alternative Asset Management, Wealth Solutions, and our Operating Businesses which are in renewable power, infrastructure, business and industrial services, and real estate.

    We have a track record of delivering 15%+ annualized returns to shareholders for over 30 years, supported by our unrivaled investment and operational experience. Our conservatively managed balance sheet, extensive operational experience, and global sourcing networks allow us to consistently access unique opportunities. At the center of our success is the Brookfield Ecosystem, which is based on the fundamental principle that each group within Brookfield benefits from being part of the broader organization. Brookfield Corporation is publicly traded in New York and Toronto (NYSE: BN, TSX: BN).

    Please note that Brookfield Corporation’s previous audited annual and unaudited quarterly reports have been filed on EDGAR and SEDAR+ and can also be found in the investor section of its website at www.brookfield.com. Hard copies of the annual and quarterly reports can be obtained free of charge upon request.

    For more information, please visit our website at www.bn.brookfield.com or contact:

    Media:
    Kerrie McHugh
    Tel: (212) 618-3469
    Email: kerrie.mchugh@brookfield.com
      Investor Relations:
    Angela Yulo
    Tel: (416) 943-7955
    Email: angela.yulo@brookfield.com
         

    Non-IFRS and Performance Measures

    This news release and accompanying financial information are based on International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”), as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”), unless otherwise noted.

    We make reference to Distributable Earnings (“DE”). We define DE as the sum of distributable earnings from our asset management business, distributable operating earnings from our wealth solutions business, distributions received from our ownership of investments, realized carried interest and disposition gains from principal investments, net of earnings from our Corporate Activities, preferred share dividends and equity-based compensation costs. We also make reference to DE before realizations, which refers to DE before realized carried interest and realized disposition gains from principal investments. We believe these measures provide insight into earnings received by the company that are available for distribution to common shareholders or to be reinvested into the business.

    Realized carried interest and realized disposition gains are further described below:

    • Realized Carried Interest represents our contractual share of investment gains generated within a private fund after considering our clients’ minimum return requirements. Realized carried interest is determined on third-party capital that is no longer subject to future investment performance.
    • Realized Disposition Gains from Principal Investments are included in DE because we consider the purchase and sale of assets from our directly held investments to be a normal part of the company’s business. Realized disposition gains include gains and losses recorded in net income and equity in the current period, and are adjusted to include fair value changes and revaluation surplus balances recorded in prior periods which were not included in prior period DE.

    We use DE to assess our operating results and the value of Brookfield Corporation’s business and believe that many shareholders and analysts also find these measures of value to them.

    We make reference to Operating Funds from Operations (“Operating FFO”). We define Operating FFO as the company’s share of revenues less direct costs and interest expenses; excludes realized carried interest and disposition gains, fair value changes, depreciation and amortization and deferred income taxes; and includes our proportionate share of FFO from operating activities recorded by equity accounted investments on a fully diluted basis.

    We make reference to Net Operating Income (“NOI”), which refers to the revenues from our operations less direct expenses before the impact of depreciation and amortization within our real estate business. We present this measure as we believe it is a key indicator of our ability to impact the operating performance of our properties. As NOI excludes non-recurring items and depreciation and amortization of real estate assets, it provides a performance measure that, when compared to prior periods, reflects the impact of operations from trends in occupancy rates and rental rates.

    We disclose a number of financial measures in this news release that are calculated and presented using methodologies other than in accordance with IFRS. These financial measures, which include DE, should not be considered as the sole measure of our performance and should not be considered in isolation from, or as a substitute for, similar financial measures calculated in accordance with IFRS. We caution readers that these non-IFRS financial measures or other financial metrics are not standardized under IFRS and may differ from the financial measures or other financial metrics disclosed by other businesses and, as a result, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers and entities.

    We provide additional information on key terms and non-IFRS measures in our filings available at www.bn.brookfield.com.

    1. Consolidated basis – includes amounts attributable to non-controlling interests.
    2. Excludes amounts attributable to non-controlling interests.
    3. See Reconciliation of Net Income to Distributable Earnings on page 5 and Non-IFRS and Performance Measures section on page 8.

    Notice to Readers

    Brookfield Corporation is not making any offer or invitation of any kind by communication of this news release and under no circumstance is it to be construed as a prospectus or an advertisement.

    This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian provincial securities laws and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and in any applicable Canadian securities regulations (collectively, “forward-looking statements”). Forward- looking statements include statements that are predictive in nature, depend upon or refer to future results, events or conditions, and include, but are not limited to, statements which reflect management’s current estimates, beliefs and assumptions regarding the operations, business, financial condition, expected financial results, performance, prospects, opportunities, priorities, targets, goals, ongoing objectives, strategies, capital management and outlook of Brookfield Corporation and its subsidiaries, as well as the outlook for North American and international economies for the current fiscal year and subsequent periods, and which in turn are based on our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors management believes are appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates, beliefs and assumptions of Brookfield Corporation are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive and other uncertainties and contingencies regarding future events and as such, are subject to change. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “foresee,” “could,” “estimate,” “goal,” “intend,” “plan,” “seek,” “strive,” “will,” “may” and “should” and similar expressions. In particular, the forward-looking statements contained in this news release include statements referring to the impact of current market or economic conditions on our business, the future state of the economy or the securities market, the anticipated allocation and deployment of our capital, our fundraising targets, and our target growth objectives.

    Although Brookfield Corporation believes that such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable estimates, beliefs and assumptions, actual results may differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: (i) returns that are lower than target; (ii) the impact or unanticipated impact of general economic, political and market factors in the countries in which we do business; (iii) the behavior of financial markets, including fluctuations in interest and foreign exchange rates and heightened inflationary pressures; (iv) global equity and capital markets and the availability of equity and debt financing and refinancing within these markets; (v) strategic actions including acquisitions and dispositions; the ability to complete and effectively integrate acquisitions into existing operations and the ability to attain expected benefits; (vi) changes in accounting policies and methods used to report financial condition (including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and estimates); (vii) the ability to appropriately manage human capital; (viii) the effect of applying future accounting changes; (ix) business competition; (x) operational and reputational risks; (xi) technological change; (xii) changes in government regulation and legislation within the countries in which we operate; (xiii) governmental investigations and sanctions; (xiv) litigation; (xv) changes in tax laws; (xvi) ability to collect amounts owed; (xvii) catastrophic events, such as earthquakes, hurricanes and epidemics/pandemics; (xviii) the possible impact of international conflicts and other developments including terrorist acts and cyberterrorism; (xix) the introduction, withdrawal, success and timing of business initiatives and strategies; (xx) the failure of effective disclosure controls and procedures and internal controls over financial reporting and other risks; (xxi) health, safety and environmental risks; (xxii) the maintenance of adequate insurance coverage; (xxiii) the existence of information barriers between certain businesses within our asset management operations; (xxiv) risks specific to our business segments including asset management, wealth solutions, renewable power and transition, infrastructure, private equity, real estate and corporate activities; and (xxv) factors detailed from time to time in our documents filed with the securities regulators in Canada and the United States.

    We caution that the foregoing list of important factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive and other factors could also adversely affect future results. Readers are urged to consider these risks, as well as other uncertainties, factors and assumptions carefully in evaluating the forward-looking statements and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which are based only on information available to us as of the date of this news release or such other date specified herein. Except as required by law, Brookfield Corporation undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward- looking statements, whether written or oral, that may be as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Past performance is not indicative nor a guarantee of future results. There can be no assurance that comparable results will be achieved in the future, that future investments will be similar to historic investments discussed herein, that targeted returns, growth objectives, diversification or asset allocations will be met or that an investment strategy or investment objectives will be achieved (because of economic conditions, the availability of appropriate opportunities or otherwise).

    Target returns and growth objectives set forth in this news release are for illustrative and informational purposes only and have been presented based on various assumptions made by Brookfield Corporation in relation to the investment strategies being pursued, any of which may prove to be incorrect. There can be no assurance that targeted returns or growth objectives will be achieved. Due to various risks, uncertainties and changes (including changes in economic, operational, political or other circumstances) beyond Brookfield Corporation’s control, the actual performance of the business could differ materially from the target returns and growth objectives set forth herein. In addition, industry experts may disagree with the assumptions used in presenting the target returns and growth objectives. No assurance, representation or warranty is made by any person that the target returns or growth objectives will be achieved, and undue reliance should not be put on them.

    When we speak about our wealth solutions business or Brookfield Wealth Solutions, we are referring to Brookfield’s investments in this business that supported the acquisitions of its underlying operating subsidiaries.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Onity Group Announces Full-Year and Fourth Quarter 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Onity Group Inc. (NYSE: ONIT) (“Onity” or the “Company”) today announced its full-year and fourth quarter 2024 results and provided a business update.

    Full-Year 2024:

    • Net income attributable to common stockholders of $33 million, highest since 2013; diluted EPS of $4.13; return on equity (“ROE”) of 8%
    • Adjusted pre-tax income* of $90 million, resulting in adjusted ROE* of 20%
    • $86 billion in total servicing additions ($47 billion in subservicing additions)
    • Book value per share improved $4 year-over-year to $56 as of December 31, 2024
    • Reduced corporate debt by $145 million; debt-to-equity ratio of 2.96 to 1

    Fourth Quarter 2024:

    • Net loss attributable to common stockholders of $29 million; diluted EPS of ($3.63); ROE of (25%); includes previously disclosed $41 million of net corporate debt restructuring charges
    • Adjusted pre-tax income* of $11 million, resulting in annualized adjusted ROE* of 10%
    • $25 billion in total servicing additions ($8 billion in subservicing additions)
    • Successfully executed planned corporate debt restructuring, closed the sale of the Company’s joint venture interest in MAV and the Waterfall asset purchase transaction

    2025 Outlook:

    • Increased adjusted ROE* guidance to 16% – 18%

    * See “Note Regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below

    “In 2024 we delivered powerful financial results, with net income reaching an eleven-year high, adjusted pre-tax income nearly doubling from the prior year, and adjusted ROE exceeding our guidance,” said Onity Group Chair, President and CEO Glen Messina. “The year was marked by several significant milestones, including successfully completing a series of transactions to reduce our corporate debt, lower cost and extend maturities, rebranding to Onity, and expanding our digital capabilities. Fourth quarter results were consistent with the guidance we provided at the end of the third quarter, and even with the previously disclosed debt restructuring costs, we ended the year with book value per share at $56, up $4 from prior year-end.”

    Messina continued, “Our results demonstrate that our best-in-class servicing platform and broad originations capabilities across our balanced business continued to deliver strong operating and financial performance regardless of interest rate cycles. I’d like to thank our global team and business partners who helped to enable a successful year. Looking ahead, I am confident in our strategy, team and capabilities. I believe we are well positioned to accelerate growth, improve returns and deliver substantial value to our customers, business partners and shareholders in 2025 and beyond.”

    Additional Full-Year and Fourth Quarter 2024 Operating and Business Highlights

    • Funded recapture volume for full-year 2024 up 2.5x over 2023; fourth quarter 2024 up 4.2x over fourth quarter 2023 and up 64% over third quarter 2024
    • Originations volume of $30 billion in 2024, up 33% compared to 2023; $10 billion in fourth quarter, up 72% over fourth quarter 2023 and up 12% over third quarter 2024
    • Total servicing UPB of $302 billion at December 31, 2024, up $13 billion over December 31, 2023; sold $15 billion of MSR UPB servicing released above book value
    • Total liquidity (unrestricted cash plus available credit) maintained year-over-year at $248 million as of December 31, 2024
    • MSR fair value change, net of hedge, resulted in a net gain in 2024
    • Extended subservicing agreement for existing MSR Asset Vehicle LLC (“MAV”) portfolio for an initial term of five years; renewed subservicing agreement with Rithm Capital to January 31, 2026
    • Achieved HUD Tier 1 servicer rating for fourth consecutive year; recognized by 2024 Freddie Mac SHARPSM program for subservicing

    Webcast and Conference Call

    Onity will hold a conference call on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. (ET) to review the Company’s full-year and fourth quarter 2024 operating results. All interested parties are welcome to participate. You can access the conference call by dialing (800) 274-8461 or (203) 518-9814 approximately 10 minutes prior to the call; please reference the conference ID “Onity.” Participants can also access the conference call through a live audio webcast available from the Shareholder Relations page at onitygroup.com under Events and Presentations. An investor presentation will accompany the conference call and be available by visiting the Shareholder Relations page at onitygroup.com prior to the call. A replay of the conference call will be available via the website approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call. A telephonic replay will also be available approximately three hours following the call’s completion through February 27, 2025, by dialing (844) 512-2921 or (412) 317-6671; please reference access code 11157783.

    About Onity Group

    Onity Group Inc. (NYSE: ONIT) is a leading non-bank financial services company providing mortgage servicing and originations solutions through its primary brands, PHH Mortgage and Liberty Reverse Mortgage. PHH Mortgage is one of the largest servicers in the country, focused on delivering a variety of servicing and lending programs to consumers and business clients. Liberty is one of the nation’s largest reverse mortgage lenders dedicated to providing loans that help customers meet their personal and financial needs. We are headquartered in West Palm Beach, Florida, with offices and operations in the United States, the U.S. Virgin Islands, India and the Philippines, and have been serving our customers since 1988. For additional information, please visit onitygroup.com.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements may be identified by a reference to a future period or by the use of forward-looking terminology. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as “expect”, “believe”, “foresee”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “estimate”, “goal”, “strategy”, “plan” “target” and “project” or conditional verbs such as “will”, “may”, “should”, “could” or “would” or the negative of these terms, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words, and includes statements in this press release regarding our ability to accelerate growth, improve returns and deliver substantial value to our customers, business partners and shareholders in 2025 and beyond. Forward-looking statements by their nature address matters that are, to different degrees, uncertain. Readers should bear these factors in mind when considering such statements and should not place undue reliance on such statements.

    Forward-looking statements involve a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. In the past, actual results have differed from those suggested by forward looking statements and this may happen again. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those suggested by the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the potential for ongoing disruption in the financial markets and in commercial activity generally as a result of U.S. and global political events, changes in monetary and fiscal policy, and other sources of instability; the impacts of inflation, employment disruption, and other financial difficulties facing our borrowers; the adequacy of our financial resources, including our sources of liquidity and ability to sell, fund and recover servicing advances, forward and reverse whole loans, future draws on existing reverse loans, and HECM and forward loan buyouts and put backs, as well as repay, renew and extend borrowings, borrow additional amounts as and when required, meet our MSR or other asset investment objectives and comply with our debt agreements, including the financial and other covenants contained in them; our ability to interpret correctly and comply with current or future liquidity, net worth and other financial and other requirements of regulators, the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae), and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) (together, the GSEs), and the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae), including our ability to implement a cost-effective response to Ginnie Mae’s risk-based capital requirements by the extended deadline granted to us by Ginnie Mae of May 1, 2025; our ability to timely reduce operating costs, or generate offsetting revenue, in proportion to the industry-wide decrease in originations activity; the impact of cost-reduction initiatives on our business and operations; the impact of our rebranding initiative; the amount of senior debt or common stock or that we may repurchase under any repurchase programs, the timing of such repurchases, and the long-term impact, if any, of repurchases on the trading price of our securities or our financial condition; breach or failure of Onity’s, our contractual counterparties’, or our vendors’ information technology or other security systems or privacy protections, including any failure to protect customers’ data, resulting in disruption to our operations, loss of income, reputational damage, costly litigation and regulatory penalties; our reliance on our technology vendors to adequately maintain and support our systems, including our servicing systems, loan originations and financial reporting systems, and uncertainty relating to our ability to transition to alternative vendors, if necessary, without incurring significant cost or disruption to our operations; the future of our long-term relationship with Rithm Capital Corp. (Rithm); our ability to close acquisitions of MSRs and other transactions, including the ability to obtain regulatory approvals; our ability to grow our reverse servicing business; our ability to retain clients and employees of acquired businesses, and the extent to which acquisitions and our other strategic initiatives will contribute to achieving our growth objectives; increased servicing costs based on increased borrower delinquency levels or other factors; uncertainty related to past, present or future claims, litigation, cease and desist orders and investigations regarding our servicing, foreclosure, modification, origination and other practices brought by government agencies and private parties, including state regulators, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), State Attorneys General, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Department of Justice or the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); the reactions of key counterparties, including lenders, the GSEs and Ginnie Mae, to our regulatory engagements and litigation matters; increased regulatory scrutiny and media attention; any adverse developments in existing legal proceedings or the initiation of new legal proceedings; our ability to effectively manage our regulatory and contractual compliance obligations; our ability to comply with our servicing agreements, including our ability to comply with the requirements of the GSEs and Ginnie Mae and maintain our seller/servicer and other statuses with them; our ability to fund future draws on existing loans in our reverse mortgage portfolio; our servicer and credit ratings as well as other actions from various rating agencies, including any future downgrades; as well as other risks and uncertainties detailed in our reports and filings with the SEC, including our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and for the year ended December 31, 2024 when available. Anyone wishing to understand Onity’s business should review our SEC filings. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made and, we disclaim any obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Note Regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    This press release contains references to adjusted pre-tax income (loss) and adjusted ROE, both non-GAAP financial measures.

    We believe these non-GAAP financial measures provide a useful supplement to discussions and analysis of our financial condition, because they are measures that management uses to assess the financial performance of our operations and allocate resources. In addition, management believes that this presentation may assist investors with understanding and evaluating our initiatives to drive improved financial performance. Management believes, specifically, that the removal of fair value changes of our net MSR exposure due to changes in market interest rates and assumptions provides a useful, supplemental financial measure as it enables an assessment of our ability to generate earnings regardless of market conditions and the trends in our underlying businesses by removing the impact of fair value changes due to market interest rates and assumptions, which can vary significantly between periods. However, these measures should not be analyzed in isolation or as a substitute to analysis of our GAAP pre-tax income (loss) or GAAP pre-tax ROE nor a substitute for cash flows from operations. There are certain limitations to the analytical usefulness of the adjustments we make to GAAP pre-tax income (loss) and GAAP pre-tax ROE and, accordingly, we use these adjustments only for purposes of supplemental analysis. Non-GAAP financial measures should be viewed in addition to, and not as an alternative for, Onity’s reported results under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. Other companies may use non-GAAP financial measures with the same or similar titles that are calculated differently to our non-GAAP financial measures. As a result, comparability may be limited. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on analysis of the adjustments we make to GAAP pre-tax income (loss) and GAAP pre-tax ROE.

    The Company has not provided reconciliations of guidance for adjusted ROE, in reliance on the unreasonable efforts exception provided under Item 10(e)(1)(i)(B) of Regulation S-K. The Company is unable, without unreasonable efforts, to forecast certain items required to develop meaningful comparable GAAP financial measures. These items include the change in fair value of our net MSR exposure due to changes in market interest rates and assumptions which can vary significantly between periods and are difficult to predict in advance in order to include in a GAAP estimate.

    Notables

    In the table below, we adjust GAAP pre-tax income for the following factors: MSR valuation adjustments, expense notables, and other income statement notables. MSR valuation adjustments are comprised of changes to Forward MSR and Reverse mortgage valuations due to rates and assumption changes. Expense notables include significant legal and regulatory settlement expenses, severance and retention costs, LTIP stock price changes, consolidation of office facilities and other expenses (such as costs associated with strategic transactions). Other income statement notables include non-routine transactions that are not categorized in the above.

    Beginning with the three months ended December 31, 2024, for purposes of calculating Income Statement Notables and Adjusted Pre-Tax Income, we changed the methodology used to calculate Other Income Statement Notables to include change in fair value due to interest rates for reverse loan buyouts (reported in gain/loss on loans held for sale, at fair value). We made this change to align with the change to our risk management approach to include changes in fair value of reverse loan buyouts due to interest rates in our MSR hedge strategy, consistent with other notables, such as Forward MSR Valuation Adjustments due to rates and assumption changes, net and Reverse Mortgage Fair Value Change due to rates and assumption changes.

    Other Income Statement Notables (a component of Other Notables) for the first three quarters of 2024 have been revised from prior presentations to reflect the methodology we adopted during the fourth quarter of 2024.

     (Dollars in millions) FY’24 FY’23 Q4’24 Q3’24
    I Reported Net Income (Loss) 34 (64) (28) 21
      A. Income Tax Benefit (Expense) (5) (6) 6 (6)
    II Reported Pre-Tax Income (Loss) [I – A] 39 (58) (34) 28
      Forward MSR Valuation Adjustments due to rates and assumption changes, net (a)(b) 17 (121) 14 (1)
      Reverse Mortgage Fair Value Change due to rates and assumption changes (b)(c) (7) (3) (15) 9
    III Total MSR Valuation Adjustments due to rates and assumption changes, net 10 (124) (1) 8
      Significant legal and regulatory settlement expenses (8) 21 (2) (6)
      Severance and retention (d) (3) (7) (0) (0)
      LTIP stock price changes (e) 1 3 (1) (1)
      Office facilities consolidation (0) 0 (0) (0)
      Other expense notables (f) (1) 2 (0) 0
      B. Total Expense Notables (11) 18 (4) (7)
      C. Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt (49) 1 (51) 0
      D. Gain on sale of MAV canopy 14   14  
      E. Other Income Statement Notables (g) (13) (2) (3) (5)
    IV Total Other Notables [B + C + D + E] (60) 17 (44) (12)
    V Total Notables (h) [III + IV] (51) (107) (45) (4)
    VI Adjusted Pre-Tax Income (i) [II – V] 90 49 11 31
    a) MSR valuation adjustments that are due to changes in market interest rates, valuation inputs or other assumptions, net of overall fair value gains / (losses) on MSR hedge, including FV changes of Pledged MSR liabilities associated with MSR transferred to MAV, Rithm and others and ESS financing liabilities that are due to changes in market interest rates, valuation inputs or other assumptions, a component of MSR valuation adjustments, net
    b) The changes in fair value due to market interest rates were measured by isolating the impact of market interest rate changes on the valuation model output as provided by our third-party valuation expert
    c) FV changes of loans HFI and HMBS related borrowings due to market interest rates and assumptions, a component of gain on reverse loans held for investment and HMBS-related borrowings, net
    d) Severance and retention due to organizational rightsizing or reorganization
    e) Long-term incentive program (LTIP) compensation expense changes attributable to stock price changes during the period
    f) Includes costs associated with but not limited to rebranding, MAV upsize, and other strategic initiatives and transactions
    g) Contains non-routine transactions including but not limited to early asset retirement and fair value assumption changes on other investments recorded in other income/expense
    h) Certain previously presented notable categories with nil numbers for each period shown have been omitted
    i) Effective in Q4’24, change in fair value due to interest rates for reverse loan buyouts is now recognized as a notable (previously reported in gain/loss on loans held for sale, at fair value); presentation of past periods has been conformed to the current presentation; without this change, adjusted pre-tax income would be $89M in FY’24, $8M in Q4’24 and $35M in Q3’24; see note titled “Note Regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for more information
       

    Adjusted ROE Calculation

    (Dollars in millions) FY’24 FY’23 Q4’24 Q3’24
    I Reported Net Income (Loss) 34 (64) (28) 21
    II Notable Items (51) (107) (45) (4)
    III Income Tax Benefit (Expense) (5) (6) 6 (6)
    IV Adjusted Pre-Tax Income (Loss) [I – II – III] 90 49 11 31
    V Annualized Adjusted Pre-tax Income [IV * 4 for qtr.] 90 49 46 126
      Equity        
      A Beginning Period Equity 402 457 468 446
      C Ending Period Equity 443 402 443 468
      D Equity Impact of Notables 51 107 45 4
      B Adjusted Ending Period Equity [C + D] 493 509 488 472
    VI Average Adjusted Equity [(A + B) / 2] 448 483 478 459
    VII Adjusted ROE (a) [V / VI] 20% 10% 10% 27%
    a) Effective in Q4’24, change in fair value due to interest rates for reverse loan buyouts is now recognized as a notable (previously reported in gain/loss on loans held for sale, at fair value); presentation of past periods has been conformed to the current presentation; without this change, adjusted pre-tax income would be $89M in FY’24, $8M in Q4’24, and $35M in Q3’24; without this change, adjusted ROE would be 20% in FY’24, 7% in Q4’24, and 31% in Q3’24; see note titled “Note Regarding Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for more information
       

    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited)

    Assets (Dollars in millions) December 31,
    2024
    December 31,
    2023
    Cash and cash equivalents 184.8 201.6
    Restricted cash 80.8 53.5
    Mortgage servicing rights (MSRs), at fair value 2,466.3 2,272.2
    Advances, net 577.2 678.8
    Loans held for sale, at fair value 1,290.2 677.3
    Loans held for investment, at fair value 11,125.3 7,975.5
    Receivables, net 176.4 154.8
    Investment in equity method investee 37.8
    Premises and equipment, net 11.0 13.1
    Other assets 111.3 106.2
    Contingent loan repurchase asset 412.2 343.0
    Total Assets 16,435.4 12,513.7
         
    Liabilities, Mezzanine & Stockholders’ Equity (Dollars in millions) December 31,
    2024
    December 31,
    2023
    Home Equity Conversion Mortgage-Backed Securities (HMBS) related borrowings, at fair value 10,872.1 7,797.3
    Other financing liabilities, at fair value 846.9 900.0
    Advance match funded liabilities 417.1 499.7
    Mortgage loan financing facilities, net 1,528.2 710.6
    MSR financing facilities, net 957.9 916.2
    Senior notes, net 487.4 595.8
    Other liabilities 420.6 349.3
    Contingent loan repurchase liability 412.2 343.0
    Total Liabilities 15,942.5 12,111.9
    Mezzanine Equity 49.9
    Stockholders’ Equity 442.9 401.8
    Total Liabilities, Mezzanine and Stockholders’ Equity 16,435.4 12,513.7
         

    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (unaudited)

    (Dollars in millions) For the Years Ended
    December 31,
    2024
    December 31,
    2023
    Revenue    
    Servicing and subservicing fees   832.5     947.3  
    Gain on reverse loans held for investment and HMBS-related borrowings, net   42.5     46.7  
    Gain on loans held for sale, net   59.0     40.6  
    Other revenue, net   42.0     32.0  
    Total revenue   976.0     1,066.7  
    MSR valuation adjustments, net   (96.2)     (232.2)  
    Operating expenses    
    Compensation and benefits   232.5     229.2  
    Servicing and origination   52.3     57.3  
    Technology and communications   52.9     52.5  
    Professional services   52.6     22.3  
    Occupancy, equipment and mailing   31.4     31.8  
    Other expenses   14.7     19.0  
    Total operating expenses   436.5     412.1  
    Other income (expense)    
    Interest income   93.3     78.0  
    Interest expense   (288.9)     (273.6)  
    Pledged MSR liability expense   (175.4)     (296.3)  
    Gain (loss) on extinguishment of debt   (49.4)     1.3  
    Earnings of equity method investee   22.9     7.3  
    Other, net   (6.6)     2.8  
    Other income (expense), net   (404.1)     (480.5)  
    Income before income taxes   39.3     (58.1)  
    Income tax expense   5.3     5.6  
    Net Income (Loss)   33.9     (63.7)  
    Preferred stock dividend   (0.5)      
    Net Income (Loss) attributable to common stockholders   33.4     (63.7)  
    Basic EPS   $4.28     ($8.34)  
    Diluted EPS   $4.13     ($8.34)  
                 

    For Further Information Contact:

    Investors:
    Valerie Haertel, VP, Investor Relations
    (561) 570-2969
    shareholderrelations@onitygroup.com

    Media:
    Dico Akseraylian, SVP, Corporate Communications
    (856) 917-0066
    mediarelations@onitygroup.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: GobizKOREA Online Exhibition Launch: Korean SMEs Unveil Cutting-Edge Products to the Global Market

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEOUL, KOREA, Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The GobizKOREA Online Exhibition is officially underway, bringing together innovative and competitive products from Korean small and medium-sized enterprises for a global business showcase. This dynamic online event, powered by the GobizKOREA global B2B platform, eliminates time and location barriers, enabling real-time interaction and efficient connections between exhibitors and buyers, as Korea’s latest trendy products make their grand debut on the international stage.

    This online exhibition aims to introduce innovative and competitive products from Korean small and medium-sized suppliers to the global market and strengthen business networks.

    Based on GobizKOREA’s online platform, this exhibition showcases products from various industries including health and beauty, agriculture and food, clothing and accessories. Additionally, it has significantly enhanced accessibility between global buyers and Korean companies by providing an environment where anyone can participate anytime, without time or location constraints.

    Participating companies are strengthening their credibility by sharing detailed company and product information, along with various certifications to increase the chance of securing deals with buyers.

    Buyers interested in trading can access the GobizKOREA website (https://www.gobizkorea.com), browse the various showcased products, and submit purchase inquiries for products of interest.

    Considering the nature of this non-face-to-face online exhibition, GobizKOREA is actively supporting smooth communication between participating companies and buyers through trade experts, aiming to facilitate practical business cooperation.

    GobizKOREA is a global B2B platform initiated in 1996 by The Korea SMEs & Startups Agency (KOSME), a government agency of the Republic of Korea. It plays a pivotal role in introducing outstanding products from Korean small and medium-sized suppliers to overseas markets through online channels and supporting global business.

    Looking for trendy new products with immediate sales potential in the market? Please participate in this online exhibition and directly explore the products. Don’t miss out on valuable business opportunities.

    Media contact

    Brand: GobizKOREA

    Contact: Ru Jieun

    E-mail: ruji@Gobizkorea.com

    Website: https://gobizkorea.com

    Phone: +82-70-4771-1751

    The MIL Network