Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Fellowships launched to explore how AI could change the way scientists drive new discoveries

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    New government-funded fellowships will see researchers explore how AI can change the way we conduct research while 23 projects have been awarded funding to explore wider research and innovation.

    £4 million AI Metascience Fellowship Programme

    New government-funded fellowships exploring how AI could change the way scientists drive future discoveries are now open for applications, Science Minister Lord Vallance has announced today (Thursday 13 February).

    Metascience – the study of how science works – examines research practices, funding models, and how institutions operate to improve how science and research is conducted, and discoveries are made and applied. By understanding what makes scientific research more effective, metascience helps drive research breakthroughs faster and with greater impact – boosting economic growth and prosperity to drive our Plan for Change.

    The AI Metascience Fellowship Programme will fund research into key questions, including how AI is reshaping the research landscape and both changing and supporting the daily work of scientists. It will explore ethical concerns such as biases in AI-driven research and transparency in AI-generated discoveries and economic impacts like shifts in research jobs and funding priorities.

    The new fellowship builds on the momentum of the recent AI Action Summit, as global leaders work to ensure AI’s development benefits society and be rolled out across society in the public interest.

    AI is already revolutionising research with DeepMind’s AlphaFold accelerating drug discovery, while AI-powered lab robotics are automating complex experiments and machine learning is transforming how scientists analyse vast datasets.

    The programme will also examine how governments and businesses should respond, from ensuring AI-driven science remains rigorous and delivers reliable outcomes to supporting researchers to maximise their creative potential and spend less time on mundane tasks.

    Funding will go towards researchers to apply their expertise in examining the technology’s broader effects on research. The £4 million UK programme will run alongside a US-based cohort funded by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, creating a transatlantic research effort to examine AI’s impact on science. Fellows from both countries will attend a fully funded summer school, strengthening international collaboration and knowledge exchange.

    Applications are especially encouraged from projects exploring the impact of AI on research jobs and skills, how it affects the speed of scientific progress, and the challenges of ensuring AI-driven research remains reliable and explainable.

    Science Minister, Lord Vallance said:

    AI presents new opportunities in a range of sectors, and if researchers can demonstrate its potential to increase transparency, robustness and trust in science then this could pave the way to freeing them up from mundane paperwork tasks while driving growth.

    Supporting researchers to explore how AI can change the way we conduct research and through our joint support with Open Philanthropy for 23 projects exploring wider research and innovation, we will build a better understanding of what works in research – maximising impact, driving discoveries and improving lives.

    In addition to the Fellowship, Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) have awarded £4.8 million in funding for 23 new research projects, which will tackle key questions about how to improve research and innovation, including AI’s impact on science, research integrity, and new models for funding and publishing research.

    It follows a funding call launched last year and includes £1.8 million in co-funding from Open Philanthropy, a US-based foundation.

    Among the winning projects:

    • University of Sheffield: Assessing whether large language models – like ChatGPT – can reliably review academic work and contribute to the UK’s Research Excellence Framework and journal peer review
    • University of Bath: Partnering with Sage Publishing and the Royal Society to test a two-stage peer review process, designed to increase trust in academic findings
    • University College London (UCL): Working with Google DeepMind and the UN Development Programme (UNDP) to explore how AI-driven research can be applied to global challenges, including sustainability and healthcare

    Notes to editors

    List of the Metascience grant winners.

    AI Peer: Large language models and academic peer review outcomes
    Michael Thelwall, University of Sheffield.

    Analysing the Reliability of Quantitative Impact Evaluations (ARGIE)
    Jack Blumenau, University College London.

    Assessing compliance with the FAIR Guiding Principles: a systematic evidence map of data availability in metabolomics research
    Matt Spick, University of Surrey.

    Big Science Beyond Science: The Innovation Impact of Research Infrastructure Procurement
    Riccardo Crescenzi, LSE.

    Commercialising Deep Tech: Understanding Frictions to University Invention Disclosure
    Ramana Nanda, Imperial College London.

    Cultural Traction: Embedding research culture strategy
    S Martin Holbraad, University College London.

    Evaluating the Development and Impact of AI-Assisted Integrity Assessment of Randomised Trials in Evidence Syntheses
    Alison Avenell, University of Aberdeen.

    Everything we (think we) know about Narrative CVs
    Liz Simmonds, University of Cambridge.

    Financial structures for enabling innovator participation and success: experimental evidence from challenge prizes
    Vidal Kumar, Nesta.

    Fostering a Dynamic Academic Ecosystem: Innovative Platforms and Methodologies for Econometrics
    Martin Weidner, University of Oxford.

    Making Replications Count: Identifying Barriers and Enhancing Impact with Innovative Dissemination Tools
    Lukas Wallrich, Birkbeck, University of London.

    Mapping impact pathways: improving our understanding of what mechanisms work in research translation
    Alexandra Pollitt, King’s College London.

    Metascience, research funding and policy priorities
    Annette Boaz, King’s College London.

    People or Projects (PoP)? Investigating different research funding styles
    Ohid Yaqub, University of Sussex.

    PRIME: Peer Review Improvement for Minimizing Bias in Evaluation
    Katherine Button, University of Bath.

    Providing empirical evidence to support greater equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in research funding
    Philip Clarke, University of Oxford.

    Public value mapping for AI
    Jack Stilgoe, University College London.

    Research Software Engineer Metascience
    Heather Packer, University of Southampton.

    Sharing Code for Medical Research: An Audit Tool and Pilot at The BMJ
    Nicholas DeVito, University of Oxford.

    Supporting Research and Researchers through the deployment of Digital Notebooks: A framework for implementation and impact
    Andrew Stewart, University of Manchester.

    Transparent and Reproducible Science in the 21st Century: Unlocking the Benefits of Open Source Code
    Albert Bravo-Biosca, Nesta.

    Understanding Scientific Prizes – Structure, Evolution and Impact
    Ching Jin, University of Warwick.

    Working together or writing together?
    Steven Wooding, University of Cambridge.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 300

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: WFP welcomes contribution from Government of Uganda to support learning and nutrition from Karamoja students

    Source: World Food Programme

    KAMPALA – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has welcomed a contribution of UGX2.5 billion (US$680,000) from the Government of Uganda to support Home-Grown School Feeding programmes in the Karamoja region of north-east Uganda.

    WFP supports 250,000 children in 320 schools in Karamoja with daily nutritious meals through Home-Grown School Feeding programmes. This programme provides children with safe, diverse, and nutritious foods which are sourced locally from smallholder farmers and school gardens. Providing children with a meal at school can increase school attendance, enrolment, and reduce dropout rates.

    “School feeding is a powerful investment in the future—nourishing children with healthy, locally-sourced meals while empowering smallholder farmers and strengthening communities,” said Marcus Prior, WFP’s acting Country Representative in Uganda. “By working with the Government of Uganda, we are creating sustainable solutions that drive better education, nutrition, and long-term food security for all.”

    The new five-year contribution, a part of the “Karamoja Feeds Karamoja” initiative, is implemented through the Office of the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Karamoja Affairs in coordination with the Ministry of Education and Sports. Originally launched in 2014, the initiative focuses on purchasing locally grown foods for school feeding programmes. 

    “By purchasing food directly from farmer organizations in Karamoja, the government aims to stimulate smallholder production and boost the local economy,” said Hon. Dr. Peter Lokeris, Minister for Karamoja Affairs. “This groundbreaking initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to fostering sustainable development in Karamoja.”

    Uganda is a member of the School Meals Coalition, a government-led initiative of over 100 nations, supported by over 140 partners and hosted by WFP as its Secretariat, working to scale and strengthen school meals programmes globally. In April 2024, the Government of Uganda announced its national commitments to school meals. This latest investment in Karamoja translates that commitment into action, leveraging national resources to support children’s health and education.

                                                               #                           #                         # 

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change. 

    Follow us on X @WFP_Uganda @WFP_Africa

    MIL OSI United Nations News

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

    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:

    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • 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=hVUrkE7ssvg

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: RAF Digby personnel to benefit from £65 million new accommodation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Defence Infrastructure Organisation has awarded a contract to construct 276 single occupancy bedrooms at RAF Digby.

    Artist’s impression of the new blocks. (Copyright Galliford Try/Arcadis)

    The Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) has awarded a £65 million contract for new Single Living Accommodation (SLA) at RAF Digby in Lincolnshire.

    RAF Digby is the RAF’s oldest station, established in 1918, but is now operated by Strategic Command. The contract was awarded to Galliford Try with Arcadis as a Technical Support Provider and will see 4 new blocks of bedrooms created for junior ranks.

    Each block contains a kitchenette, drying rooms, laundry rooms and social spaces, as well as 69 single ensuite rooms.

    The buildings have been designed to be as carbon efficient as possible as part of MOD and wider government push towards net zero. They will benefit from solar panels and be heated using air source heat pumps.

    Other energy efficiency measures include:

    • provision for a system to recover heat from the waste water in the showers
    • temperature-controlled heating zones
    • energy efficient LED lighting
    • electric car charging points

    The contract value also includes provision of car parking, street lighting and landscaped outdoor communal areas. The contractors will be using local suppliers and labour as much as possible to benefit the local economy.

    John Weatherby, DIO’s Principal Project Manager, said:

    It’s fantastic to have reached this important milestone in our goal to transform the accommodation provision at RAF Digby with some high-quality new rooms for junior ranks serving at the station. We look forward to working with Galliford Try on the designs as we prepare for the start of construction in the coming months.

    Wing Commander Neil Hallett, Station Commander RAF Digby, said:

    This is an eagerly anticipated announcement welcomed by the service men and women stationed here. Having modern Single Living Accommodation will significantly improve the lived experience and there is buzz of excitement across the station following this contract award.

    This investment into Royal Air Force Digby is a clear demonstration by the MOD of its intent to enhance the accommodation offer to our personnel while making buildings more sustainable.

    Bill Hocking, Chief Executive of Galliford Try, said:

    We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with the DIO to deliver this much-needed facility for those serving at RAF Digby. We have a strong track record in providing this kind of facility to the armed forces and look forward to ensuring the personnel receive the high-quality living spaces they deserve.

    Construction is expected to start in March.

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Njord report and safety flyer published

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Capsize and foundering of a fishing vessel 150 nautical miles north-east of Peterhead, Scotland, with loss of 1 life.

    Image courtesy of SAR helicopter

    Today, we have published our accident investigation report into capsize and foundering of the stern trawler Njord (SH 90) on 6 March 2022, during which one crew member lost his life.

    safety flyer to the fishing industry has also been produced with this report.

    Media enquiries (telephone only)

    Media enquiries during office hours 01932 440015

    Media enquiries out of hours 0300 7777878

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Attracting and retaining nurses and midwives

    Source: Scottish Government

    Taskforce report highlights recommended actions.

    A taskforce has published 44 recommended actions on how to improve working conditions for Scotland’s nurses and midwives.

    The Nursing and Midwifery Taskforce was established by the Scottish Government in 2023 to build on efforts to make Scotland the best place for nurses and midwives to work.  Chaired by Health Secretary Neil Gray, it brings together key stakeholders, including the Royal Colleges of Nursing and Midwifery, to engage with nursing and midwifery staff, understand the challenges they face and recommend ways to improve the profession.

    A key part of this work was the Listening Project, which gathered insights from more than 4,000 nurses, midwives, students and academics to shape future improvements. The findings from the Listening Project have led to 44 recommended actions designed to improve recruitment and retention of staff and workplace conditions.

    These actions include:

    • ensuring appropriate staffing levels so that all staff can take the breaks they are entitled to
    • reviewing data-inputting and paperwork requirements to reduce the administrative burden on nurses and midwives
    • developing national guidance on rostering and flexible working to ensure better work-life balance
    • ensuring nurses and midwives can participate in decision making and planning
    • widening entry routes into nursing and midwifery careers

    The next stage of the taskforce will focus on implementation, with a dedicated group developing a detailed work plan and timeline that ensures these recommended actions are delivered effectively.

    Accepting all 44 recommendations, Cabinet Secretary for Health, Neil Gray said:

    “Our nurses and midwives are the backbone of Scotland’s healthcare system and we are committed to ensuring they have the support, flexibility and workplace conditions to thrive.

    “The publication of the Nursing and Midwifery Taskforce report marks an important milestone; we have heard directly from staff about what matters most to them, and this has shaped the recommended actions which will deliver real change for nurses and midwives. I am very grateful to everyone who has taken the time to take part in this important piece of work. The Scottish Government will now work with our partners to deliver the actions contained in the report.”

    Colin Poolman, RCN Scotland Director, said:

    “This is the culmination of two years of collaborative working, and we welcome the recommended actions announced today. We see this as a significant step and, as the implementation board begins its work, the recommendations should provide a strategic roadmap to begin to tackle the nursing retention and recruitment challenges in Scotland.

    “Implementation of the recommendations will take time and investment, we look forward to playing a key role in the Implementation Board to ensure delivery and enable Scottish government to meet its aspiration of making Scotland the best place for nurses and midwives to work.”

    Background 

    The report and recommended actions of the Ministerial Scottish Nursing and Midwifery Taskforce – gov.scot

    Listening Project: You shared, we listened – gov.scot

    Nursing and Midwifery Taskforce – gov.scot

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: University of Aberdeen secures third place in national work experience ranking The University of Aberdeen has been listed as one of the top three Universities in the UK for Work Experience in the 2025 Rate My Placement Awards.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    The University of Aberdeen has been listed as one of the top three Universities in the UK for Work Experience in the 2025 Rate My Placement Awards.
    Five hundred of the industry’s finest came together celebrate the outstanding achievements of Employers and Universities in providing work experience for students and to find out where they’d placed in the rankings.
    Coming third in the top 50 Universities for Work Experience, a rise of 12 places since 2024, is particularly special given the ranking is solely based on student feedback on the support provided by their University.
    Tracey Innes, Head of the University’s Careers Service, said: “We really do put our students at the heart of everything we do, so this is a terrific result for the Careers and Employability Service team.
    “In addition to supporting students to independently secure work experience, the team have work extremely hard to develop, launch and continually grow the now fully formed ABDN Internship Programme which provides high-quality, paid internships for students.
    “In the short time since its inception, the programme has seen over 135 students interning with over 100 organisations. The programme provides a true win-win, as students bring the kinds of skills needed to make a real impact on projects in the host organisation, while students build evidence of the skills and experience needed for their own career success.”

    The programme provides a true win-win, as students bring the kinds of skills needed to make a real impact on projects in the host organisation, while students build evidence of the skills and experience needed for their own career success.” Tracey Innes, Head of the University’s Careers Service

    Designed to be fully inclusive, the ABDN Internship Programme is open to all students across every discipline and all study levels. One student highlighted its accessibility, stating: “No previous work experience is required,” and praised the 10-hour-per-week structure as manageable alongside studies.
    The team has worked tirelessly to develop efficient, fair and effective application and selection processes, using innovative shortlisting methods. The system and process minimises the time burden for employers in selecting the best candidates, while ensuring applicants can learn from the application experience through constructive feedback, and gain valuable insights to improve future applications.
    The employer engagement team continues to expand partnerships to secure diverse opportunities that align with students’ aspirations. One employer praised the interns, saying: “The engagement and interest from the interns was amazing… the quality of the end result was better than expected.” 
    Commenting on the award, Gary Coull, Employer Engagement Manager recognises the role employers play in supporting students: “I’d also like to give a special thank you to our brilliant employer partners for giving students such impactful and career-enhancing experiences. This is a true partnership and we

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Culture Derby director appointed

    Source: City of Derby

    The new director of Culture Derby has pledged to work with communities to raise Derby’s profile as a creative and cultural city. 

    Alix Manning-Jones will head up the new strategic development agency to drive the growth and impact of the Derby’s culture and creative sectors. Culture Derby will work alongside the sectors as an advocate and champion, building relationships and working to increase investment.

    Funded by Arts Council England and Derby City Council for an initial two-year period, Culture Derby stems from the Derby Cultural Compact and the UK City of Culture 2025 bid. The Culture Derby Board will bring a wide range of professional skills and experience that is representative of the city, led by the director who will drive forward the plans and secure resources to achieve the project’s goals.

    Alix, who will take up her post at the beginning of April, said:

    Culture Derby will create a vibrant city centre, with culture at the heart. We know that the arts are struggling nationally and locally, and it’s important that we support the cultural sector by maintaining their presence through Culture Derby. 

    I’m committed to delivering high quality, accessible and enjoyable experiences for everyone, to celebrate our city. This is a shared vision and we’ll be working closely with our communities, partners, and businesses. 

    To be able to re-imagine culture in our city, we need to start with listening to our communities and young people and providing opportunities to help shape the programme. I hope to bring a fresh perspective and a new way of working in partnership across all sectors to bring Culture Derby to life.

    Our city needs a cultural beating heart and I’m really looking forward to making that happen.

    Alix has a strong background in the cultural sector. She started her career at the Royal Shakespeare Company and has worked in theatres across the country delivering and producing large-scale festival projects. In 2016 she was appointed as Derby’s Cultural Education Producer and then as Derby’s Opportunity Area Programme Manager, co-producing the This is Derby celebration in 2018. Most recently, Alix has worked at Derby City Council spearheading the city’s Family Hubs programme.

    Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council, said:

    I’m delighted to welcome Alix as Director of Culture Derby. Derby is a city that has always had creativity and innovation at its heart and we believe that every resident and visitor should benefit from the power that arts and culture have to change people’s lives for the better.

    It’s an exciting time in the city, as we look forward to the opening of Becketwell Live and Derby Market Hall. We’re on a mission to create a vibrant hub that celebrates culture and offers something for everyone and I’m excited to work with Culture Derby and our other partners to make that happen.

    Rebecca Blackman, Arts Council England’s Director of Engagement and Communities and Area Director for the Midlands, said:

    We’re delighted to welcome Alix Manning-Jones as Culture Derby’s new director, bringing a wealth of sector experience across the cultural sector, local government, and local communities in Derby.

    Culture Derby is an important new strategic development for Derby, and Alix’s extensive experience in creating collaborative partnerships across culture, education, health, business and the voluntary sector will be a great benefit to Culture Derby. We look forward to working with her.

    Artcore CEO Ruchita Shaikh was part of the interview panel for the director role. She said:

    I am optimistic about the opportunities this new role will bring to the cultural sector in Derby. With fresh perspectives and dedicated support, I am confident that the new director will play a pivotal role in strengthening and enhancing our city’s vibrant cultural landscape. I warmly welcome Alix on board and look forward to the positive impact their leadership will have on Derby’s cultural scene.

    Tony Butler OBE, Executive Director for Derby Museums, who was also on the interview panel, said:

    I want to see culture permeate every area of public policy within our city, from public health to social care, from the environment and net zero, to education and skills. Alix’s great experience in working in the front line and strategically developing cultural programmes in Derby means the cultural sector will be more allied and be able to respond to the needs of the city. She will be a fantastic advocate and connector for culture.

    Dr Rhiannon Jones, Associate Professor (Civic Practice). Head of Civic and Communities University of Derby said: 

    This is an exciting moment for the city, recognising the value of culture as a driver for change which is a key aspect of our Civic University Agreement. We welcome the announcement of Alix as the Culture Derby Director post holder; a role that is crucial and a critical opportunity to support the bold and exciting ambitions for both our communities and for Derby and beyond.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-Evening Report: Grattan on Friday: Albanese and Trump put Australia in holding patterns on election timing and tariffs

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    When parliamentarians left Canberra on Thursday after the fortnight sitting, federal politics had the air of an uneasy waiting game.

    Waiting for the election date, although the campaign has been running for months.

    Waiting to know whether there will be a budget on March 25.

    Waiting for capricious United States President Donald Trump to decide whether to grant Australia that keenly-sought exemption from his new 25% tariff on aluminium and steel imports.

    Most immediately, waiting for the Reserve Bank to announce on Tuesday whether interest rates will be cut.

    In policy terms, the government could be satisfied with this sitting week. Its Future Made in Australia legislation, with promised tax credits for major projects, passed. So too, did its sweeping new rules to put caps on political donations and spending.

    The electoral reform legislation has been an extraordinarily drawn-out saga. Special Minister of State Don Farrell had originally hoped to introduce it by early 2024, with it operating at this election. But the process proved immensely complex, including for constitutional reasons. Finally the bill was introduced late last year, and has passed with virtually no time to spare. The measures won’t operate until the next parliamentary term.

    Farrell brought to the task negotiating skills honed in a lifetime as a right wing factional power broker. He always wanted the deal to be done with the Liberals. He knew they would be the easiest dancing partners, because the changes are in the big parties’ mutual interests. But he also believed bipartisanship would reduce the chance of them being unravelled by a subsequent government.

    The Coalition came on board – after the government made some concessions on donation and disclosure amounts – in the knowledge the reforms help put a floor under the two-party system. It’s obvious the Liberals want to limit the spread of the teal movement, that Climate 200 has helped finance.

    But the potential for the increase in independents is a future danger also for Labor, which at this election is trying to win back Fowler, that fell in 2022 to independent Dai Le.

    While the changes will limit the amount of money available to small players, they are a compromise and less unfair than some crossbenchers claim. Of course, judgements on fairness will differ according to where those making them are coming from. But it’s a substantial leap from urging newcomers should be encouraged into the system to believing the system should facilitate a financial auction for a seat.

    As he basks in his victory of the electoral legislation Farrell, who is also trade minister, finds himself in a supporting role in a more immediately high-profile issue: the tariff battle with the US. Farrell is anxious to engage as soon as possible with his US counterpart, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, preferably face-to-face. But he can’t officially do so until Lutnick is confirmed.

    The tariff issue is being cast by the opposition as a test of Albanese’s ability to deal successfully with the Trump administration.

    It’s an easy test to pose, but the government has done all it can to pursue a positive relationship with the administration. Notably, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles was in Washington a week ago for talks with new defence secretary Pete Hegseth, armed with a hefty cheque for some A$800 million as part of Australia’s contribution under the AUKUS deal.

    The Albanese-Trump call this week, when the PM argued for a tariff exemption, apparently went well. But the outcome is unpredictable, as is the timing of a decision. Trump might have sounded encouraging but, as we’ve been seeing, there’s some strong opposition in the system to giving Australia special treatment.

    A win for Australia would be a significant fillip for the PM; a Trump rebuff would be a corresponding blow. Timing is also important: it would not be good for the government if this issue was unresolved through the election campaign (even worse, if there was a bad result then).

    The opposition seeks to grab headlines by calling for Albanese to rush to Washington. Even if practical that could be counterproductive; if the mission failed it would be a disaster. Voters wouldn’t give him too many marks for trying.

    While Peter Dutton might have thought the arrival of Trump and a more general swing against “wokeism” would be helpful to him at the election, as the US scene becomes more unsettling, the risk for him is that some “soft” voters might decide now is not the time to change.

    Though the tariff issue is important, the election contest is mainly on cost of living in all its manifestations.

    Trump has the power to inflict a blow on Albanese on the tariffs, but the Reserve Bank is a much bigger player in the government’s thinking.

    Expectations remain high of a rate cut next Tuesday. If that didn’t happen, it would be a serious setback for the government. The next chance for a cut would then be April 1.

    It’s not that a cut would necessarily directly swing a lot of votes. The electorate’s mood is likely too negative for that. But the absence of the much-anticipated cut would badly mess with the government’s narrative that things are on the right track for people to become better off.

    Many political stories have dominated this term. A lot could have been foreseen. One, however, was predicted by no one: the appalling antisemitism crisis that has overtaken us, and reached new lows this week. This crisis is the product of far away events triggering a local malignancy that was lurking largely unrecognised.

    A parliamentary inquiry into antisemitism at universities said, in a report tabled this week, that it had found “a disturbing prevalence of antisemitism that has left Jewish students and staff feeling unsafe, hiding their identity on campus and even avoiding campus all together”.

    On the same day that report was tabled, a horrifying video emerged of two nurses at a Sydney hospital, in an online discussion with Israeli influencer Max Veifer, spewing vile sentiments about killing Israeli patents. One of the two is an Afghan who became an Australian citizen several years ago. Dutton has seized on the video to call for a discussion “about the way in which the whole migration system works”.

    Antisemitism has extended beyond being an appalling assault on Jews in our community – it is starting to undermine our institutions and society.

    Michelle Grattan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    ref. Grattan on Friday: Albanese and Trump put Australia in holding patterns on election timing and tariffs – https://theconversation.com/grattan-on-friday-albanese-and-trump-put-australia-in-holding-patterns-on-election-timing-and-tariffs-249843

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI: R3’s Corda leads tokenized RWA market with over $10 billion in on-chain assets and unrivalled industry adoption

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • R3’s Corda dominates the tokenized real-world asset (RWA) market, with over $10 billion in on-chain assets setting the standard for industry adoption
    • Trusted by the world’s leading banks, Corda represents the largest ecosystem of live RWA networks, processing over 1 million transactions each day
    • Client momentum across R3’s digital products suite, supported by regulatory and industry tailwinds, is driving the highest number of live applications in production globally

    LONDON and NEW YORK, Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — R3, the financial markets digital solutions provider, announces significant momentum across all its projects, having reached the major milestone of $10 billion in on-chain real-world assets (RWAs) across live Corda-based platforms, with over 1 million transactions processed each day.

    Corda-based platforms hold over $10 billion in on-chain RWAs (Source: RWA.xyz + R3]

    Following the launch of its new Digital Markets product suite in January 2024, this milestone reflects growing recognition that financial institutions, infrastructure providers, and regulators must prepare themselves for the new digital economy.

    Tokenization of RWAs has become an important goal across the G7 and major markets globally, with 50% of institutional investors expressing specific interest in investing in tokenized assets, citing access to new capital and investors, cost savings, and operational efficiencies as key drivers. The RWA market has expanded by 80% over the past two years. This sector is poised for significant growth over the next decade, with Standard Chartered estimating that demand for tokenized RWAs could reach $30.1tn by 2034.

    With over a decade of experience and the most live use cases in regulated financial markets, Corda is the proven infrastructure for powering asset and currency tokenization for governments, central banks, and financial institutions globally. Starting with private networks allowed leading TradFi players to launch and prove the value of this technology. The recent change in US administration and launch of DLT pilot programs globally is perfectly timed to provide the regulatory clarity, collaborative opportunities, and momentum to unite these highly successful networks with the broader public ecosystem to support liquidity and drive broader market adoption. This convergence will make the significant volumes of RWAs tokenized on private chains available on public networks, enabling regulated institutions to leverage the distribution and flexibility of public blockchains while retaining valuable sovereignty and control over the networks they issue onto.

    Commenting, David E. Rutter, Founder and CEO of R3, said: “A decade after the birth of the Corda and Ethereum projects, the blockchain industry is now maturing. Throughout this evolution, R3 has remained at the forefront, leading the way in solutions for regulated markets and facilitating trillions in transactions since our inception. With over $10 billion in tokenized RWAs across its live networks, Corda is the backbone of the world’s largest financial-grade blockchain ecosystem. A surge in institutional interest, collaborative activity, and positive regulatory momentum particularly in the US positions R3 at a pivotal moment to capitalize on our experience and accomplishments as we continue to strengthen and expand the Corda ecosystem.”

    Richard Gendal Brown, Founding CTO of R3, added: “The move towards tokenization is now a reality. The public vs. private blockchain debate has raged for years, but the integration of private networks into regulated markets has opened the door for the next step. Overcoming regulatory hurdles and bringing financial institutions on-chain, R3’s $10 billion milestone signals the convergence of TradFi and DeFi, driven by RWA tokenization. With the most live in-production solutions and the rapidly growing tokenized RWA market on Corda, R3 is ideally positioned to lead this shift, providing the technological foundation for the next evolution of financial markets.”

    Contact:
    Eterna Partners for R3
    r3@eternapartners.com

    About R3:
    R3 is the leader in real-world asset (RWA) tokenization, digital currencies, and interoperability solutions. R3 supports the world’s largest financial institutions and corporates with solutions that progress market digitization.

    Corda is an open, permissioned DLT platform powering the tokenization of assets and currencies connecting global markets. Corda enables tokenization with control, providing diverse asset mobility in a secure, trusted environment. 

    R3 is committed to progressing financial markets by enabling an open, trusted and advanced digital economy for real-world assets.  

    For further information, please visit www.r3.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/01ebd767-0258-4cec-9a0f-672bc27cd26b

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Homes Accelerator call for evidence: response

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A letter to respondents to the New Homes Accelerator call for evidence.

    Applies to England

    Documents

    Details

    This letter is being sent to all respondents to the New Homes Accelerator call for evidence, which was published on 29 August 2024 and closed on 31 October 2024.

    Updates to this page

    Published 13 February 2025

    Sign up for emails or print this page

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Deputy Head of Rossotrudnichestvo Pavel Shevtsov visited Polytech

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    Deputy Head of Rossotrudnichestvo Pavel Shevtsov paid a working visit to the Polytechnic University. Rossotrudnichestvo is a leading Russian agency. Its main mission is to strengthen Russia’s humanitarian influence in the world. The organization is represented in more than 70 countries.

    The tour of the university began with the Main Academic Building. Vice-Rector for International Affairs Dmitry Arsenyev and Director of the SPbPU History Museum Valery Klimov introduced Pavel Shevtsov to the gallery of outstanding polytechnic scientists, told him about the most important events and interesting facts from the history of the Polytechnic University, and presented key exhibits. The Deputy Head of Rossotrudnichestvo visited the White Hall and the Fundamental Library of the Polytechnic University.

    Pavel Anatolyevich got acquainted with the structure of the Research Building “Technopolis Polytech”, where he visited the halls “Semyonov” and “Kapitsa”. Dmitry Arsenyev also showed him a model of the SPbPU campus.

    After that, a working meeting was held at the international campus of the Polytechnic University. Pavel Anatolyevich visited the Information Center, Admission Office and got acquainted with the procedure for accepting foreign applicants to SPbPU.

    During the negotiations with international services, the main issues of international education development were discussed, including the admission of foreign students within the Russian government quota. They also noted the use of successful SPbPU practices in the activities of the Russian-African Network University consortium to promote engineering education in African countries.

    Particular attention at the meeting was paid to the issues of adaptation of foreign students in Russia, learning the Russian language, and the participation of the Polytechnic University in the International Olympiad “Open Doors: Russian Scholarship”. Pavel Shevtsov highly praised the university’s efforts in creating a comfortable environment for the study and residence of foreigners, including the work of the Information Center, Admission Office, and the Unified Center for Registration of Foreign Citizens.

    Pavel Anatolyevich noted the importance of SPbPU’s work in attracting talented foreign students and scientists, emphasizing that the university is one of the flagships of Russian education and science.

    Pavel Anatolyevich thanked the university management for the warm welcome and expressed confidence that the interaction between Rossotrudnichestvo and the Polytechnic University will contribute to the further development of international education and the strengthening of humanitarian ties between Russia and other countries.

    Dmitry Arsenyev, in turn, expressed his readiness to actively develop partnership relations with Rossotrudnichestvo and support initiatives aimed at promoting Russian education abroad. The parties agreed to hold regular meetings to discuss current and new projects, as well as to work together to implement strategic tasks in the field of international cooperation.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Alberta’s commitment to border security: Minister Ellis and Minister Amery

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Bluewater to Sell Apex International Energy, Highlighting Full-Cycle Private Equity (PE) Investment Model in Africa’s Oil and Gas Sector

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    PARIS, France, February 13, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Private equity is playing an increasingly pivotal role in Africa’s energy sector, driving growth and innovation in the continent’s oil and gas markets. This week, specialist energy private equity firm Bluewater announced the sale of Apex International Energy – transformed under its stewardship into a leading player in Egypt’s energy market – to a subsidiary of Hong Kong-listed United Energy Group. The transaction underscores the full-cycle nature of private equity investing and its potential to unlock value in Africa’s resource-rich markets. 

    Bluewater, which invested in Apex in 2018 as part of its second fund, saw the opportunity to develop the Houston-based company into a significant contributor to Egypt’s oil and gas industry. Under Bluewater’s stewardship, Apex grew from a small, independent exploration and production company into a top-ten producer in Egypt. Over the course of six years, Apex expanded its portfolio to include interests in eight concessions, with production averaging over 11,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2024. 

    This transformation was driven by strategic acquisitions, new discoveries and a laser focus on operational excellence. Key milestones included the 2021 oil discovery in the Southeast Meleiha concession, which saw first production later that year. In 2023, Apex expanded its footprint with the acquisition of six concessions in Egypt’s Western Desert from Italian energy giant Eni, as well as began first gas production. These strategic moves not only boosted Apex’s production levels, but also reinforced its position as a key contributor to Egypt’s energy security. 

    For Bluewater, this growth was a result of carefully managed investments that allowed Apex to capitalize on Egypt’s favorable energy market while navigating the complexities of local regulations and political landscapes. By taking a hands-on approach to governance and working closely with Apex’s leadership team, Bluewater was able to foster a culture of growth and innovation that delivered tangible results. 

    The sale exemplifies how private equity firms complete the full investment cycle – starting with identifying a promising asset, nurturing its growth and ultimately realizing value through a sale or exit strategy. In this case, the sale to United Energy Group positions Apex for continued growth and expansion under new ownership, while providing Bluewater with a profitable return on its investment. This model of buying, growing and exiting is at the heart of private equity’s role in driving value creation and economic development in emerging markets like Africa. 

    The transaction also underscores the increasing confidence that private equity investors are placing in Africa’s energy sector. Despite challenges like fluctuating commodity prices and complex regulatory environments, the energy sector in countries like Egypt offers substantial growth opportunities. For private equity firms, the continent’s untapped reserves, coupled with a growing demand for energy, make it an attractive destination for long-term investments. 

    Looking to the future, the role of private equity in African oil and gas is expected to grow further. The upcoming Invest in African Energy Forum in Paris will serve as a key platform for private equity firms to explore investment opportunities in Africa’s growing energy sector, where strategic partnerships and capital infusion are driving innovation and growth. In particular, firms that focus on full-cycle investment strategies – such as Bluewater’s approach with Apex – are well-positioned to thrive in this evolving landscape. They can bring capital, technical expertise and a deep understanding of local markets, enabling them to navigate challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities in Africa’s energy sector. 

    IAE 2025 (https://apo-opa.co/3CMcOXk) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors.Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Empowering Albertans with disabilities | Autonomiser les Albertains en situation de handicap

    [embedded content]

    People with disabilities shouldn’t have to choose between getting the support they need and having the opportunity to pursue a meaningful career. Albertans with disabilities and the organizations that support them have said loud and clear they want supports that meet their unique needs and abilities, rather than the current one-size-fits-all solution.

    In response to that request, Alberta’s government is creating a new Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP), which will launch in July 2026. This new benefit program for people with disabilities will empower Albertans with disabilities to pursue fulfilling job opportunities while continuing to receive the benefits they need.

    “People with disabilities should not be punished for getting a job. Every dollar they earn on a paycheque should be helping make them better off, not threatening their access to the medication they need. That’s why I am excited to announce the new Alberta Disability Assistance Program, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact that it will have on Albertans with disabilities.”

    Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services

    ADAP was thoughtfully designed based on input from Albertans with disabilities, who stressed the importance of providing pathways to employment for individuals who are able to work but still need supports. Albertans on ADAP will be able to earn more from working while continuing to receive their financial benefits, with higher earning exemptions than any other program. Those on ADAP will also be able to receive the health benefits they need, regardless of their employment income. This new program will ensure more Albertans with disabilities can enjoy the benefits of working like earning a paycheque, developing skills and building relationships, while still receiving supports that meet their unique needs and abilities.

    “I strongly believe in empowering persons with disabilities to reach their full potential, and I also strongly believe that all people deserve to pursue their goals and aspirations without barriers. By creating this program, the province is making it easier for Albertans to find success. ADAP will truly help to improve the quality of life of persons with disabilities, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact of this new program.”

    Greg McMeekin, Alberta’s advocate for persons with disabilities

    Through ADAP, Albertans with disabilities will not only receive the financial and health benefits they rely on, but they will also have access to the resources and tools they need to gain new skills and work to their full potential. To support this, Alberta’s government will be investing more to expand employment supports and encourage private sector employers to break down barriers to employment for people with disabilities. By providing pathways to employment for individuals who are able to work but still need supports, Alberta’s government is empowering people with disabilities to pursue their passions, leading to a greater sense of purpose and improved quality of life.

    “At Prospect Human Services, we’ve been helping individuals with disabilities build sustainable, well-paying careers for more than 60 years – and we know it’s possible. With ADAP, Alberta is breaking down the barriers that have long separated support from opportunity, creating a pathway for people to realize their full potential while maintaining essential benefits. We applaud the Alberta government for designing a flexible initiative that offers stability and empowers Albertans with disabilities to embrace the transformative power of employment.”

    Kevin McNichol, CEO of Prospect Human Services

    Alberta provides some of the most comprehensive supports in the country for people with disabilities, and the long-standing Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program will still be there for those with permanent and severe disabilities who are unable to work. Those currently on AISH will continue to receive their benefits, and applications will continue to be processed to ensure eligible applicants receive benefits as soon as possible. Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring that the province continues to have the best disability programs in Canada.

    “Today is a tremendous day that has been a long time coming. ADAP means faster access to more appropriate support and will be a significant step toward making Alberta the most accessible province in Canada. This will encourage participation and connection in our communities, while maintaining predictable, vital supports for every Albertan who needs them. We look forward to helping shape this groundbreaking program.”

    Jacob McGregor, chair of Premier’s Council for the Status of Persons with Disabilities

    Starting in July 2026, disability income assistance applicants will be assessed for both the new program and AISH, ensuring eligible applicants are placed in the program best suited to their unique situation. To make the medical assessment process quicker and more accessible, applicants will be connected with a roster of pre-qualified medical professionals who are able to complete their comprehensive medical assessment. Additionally, application approvals will be streamlined by establishing a new review panel made up of medical professionals with the expertise required to better understand the needs of applicants. These improvements will ensure Albertans with disabilities are able to get the supports they need sooner.

    “For many people with disabilities, employment isn’t just about earning a paycheck – it’s about purpose, independence and inclusion. This program can allow for new opportunities for individuals to contribute to their communities in ways that work for them.”

    Katherine Such, CEO of Easter Seals Alberta Society

    Quick facts

    • In 2024, the province invested more than $3.5 billion to support Albertans with disabilities, the highest amount ever.
    • The new Alberta Disability Assistance Program will become operational in July 2026.
    • Those currently on AISH will continue to receive their benefits.
      • All existing AISH clients will receive more information about the new program in March.
      • Clients can also contact their worker or Alberta Supports if they have questions or want additional information. 

    Related information

    • Alberta Disability Assistance Program
    • Fact sheet

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference
    • Listen to the news conference

    Le gouvernement de l’Alberta lancera un nouveau programme destiné aux Albertains en situation de handicap afin qu’ils puissent recevoir le soutien dont ils ont besoin tout en poursuivant une carrière valorisante.

    Les personnes en situation de handicap ne devraient pas avoir à choisir entre obtenir un soutien nécessaire et avoir la possibilité de mener une carrière enrichissante. Les Albertains en situation de handicap et les organisations qui les soutiennent ont clairement exprimé leur souhait d’un accompagnement mieux adapté aux besoins individuels, plutôt qu’une approche unique et standardisée.

    En réponse à cette demande, le gouvernement de l’Alberta met en place un nouveau programme d’aide aux personnes en situation de handicap, le Programme d’Aide aux Personnes en Situation de Handicap de l’Alberta (ADAP), qui sera lancé en juillet 2026. Ce nouveau programme d’aide offrira aux Albertains en situation de handicap la possibilité d’accéder à des emplois épanouissants tout en leur permettant de recevoir les prestations dont ils ont besoin.

    “Les personnes en situation de handicap ne devraient pas être pénalisées parce qu’elles ont un travail. Chaque dollar qu’elles gagnent grâce à leur emploi devrait les aider à mieux vivre, et non rendre problématique l’accès à des médicaments essentiels. C’est pourquoi je suis ravi d’annoncer le lancement du Programme d’Aide aux Personnes en Situation de Handicap de l’Alberta, et je me réjouis des retombées positives qu’il aura sur les Albertains concernés.”

    Jason Nixon, ministre des Aînés, des Communautés et des Services sociaux

    L’ADAP a été conçu avec soin en tenant compte de l’avis des Albertains en situation de handicap. Ces derniers ont, en effet, souligné l’importance d’offrir des voies d’accès à l’emploi aux personnes handicapées capables de travailler même si elles ont toujours besoin de soins ou de soutien. Grâce à l’ADAP, les Albertains admissibles pourront augmenter leur revenu d’emploi tout en conservant leurs prestations financières, bénéficiant ainsi des exemptions de revenu les plus avantageuses de tous les programmes existants. Les bénéficiaires de l’ADAP pourront également continuer de recevoir les prestations de santé dont ils ont besoin, quel que soit leur revenu d’emploi. Grâce à ce nouveau programme, plus d’Albertains en situation de handicap pourront travailler et profiter des bienfaits d’un emploi, comme recevoir une paie, apprendre de nouvelles compétences et tisser des liens, tout en conservant un soutien adapté à leurs besoins spécifiques.

    “Je crois fermement qu’il est essentiel de donner aux personnes en situation de handicap les moyens d’atteindre leur plein potentiel. Et je suis tout aussi convaincu que chacun mérite de poursuivre ses objectifs et ses aspirations sans obstacle. Grâce à ce programme, la province aide les Albertains à atteindre leurs objectifs et à réussir. L’ADAP contribuera à améliorer réellement la qualité de vie des personnes en situation de handicap, et je me réjouis des effets positifs que ce programme apportera.”

    Greg McMeekin, défenseur des droits des personnes en situation de handicap de l’Alberta

    Grâce à l’ADAP, les Albertains en situation de handicap recevront non seulement les prestations financières et de santé sur lesquelles ils comptent, mais ils auront aussi accès aux ressources et aux outils nécessaires pour acquérir de nouvelles compétences et exploiter pleinement leur potentiel professionnel. Pour soutenir cette initiative, le gouvernement de l’Alberta investira davantage afin d’élargir les mesures de soutien à l’emploi et inciter les employeurs du secteur privé à éliminer les obstacles à l’embauche des personnes en situation de handicap. Le gouvernement de l’Alberta met en place des voies d’accès à l’emploi pour les personnes capables de travailler mais qui ont toujours besoin de soutien. Cette initiative donne à chacun les moyens de poursuivre ses passions et contribue à un plus grand épanouissement ainsi qu’à une meilleure qualité de vie.

    “Chez Prospect Human Services, nous aidons les personnes en situation de handicap à bâtir des carrières durables et bien rémunérées depuis plus de 60 ans – et nous savons que c’est possible. Avec l’ADAP, l’Alberta supprime les obstacles qui, depuis trop longtemps, ont séparé le besoin de soutien et l’accès aux opportunités, permettant aux personnes de développer pleinement leur potentiel tout en maintenant les prestations dont elles ont besoin. Nous remercions le gouvernement de l’Alberta d’avoir conçu une initiative souple qui garantit la stabilité et donne aux Albertains en situation de handicap les moyens de profiter pleinement des bienfaits de l’emploi.”

    Kevin McNichol, président-directeur général de Prospect Human Services

    L’Alberta met à disposition certains des programmes de soutien les plus complets du pays pour les personnes en situation de handicap. Le programme de revenu pour les personnes gravement handicapées (AISH), qui existe depuis longtemps, restera en place pour les personnes qui ont un handicap permanent et sévère les empêchant de travailler. Les bénéficiaires actuels de l’AISH continueront de recevoir leurs prestations, et les demandes continueront d’être traitées afin que les personnes admissibles reçoivent leur aide dans les meilleurs délais. Le gouvernement de l’Alberta s’engage à faire en sorte que la province continue d’offrir les meilleurs programmes de soutien aux personnes en situation de handicap au Canada.

    “C’est un jour marquant qui a été espéré et attendu pendant longtemps. L’ADAP offrira un accès plus efficace à des soutiens mieux adaptés, ce qui fait de l’Alberta un modèle en matière d’accessibilité au Canada. Cette mesure incitera à une plus grande inclusion sociale et communautaire, garantissant aux Albertains en situation de handicap des soutiens fiables et essentiels. Nous nous réjouissons à l’idée de pouvoir apporter notre contribution à ce programme innovant.”

    Jacob McGregor, président du Conseil du premier ministre sur la condition des personnes en situation de handicap

    À compter de juillet 2026, les demandeurs d’aide au revenu pour les personnes en situation de handicap seront évalués à la fois pour le nouveau programme et pour l’AISH, afin de s’assurer que les personnes admissibles soient orientées vers le programme le mieux adapté à leur situation. Pour accélérer et faciliter le processus d’évaluation médicale, les demandeurs seront mis en relation avec un réseau de professionnels de la santé préqualifiés, en mesure de réaliser leur évaluation médicale complète. De plus, l’approbation des demandes sera simplifiée grâce à la mise en place d’un nouveau comité d’examen composé de professionnels de la santé possédant l’expertise nécessaire pour mieux comprendre les besoins des demandeurs. Ces améliorations permettront aux Albertains en situation de handicap d’obtenir plus rapidement le soutien dont ils ont besoin.

    “Pour de nombreuses personnes en situation de handicap, l’emploi ne se résume pas à un salaire – c’est aussi une source d’épanouissement, d’autonomie et d’inclusion. Ce programme offrira de nouvelles occasions aux personnes de contribuer à leur communauté d’une manière qui correspond à leurs capacités et à leurs besoins.”

    Katherine Such, présidente-directrice générale de la Easter Seals Alberta Society

    Faits en bref

    • En 2024, la province a investi plus de 3,5 milliards de dollars pour soutenir les Albertains en situation de handicap, un montant sans précédent.
    • Le Programme d’aide aux personnes en situation de handicap de l’Alberta (ADAP) entrera en vigueur en juillet 2026.
    • Les bénéficiaires actuels de l’AISH continueront de recevoir leurs prestations.
      • Tous les bénéficiaires de l’AISH recevront plus d’informations sur le nouveau programme en mars.
      • Ils peuvent également contacter leur travailleur social ou Alberta Supports pour toute question ou information complémentaire. 

    Informations connexes

    • Programme d’aide aux personnes en situation de handicap de l’Alberta
    • Fiche d’information

    Multimédia

    • Voir la conférence de presse

    Translations

    • Arabic
    • Simplified Chinese
    • Traditional Chinese
    • Hindi
    • Korean
    • Persian
    • Punjabi
    • Somali
    • Spanish
    • Tagalog
    • Ukrainian
    • Urdu
    • Vietnamese

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Media release: Locking gas out of Capacity Investment Scheme risks higher power prices and blackouts – Australian Energy Producers

    Source: Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association

    Headline: Media release: Locking gas out of Capacity Investment Scheme risks higher power prices and blackouts – Australian Energy Producers

    Australians face paying more for their electricity and increased risk of blackouts under the Federal Government’s deal with the Greens to keep gas out of the Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS).

    Australian Energy Producers Chief Executive Samantha McCulloch said locking gas out of the CIS was at odds with the Government’s own advice on the critical role of gas in backing up renewables in the National Electricity Market (NEM) and for delivering reliable and affordable electricity.

    “Australia needs significant investment in new gas power generation to keep the lights on and power bills down,” Ms McCulloch said.

    “Instead of encouraging this investment, the Federal Government has again capitulated to the Greens’ anti-gas agenda and ignored the repeated warnings from experts about the critical role of gas in our power mix.”

    The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has found the NEM needs 13 gigawatts of new gas-powered generation capacity to be built between now and 2050, and that renewables “backed up by gas-powered generation is the lowest-cost way to supply electricity to homes and businesses”.

    “AEMO has made clear that gas is ‘the ultimate backstop for our grid’ and estimates that demand for gas power in the NEM will be almost double today’s levels in the early 2040s.

    “The Labor-Greens deal today to effectively legislate gas out of the CIS comes just weeks after the ACCC urged governments to fast-track new gas supply and investment by explicitly recognising the critical long-term role of gas in Australia’s energy transition.

    “Australia urgently needs investment in new gas supply and infrastructure to avoid structural shortfalls on the east coast from 2027 but mixed signals on the importance of gas only serve to undermine investor confidence.

    “State and Federal Governments continue to ignore the warnings, and as a result it is almost inevitable that Victoria and NSW will soon be relying on more expensive imported gas. Ultimately, it’s Australian households and businesses that will pay the price for this policy failure,” Ms McCulloch said.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Introducing $15 a day child care for families | Lancement d’un service de garde d’enfants à 15 $ par jour pour les familles

    As part of the $3.8-billion Canada-Alberta Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, Alberta is supporting families to access affordable child care across the province with their choice in provider.

    Starting Apr. 1, parents with children zero to kindergarten age attending full-time licensed daycare facilities and family day home programs across the province will be eligible for a flat parent fee of $326.25 per month, or roughly $15 a day. Parents requiring part-time care will pay $230 per month.

    To support these changes and high-quality child care, about 85 per cent of licensed daycare providers will receive a funding increase once the new fee structure is in place on Apr. 1.

    Every day, parents and families across Alberta rely on licensed child-care providers to support their children’s growth and development while going to work or school. Licensed child-care providers and early childhood educators play a crucial role in helping children build the skills they need to support their growth and overall health. As Alberta’s population grows, the need for high-quality, affordable and accessible licensed and regulated child care is increasing.

    While Alberta already reduced parent fees to an average of $15 a day in January 2024, many families are still paying much more depending on where they live, the age of their child and the child-care provider they choose, which has led to inconsistency and confusion. Many families find it difficult to estimate their child-care fees if they move or switch providers, and providers have expressed concerns about the fairness and complexity of the current funding framework.

    A flat monthly fee will provide transparency and predictability for families in every part of the province while also improving fairness to providers and increasing overall system efficiency. On behalf of families, Alberta’s government will cover about 80 per cent of child-care fees through grants to daycare facilities and family day homes.

    This means a family using full-time daycare could save, on average, $11,000 per child per year. A flat monthly parent fee will ensure child care is affordable for everyone and that providers are compensated for the important services they offer.

    As opposed to a flat monthly parent fee, Alberta’s government will reimburse preschools up to $100 per month per child on parents’ behalf, up from $75.

    “Albertans deserve affordable child-care options, no matter where they are or which type of care works best for them. We are bringing in flat parent fees for families so they can all access high-quality child care for the same affordable, predictable fee.”

    Matt Jones, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade

    “Reducing child care fees makes life more affordable for families and gives them the freedom to make choices that work for them—whether that’s working, studying or growing their family. We’ll keep working to bring costs down, create more spots, and reduce waitlists for families in Alberta and across the country, while ensuring every child gets the best start in life.”

    Jenna Sudds, federal minister of Families, Children, and Social Development

    To make Alberta’s child-care system affordable for all families, the flat monthly parent fee is replacing the Child Care Subsidy Program for children zero to kindergarten age attending child care during regular school hours. The subsidy for children attending out-of-school care is not changing.

    As the province transitions to the new flat parent fee, child-care providers will have flexibility to offer optional services for an additional supplemental parent fee. These optional services must be over and above the services that are provided to all children in individual child-care programs. Clear requirements will be in place for providers to prevent preferential child-care access for families choosing to pay for optional services.

    Cutting red tape and supporting child-care providers

    By moving to a flat monthly parent fee, Alberta’s government is continuing the transition to a primarily publicly funded child care system. To support high-quality child care, approximately 85 per cent of licensed daycare providers will receive a funding increase once the new structure is in place on Apr. 1.

    The province is enhancing the system to streamline the child-care claims process used to reimburse licensed child-care providers on behalf of Alberta parents. Alberta’s government is also putting technological solutions in place to reduce administrative burden and red tape.

    Looking ahead

    Over the final year of the federal agreement, Alberta’s government is working to support the child-care system while preparing to negotiate the next term of the agreement, reflective of the needs of Albertans and providers. Alberta joins its provincial and territorial partners across the country in calling for a sustainable, adequately funded system that works for parents and providers long term.

    Quick facts

    • In line with requirements under the Canada-Alberta Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, the flat monthly parent fee only applies to children zero to kindergarten age requiring care during regular school hours.
    • Children attending 100 or more hours in a month are considered full-time and parents will pay $326.25 a month. Children attending between 50 and 99 hours are considered part-time and parents will pay $230 a month.
    • Families with children attending preschool for up to four hours a day are eligible for up to $100 per month.
    • There are no changes to the out-of-school care Child Care Subsidy Program for children requiring care outside of school hours in grades 1 to 6 and attending full-time kindergarten.
    • Programs may choose to provide optional services for a supplemental fee. Examples may include transportation, field trips and food. Child-care programs are not required to charge parents additional supplemental fees.

    Related information

    • Federal-provincial child care agreement

    Related news

    • Alberta strengthens child care safety (Oct. 30, 2024)

    L’Alberta instaure des frais mensuels fixes de 326,25 $ pour les services de garde d’enfants agréés à temps plein, soit environ 15 $ par jour.

    Dans le cadre de l’Accord entre le Canada et l’Alberta sur l’apprentissage et la garde des jeunes enfants à l’échelle du Canada d’une valeur de 3,8 milliards de dollars, l’Alberta aide les familles à avoir accès à des services de garde d’enfants abordables partout dans la province auprès du service de garde de leur choix.

    À compter du 1er avril, les parents ayant des enfants de la naissance à la maternelle qui fréquentent une garderie agréée à temps plein ou un service de garde en milieu familial partout dans la province seront admissibles à des frais fixes de 326,25 $ par mois, soit environ 15 $ par jour. Les parents qui ont besoin de services de garde à temps partiel paieront 230 $ par mois.

    Pour appuyer ces changements et des services de garde d’enfants de grande qualité, environ 85 % des fournisseurs de services de garde agréés recevront une augmentation du financement lorsque la nouvelle structure tarifaire sera en place le 1er avril.

    Chaque jour, les parents et les familles de l’Alberta comptent sur des fournisseurs de services de garde d’enfants agréés pour appuyer la croissance et le développement de leurs enfants pendant qu’ils vont au travail ou à l’école. Les fournisseurs de services de garde d’enfants agréés et les éducateurs de la petite enfance jouent un rôle crucial en aidant les enfants à acquérir les compétences dont ils ont besoin pour soutenir leur croissance et leur santé globale. À mesure que la population de l’Alberta augmente, le besoin de services de garde d’enfants agréés et réglementés de grande qualité, abordables et accessibles s’accroît.

    Bien que l’Alberta ait déjà réduit les frais pour les parents à une moyenne de 15 $ par jour en janvier 2024, de nombreuses familles paient encore beaucoup plus selon l’endroit où elles vivent, l’âge de leur enfant et le fournisseur de services de garde d’enfants qu’elles choisissent, ce qui a entraîné des incohérences et de la confusion. De nombreuses familles ont de la difficulté à estimer leurs frais de garde d’enfants si elles changent de fournisseur, et les fournisseurs ont exprimé des préoccupations au sujet de l’équité et de la complexité du cadre de financement actuel.

    Des frais mensuels fixes assureront la transparence et la prévisibilité pour les familles de toutes les régions de la province, tout en améliorant l’équité envers les fournisseurs et en augmentant l’efficacité globale du système. Au nom des familles, le gouvernement de l’Alberta couvrira environ 80 % des frais de garde d’enfants grâce à des subventions accordées aux garderies et aux services de garde en milieu familial.

    Cela veut dire qu’une famille dont un enfant fréquente une garderie à temps plein pourrait économiser 11 000 $ par enfant par année en moyenne. Des frais mensuels fixes pour les parents garantiront que les services de garde d’enfants sont abordables pour tous et que les fournisseurs sont rémunérés pour les services importants qu’ils offrent.

    Contrairement aux frais mensuels fixes pour les parents, le gouvernement de l’Alberta remboursera jusqu’à 100 $ par mois aux parents pour les enfants d’âge préscolaire, comparativement à 75 $.

    « Les Albertaines et les Albertains méritent des options abordables en matière de garde d’enfants, peu importe où ils se trouvent ou quel type de services leur convient le mieux. Nous instaurons des frais fixes pour les parents afin qu’ils puissent tous avoir accès à des services de garde d’enfants de grande qualité, à un coût abordable et prévisible. »

    Matt Jones, ministre de l’Emploi, de l’Économie et du Commerce

    « La réduction des frais de garde d’enfants rend la vie plus abordable pour les familles et leur donne la liberté de faire des choix qui leur conviennent, qu’il s’agisse de travailler, d’étudier ou d’agrandir leur famille. Nous continuerons de travailler pour réduire les coûts, créer plus de places et réduire les listes d’attente pour les familles en Alberta et partout au pays, tout en veillant à ce que chaque enfant ait le meilleur départ possible dans la vie. »

    Jenna Sudds, ministre fédérale de la Famille, des Enfants et du Développement social

    Afin de rendre le système de garde d’enfants de l’Alberta abordable pour toutes les familles, les frais mensuels fixes pour les parents remplacent le programme de subventions pour la garde d’enfants destiné aux enfants de la naissance à la maternelle qui fréquentent un service de garde pendant les heures scolaires normales. La subvention pour les enfants pris en charge à l’extérieur de l’école ne change pas.

    À mesure que la province adoptera les nouveaux frais fixes pour les parents, les fournisseurs de services de garde d’enfants auront la possibilité d’offrir des services facultatifs moyennant des frais supplémentaires pour les parents. Ces services facultatifs doivent s’ajouter aux services offerts à tous les enfants dans le cadre de programmes individuels de garde d’enfants. Des exigences claires seront mises en place pour les fournisseurs afin d’empêcher l’accès préférentiel aux services de garde pour les familles qui choisissent de payer pour des services facultatifs.

    Réduire les formalités administratives et soutenir les fournisseurs de services de garde d’enfants

    En passant à des frais mensuels fixes pour les parents, le gouvernement de l’Alberta poursuit la transition vers un système de garde d’enfants financé principalement par l’État. Pour appuyer des services de garde d’enfants de grande qualité, environ 85 % des fournisseurs de services de garde agréés recevront une augmentation du financement lorsque la nouvelle structure sera en place le 1er avril.

    La province améliore le système afin de simplifier le processus de demande de remboursement des frais de garde d’enfants utilisé pour rembourser les fournisseurs de services de garde d’enfants agréés au nom des parents albertains. Le gouvernement de l’Alberta met également en place des solutions technologiques pour réduire le fardeau administratif et les formalités administratives.

    Regard vers l’avenir

    Au cours de la dernière année de l’accord fédéral, le gouvernement de l’Alberta s’efforce d’appuyer le système de garde d’enfants tout en se préparant à négocier la prochaine durée de l’accord, en tenant compte des besoins de sa population et des fournisseurs. L’Alberta se joint à ses partenaires provinciaux et territoriaux partout au pays pour réclamer un système durable et financé adéquatement qui fonctionne pour les parents et les fournisseurs à long terme.

    Faits en bref

    • Conformément aux exigences de l’Accord entre le Canada et l’Alberta sur l’apprentissage et la garde des jeunes enfants à l’échelle du Canada, les frais mensuels fixes pour les parents ne s’appliquent qu’aux enfants de la naissance à la maternelle qui ont besoin de services de garde pendant les heures scolaires normales.
    • Les enfants qui fréquentent une garderie pendant 100 heures ou plus par mois sont considérés comme des enfants qui fréquentent à temps plein et les parents paieront 326,25 $ par mois. Les enfants qui fréquentent une garderie entre 50 et 99 heures sont considérés comme des enfants qui fréquentent à temps partiel et les parents paieront 230 $ par mois.
    • Les familles qui ont des enfants qui fréquentent un programme préscolaire pendant jusqu’à quatre heures par jour sont admissibles à un montant maximum de 100 $ par mois.
    • Aucun changement n’est apporté au Programme de subventions pour les services de garde d’enfants à l’extérieur de l’école pour les enfants qui doivent être pris en charge en dehors des heures d’école de la 1re à la 6e année et qui fréquentent la maternelle à temps plein.
    • Les programmes peuvent choisir de fournir des services facultatifs moyennant des frais supplémentaires. Les exemples peuvent inclure le transport, les sorties scolaires et la nourriture. Les programmes de garde d’enfants ne sont pas tenus de facturer des frais supplémentaires aux parents.

    Renseignements connexes

    • Entente fédérale-provinciale sur les services de garde d’enfants (en anglais seulement)

    Nouvelles connexes

    • Alberta strengthens child care safety (30 octobre 2024)

    Translations

    • Arabic
    • Simplified Chinese
    • Traditional Chinese
    • Hindi
    • Korean
    • Persian
    • Punjabi
    • Somali
    • Spanish
    • Tagalog
    • Ukrainian
    • Urdu
    • Vietnamese

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI: Valeura Energy Inc.: Record Reserves and Resources at Year-End 2024: 2P Reserves Replacement Ratio of 245%

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Valeura Energy Inc. (TSX:VLE, OTCQX:VLERF) (“Valeura” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the results of its third-party independent reserves and resources assessment as at year-end 2024.

    Highlights

    • Record high year-end reserves: 32 MMbbl proved (1P), 50 MMbbl proved plus probable (2P) and 60 MMbbl proved plus probable plus possible (3P) reserves;
    • 2P reserves replacement ratio of 245% even after annual production increase of 12%;
    • 2P reserves and end of field life (“EOFL”) increased at every field;
    • 2P reserves net present value before tax of US$934 million and US$752 million after tax(1);
    • Considering year-end 2024 cash position of US$259 million, Company net asset value (“NAV”) is US$1,012 million, equating C$13.6 per common share(2);
    • Contingent resources(3) of 48 MMbbl, more than double the total at end 2023; and
    • Decommissioning costs significantly reduced through engineering studies and increased EOFL to beyond 2030.
    (1) Discounted at 10% (NPV10)
    (2) Proved plus probable (2P) NPV10after tax plus cash of US$259.4 million (no debt), using US$/C$ exchange rate of 1.435, and 106.65 million common shares outstanding, as at December 31, 2024
    (3) Unrisked 2C (best estimate) contingent resources

    Dr. Sean Guest, President and CEO commented:

    “I am pleased to announce the results of our end 2024 reserves and resources evaluation, which shows again that our aggressive work programme can increase the ultimate potential of our fields and add value to our Company. In our second full year of operations we have again added more than double the reserves we produced, achieving a 2P reserves replacement ratio of 245%. This is a significant feat, considering we also increased production by 12% relative to 2023.

    We also added to the ultimate potential of our portfolio, with all Thailand fields now having an economic field life lasting beyond 2030. Since taking over these assets, we have added at least four additional years of production life to each field. This means more years of future cash flow and is therefore a prime example of one key element of our strategy in action – driving further organic growth.

    The net asset value of our business is now over US$1 billion – a record high, equating to more than C$13.6 per common share. This is based on our 2P after tax NPV10increasing by 76% year-on-year, coupled with a new record year-end cash position.

    In addition to discovering volumes through the drill bit and aggressively working to build our understanding of the intricate subsurface environment, various other financial and engineering studies have also added value. Our field abandonment costs have been reduced further through updated engineering studies which are benchmarked to actual abandonment operations in the Gulf of Thailand. The effect of this, combined with extended field life across the portfolio, is expected to reduce our Asset Retirement Obligation (“ARO”) on our balance sheet by more than 50% since we first assumed operatorship of these assets.

    We are relentless in our pursuit of value and we remain focussed on allocating capital efficiently. Moreover, we see exciting reserves-adding opportunities ahead through the potential Wassana field redevelopment, as well as through ongoing infill development and appraisal drilling across the portfolio, and the selective exploration targets we will pursue this year.

    At the same time, inorganic growth remains a key part of our strategy, and we are actively evaluating several opportunities to assess fit with our strict screening criteria.”

    Valeura commissioned Netherland, Sewell & Associates, Inc. (“NSAI”) to assess reserves and resources for all of its Thailand assets as of December 31, 2024. NSAI’s evaluation is presented in a report dated February 13, 2025 (the “NSAI 2024 Report”). This follows previous evaluations conducted by the same firm for December 31, 2023 (the “NSAI 2023 Report”) and December 31, 2022 (the “NSAI 2022 Report”).

    Oil and Gas Reserves by Field Based on Forecast Prices and Costs

        Gross (Before Royalties) Reserves, Working Interest Share (Mbbl)
    Reserves by Field Jasmine
    (Light/Medium)
    Manora
    (Light/Medium)
    Nong Yao
    (Light/Medium)
    Wassana
    (Heavy)
    Total
    Proved Producing Developed 5,268 1,370 6,541 2,894 16,073
    Non-Producing Developed 703 433 153 242 1,531
    Undeveloped 4,713 705 3,742 5,490 14,650
    Total Proved (1P) 10,684 2,509 10,436 8,626 32,255
    Total Probable (P2) 6,108 848 6,500 4,297 17,753
    Total Proved + Probable (2P) 16,792 3,357 16,936 12,923 50,008
    Total Possible (P3) 3,647 718 4,297 1,027 9,689
    Total Proved + Probable + Possible (3P) 20,440 4,075 21,233 13,950 59,697

     
    Summary of Reserves Replacement, Value, and Field Life

    As compared to the NSAI 2023 Report, the NSAI 2024 Report indicates an addition of 2.4 MMbbl of proved (1P) reserves and 12.1 MMbbl of proved plus probable (2P) reserves, after having produced 8.4 MMbbl of oil in 2024. This reflects a 1P reserves replacement ratio of 128% and a 2P reserves replacement ratio of 245%.

    Based on the mid-point of the Company’s 2025 production guidance of 23.0 – 25.5 Mbbl/d (24.25 Mbbl/d), on a 2P reserves basis as of December 31, 2024, the Company estimates its reserves life index (“RLI”) to be approximately 5.6 years. Using the same 2025 production estimate and 2P reserves as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the RLI was approximately 4.3, and 3.3 years, respectively.

    The net present value of estimated future revenue after income taxes, based on a 10% discount rate has increased between the NSAI 2023 Report and the NSAI 2024 Report from US$193.9 million to US$358.6 million on a 1P basis, an increase of 85%. On a 2P basis, the net present value of estimated future revenue after income taxes, based on a 10% discount rate has increased from US$428.5 million to US$752.2 million, an increase of 76%.

    The Company estimates that, based on the 2P net present value of estimated future revenue after income taxes in the NSAI 2024 Report, based on a 10% discount rate, plus the Company’s 2024 year-end cash position of US$259.4 million, as disclosed on January 8, 2025, the Company has a 2P net asset value (“NAV”) of US$1,011.6 million. Using the year-end count of common shares outstanding (being 106.65 million) and foreign exchange rates, Valeura’s NAV equates to approximately C$13.6/share.

      1P NPV10 2P NPV10 3P NPV10
      Before Tax After Tax Before Tax After Tax Before Tax After Tax
    NPV10(US$ million) 360.7 358.6 933.9 752.2 1,339.1 990.2
    Cash at December 31, 2024 (US$ million)(1) 259.4 259.4 259.4 259.4 259.4 259.4
    Net Asset Value (US$ million) 620.1 618.0 1,193.3 1,011.6 1,598.5 1,249.6
    Common shares (million)(2) 106.65 106.65 106.65 106.65 106.65 106.65
    Estimated NAV per basic share (C$ per share)(3) 8.3 8.3 16.1 13.6 21.5 16.8
    (1) Cash at December 31, 2024 of US$259.4 million, debt nil
    (2) Issued and outstanding common shares as of December 31, 2024
    (3) US$/C$ exchange rate of 1.435 as at December 31, 2024

    The NSAI 2024 Report indicates a further extension in the anticipated end of field life for all assets in Valeura’s Thailand portfolio, as compared to the NSAI 2023 Report.

      Gross (Before Royalties) 2P Reserves, Working Interest Share End of Field Life 2P NPV10After Tax (US$ million)
    Fields December 31, 2023
    (MMbbl)
    2024 Production
    (MMbbl)
    Additions
    (MMbbl)
    December 31, 2024
    (MMbbl)
    Reserves Replacement Ratio (%) NSAI 2023 Report NSAI 2024 Report December 31, 2023 December 31, 2024
    Jasmine 10.4 (2.9 ) 9.2 16.8 324 % Dec 2028 Aug 2031 81.8 163.9
    Manora 2.2 (0.9 ) 2.1 3.4 223 % Jul 2027 Apr 2030 21.2 45.7
    Nong Yao 12.4 (3.1 ) 7.7 16.9 245 % Dec 2028 Dec 2033 185.6 416.1
    Wassana 12.9 (1.4 ) 1.5 12.9 102 % Jun 2032 Dec 2035 139.9 126.6
    Total 37.9 (8.4 ) 20.5 50.0 245 %     428.5 752.2

     
    Valeura has demonstrated two consecutive years of growth in both aggregate 2P reserves and the associated after-tax 2P NPV10 value.

      Gross (Before Royalties) 2P Reserves,
    Working Interest Share (MMbbl)
    2P NPV10After Tax
    (US$ million)
    Fields December 31, 2022 December 31, 2023 December 31, 2024 December 31, 2022 December 31, 2023 December 31, 2024
    Jasmine 10.0 10.4 16.8 37.1 81.8 163.9
    Manora 1.8 2.2 3.4 12.1 21.2 45.7
    Nong Yao 11.2 12.4 16.9 145.5 185.6 416.1
    Wassana 6.1 12.9 12.9 66.3 139.9 126.6
    Total 29.1 37.9 50.0 261.0 428.5 752.2

     
    The NSAI 2024 Report does not assume a new redevelopment concept for the Wassana field and therefore does not include potential upside volumes associated with the Company’s contemplated redevelopment. Valeura is targeting readiness for a final investment decision (“FID”) in early Q2 2025. Should the Company opt to proceed with the redevelopment, management anticipates a higher production profile, with longer field life than is currently reflected in the NSAI 2024 Report.

    Net Present Values of Future Net Revenue Based on Forecast Prices and Costs

    Net present values of future net revenue from oil reserves are based on cost estimates as of the date of the NSAI 2024 Report, and forecast Brent crude oil reference prices of US$75.58, US$78.51, US$79.89, US$81.82, and US$83.46 per bbl for the years ending December 31, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, and 2029, respectively, with 2% escalation thereafter. NSAI assumes cost inflation of 2% per annum. Price realisation forecasts for each field are based on the Brent crude oil reference prices above, and adjusted for oil quality, and market differentials.

    Based on Valeura’s revised corporate structure, as modified by the reorganisation completed in November 2024, values estimated by NSAI assume a combined, single tax filing for all of the Company’s Thai III fiscal concessions, covering the Wassana, Nong Yao, and Manora fields. The Jasmine field, being a Thai I fiscal concession, is outside this scope.

    All estimated costs associated with the eventual decommissioning of the Company’s fields are included as part of the calculation of future net revenue, specifically within the Proved Producing Developed category.

        Before Tax NPV10(US$ million)
    Future Net Revenue by Field Jasmine Manora Nong Yao Wassana Total
    Proved Producing Developed (124.7)   (27.6)   146.2 (160.7)   (166.8)  
    Non-Producing Developed 35.3   27.9   7.0 16.2   86.4  
    Undeveloped 93.6   7.9   108.1 231.5   441.0  
    Total Proved (1P) 4.2   8.2   261.3 87.0   360.7  
    Total Probable (P2) 217.4   39.1   204.5 112.3   573.3  
    Total Proved + Probable (2P) 221.5   47.3   465.8 199.3   933.9  
    Total Possible (P3) 168.8   29.6   150.7 56.1   405.1  
    Total Proved + Probable + Possible (3P) 390.3   76.9   616.5 255.4   1,339.1  
        After Tax NPV10(US$ million)
    Future Net Revenue by Field Jasmine Manora Nong Yao Wassana Total
    Proved Producing Developed (131.4)   (27.6)   146.2 (160.7)   (173.4)  
    Non-Producing Developed 33.9   27.9   7.0 16.2   85.1  
    Undeveloped 99.6   7.9   108.1 231.5   447.0  
    Total Proved (1P) 2.1   8.2   261.3 87.0   358.6  
    Total Probable (P2) 161.8   37.4   154.8 39.6   393.6  
    Total Proved + Probable (2P) 163.9   45.7   416.1 126.6   752.2  
    Total Possible (P3) 96.7   20.4   93.3 27.6   238.0  
    Total Proved + Probable + Possible (3P) 260.6   66.1   509.3 154.2   990.2  

     
    Asset Retirement Obligations

    During 2024, the Company conducted extensive engineering studies into the eventual decommissioning of its fields. These studies utilised costs benchmarked to current decommissioning activities underway elsewhere within the Gulf of Thailand. Valeura’s work since acquiring the assets in early 2023 has resulted in a reduction of 32% in the anticipated cost to decommission the assets (US$ real basis).  

    In addition, the significant extensions to the economic life of all of the Company’s fields means the timing for decommissioning expenditure has shifted further into the future. The combined effect is estimated to be a material reduction in the ARO liability to be shown on the Company’s balance sheet. While the final ARO is still to be reviewed by the Company’s auditor, management estimates that the ARO as at December 31, 2024 will have been reduced by approximately 35% from year-end 2023 and more than 50% relative to the Company’s first estimate upon assuming operatorship of the Thai portfolio in Q1 2023.

    Resources

    NSAI assessed the Company’s contingent resources of its Thailand assets for additional reservoir accumulations and reported estimates in the NSAI 2024 Report, the NSAI 2023 Report, and the NSAI 2022 Report. Contingent resources are heavy crude oil and light/medium crude oil, and are further divided into two subcategories, being Development Unclarified and Development Not Viable (see oil and gas advisories). Each subcategory is assigned a percentage risk, reflecting the estimated chance of development. Aggregate totals are provided below.

    Contingent Resources NSAI 2022 Report
    Gross (Before Royalties) Working Interest Share
    NSAI 2023 Report
    Gross (Before Royalties) Working Interest Share
    NSAI 2024 Report
    Gross (Before Royalties) Working Interest Share
    Unrisked (MMbbl) Risked (MMbbl) Unrisked (MMbbl) Risked (MMbbl) Unrisked (MMbbl) Risked (MMbbl)
    Low Estimate (1C) 10.4 1.8 15.2 6.5 29.4 9.2
    Best Estimate (2C) 14.1 2.5 19.9 8.9 48.4 13.5
    High Estimate (3C) 22.1 3.9 27.9 11.6 72.1 18.0

     
    Comparing the NSAI 2023 Report to the NSAI 2024 Report, the Company has recorded an increase in the best estimate (2C) unrisked contingent resources of 143%.

    The Company last completed an independent assessment of its prospective resources in Türkiye, effective December 31, 2018, which is available under Valeura’s issuer profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com. Valeura has no reserves or contingent resources associated with its properties in Türkiye.

    Further Disclosure and Webcast
    Valeura intends to disclose a summary of the NSAI 2024 Report to Thailand’s upstream regulator later in February 2025. Thereafter, the Company will publish its estimates of reserves and resources in accordance with the requirements of National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities along with its annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2025, on approximately March 26, 2025.

    Valeura’s management team will host an investor and analyst webcast at 08:00 Calgary / 15:00 London / 22:00 Bangkok / 23:00 Singapore on Thursday, February 13, 2025 to discuss its reserves and contingent resources. Please register in advance via the link below.

    Registration link: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/a527dbad-61ff-47b1-8330-a10c28cfd2ee@a196a1a0-4579-4a0c-b3a3-855f4db8f64b

    As an alternative, an audio only feed of the event is available by phone using the Conference ID and dial-in numbers below.

    Thailand: +66 2 026 9035,,817613646#
    Singapore: +65 6450 6302,,817613646#
    Canada: (833) 845-9589,,817613646#
    Türkiye: 0800 142 034779,,817613646#
    United States: (833) 846-5630,,817613646#
    United Kingdom: 0800 640 3933,,817613646#

    Phone conference ID: 817 613 646#

    For further information, please contact:

    Valeura Energy Inc. (General Corporate Enquiries)                +65 6373 6940
    Sean Guest, President and CEO
    Yacine Ben-Meriem, CFO
    Contact@valeuraenergy.com

    Valeura Energy Inc. (Investor and Media Enquiries)                +1 403 975 6752 / +44 7392 940495
    Robin James Martin, Vice President, Communications and Investor Relations
    IR@valeuraenergy.com

    Contact details for the Company’s advisors, covering research analysts and joint brokers, including Auctus Advisors LLP, Canaccord Genuity Ltd (UK), Cormark Securities Inc., Research Capital Corporation, and Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited, are listed on the Company’s website at www.valeuraenergy.com/investor-information/analysts/.

    About the Company

    Valeura Energy Inc. is a Canadian public company engaged in the exploration, development and production of petroleum and natural gas in Thailand and in Türkiye. The Company is pursuing a growth-oriented strategy and intends to re-invest into its producing asset portfolio and to deploy resources toward further organic and inorganic growth in Southeast Asia. Valeura aspires toward value accretive growth for stakeholders while adhering to high standards of environmental, social and governance responsibility.

    Additional information relating to Valeura is also available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Oil and Gas Advisories

    Reserves and contingent resources disclosed in this news release are based on an independent evaluation conducted by the incumbent independent petroleum engineering firm, NSAI with an effective date of December 31, 2024. The NSAI estimates of reserves and resources were prepared using guidelines outlined in the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook and in accordance with National Instrument 51-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities. The reserves and contingent resources estimates disclosed in this news release are estimates only and there is no guarantee that the estimated reserves and contingent resources will be recovered.

    This news release contains a number of oil and gas metrics, including “NAV”, “reserves replacement ratio”, “RLI”, and “end of field life” which do not have standardised meanings or standard methods of calculation and therefore such measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. Such metrics are commonly used in the oil and gas industry and have been included herein to provide readers with additional measures to evaluate the Company’s performance; however, such measures are not reliable indicators of the future performance of the Company and future performance may not compare to the performance in previous periods.

    “NAV” is calculated by adding the estimated future net revenues based on a 10% discount rate to net cash, (which is comprised of cash less debt) as of December 31, 2024. NAV is expressed on a per share basis by dividing the total by basic common shares outstanding. NAV per share is not predictive and may not be reflective of current or future market prices for Valeura.

    “Reserves replacement ratio” for 2024 is calculated by dividing the difference in reserves between the NSAI 2024 Report and the NSAI 2023 Report, plus actual 2024 production, by the assets’ total production before royalties for the calendar year 2024.

    “RLI” is calculated by dividing reserves by management’s estimated total production before royalties for 2025.

    “End of field life” is calculated by NSAI as the date at which the monthly net revenue generated by the field is equal to or less than the asset’s operating cost.

    Reserves

    Reserves are estimated remaining quantities of commercially recoverable oil, natural gas, and related substances anticipated to be recoverable from known accumulations, as of a given date, based on the analysis of drilling, geological, geophysical, and engineering data, the use of established technology, and specified economic conditions, which are generally accepted as being reasonable. Reserves are further categorised according to the level of certainty associated with the estimates and may be sub-classified based on development and production status.

    Proved reserves are those reserves that can be estimated with a high degree of certainty to be recoverable. It is likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will exceed the estimated proved reserves.

    Developed reserves are those reserves that are expected to be recovered from existing wells and installed facilities or, if facilities have not been installed, that would involve a low expenditure (e.g., when compared to the cost of drilling a well) to put the reserves on production.

    Developed producing reserves are those reserves that are expected to be recovered from completion intervals open at the time of the estimate. These reserves may be currently producing or, if shut in, they must have previously been on production, and the date of resumption of production must be known with reasonable certainty.

    Developed non-producing reserves are those reserves that either have not been on production, or have previously been on production, but are shut in, and the date of resumption of production is unknown.

    Undeveloped reserves are those reserves expected to be recovered from known accumulations where a significant expenditure (e.g., when compared to the cost of drilling a well) is required to render them capable of production. They must fully meet the requirements of the reserves classification (proved, probable, possible) to which they are assigned.

    Probable reserves are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than proved reserves. It is equally likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater or less than the sum of the estimated proved plus probable reserves.

    Possible reserves are those additional reserves that are less certain to be recovered than probable reserves. It is unlikely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will exceed the sum of the estimated proved plus probable plus possible reserves. There is a 10% probability that the quantities actually recovered will equal or exceed the sum of the estimated proved plus probable plus possible reserves.

    The estimated future net revenues disclosed in this news release do not necessarily represent the fair market value of the reserves associated therewith.

    The estimates of reserves and future net revenue for individual properties may not reflect the same confidence level as estimates of reserves and future net revenue for all properties, due to the effects of aggregation.

    Contingent Resources

    Contingent resources are those quantities of petroleum estimated, as of a given date, to be potentially recoverable from known accumulations using established technology or technology under development, but which are not currently considered to be commercially recoverable due to one or more contingencies. Contingencies are conditions that must be satisfied for a portion of contingent resources to be classified as reserves that are: (a) specific to the project being evaluated; and (b) expected to be resolved within a reasonable timeframe.

    Contingent resources are further categorised according to the level of certainty associated with the estimates and may be sub‐classified based on a project maturity and/or characterised by their economic status. There are three classifications of contingent resources: low estimate, best estimate and high estimate. Best estimate is a classification of estimated resources described in the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook as the best estimate of the quantity that will be actually recovered; it is equally likely that the actual remaining quantities recovered will be greater or less than the best estimate. If probabilistic methods are used, there should be at least a 50 percent probability that the quantities actually recovered will equal or exceed the best estimate.

    The project maturity subclasses include development pending, development on hold, development unclarified and development not viable. The contingent resources disclosed in this news release are classified as either development unclarified or development not viable.

    Development unclarified is defined as a contingent resource that requires further appraisal to clarify the potential for development and has been assigned a lower chance of development until commercial considerations can be clearly defined. Chance of development is the likelihood that an accumulation will be commercially developed.

    Conversion of the development unclarified resources referred to in this news release is dependent upon (1) the expected timetable for development; (2) the economics of the project; (3) the marketability of the oil and gas production; (4) the availability of infrastructure and technology; (5) the political, regulatory, and environmental conditions; (6) the project maturity and definition; (7) the availability of capital; and, ultimately, (8) the decision of joint venture partners to undertake development.

    The major positive factor relevant to the estimate of the contingent development unclarified resources referred to in this news release is the successful discovery of resources encountered in appraisal and development wells within the existing fields. The major negative factors relevant to the estimate of the contingent development unclarified resources referred to in this news release are: (1) the outstanding requirement for a definitive development plan; (2) current economic conditions do not support the resource development; (3) limited field economic life to develop the resources; and (4) the outstanding requirement for a final investment decision and commitment of all joint venture partners.

    Development not viable is defined as a contingent resource where no further data acquisition or evaluation is currently planned and hence there is a low chance of development, there is usually less than a reasonable chance of economics of development being positive in the foreseeable future. The major negative factors relevant to the estimate of development not viable referred to in this news release are: (1) current economic conditions do not support the resource development; and (2) availability of technical knowledge and technology within the industry to economically support resource development.

    If these contingencies are successfully addressed, some portion of these contingent resources may be reclassified as reserves.

    Of the best estimate 2C contingent resources estimated in the NSAI 2024 Report, on a risked basis: 74% of the estimated volumes are light/medium crude oil, with the remainder being heavy oil; 77% are categorised as Development Unclarified, with the remainder being Development Not Viable. Development Unclarified 2C resources have been assigned an average chance of development for the four fields ranging from 30% to 50% depending on oil type, while 2C Development Not Viable resources have been assigned an average chance of development ranging from 16% to 17%.

    Resources Project
    Maturity Subclass
    Light and Medium Crude Oil
    (Development Unclarified)
    Chance of Development (%)
    Unrisked Risked
    Gross (Mbbl) Net (Mbbl) Gross (Mbbl) Net (Mbbl)
    Contingent Low Estimate (1C) Development Unclarified 8,267 7,334 3,108 2,742 38 %
    Contingent Best Estimate (2C) Development Unclarified 14,178 12,538 4,227 3,728 30 %
    Contingent High Estimate (3C) Development Unclarified 21,072 18,644 5,289 4,673 25 %
    Resources Project
    Maturity Subclass
    Heavy Crude Oil
    (Development Unclarified)
    Chance of Development (%)
    Unrisked Risked
    Gross (Mbbl) Net (Mbbl) Gross (Mbbl) Net (Mbbl)
    Contingent Low Estimate (1C) Development Unclarified 7,807 7,358 4,045 3,813 52 %
    Contingent Best Estimate (2C) Development Unclarified 10,641 10,029 5,325 5,018 50 %
    Contingent High Estimate (3C) Development Unclarified 14,524 13,689 6,560 6,182 45 %
    Resources Project
    Maturity Subclass
    Light and Medium Crude Oil
    (Development Not Viable)
    Chance of Development (%)
    Unrisked Risked
    Gross (Mbbl) Net (Mbbl) Gross (Mbbl) Net (Mbbl)
    Contingent Low Estimate (1C) Development Not Viable 11,294 10,502 1,694 1,575 15 %
    Contingent Best Estimate (2C) Development Not Viable 21,539 19,965 3,652 3,319 17 %
    Contingent High Estimate (3C) Development Not Viable 33,503 30,964 5,363 4,802 16 %
    Resources Project
    Maturity Subclass
    Heavy Crude Oil
    (Development Not Viable)
    Chance of Development (%)
    Unrisked Risked
    Gross (Mbbl) Net (Mbbl) Gross (Mbbl) Net (Mbbl)
    Contingent Low Estimate (1C) Development Not Viable 2,069 1,950 310 293 15 %
    Contingent Best Estimate (2C) Development Not Viable 2,091 1,971 341 321 16 %
    Contingent High Estimate (3C) Development Not Viable 3,003 2,830 815 768 27 %

    The NSAI estimates have been risked, using the chance of development, to account for the possibility that the contingencies are not successfully addressed. Due to the early stage of development for the development unclarified resources, NSAI did not perform an economic analysis of these resources; as such, the economic status of these resources is undetermined and there is uncertainty that any portion of the contingent resources disclosed in this new release will be commercially viable to produce.

    Glossary

    bbl                barrels of oil
    Mbbl              thousand barrels of oil
    MMbbl            million barrels of oil

    Advisory and Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    Certain information included in this news release constitutes forward-looking information under applicable securities legislation. Such forward-looking information is for the purpose of explaining management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes, such as making investment decisions. Forward-looking information typically contains statements with words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “plan”, “intend”, “estimate”, “propose”, “project”, “target” or similar words suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook.

    Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the Company’s belief that it has added to the ultimate potential of its portfolio; the anticipated economic life of its portfolio; expectations regarding future cash flow; the expectation that ARO on its December 31, 2024 balance sheet will indicate a reduction of approximately 35% versus December 31, 2023 and more than 50% since first assuming operatorship of its assets; business objectives and targets; organic and inorganic growth opportunities; the anticipated end of life for Valeura’s Thailand assets; the potential for adding reserves through the Wassana field redevelopment as well as through ongoing infill development, appraisal drilling, and exploration targets; statements related to the Company’s 2025 production guidance of 23.0 – 25.5 Mbbl/d; estimates of the Company’s RLI; timing for FID readiness on the potential Wassana field redevelopment; management’s anticipation of a higher production profile with longer field life from the Wassana field, should it opt to proceed with the redevelopment; forecast Brent crude oil reference prices; assumption of a single tax filing; estimated costs for the eventual decommissioning of its fields; the intention to disclose a summary of the NSAI 2024 Report to Thailand’s upstream regulator; the anticipated filing date of the Company’s annual information form along with its estimates of reserves and resources; and the timing of the investor and analyst webcast.

    In addition, statements related to “reserves” and “resources” are deemed to be forward-looking information

    as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, that the resources can

    be discovered and profitably produced in the future.

    Although the Company believes the expectations and assumptions reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, they may prove to be incorrect.

    Forward-looking information is based on management’s current expectations and assumptions regarding, among other things: political stability of the areas in which the Company is operating; continued safety of operations and ability to proceed in a timely manner; continued operations of and approvals forthcoming from governments and regulators in a manner consistent with past conduct; ability to achieve extensions to licences in Thailand and Türkiye to support attractive development and resource recovery; future drilling activity on the required/expected timelines; the prospectivity of the Company’s lands; the continued favourable pricing and operating netbacks across its business; future production rates and associated operating netbacks and cash flow; decline rates; future sources of funding; future economic conditions; the impact of inflation of future costs; future currency exchange rates; interest rates; the ability to meet drilling deadlines and fulfil commitments under licences and leases; future commodity prices; the impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine; the impact of conflicts in the Middle East; royalty rates and taxes; management’s estimate of cumulative tax losses being correct; future capital and other expenditures; the success obtained in drilling new wells and working over existing wellbores; the performance of wells and facilities; the availability of the required capital to funds its exploration, development and other operations, and the ability of the Company to meet its commitments and financial obligations; the ability of the Company to secure adequate processing, transportation, fractionation and storage capacity on acceptable terms; the capacity and reliability of facilities; the application of regulatory requirements respecting abandonment and reclamation; the recoverability of the Company’s reserves and contingent resources; future growth; the sufficiency of budgeted capital expenditures in carrying out planned activities; the impact of increasing competition; the availability and identification of mergers and acquisition opportunities; the ability to successfully negotiate and complete any mergers and acquisition opportunities; the ability to efficiently integrate assets and employees acquired through acquisitions; global energy policies going forward; international trade policies; future debt levels; and the Company’s continued ability to obtain and retain qualified staff and equipment in a timely and cost efficient manner. In addition, the Company’s work programmes and budgets are in part based upon expected agreement among joint venture partners and associated exploration, development and marketing plans and anticipated costs and sales prices, which are subject to change based on, among other things, the actual results of drilling and related activity, availability of drilling, offshore storage and offloading facilities and other specialised oilfield equipment and service providers, changes in partners’ plans and unexpected delays and changes in market conditions. Although the Company believes the expectations and assumptions reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, they may prove to be incorrect.

    Forward-looking information involves significant known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Exploration, appraisal, and development of oil and natural gas reserves and resources are speculative activities and involve a degree of risk. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by the Company including, but not limited to: the ability of management to execute its business plan or realise anticipated benefits from acquisitions; the risk of disruptions from public health emergencies and/or pandemics; competition for specialised equipment and human resources; the Company’s ability to manage growth; the Company’s ability to manage the costs related to inflation; disruption in supply chains; the risk of currency fluctuations; changes in interest rates, oil and gas prices and netbacks; the risk that the Company’s tax advisors’ and/or auditors’ assessment of the Company’s cumulative tax losses varies significantly from management’s expectations of the same; potential changes in joint venture partner strategies and participation in work programmes; uncertainty regarding the contemplated timelines and costs for work programme execution; the risks of disruption to operations and access to worksites; potential changes in laws and regulations, including international treaties and trade policies; the uncertainty regarding government and other approvals; counterparty risk; the risk that financing may not be available; risks associated with weather delays and natural disasters; and the risk associated with international activity. See the most recent annual information form and management’s discussion and analysis of the Company for a detailed discussion of the risk factors.

    Certain forward-looking information in this news release may also constitute “financial outlook” within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Financial outlook involves statements about Valeura’s prospective financial performance or position and is based on and subject to the assumptions and risk factors described above in respect of forward-looking information generally as well as any other specific assumptions and risk factors in relation to such financial outlook noted in this news release. Such assumptions are based on management’s assessment of the relevant information currently available, and any financial outlook included in this news release is made as of the date hereof and provided for the purpose of helping readers understand Valeura’s current expectations and plans for the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on any financial outlook may not be appropriate for other purposes or in other circumstances and that the risk factors described above or other factors may cause actual results to differ materially from any financial outlook.

    The forward-looking information contained in this news release is made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in any jurisdiction, including where such offer would be unlawful. This news release is not for distribution or release, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States, Ireland, the Republic of South Africa or Japan or any other jurisdiction in which its publication or distribution would be unlawful.

    Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

    This information is provided by Reach, the non-regulatory press release distribution service of RNS, part of the London Stock Exchange. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Refocusing continuing care for the future | Recentrer les soins continus pour l’avenir

    [. As their needs evolve, it is important that older adults and vulnerable populations have access to the support they need to maintain their quality of life and independence so they can age with dignity. Over the next 10 years, the demand for continuing care in Alberta is projected to grow by 80 per cent, increasing even faster as people live longer and with more complex needs.

    Alberta’s government is establishing Assisted Living Alberta – the new provincial continuing care agency – as part of the province’s health refocusing. This will ensure the province is well-positioned to meet the future needs that are anticipated with Alberta’s both growing and aging population. Assisted Living Alberta will provide Albertans access to a comprehensive system of continuing care with a full range of wraparound services, including medical and non-medical supports, home care, community care and social services. This transition will allow the province to place a holistic social service lens on assisted living services to deliver care more effectively and consistently throughout the province. By taking this approach, individuals and families will have more options when they need care and as their needs evolve, helping older adults and vulnerable populations maintain their quality of life and independence.

    “As the need for continuing care services in Alberta grows, I am committed to working with health, social services and continuing care professionals to transform the system and ensure the new provincial agency, Assisted Living Alberta, meets all Albertans’ needs. This change ensures Albertans have access to a full range of wraparound supports to meet their evolving needs and maintain their independence and quality of life as they age or require more support.”

    Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services

    Assisted Living Alberta is on track to be established and become an entity by April 1, and will be fully operational by fall 2025. The new agency will align medical and non-medical supports and services, increase continuing care spaces, reduce wait times, and provide comprehensive wraparound supports for Albertans who require different levels and types of care. This includes both seniors in long-term care and those who want to continue aging at home but need supports to do so, as well as people with disabilities, individuals experiencing homelessness and other vulnerable Albertans who require temporary or long-term care. Refocusing Alberta’s health care system ensures all Albertans have access to the services and support they need, when and where they need it.

    “Improving health care services is a top priority for our government. We are committed to addressing the urgent need for enhanced assisted living services across our growing province. I look forward to working alongside the Ministry of Seniors, Community and Social Services to bring Albertans more options and the high quality of care they need close to home.”

    Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

    Albertans currently receiving care, and those who need care, will continue to have access to the services they need. A transition committee led by Dr. Sayeh Zielke, author, cardiologist and medical director of Chinook Cardiology, along with leaders from health care, continuing care, social services and other local organizations, will provide the minister with advice to support this transformation. Committee members were chosen based on their experience, diverse perspectives, leadership and background in the continuing care and social services space. The committee’s work will be essential to ensuring a smooth and seamless transition with no disruptions.

    “It is an honour to be playing a role in helping transform Alberta’s continuing care system. Our goal is to put patients and clients first and give our front-line workers the support they need, which is why it is so important that we are taking the time to gets things right and consulting directly with Albertans.” 

    Dr. Zielke, cardiologist and medical director of Chinook Cardiology and chair of the Assisted Living Transition Committee

    Albertans are invited to share their feedback, support the stand up of Assisted Living Alberta and help shape the future of continuing care through online engagement that will be open from Jan. 30 to March 3 at Alberta.ca/lead-the-way. Continuing care providers and health care and continuing care workers will also have an opportunity to provide feedback through targeted engagement that will be open at the same time. Albertans’ insights and perspectives will help lead the way in improving the system to ensure it meets Alberta’s needs today and for generations to come.  

    Alberta’s government is making significant strides in its efforts to refocus the health care system. Assisted Living Alberta will be the fourth and final new provincial health agency to be established and operational. Recovery Alberta officially began operations on Sept. 1, 2024, with Primary Care Alberta ready to follow suit and become operational on Feb. 1, 2025. On the same date, Acute Care Alberta is set to become a legal entity. By creating four provincial health agencies to oversee the priority sectors of primary care, acute care, continuing care, and mental health and addiction, the province is putting patients first in every health care decision and giving front-line experts the support they need to properly care for Albertans.

    “The Alberta Continuing Care Association welcomes this transformational move by the Alberta government. By bringing social services, medical and non-medical supports, and continuing care together under one health agency, patients will be able to access wraparound supports for the care and services they need.”

    Feisal Keshavjee, chair, Alberta Continuing Care Association

    “Integrated health and social care enhances outcomes, aligns with the preferences of older adults, caregivers and practitioners, and underpins leading continuing care models. Healthy Aging Alberta and the United Way of Calgary congratulate the ministry on this exciting transition and look forward to supporting an integrated wraparound model of continuing care in Alberta.”

    Karen McDonald, provincial director, Healthy Aging Alberta 

    Transition committee members

    • Dr. Sayeh Zielke, committee chair – cardiologist and medical director of Chinook Cardiology
    • MLA Brandon Lunty, deputy chair – MLA for Leduc-Beaumont
    • Dr. David Stewart, member – physician, Family Medical Centre
    • David Weyant, member – president and CEO, Alberta Lawyers Indemnity Association
    • Robin James, member – chief administrative officer, Lethbridge Housing Authority
    • Feisal Keshavjee, member – board chair, Alberta Continuing Care Association
    • Karen McDonald, member – provincial director, Healthy Aging Alberta (and executive director, Sage)
    • Andrea Hesse, member – CEO, Alberta Council of Disability Services
    • Joyce Wicks, member – former nurse and seniors advocate
    • Ruben Breaker, member – councillor, Siksika First Nation
    • Arlene Adamson, member – former CEO, Silvera for Seniors
    • Salimah Walji-Shivji, member – KC, CEO, AgeCare
    • Irene Martin-Lindsay – member, executive director, Alberta Seniors and Community Housing Association

    Related news

    • Continuing care: Ministers LaGrange and Nixon (Oct 16, 2024)

    Related information

    • Refocusing health care in Alberta
    • Continuing Care Transformation
    • Online survey for feedback on Alberta’s continuing care system

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference
    • Listen to the news conference

    Dans le cadre du recentrage des soins de santé, le gouvernement de l’Alberta procède à l’établissement d’Assisted Living Alberta, l’organisme provincial des soins continus.

    D’ici 2046, un Albertain sur cinq aura 65 ans ou plus. À mesure que les besoins évoluent, il est important que les adultes plus âgés et les populations vulnérables aient accès au soutien nécessaire pour maintenir leur qualité de vie et leur indépendance afin de vieillir avec dignité. Au cours des 10 prochaines années, on prévoit que la demande de soins continus en Alberta augmentera de 80 %, puis encore plus rapidement à mesure que les gens vivent plus longtemps et avec des besoins plus complexes.

    Le gouvernement de l’Alberta établit Assisted Living Alberta, le nouvel organisme provincial des soins continus, dans le cadre du recentrage des soins de santé. Cette initiative a pour but de s’assurer que la province est bien placée pour répondre aux besoins futurs prévus en raison de la population croissante et vieillissante de l’Alberta. Assisted Living Alberta fournira l’accès à un système global de soins continus doté d’une gamme complète de services intégrés, notamment des soutiens médicaux et autres, des soins à domicile, des soins communautaires et des services sociaux. Cette transition permettra à la province de mettre en place des services d’aide à l’autonomie sous l’angle holistique des services sociaux afin de fournir des soins de manière plus efficace et plus cohérente partout en Alberta. En adoptant cette approche, les personnes et les familles auront plus de choix lorsqu’elles auront besoin de soins et à mesure que leurs besoins évolueront, ce qui aidera les adultes plus âgés et les populations vulnérables à conserver leur qualité de vie et leur indépendance.

    « À mesure que les besoins en soins continus augmentent en Alberta, je suis résolu à travailler avec les professionnels de la santé, des services sociaux et des soins continus pour transformer le système et veiller à ce que le nouvel organisme, Assisted Living Alberta, satisfasse à tous les besoins des Albertaines et des Albertains. Grâce à ce changement, la population aura accès à une gamme complète de soins intégrés pour répondre à ses besoins en évolution constante et conserver son indépendance et sa qualité de vie à mesure qu’elle vieillit et exige davantage de soutien. »

    Jason Nixon, ministre des Personnes âgées et des Services communautaires et sociaux

    Assisted Living Alberta est en bonne voie d’être établi d’ici le 1er avril, et sera entièrement opérationnel d’ici l’automne 2025. Ce nouvel organisme harmonisera les soutiens et les services, médicaux et autres, augmentera les espaces de soins continus, réduira les temps d’attente et fournira des soutiens intégrés complets aux Albertaines et aux Albertains qui exigent différents niveaux et types de soins. Ceci comprend les personnes âgées dans des établissements de soins de longue durée et celles qui veulent continuer de vieillir chez elles, mais ont besoin de soutiens pour ce faire, ainsi que les personnes handicapées, les personnes en situation d’itinérance et d’autres personnes vulnérables nécessitant des soins temporaires ou de longue durée. Le recentrage des soins de santé en Alberta permet aux Albertaines et aux Albertains d’avoir accès aux services et au soutien nécessaires, au moment et à l’endroit où ils en ont besoin.

    « L’amélioration des services de soins de santé est une priorité absolue pour notre gouvernement. Nous sommes déterminés à satisfaire au besoin urgent de services d’aide à la vie autonome améliorés partout dans notre province, dont la population augmente continuellement. Je me réjouis de travailler aux côtés du ministre des Personnes âgées et des Services communautaires et sociaux pour offrir aux Albertaines et aux Albertains un plus grand choix et la grande qualité de soins pour rester près de chez eux. »

    Adriana LaGrange, ministre de la Santé

    Les Albertains qui reçoivent actuellement des soins, et ceux qui exigent des soins continueront d’avoir accès aux services nécessaires. Un comité de transition dirigé par la Dre Sayeh Zielke, autrice, cardiologue et directrice médicale de Chinook Cardiology, ainsi que des chefs de fils des soins de santé, des soins continus, des services sociaux et d’autres organisations locales, conseilleront la ministre à l’appui de cette transformation. Les membres du comité ont été choisis en fonction de leur expérience, de leurs divers points de vue et de leurs antécédents dans le domaine des soins continus et des services sociaux. Le travail du comité sera essentiel pour ce qui est d’assurer une transition sans heurt et sans interruption.

    « C’est un honneur de contribuer à transformer le système de soins continus en Alberta. Notre objectif est de donner la priorité aux patients et aux clients et d’apporter à nos travailleurs de première ligne le soutien nécessaire. C’est pourquoi il est si important que nous prenions le temps de bien faire les choses et de consulter directement les Albertaines et les Albertains. » 

    Dre Zielke, cardiologue et directrice médicale de Chinook Cardiology, et présidente du comité de transition d’aide à la vie autonome

    Les Albertains sont invités à faire part de leur rétroaction, à soutenir l’établissement d’Assisted Living Alberta et à contribuer à façonner l’avenir des soins continus par l’intermédiaire de l’engagement en ligne qui sera accessible du 30 janvier au 3 mars à Alberta.ca/lead-the-way. Les fournisseurs de soins continus et les travailleurs de la santé et des soins continus auront également l’occasion de donner leur opinion dans le cadre d’un engagement ciblé pendant la même période. Les idées et les points de vue de la population albertaine aideront à ouvrir la voie vers l’amélioration du système en veillant à ce qu’il réponde aux besoins actuels et des générations à venir.  

    Le gouvernement de l’Alberta fait des progrès considérables dans le recentrage des soins de santé. Assisted Living Alberta sera le quatrième et dernier organisme de santé provincial à être établi et opérationnel. Recovery Alberta a officiellement lancé ses activités le 1er septembre 2024. Primary Care Alberta lui emboîte le pas et entrera en fonction le 1er février 2025. Acute Care Alberta deviendra une entité juridique à la même date. En créant quatre organismes de santé provinciaux pour superviser les secteurs prioritaires des soins primaires, des soins actifs, des soins continus et de la santé mentale et des dépendances, la province accorde la priorité aux patients dans chaque décision en matière de santé et donne aux experts de première ligne le soutien nécessaire pour s’occuper des Albertains comme il se doit.

    « L’Alberta Continuing Care Association se réjouit de cette transformation effectuée par le gouvernement de l’Alberta. En réunissant sous un même organisme les services sociaux, les soutiens médicaux et autres et les soins continus, les patients pourront avoir accès aux soutiens intégrés dont ils ont besoin sur le plan des soins et des services. »

    Feisal Keshavjee, président, Alberta Continuing Care Association

    « L’intégration des soins de santé et des services sociaux améliore les résultats, correspond aux préférences des adultes plus âgés, des soignants et des praticiens, et sous-tend des modèles de soins continus de pointe. Healthy Aging Alberta et Centraide Calgary félicitent le ministère de cette transition emballante, et ont hâte d’appuyer un modèle intégré de soins continus en Alberta. »

    Karen McDonald, directrice provinciale, Healthy Aging Alberta

    Membres du comité de transition

    • Dre Sayeh Zielke, présidente du comité – cardiologue et directrice médicale de Chinook Cardiology
    • Brandon Lunty, député provincial et vice-président – député de Leduc-Beaumont
    • Dr David Stewart, membre – médecin, Family Medical Centre
    • David Weyant, membre – PDG, Alberta Lawyers Indemnity Association
    • Robin James, membre – directeur municipal, Lethbridge Housing Authority
    • Feisal Keshavjee, membre – président du conseil, Alberta Continuing Care Association
    • Karen McDonald, membre – directrice, Healthy Aging Alberta (et directrice générale, Sage)
    • Andrea Hesse, membre – directrice générale, Alberta Council for Disability Services
    • Joyce Wicks, membre – ancienne infirmière et défenseure des personnes âgées
    • Ruben Breaker, membre – conseiller, Première Nation Siksika
    • Arlene Adamson, membre – ancienne chef de la direction, Silvera for Seniors
    • Salimah Walji-Shivji, membre – chef de la direction, AgeCare
    • Irene Martin-Lindsay – membre, directrice générale, Alberta Seniors and Community Housing Association

    Nouvelles connexes

    • Continuing care: Ministers LaGrange and Nixon (Soins continus : ministre LaGrange et Nixon (16 octobre 2024)

    Renseignements connexes

    • Refocusing health care in Alberta (Recentrer les soins de santé en Alberta)
    • Continuing Care Transformation (Transformation des soins continus)
    • Online survey for feedback on Alberta’s continuing care system (Sondage en ligne pour obtenir de la rétroaction au sujet du système de soins continus)

    Multimédia

    • Regarder la conférence de presse

    Translations

    • Arabic
    • Simplified Chinese
    • Traditional Chinese
    • Punjabi
    • Spanish
    • Ukrainian

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI: Notice convening the Annual General Meeting of Siili Solutions Plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Notice convening the Annual General Meeting of Siili Solutions Plc

    Siili Solutions Plc Stock Exchange Release 13 February 2025 at 9:10 a.m. (Finnish time)

    The shareholders of Siili Solutions Plc are invited to the Annual General Meeting to be held on Tuesday, 8 April 2025 starting at 2:00 p.m. (Finnish time) at the address Töölönlahdenkatu 2, FI-00100 Helsinki, Finland (event venue Eliel, Sanomatalo). The reception of persons who have registered for the meeting and the distribution of voting tickets will commence at the meeting venue at 1:30 p.m. (Finnish time).

    Shareholders may also exercise their voting rights by voting in advance. Further information on advance voting is presented in section C. 2. of this meeting notice.

    Shareholders can follow the General Meeting via a video stream. Other persons than the Company’s shareholders are also welcome to follow the video stream. Instructions on how to follow the video stream are available on the Company’s website at the address https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025. It is not possible to pose any other questions than those referred to below in this section, make counterproposals, otherwise speak or vote via the video stream. Following the meeting via the video stream or asking questions as referred to below shall not be considered as participation in the General Meeting or as the exercise of shareholder rights. Persons who follow the video stream may ask questions or make comments to the CEO in writing during the CEO’s review in agenda item 6. through the chat functionality. A recording of the video stream will be available on the Company’s website after the General Meeting, no later than on 22 April 2025.

    A. MATTERS ON THE AGENDA OF THE GENERAL MEETING

    The General Meeting shall consider the following matters:

    1. Opening of the meeting
    1. Calling the meeting to order
    1. Election of the persons to scrutinise the minutes and the persons to supervise the counting of votes
    1. Recording the legality of the meeting
    1. Recording the attendance at the meeting and adoption of the list of votes
    1. Presentation of the financial statements, including the consolidated financial statements, the report of the Board of Directors, the auditor’s report and the assurance report on sustainability reporting for the year 2024
    • Presentation of the CEO’s review.

    The annual report, including the report of the Board of Directors, the consolidated financial statements, the financial statements of the parent company, the auditor’s report and the assurance report on sustainability reporting will be available on the Company’s website at https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025 at the latest on 14 March 2025.

    1. Adoption of the financial statements, including the consolidated financial statements
    1. Resolution on the use of the profit shown on the balance sheet and the distribution of dividend

    The Board of Directors proposes to the General Meeting that, based on the adopted balance sheet for the financial period 2024, a dividend of EUR 0,18 per share be paid from the Company’s distributable funds, i.e., approximately EUR 1.46 million in total based on the status of the date of this meeting notice, and that the rest of the distributable funds be retained in equity. 

    The dividend shall be paid to shareholders who on the dividend record date 10 April 2025 are registered in the Company’s shareholders’ register held by Euroclear Finland Oy. The Board of Directors proposes that the dividend be paid on 17 April 2025.

    1. Resolution on the discharge of the members of the Board of Directors and the CEO from liability
    1. Consideration of the Remuneration Report for Governing Bodies

    The remuneration report for governing bodies is available on the Company’s website at the address https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025 at the latest on 14 March 2025.

    1. Resolution on the remuneration of the members of the Board of Directors

    The Shareholders’ Nomination Board proposes that the remuneration of the members of the Board of Directors would remain unchanged and be as follows:

    The Chair of the Board of Directors is paid EUR 3,850 per month, the Deputy Chair EUR 2,500 per month, the Chair of the Audit Committee EUR 2,500 per month and other members EUR 2,000 per month. The Chairs of the Board of Directors’ Committees are paid EUR 200 per month for their work on the Committee, in addition to which all Committee members are paid a meeting fee of EUR 300 per meeting. In addition, the members of the Board of Directors receive compensation for travel expenses in line with the Company’s business travel policy.

    1. Resolution on the number of members of the Board of Directors

    The Shareholders’ Nomination Board proposes that five (5) members be elected to the Board of Directors.

    1. Election of the members of the Board of Directors

    The Shareholders’ Nomination Board proposes the re-election of the current members of the Board of Directors for the next term of office Harry Brade, Jesse Maula, Katarina Cantell and Henna Mäkinen. Tero Ojanperä has informed that he does not stand for re-election to the Board of Directors.

    Consequently, the Nomination Board proposes that Sebastian Nyström shall be elected as new member of the Board of Directors.

    Sebastian Nyström, b. 1974, M.Sc., acts currently as S-Group’s Chief Transformation Officer and EVP, Loyalty, IT and Digital Development. Prior to his current role, Nyström has acted e.g. as S-Group’s EVP Strategy & M&A, as well as in other leading roles in Nokia Corporation over the past 20 years.

    The term of office of the members lasts until the end of the next Annual General Meeting. All persons proposed have given their consent to the election.

    Background information on each person proposed for the Board of Directors is available on the website of Siili Solutions Plc at https://sijoittajille.siili.com/en.

    The proposed members Jesse Maula, Henna Mäkinen, Katarina Cantell and Sebastian Nyström are considered independent of the Company and its significant shareholders. Harry Brade is independent of the Company but non-independent of its significant shareholder Lamy Oy.

    In addition, the Shareholders’ Nomination Board recommends to the Board of Directors that it re-elects Harry Brade as its Chair and Jesse Maula as Deputy Chair.

    In the selection of the Board member candidates, the Nomination Board has emphasized relevant experience and competence of the candidates, especially considering the strategic objectives of the company. Further, in its selection process the Nomination Board has considered the diversity of the Board.

    With regard to the selection procedure of the members of the Board of Directors, the Nomination Board recommends that shareholders take a position on the proposal as a whole at the General Meeting. The Nomination Board, in addition to ensuring that individual nominees for membership of the Board of Directors possess the required competences, is also responsible for making sure that the proposed Board of Directors as a whole also has the best possible expertise and experience for the Company and that the composition of the Board of Directors also meets other requirements of the Finnish Corporate Governance Code for listed companies.

    1. Resolution on the remuneration of the auditor

    The Board of Directors proposes upon proposal of the Audit Committee that the auditor of the Company be paid remuneration in accordance with the auditor’s reasonable invoice approved by the Company.

    1. Election of the auditor

    The Board of Directors proposes upon proposal of the Audit Committee that audit firm KPMG Oy Ab be re-elected as the Company’s auditor for the following term of office. KPMG Oy Ab has stated that if it is elected as the Company’s auditor, Leenakaisa Winberg, APA, will continue as the principal auditor.

    1. Resolution on the remuneration of the sustainability reporting assurer

    The Board of Directors proposes upon proposal of the Audit Committee that the sustainability reporting assurer of the Company be paid remuneration in accordance with the sustainability reporting assurer’s reasonable invoice approved by the Company.

    1. Election of the sustainability reporting assurance provider

    The Board of Directors proposes upon proposal of the Audit Committee that authorised sustainability audit firm KPMG Oy Ab be elected as the Company’s sustainability reporting assurance provider for the following term of office. KPMG Oy Ab has stated that if it is elected as the Company’s sustainability reporting assurance provider, Leenakaisa Winberg, ASA, will continue as the principal sustainability auditor.

    1. Authorisation of the Board of Directors to resolve on the repurchase and/or on the acceptance as pledge of own shares

    The Board of Directors proposes that the General Meeting authorises the Board of Directors to resolve on the repurchase and/or acceptance as pledge of the Company’s own shares under the following terms and conditions:

    Using the Company’s unrestricted equity, a maximum of 814,000 shares may be repurchased and/or accepted as pledge in one or more tranches, which corresponds to approximately 10% of all shares in the Company.

    The shares will be repurchased in trading on Nasdaq Helsinki Oy’s regulated market at a price formed in public trading on the date of repurchase. The Company’s own shares shall be repurchased to be used for carrying out acquisitions or implementing other arrangements related to the Company’s business, for optimising the Company’s capital structure, for implementing the Company’s incentive scheme or otherwise to be transferred further or cancelled.

    Own shares can be repurchased otherwise than in proportion to the shareholdings of the shareholders (directed repurchase). The share purchase will decrease the Company’s distributable unrestricted equity. The Board of Directors resolves on all other terms and conditions for the repurchase and/or acceptance as pledge of the Company’s own shares.

    The authorisation is proposed to remain in force until the end of the next Annual General Meeting, however no later than until 30 June 2026. The authorisation shall revoke earlier unused authorisations to resolve on the repurchase and/or acceptance as pledge of the Company’s own shares.

    1. Authorisation of the Board of Directors to resolve on a share issue and the issuance of special rights entitling to shares

    The Board of Directors proposes that the General Meeting authorise the Board of Directors to resolve on the issuance of shares and the issuance of special rights entitling to shares within the meaning of chapter 10, section 1 of the Finnish Limited Liability Companies Act in one or more tranches either against consideration or free of consideration.

    The number of shares to be issued, including shares received on the basis of the special rights shall not exceed a maximum of 814,000 shares, which corresponds to approximately 10% of all shares in the Company. The Board of Directors may resolve either to issue new shares or to transfer treasury shares held by the Company.

    The authorisation entitles the Board of Directors to resolve on all terms of the share issue and the issuance of special rights entitling to shares, including the right to deviate from the shareholders’ pre-emptive subscription right (directed issue). The authorisation may be used to strengthen the Company’s balance sheet and financial position, to pay purchase prices for acquisitions, in share-based incentive schemes or for other purposes resolved by the Board of Directors.

    The total maximum number of shares to be issued for the purpose of share-based incentive schemes is 162,800 shares, which corresponds to approximately 2.0% of all the shares in the Company. For the avoidance of doubt, the above maximum number of shares intended for the incentive schemes is included in the maximum number of the issuance authorisation referred to above.

    Based on the authorisation, the Board of Directors is also authorised to resolve on a share issue directed to the Company itself, provided that the number of shares held by the Company after the issue would be a maximum of 10% of all the shares in the Company. This number includes all the Company’s own shares held by the Company and its subsidiaries in the manner provided for in chapter 15, section 11(1) of the Limited Liability Companies Act.

    The authorisation is proposed to remain in force until the end of the next Annual General Meeting, however no later than until 30 June 2026. The authorisation shall revoke earlier authorisations concerning share issues and the issuance other special rights entitling to shares.

    1. Closing the meeting

    B. DOCUMENTS OF THE GENERAL MEETING

    This notice of the General Meeting, which includes all the resolution proposals of the Board of Directors and the Shareholders’ Nomination Board on the agenda of the General Meeting, is available on Siili Solutions Plc’s website at the address https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025 as of 13 February 2025. Siili Solutions Plc’s annual report for the year 2024, including the report of the Board of Directors, the consolidated financial statements, the financial statements of the parent company, the auditor’s report and the assurance report on sustainability reporting and the remuneration report for governing bodies will be available on said website at the latest as of 14 March 2025. The resolution proposals and other documents mentioned above will also be made available at the General Meeting.

    The minutes of the General Meeting will be available on the above website at the latest on 22 April 2025.

    C. INSTRUCTIONS FOR MEETING PARTICIPANTS

    1. Shareholders registered in the shareholders’ register

    Shareholders who are registered in the Company’s shareholders’ register held by Euroclear Finland Oy on 27 March 2025 (the record date of the General Meeting) have the right to participate in the General Meeting. A shareholder whose shares are registered on the shareholder’s Finnish book-entry account is registered in the shareholders’ register of the Company.

    The registration period for the General Meeting commences on 14 February 2025 at 10:00 a.m. (Finnish time). A shareholder who is registered in the shareholders’ register of the Company and wishes to participate in the General Meeting shall register no later than on 1 April 2025 at 4:00 p.m. (Finnish time), by which time the registration must be received. A shareholder can register for the General Meeting by one of the following means:

    a) Via the Company’s website at the address https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025. Electronic registration requires strong identification of the shareholder or their legal representative or proxy representative with a Finnish, Swedish or Danish bank ID or a mobile certificate.

    b) By email to the address agm@innovatics.fi. In the email, registering shareholders must submit the registration and advance voting form available on the Company’s website at the address https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025 or equivalent information.

    The requested information, such as the shareholder’s name, date of birth or business ID and contact information (telephone number and/or email address) as well as the name of the shareholder’s assistant and/or the name, date of birth and contact information (telephone number and/or email address) of proxy representative, if any, must be provided in connection with the registration. The personal data disclosed by the shareholders to Siili Solutions Plc, Innovatics Ltd or Inderes Oyj is only used in connection with the General Meeting and the processing of the necessary registrations related thereto.

    Changes in shareholding after the record date of the General Meeting do not affect the right to participate in the General Meeting or the number of votes of the shareholder.

    Upon request, shareholders, their representatives or proxy representatives must be able to prove their identity and/or right of representation at the meeting venue.

    Further information on registration and advance voting is available by telephone during the registration period of the General Meeting by calling Innovatics Ltd at +358 10 2818 909 between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. (Finnish time) on business days.

    1. Advance voting

    A shareholder whose shares are registered on the shareholder’s personal Finnish book-entry account may vote in advance on certain items on the agenda between 14 February 2025 at 10:00 a.m. (Finnish time) and 1 April 2025 at 4:00 p.m. (Finnish time) in the following ways:

    1. Via the service available on the Company’s website at the address https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025. Shareholders can sign into the advance voting service the same way as to the online registration service referred to above in section C. 1. a) of these instructions.
    1. By email by submitting the advance voting form available on the Company’s website or equivalent information to Innovatics Ltd at agm@innovatics.fi.

    Advance votes must be received by the time the advance voting ends. The submission of votes via the service available on the Company’s website or by email before the end of the registration and advance voting period shall be considered as registration for the General Meeting, provided that it contains the above information required for registration.

    Proposals for resolutions that are subject to advance voting are considered to have been presented unchanged in the General Meeting, and the advance votes are taken into account in a possible vote held at the general meeting venue also in circumstances where an alternative proposal for resolution has been made in the relevant matter. For the advance votes to be considered, the shareholder must be registered in the Company’s shareholder register maintained by Euroclear Finland Oy on the record date of the General Meeting. A shareholder who has voted in advance cannot exercise the right to ask questions or demand a vote under the Limited Liability Companies Act unless they participate in the General Meeting at the meeting venue in person or by proxy representative.  

    Instructions for advance voting will be available on the Company’s website at https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025.

    With respect to holders of nominee-registered shares, the advance voting is carried out by the account operators. The account operators may vote in advance on behalf of the holders of nominee-registered shares they represent in accordance with the relevant shareholders’ voting instructions during the registration period applicable to holders of nominee-registered shares.

    1. Holder of nominee-registered shares

    Holders of nominee-registered shares have the right to participate in the General Meeting by virtue of shares, based on which they would be entitled to be registered in the shareholders’ register of the Company held by Euroclear Finland Oy on the record date of the General Meeting, 27 March 2025. In addition, the right to participate in the General Meeting requires that the holders of nominee-registered shares be temporarily entered into the shareholders’ register held by Euroclear Finland Oy based on these shares by 3 April 2025 at 10:00 a.m. (Finnish time) at the latest. As regards nominee-registered shares, this constitutes due registration for the General Meeting. Changes in shareholding after the record date of the General Meeting do not affect the right to participate in the General Meeting or the number of votes of the shareholder.

    Holders of nominee-registered shares are advised to ask their custodian bank in good time for the necessary instructions regarding temporary registration in the Company’s shareholders’ register, the issuing of proxy documents and voting instructions, registration for and participation in the General Meeting as well as advance voting. The account manager of the custodian bank shall temporarily register a holder of nominee-registered shares who wishes to participate in the Annual General Meeting into the shareholders’ register of the Company at the latest by the time stated above. When necessary, the account manager of the custodian bank shall also arrange advance voting on behalf of the holder of nominee-registered shares before the end of the registration period for holders of nominee-registered shares.

    1. Proxy representative and powers of attorney

    A shareholder may participate in the General Meeting and exercise their rights at the meeting by way of a proxy representation. A shareholder’s proxy representative may also elect to vote in advance as described in section C. 2. of these instructions if they so wish.

    The proxy representative shall produce a dated proxy document, or otherwise in a reliable manner prove that the proxy representative is entitled to represent the shareholder at the General Meeting. If a shareholder participates in the General Meeting through several proxies representing the shareholder with shares held in different book-entry accounts, the shares on the basis of which each proxy representative represents the shareholder shall be identified in connection with the registration.

    A proxy template will be available on the Company’s website at https://sijoittajille.siili.com/general-meeting2025.

    Any proxy documents are requested to be submitted preferably as an attachment with the electronic registration or alternatively by mail to Innovatics Oy, General Meeting / Siili Solutions Plc, Ratamestarinkatu 13 A, FI-00520 Helsinki or by email to agm@innovatics.fi before the end of the registration period, by which the proxy documents must be received. In addition to submitting proxy documents, a shareholder or the shareholder’s proxy representative shall register for the General Meeting in the manner described above in this notice.

    As an alternative to a traditional proxy document, a shareholder may authorise a proxy representative by using the Suomi.fi e-authorisation service. The proxy representative is authorised via the Suomi.fi service at www.suomi.fi/e-authorizations (authorisation for ‘Representation at the General Meeting’). When registering for the General Meeting service, the proxy representative must identify themselves by using strong electronic identification, after which the proxy representative can register and vote in advance on behalf of the shareholder the proxy representative represents. Strong electronic identification requires a Finnish, Swedish or Danish bank ID or a mobile certificate. For more information on e-authorisation, please see www.suomi.fi/e-authorizations. The Suomi.fi service can also be used in another way than by authorising a proxy via the authorisation for ‘Representation at the General Meeting’ alternative. For example, a CEO can register the company he/she represents for the General Meeting by using the Suomi.fi service without a separate proxy.

    1. Other instructions/information

    The meeting language is Finnish.

    Pursuant to chapter 5, section 25 of the Limited Liability Companies Act, shareholders who are present at the General Meeting at the meeting venue have the right to request information with respect to the matters to be considered at the meeting.

    On the date of this notice to the General Meeting, Siili Solution Plc has a total of 8,140,263 shares, which represent the same number of votes. On the date of the notice, the Company holds 27,954 treasury shares that do not entitle to participation in the General Meeting according to the Limited Liability Companies Act. 

    Helsinki, 13 February 2025

    SIILI SOLUTIONS PLC

    Board of Directors

    For more information:

    General Counsel, Taru Kovanen

    Phone: +358 (0)40 4176 221, email: taru.kovanen(at)siili.com

    Distribution

    Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
    Principal media
    www.siili.com

    Siili Solutions in brief

    Siili Solutions Plc is a forerunner in AI-powered digital development. Siili is the go-to partner for clients seeking growth, efficiency and competitive advantage through digital transformation. Our main markets are Finland, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Germany. Siili Solutions Plc’s shares are listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki Stock Exchange. Siili has grown profitably since its founding in 2005. www.siili.com/en

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Albanese Government passes legislation to deliver child care 3 Day Guarantee

    Source: Australian Ministers for Education

    The Albanese Labor Government today passed legislation through the Parliament to deliver a 3 Day Guarantee and replace the Liberal’s Activity Test.

    Families will be able to access three days a week of subsidised early childhood education for children who need it from January 2026. 

    The Dutton led Coalition voted against this important legislation. The Liberals have said the 3 Day Guarantee was “not something…the country can afford” but are happy for taxpayers to pay for bosses’ lunches.

    The Liberal’s claim their Activity Test increased workforce participation, however the Australian Institute of Family Studies found no evidence that the introduction of the Activity Test caused any increase in workforce participation.

    In fact, analysis undertaken by Dr Angela Jackson and Impact Economics and Policy found that: 

    “The current activity test for the Child Care Subsidy limits access to subsidised child care and is contributing to children from the poorest households missing out on critical early childhood education and care.”

    Implementing the 3 Day Guarantee and abolishing the current Activity Test, is an important step towards a universal early childhood education and care system.

    Families earning between $50,000 to $100,000, will be better off under the 3 Day Guarantee and are expected to save on average $1,460 per year.

    The 3 Day Guarantee will provide cost-of-living relief to families and help ensure that children can access the benefits of high-quality early education and care. 

    A re-elected Albanese Labor Government will also establish a $1 billion Building Early Education Fund, to build more centres and expand services in areas of need, including the outer suburbs and regional Australia. 

    Only the Albanese Labor Government has a plan to deliver a universal early childhood education system that works for Australian families and ensure children get the best possible start in life. 

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Jason Clare:

    “This is all about giving our kids the best start in life. 

    “Getting them ready for school.

    “It’s all about opening the doors of opportunity.

    “Peter Dutton has voted to slam it shut. 

    “Under Labor, we are guaranteeing 3 days a week of government supported early education. 

    “Under the Liberals, they are guaranteeing 3 course meals for bosses, paid for by the taxpayer.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Early Childhood Education Dr Anne Aly:

     “The Coalition would put universal access to early learning at risk, it’s clear they don’t understand the benefits of early childhood education and care.

     “Only the Albanese Labor Government will ensure every Australian child has access to early childhood education. 

     “The Liberal’s prohibative Activity Test locked out the children who can most benefit from early childhood education and care, and has not increasesed workforce participation. 

     “Investing in the early years is an investment in Australia’s future – there is no better investment than giving our littlest Australians the best possible start in life.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI: Flow Traders 4Q and FY 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Flow Traders 4Q and FY 2024 Results

    Amsterdam, the Netherlands – Flow Traders Ltd. (Euronext: FLOW) announces its unaudited 4Q and FY 2024 results.

    Flow Traders posts record fourth quarter results and the second-best fiscal year results in its 20-year history with €159.0m and €479.3m in Total Income, respectively. The company also ends 2024 with record levels of Trading Capital and Shareholders’ Equity at €775m and €766m, respectively.

    Financial Highlights

    4Q 2024

    • Flow Traders recorded Net Trading Income of €153.8m and Total Income of €159.0m in 4Q24, increases of 112% and 114% when compared to the €72.7m and €74.3m in 4Q23, respectively.
    • Flow Traders’ ETP Value Traded increased by 13% in 4Q24 to €424m from €376m in 4Q23.
    • Fixed Operating Expenses were €45.3m in the quarter, an increase of 12% when compared to the €40.4m in 4Q23, due mostly to increased employee and technology expenses and an abnormally low 4Q23 given timing of expenses.
    • Total Operating Expenses were €76.8m in 4Q24, an increase of 23% when compared to the €62.5m in 4Q23, due mostly to higher variable employee compensation expenses.
    • EBITDA was €82.1m in the quarter, an almost seven-fold increase when compared to the €11.8m in 4Q23. EBITDA margin was 52% in 4Q24 vs. 16% in 4Q23.
    • Net Profit came in at €63.2m in 4Q24, yielding a basic EPS of €1.47 and diluted EPS of €1.42, an almost ten-fold increase compared to a Net Profit of €6.4m, basic EPS of €0.15, and diluted EPS of €0.14 in 4Q23.
    • Flow Traders employed 609 FTEs at the end of 4Q24, compared to 605 at the end of 3Q24 and 613 at the end of 4Q23 (see note 1).

    FY 2024

    • For full year 2024, Net Trading Income totaled €467.8m and Total Income was €479.3m, increases of 56% and 58% when compared to €300.3m and €303.9m in FY 2023, respectively.
    • Flow Traders’ ETP Value Traded increased by 5% in FY 2024 to €1,545b from €1,465b in FY 2023.
    • Fixed Operating Expenses for the year totaled €179.1m, an increase of 3% from €174.1m in FY 2023, which is in-line with guidance.
    • Total Operating Expenses for the year was €264.4m, an increase of 12% from €236.3m in FY 2023, due mostly to higher variable employee compensation expenses.
    • EBITDA for the year was €214.9m, up 218% compared to €67.5m in FY2023. EBITDA margin was 45% in FY 2024 vs. 22% in FY 2023.
    • Total Net Profit for the year totaled €159.5m with basic EPS of €3.69 and diluted EPS of €3.56, a more than four-fold increase compared to €36.2m, €0.84 and €0.81 in FY 2023, respectively.

    Trading Capital and Shareholders’ Equity

    • Trading capital stood at €775m at the end of 4Q24 and FY 2024, an increase of 16% compared to €668m at the end of 3Q24 and 33% compared to €584m at the end of 4Q23 and FY 2023.
    • Return on average trading capital2 was 69% in 4Q24 and FY 2024, compared to 49% in 4Q23 and FY 2023. With the accelerating growth of trading capital following the Capital Expansion Plan announced in July 2024, trading returns will be calculated as LTM NTI / Average Trading Capital going forward.
    • Shareholders’ equity was €766m at the end of 4Q24 and FY 2024, an increase of 15% compared to €666m at the end of 3Q24 and 31% compared to €586m at the end of 4Q23 and FY 2023.
    • Flow Traders generated a Return on Equity of 24% in FY 2024, compared to 6% in FY 2023.

    Financial Overview

    €million 4Q24 4Q23 Change FY2024 FY2023 Change
    Net trading income 153.8 72.7 112% 467.8 300.3 56%
    Other income 5.1 1.6   11.5 3.6  
    Total income 159.0 74.3 114% 479.3 303.9 58%
    Revenue by region3            
    Europe 86.9 42.6 104% 274.1 167.8 63%
    Americas 18.2 18.1 1% 93.6 82.1 14%
    Asia 53.8 13.6 295% 111.5 53.9 107%
    Employee expenses            
    Fixed employee expenses 20.2 17.5 15% 81.6 76.0 7%
    Variable employee expenses 31.5 22.1 43% 85.3 57.9 47%
    Technology expenses 16.9 15.3 10% 66.6 64.4 3%
    Other expenses 8.2 7.6 8% 30.9 33.7 (8%)
    One-off expenses4   0.0 4.3 (100%)
    Total operating expenses 76.8 62.5 23% 264.4 236.3 12%
    EBITDA 82.1 11.8 597% 214.9 67.5 218%
    Interest Expense 0.5   1.1 0.0  
    Depreciation & amortisation 4.6 4.2 9% 17.4 18.4 (5%)
    Profit/(loss) on equity-accounted investments (0.1) (0.1) 5% (2.0) (4.5) (55%)
    Profit before tax 76.9 7.4 935% 194.4 44.7 335%
    Tax expense 13.7 1.0 1230% 34.8 8.5 310%
    Net profit 63.2 6.4 888% 159.5 36.2 341%
    Basic EPS5 (€) 1.47 0.15   3.69 0.84  
    Fully diluted EPS6 (€) 1.42 0.14   3.56 0.81  
    EBITDA margin 52% 16%   45% 22%  

    Revenue by Region

    €million 1Q23 2Q23 3Q23 4Q23 1Q24 2Q24 3Q24 4Q24
    Europe 58.5 33.1 33.6 42.6 68.4 48.6 70.2 86.9
    Americas 32.8 9.3 22.0 18.1 41.3 13.4 20.8 18.2
    Asia 19.2 9.0 12.1 13.6 19.9 14.2 23.6 53.8

    Value Traded Overview

    €billion 4Q24 4Q23 Change FY2024 FY2023 Change
    Flow Traders ETP Value Traded 424 376 13% 1,545 1,465 5%
    Europe 195 151 29% 655 619 6%
    Americas 193 203 (5%) 776 754 3%
    Asia 36 22 65% 114 93 22%
    Flow Traders non-ETP Value Traded 1,233 1,074 15% 4,703 4,115 14%
    Flow Traders Value Traded 1,657 1,450 14% 6,248 5,580 12%
    Equity 809 762 6% 3,217 3,009 7%
    FICC 783 641 22% 2,817 2,396 18%
    Other 64 48 33% 214 176 22%
    Market ETP Value Traded7 13,192 11,714 13% 47,933 43,081 11%
    Europe 728 557 31% 2,518 2,039 24%
    Americas 9,954 9,877 1% 38,545 35,874 7%
    Asia 2,510 1,280 96% 6,871 5,168 33%
    Asia ex China 582 383 52% 2,020 1,578 28%

    Trading Capital

      1Q23 2Q23 3Q23 4Q23 1Q24 2Q24 3Q24 4Q24
    Trading Capital (€m) 647 574 585 584 609 624 668 775
    Return on Avg Trading Capital2 67% 65% 56% 49% 50% 58% 62% 69%
    Average VIX8 21.0 16.7 15.1 15.4 13.9 14.2 17.1 17.3

    Market Environment

    Europe

    Equity trading volumes in the quarter across major exchanges saw double-digit percentage point improvements when compared to the same period a year ago and single-digit improvements when compared to last quarter. Market volatility increased by single-digits compared to both the same period a year ago and last quarter.

    Fixed Income trading volumes on MTFs saw low double-digit percentage point improvements compared to the same period a year ago and single-digit improvements compared to last quarter.

    Americas

    Equity trading volumes in the U.S. saw single-digit percentage point improvements when compared to both the same period a year ago and last quarter. Market volatility increased slightly when compared to the same period a year ago and was flat compared to last quarter.

    Fixed Income trading volumes in the U.S. were mixed across the various trading venues but were in general better when compared to the same period a year ago but weaker compared to last quarter. Volatility declined when compared to the same period a year ago and was relatively flat when compared to last quarter.

    Asia

    Equity trading volumes in Asia were mixed as Hong Kong and China saw significant increases while Japan experienced declines both when compared to the same period a year ago as well as last quarter. Market volatility, for the most part, increased across all the regions both year-on-year and quarter-on-quarter, with the exception being Japan, where it declined compared to last quarter.

    Digital Assets

    Within Digital Assets, which trades across regions on a 24/7 basis, trading volumes increased significantly both compared to the same period a year ago and last quarter. Volatility increased slightly both year-on-year and quarter-on-quarter.

    Trading Capital Expansion Plan

    In recent years, Flow Traders has successfully diversified its core trading model across different asset classes and geographies, which resulted in increased optionality for the business. The company sees a range of emerging opportunities to accelerate growth by systematically expanding its trading capital base.

    With the 2Q 2024 results, the company announced the suspension of the dividend and bank term loan as the initial steps in boosting the firm’s trading capital. The bank loan and strong net profit generation boosted trading capital by €191m over the course of the year and immediately helped increase the capacity of the firm to capture more of the opportunities that arose during the year given the increased volatility and dislocations across different asset classes and regions around the world. Given the success of the Trading Capital Expansion Plan thus far, the firm will continue to pursue the most strategic debt financing options to further support its growth.

    Treasury Shares

    As a result of the second-best year in company history, portions of the previously repurchased shares from the €25m share buyback program conducted in July 2022 will be reallocated to employee incentive plans.

    Outlook

    Fixed operating expenses for FY 2025 are expected to be in the range of €190-210m given additional technology investments and targeted additions of subject matter experts in growth areas, partially offset by expected operational efficiency gains.

    CEO Statement

    Mike Kuehnel, CEO
    “Flow Traders closed out 2024 with a record fourth quarter and the second-best year in the company’s 20-year history. Following the strategic decision to accelerate the expansion of our trading capital base last July, the additional capital has enabled us to capture additional opportunities and leverage dislocations in the market during a period of heightened volatility across different regions and asset classes. Following one of the calmest markets in recent memory in 2023, we were able to achieve a 69% return on average trading capital in 2024. This demonstrates the robustness and coverage of our trading strategies and is a result of the company’s growth and diversification strategy.

    In the fourth quarter, market trading volumes and volatility increased meaningfully across Europe and Asia, and within equity and digital assets. We were able to capitalize on this increased activity given the significant multi-year investments in talent and technology that we made in Asia and digital assets. Additionally, our partnerships with emerging financial infrastructure providers, such as the Börse Stuttgart Digital and Wormhole partnerships in the digital assets space and OpenYield in the fixed income space, will allow the company to further participate in and shape the future of financial markets.

    As digital assets continue to gain acceptance by governments and institutions around the world, we believe Flow Traders has a pivotal role to play given our strong capabilities in both traditional finance and digital assets ecosystems. With our unique distribution network, technology and pricing capabilities, we aim to be an important bridge by connecting various stakeholders to bring the 24/7 trading currently available in digital assets to the traditional financial landscape. Our partnership with DWS and Galaxy in AllUnity is one example of a platform which we believe could be pivotal in achieving this transition.

    Looking forward to 2025, we will continue to invest in the expansion of our trading capabilities and increasing sophistication, with tailored investments in technology and additional talent given the attractive opportunities in front of us. Opportunities which would otherwise not be possible without the accelerated growth of our trading capital base as a result of our trading capital expansion plan. To offset some of the additional investments, we stay fully committed to the streamlining and automation work to systematically improve efficiency and strengthen our core operations as the firm continues to grow and scale.”

    Preliminary Financial Calendar

    24 April 2025                1Q25 Trading Update

    Analyst Conference Call and Webcast

    The 4Q24 results analyst conference call will be held at 10:00 am CET on Thursday 13 February 2025. The presentation can be downloaded at https://www.flowtraders.com/investors/results-centre and the conference call can be followed via a listen-only audio webcast. A replay of the conference call will be available on the company website for at least 90 days.

    Contact Details

    Flow Traders Ltd.

    Investors
    Eric Pan
    Phone:         +31 20 7996799
    Email:        investor.relations@flowtraders.com

    Media
    Laura Peijs
    Phone:         +31 20 7996799
    Email:        press@flowtraders.com

    About Flow Traders

    Flow Traders is a leading trading firm providing liquidity in multiple asset classes, covering all major exchanges. Founded in 2004, Flow Traders is a leading global ETP market marker and has leveraged its expertise in trading ETPs to expand into fixed income, commodities, digital assets and FX. Flow Traders’ role in financial markets is to ensure the availability of liquidity and enabling investors to continue to buy or sell financial instruments under all market circumstances, thereby ensuring markets remain resilient and continue to function in an orderly manner. In addition to its trading activities, Flow Traders has established a strategic investment unit focused on fostering market innovation and aligned with our mission to bring greater transparency and efficiency to the financial ecosystem. With nearly two decades of experience, we have built a team of over 600 talented professionals, located globally, contributing to the firm’s entrepreneurial culture and delivering the company’s mission.

    Notes

    1. Figures restated to include only active employees and exclude those on garden leave per CSRD definition.
    2. Return on trading capital defined as LTM NTI divided by the average of the prior and current end of period trading capital.
    3. Revenue by region includes NTI, Other Income, and inter-company revenue.
    4. One-off expenses related to the completed corporate holding structure update and capital structure review work.
    5. Weighted average shares outstanding: 4Q24 – 43,066,302; 3Q24 – 43,095,744; 4Q23 – 43,166,257.
    6. Determined by adjusting the basic EPS for the effects of all dilutive share-based payments to employees.
    7. Source – Flow Traders analysis.
    8. Starting in 3Q24, average VIX is calculated as the average of VIX daily closing prices.

    Important Legal Information

    This press release is prepared by Flow Traders Ltd. and is for information purposes only. It is not a recommendation to engage in investment activities and you must not rely on the content of this document when making any investment decisions. The information in this document does not constitute legal, tax, or investment advice and is not to be regarded as investor marketing or marketing of any security or financial instrument, or as an offer to buy or sell, or as a solicitation of any offer to buy or sell, securities or financial instruments.

    The information and materials contained in this press release are provided ‘as is’ and Flow Traders Ltd. or any of its affiliates (“Flow Traders”) do not warrant the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of the information and materials and expressly disclaim liability for any errors or omissions. This press release is not intended to be, and shall not constitute in any way a binding or legal agreement, or impose any legal obligation on Flow Traders. All intellectual property rights, including trademarks, are those of their respective owners. All rights reserved. All proprietary rights and interest in or connected with this publication shall vest in Flow Traders. No part of it may be redistributed or reproduced without the prior written permission of Flow Traders.

    This press release may include forward-looking statements, which are based on Flow Traders’ current expectations and projections about future events, and are not guarantees of future performance. Forward looking statements are statements that are not historical facts, including statements about our beliefs and expectations. Words such as “may”, “will”, “would”, “should”, “expect”, “intend”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “project”, “believe”, “could”, “hope”, “seek”, “plan”, “foresee”, “aim”, “objective”, “potential”, “goal” “strategy”, “target”, “continue” and similar expressions or their negatives are used to identify these forward-looking statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the future whether or not outside the control of Flow Traders. Such factors may cause actual results, performance or developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, no undue reliance should be placed on any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as at the date at which they are made. Flow Traders expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update, review or revise any forward-looking statements contained in this press release to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which such statements are based unless required to do so by applicable law.

    Financial objectives are internal objectives of Flow Traders to measure its operational performance and should not be read as indicating that Flow Traders is targeting such metrics for any particular fiscal year. Flow Traders’ ability to achieve these financial objectives is inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond Flow Traders’ control, and upon assumptions with respect to future business decisions that are subject to change. As a result, Flow Traders’ actual results may vary from these financial objectives, and those variations may be material.

    Efficiencies are net, before tax and on a run-rate basis, i.e. taking into account the full-year impact of any measure to be undertaken before the end of the period mentioned. The expected operating efficiencies and cost savings were prepared on the basis of a number of assumptions, projections and estimates, many of which depend on factors that are beyond Flow Traders’ control. These assumptions, projections and estimates are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and actual results may differ, perhaps materially, from those projected. Flow Traders cannot provide any assurance that these assumptions are correct and that these projections and estimates will reflect Flow Traders’ actual results of operations.

    By accepting this document you agree to the terms set out above. If you do not agree with the terms set out above please notify legal.amsterdam@nl.flowtraders.com immediately and delete or destroy this document.

    All results published in this release are unaudited.

    Market Abuse Regulation

    This press release contains information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. – Operational Update on the Stimulation Campaign

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd.
    (“Falcon”, “Group”)

    Operational Update on the Stimulation Campaign

    13 February 2025 – Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. (TSXV: FO, AIM: FOG) provides the following update on the stimulation campaign for the Shenandoah S2-2H ST1 (“SS-2H ST1”) and Shenandoah South 4H (“SS-4H”) wells in the Beetaloo Sub-basin, Northern Territory, Australia with Falcon Oil & Gas Australia Limited’s (“Falcon Australia”) joint venture partner, Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited (“Operator”).

    SS-2H ST1

    • As previously announced stimulation operations were successfully completed over 35 stages across the 1,671-metre (5,483-feet) horizontal section of the Amungee Member B-shale with Liberty Energy (NYSE: LBRT) stimulation equipment.
    • The SS-2H ST1 well is being prepared for the commencement of initial flow back and extended production testing.
    • Targeting announcement of 30 day initial production (“IP30”) flow rates in April 2025.

    SS-4H

    • Commenced stimulation operations in January 2025.
    • The Operator took proactive and precautionary steps to pause completion operations due to the detection of stress in a casing connection.
    • Reinforcement activities are planned to be conducted in Q1 2025, aiming for stimulation activities to recommence in Q2 2025, as soon as the IP30 flow test is completed at SS-2H ST1.
    • The deferred stimulation program should provide an opportunity to incorporate lessons from the SS-2H ST1 campaign.
    • Targeting announcement of IP30 flow rates in mid-2025.

    Working Capital

    • Falcon Australia has received a A$4.7 million (~US$3 million) research and development tax offset in cash.
    • The Group’s current cash balance is US$8.2 million.

    Philip O’Quigley, CEO of Falcon commented:
    We continue to be extremely encouraged about the potential of the current stimulation program based on strong gas shows and other data observed whilst drilling, together with the completion of a successful stimulation program on SS-2H ST1 well. We look forward to updating the market on the IP30 flow test results from both wells as soon as they become available.”
                                                    

    Ends.
    CONTACT DETAILS:

    Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd.          +353 1 676 8702
    Philip O’Quigley, CEO +353 87 814 7042
    Anne Flynn, CFO +353 1 676 9162
     
    Cavendish Capital Markets Limited (NOMAD & Broker)
    Neil McDonald / Adam Rae +44 131 220 9771

    This announcement has been reviewed by Dr. Gábor Bada, Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd’s Technical Advisor. Dr. Bada obtained his geology degree at the Eötvös L. University in Budapest, Hungary and his PhD at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands. He is a member of AAPG.

    About Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd.

    Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd is an international oil & gas company engaged in the exploration and development of unconventional oil and gas assets, with the current portfolio focused in Australia. Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd is incorporated in British Columbia, Canada and headquartered in Dublin, Ireland.

    Falcon Oil & Gas Australia Limited is a c. 98% subsidiary of Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd.

    For further information on Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. Please visit www.falconoilandgas.com

    About Beetaloo Joint Venture (EP 76, 98 and 117)

    Company Interest
    Falcon Oil & Gas Australia Limited (Falcon Australia) 22.5%
    Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited 77.5%
    Total 100.0%

    Shenandoah South Pilot Project -2 Drilling Space Units – 46,080 acres1

    Company Interest
    Falcon Oil & Gas Australia Limited (Falcon Australia) 5.0%
    Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited 95.0%
    Total 100.0%

    1Subject to the completion of the SS2H ST1 and SS4H wells on the Shenandoah South pad 2.

    About Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited
    Tamboran (B1) Pty Limited (“Tamboran B1”) is the 100% holder of Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited, with Tamboran B1 being a 50:50 joint venture between Tamboran Resources Corporation and Daly Waters Energy, LP.

    Tamboran Resources Corporation, is a natural gas company listed on the NYSE (TBN) and ASX (TBN). Tamboran is focused on playing a constructive role in the global energy transition towards a lower carbon future, by developing the significant low CO2 gas resource within the Beetaloo Basin through cutting-edge drilling and completion design technology as well as management’s experience in successfully commercialising unconventional shale in North America.

    Bryan Sheffield of Daly Waters Energy, LP is a highly successful investor and has made significant returns in the US unconventional energy sector in the past. He was Founder of Parsley Energy Inc. (“PE”), an independent unconventional oil and gas producer in the Permian Basin, Texas and previously served as its Chairman and CEO. PE was acquired for over US$7 billion by Pioneer Natural Resources Company.

    Advisory regarding forward-looking statements
    Certain information in this press release may constitute forward-looking information. Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking information. Forward-looking information typically contains statements with words such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “expect”, “intend”, “plan”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “projects”, “dependent”, “consider” “potential”, “scheduled”, “forecast”, “outlook”, “budget”, “hope”, “suggest”, “support” “planned”, “approximately”, “potential” or the negative of those terms or similar words suggesting future outcomes. In particular, forward-looking information in this press release includes, details on the completion of the stimulation, preparation for initial flow back and targeting an IP30 flow rate of April 2025 for SS-2H ST1; steps taken to pause operations, planned reinforcement activities in Q1 2025, aiming for recommencement of activities in Q2 2025, opportunity to incorporate lessons from the SS-2H ST1 campaign and targeting IP30 flow rates in mid-2025 for SS-4H.

    This information is based on current expectations that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. The risks, assumptions and other factors that could influence actual results include risks associated with fluctuations in market prices for shale gas; risks related to the exploration, development and production of shale gas reserves; general economic, market and business conditions; substantial capital requirements; uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of reserves and resources; extent of, and cost of compliance with, government laws and regulations and the effect of changes in such laws and regulations; the need to obtain regulatory approvals before development commences; environmental risks and hazards and the cost of compliance with environmental regulations; aboriginal claims; inherent risks and hazards with operations such as mechanical or pipe failure, cratering and other dangerous conditions; potential cost overruns, drilling wells is speculative, often involving significant costs that may be more than estimated and may not result in any discoveries; variations in foreign exchange rates; competition for capital, equipment, new leases, pipeline capacity and skilled personnel; the failure of the holder of licenses, leases and permits to meet requirements of such; changes in royalty regimes; failure to accurately estimate abandonment and reclamation costs; inaccurate estimates and assumptions by management and their joint venture partners; effectiveness of internal controls; the potential lack of available drilling equipment; failure to obtain or keep key personnel; title deficiencies; geo-political risks; and risk of litigation.

    Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive and that these factors and risks are difficult to predict. Actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. Falcon assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements unless and until required by securities laws applicable to Falcon. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties is contained in Falcon’s filings with the Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedarplus.com, including under “Risk Factors” in the Annual Information Form.

    Any references in this news release to initial production rates are useful in confirming the presence of hydrocarbons; however, such rates are not determinative of the rates at which such wells will continue production and decline thereafter and are not necessarily indicative of long-term performance or ultimate recovery. While encouraging, readers are cautioned not to place reliance on such rates in calculating the aggregate production for Falcon. Such rates are based on field estimates and may be based on limited data available at this time.

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: KBC Group: Fourth-quarter result of 1 116 million euros

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)


    KBC Group – overview (consolidated, IFRS)
    4Q2024 3Q2024 4Q2023 FY2024 FY2023
    Net result (in millions of EUR) 1 116 868 677 3 415 3 402
    Basic earnings per share (in EUR) 2.75 2.14 1.59 8.33 8.04
    Breakdown of the net result by business unit (in millions of EUR)          
    Belgium 487 598 474 1 846 1 866
    Czech Republic 238 179 102 858 763
    International Markets 175 205 178 751 676
    Group Centre 215 -114 -77 -40 97
    Parent shareholders’ equity per share (in EUR, end of period) 56.6 54.1 53.9 56.6 53.9

    ‘We recorded a net profit of 1 116 million euros in the last quarter of 2024. Compared to the result of the previous quarter, our total income benefited from several factors, including higher net interest income, increased insurance revenues and sharply higher net fee and commission income driven by an excellent business performance. This clearly illustrates how our integrated customer offering strongly contributes to income growth and income diversification. These items were partly offset by a decrease in trading & fair value income and lower net other income. 

    Our loan portfolio continued to expand, increasing by 2% quarter-on-quarter and by 5% year-on-year. Customer deposits – excluding volatile, low-margin short-term deposits at KBC Bank’s foreign branches – were up 2% quarter-on-quarter and 7% year-on-year, with the latter figure benefiting from the successful return of customer funds after the Belgian state note had matured in the previous quarter.

    Operational expenses were up in the quarter under review but remained perfectly within our full-year 2024 guidance. Insurance service expenses were lower, as the previous quarter had been impacted by storms and floods in Central Europe (especially Storm Boris). Loan loss impairment charges, excluding the reserve for geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainties, were down on the level recorded in the previous quarter, leading to a credit cost ratio of 16 basis points for full-year 2024, well below our guidance figure. Including the reserve for geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainties, the credit cost ratio stood at 10 basis points for full-year 2024. We also recorded a one-off tax benefit of 318 million euros in the quarter under review, due to the forthcoming liquidation of Exicon (the remaining activities of KBC Bank Ireland).

    Consequently, when adding up the four quarters of the year, our full-year net profit amounted to an excellent 3 415 million euros, slightly up year-on-year.

    On the sustainability front, we are proud to be included for the third consecutive year in the CDP Climate A List. This recognition highlights KBC’s leading role in climate-related disclosures and actions.

    Our solvency position remained strong, with a fully loaded common equity ratio of 15.0% at the end of December 2024. Our liquidity position remained very solid too, as illustrated by an LCR of 158% and NSFR of 139%. Our Board of Directors has decided to propose a total gross dividend of 4.85 euros per share to the General Meeting of Shareholders for the accounting year 2024. That amount includes 0.70 euro per share already paid in May 2024, reflecting the surplus capital above the 15% fully loaded CET1 threshold per end 2023 and 4.15 euros per share, of which an interim dividend of 1 euro per share was already paid in November 2024 and the remaining 3.15 euros per share to be paid in May 2025. When including the proposed dividend of 4.15 euros per share and additional tier-1 coupon, the pay-out ratio would amount to approximately 51% of 2024 net profit.

    Lastly, we have also updated our short-term financial guidance. For 2025, we are aiming to achieve an annual growth rate of at least 5.5% for total income and an annual growth rate of below 2.5% for operating expenses excluding bank and insurance taxes. Furthermore, we also want to achieve a combined ratio of maximum 91% in non-life insurance.

    In closing, I would like to sincerely thank all our customers, employees, shareholders and all other stakeholders for their trust and support, and assure them that we remain committed to being the reference in bank-insurance, innovation and digitalisation in all our home markets.’ 

    Johan Thijs
    Chief Executive Officer

    Attachments

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Senate Budget Committee, Republicans Block Murray Amendments for Bipartisan Approach to Spending, Affirming Congressional Spending Authority, Reversing NIH Cuts, Transparency & Accountability for DOGE, and More

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray
    ICYMI: Senator Murray Remarks at Senate Budget Resolution Markup: Blasts Roadmap to Devastating Cuts, Calls for Budget Hearing with Musk – MORE HERE
    Washington, D.C. — Today, at the Senate Budget Committee’s mark up of Senate Republicans’ budget resolution, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Budget Committee, put forward six amendments to steer Republicans toward a bipartisan approach to spending, affirm Congress’ power of the purse, reverse massive arbitrary cuts to NIH, deliver transparency into the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), and more. Republicans unanimously opposed every amendment Murray and other Democrats offered.
    MURRAY AMENDMENT 01: Senator Murray first proposed an amendment to address defense and nondefense needs equally—tackling national security concerns and challenges at the border alongside priorities like supporting our veterans, biomedical research, child care, agriculture, and more—noting that such investments should be a part of ongoing bipartisan topline negotiations between appropriators. Rather than the $342 billion Republicans are proposing in mandatory funding through the partisan reconciliation process, Murray’s amendment would have provided $171 billion in discretionary funding for defense and $171 in discretionary funding for non-defense needs.  Unlike the partisan approach taken by Republicans, the funding under the Murray amendment would be available to address a range of critical needs, including but not limited to national security and the border.
    “Democrats share many of your concerns about investing in our national security, providing more resources to address the challenges at the border, and making sure we counter China,” said Senator Murray of her amendment to equally divide the proposed spending toward defense and non-defense priorities. “While also wanting to make sure we address critical areas like supporting veterans, agriculture, wildfires, disaster response, biomedical research, child care, and much more. So, the approach in my amendment is to say we should work together on a bipartisan basis – and really this should be part of the topline conversations we are having now as we hurtle toward the March 14th funding deadline. I want to make clear Democrats remain at the table on the FY 2025 topline – but it is getting pretty lonely for us when we see Republicans assume a trillion dollars for this year alone in unilateral DOGE cuts, remain quiet as Russ Vought and the administration continues to unlawfully impound funds, and now propose to jam through $342 billion in funding for your priorities on a partisan basis—while I am trying to negotiate in good faith a bipartisan, four-corner topline deal for fiscal year 2025. I would urge my Republican colleagues to get serious and keep your eye on the ball regarding the funding lapse on March 14th, not to mention the sequester cuts at the end of April.”
    MURRAY AMENDMENT 06: Senator Murray pressed her colleagues to pass an amendment to stand up to the Trump Administration and affirm Congress’ power of the purse which Republicans all unanimously opposed.
    “This is not a partisan issue—it is about upholding our laws and Congress’s constitutional authority over federal spending,” said Senator Murray of her amendment to affirm Congressional spending authority. “The Constitution grants Congress—not the President—the power of the purse. This has been affirmed time and again—by: The Supreme Court, Congress, The Government Accountability Office, and others. And yet, Trump, Elon Musk, and Russ Vought have been holding up huge chunks of funding that Congress passed—often on a bipartisan basis. When Presidents ignore our spending laws and the power of the purse our Constitution gives Congress—not the president—it doesn’t just block funding for the American people, it erodes the trust necessary for bipartisan negotiations in Congress. As I have emphasized, Members of Congress—on both sides—must know a deal is a deal. This amendment is about protecting the integrity of our democratic process—our most fundamental checks and balances. Every Senator—Republican or Democrat—should support this amendment to preserve Congress’s authority and maintain the trust necessary for effective governance.”
    MURRAY AMENDMENT 17: Senator Murray also offered an amendment to reverse the Trump Administration’s indiscriminate cut to biomedical research and the lifesaving work supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) at research institutions across the country—which no Republican spoke in opposition to during debate, but every Republican voted in opposition.  
    “On Friday night the Trump Administration announced it was implementing a policy to arbitrarily cut National Institutes of Health funding that supports biomedical research at institutions across the country,” said Senator Murray of her amendment to reverse Trump’s proposed policy on indirect costs. “In capping indirect cost rates at 15 percent for NIH-funded grants, this policy would cut funding that is essential to conducting research – such as operating and maintaining labs and research facilities. That is in clear violation of our annual appropriations bills, which have included an explicit prohibition on NIH implementing a policy exactly like this since fiscal year 2018. Fortunately, a court has temporarily paused the policy, but let’s be clear, if the Trump administration were to be successful in gutting NIH funding in this way, it would be absolutely catastrophic for lifesaving research patients and families are counting on, including lifesaving cancer research at Fred Hutch in my home state of Washington, and at so many other institutions in Red and Blue states nationwide.”
    “Research would come to a halt, sick kids would not get the treatment they need, and clinical trials would shut down abruptly,” Murray continued. “Our commitment to supporting basic research infrastructure—which this policy does—is what helped make the American research enterprise the best in the world.  This is funding that helps produce medical breakthroughs and change patients’ lives and ensure that the U.S. continues to be the global leader in biomedical research. NIH is an important economic driver in just about every single one of our states—creating jobs and spurring innovation.”
    MURRAY AMENDMENT 05: Senator Murray pushed for passage of an amendment to have the Senate request the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to review, audit and report back within 90 days on DOGE, including the appropriateness of the authorities and finances under which it is operating; internal controls and compliance with appropriations, data privacy, and other laws; the hiring, vetting, and security clearance of its employees, special government employees, and volunteers; appropriateness of actions taken to cancel contracts, reassign or otherwise change the status of federal employees; and any other areas deemed appropriate by the Comptroller General. Every Republican voted no.
    “My amendment requests the Government Accountability Office to review, audit and report back within 90 days on the so called Department of Government Efficiency so that we can understand its role, authorities, and impacts,” said Senator Murray of her amendment to provide some level of transparency into DOGE. “Mr. Chairman, your Mark assumes $1 trillion in savings over the remaining seven to eight months in 2025. That is an astronomical amount of savings to achieve in a very short amount of time and with absolutely no detail provided to us. Those savings would appear largely to come from DOGE, which is operating throughout the government without any authorization from Congress, without any normal disclosure of people, processes, or conflicts, and really with no accountability whatsoever. Whether you support some actions of DOGE or not, you should support transparency and accountability to Congress and the American public. Elon Musk and DOGE have already tried to shut down USAID, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and we are told it is now targeting the Department of Education, with the President saying he wants Musk over at the Pentagon next. None of this is normal – not DOGE, the involvement of an unelected billionaire, the vast influence it has, or the actions they have taken to date with little or no input from Congress.”
    “Let’s be clear—no one voted to let an unelected billionaire decide what bills the federal government would or wouldn’t pay or whether our elementary schools and hospitals get funding, but President Trump is giving Elon the keys to the Treasury,” continued Senator Murray. “And, again, the lack of transparency into its people, processes, and potential conflicts should concern every one of us. So, my hope is with this amendment we can agree to some oversight of DOGE and ask Congress’s independent, nonpartisan watchdog, the GAO, to review DOGE and report back to us within 90 days. And if you are not supportive of this—I have to ask, what are you scared of finding out?”
    MURRAY AMENDMENT 15: Murray also put forward an amendment to prevent federal disaster assistance from being included in the highly partisan budget reconciliation process and ensure that federal disaster relief funds go to the communities that need them when they need them.
    MURRAY AMENDMENT 14: Murray also pressed to pass an amendment, modeled off her Veteran Families Health Services Act, to provide additional funding for improving the reproductive assistance provided by the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs to members of the Armed Forces, veterans, and their spouses or partners—particularly for IVF. Every Republican also opposed these amendments, notwithstanding their intention to significantly increase the size of our military through their reconciliation plan, which will result in even more servicemembers and veterans needing reproductive assistance.
    Prior to consideration of amendments, Senator Murray underscored in her opening comments that the resolution Senate Republicans have put forth is a roadmap to devastating cuts to programs families count on every day—from Medicaid to SNAP to veterans benefits—so that Republicans can later pass more tax breaks for the ultra-rich. Senator Murray emphasized that right now Congress’ focus should be on addressing the fast-approaching March 14 funding deadline and addressing President Trump and Elon Musk’s sweeping, illegal funding freeze—not a partisan measure to gut investments in working people. She also called for Elon Musk to come before the Committee to discuss his already in-motion efforts to decimate programs people count on.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Padilla Slams Republican Budget Proposal That Would Raise Costs for American Families

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    WATCH: Padilla Slams Republican Budget Proposal That Would Raise Costs for American Families

    WATCH: Padilla criticizes Republican budget proposal that would cut critical programs to pay for tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Budget Committee, delivered opening remarks during a hearing on the proposed budget resolution for Fiscal Year 2025.

    Padilla outlined the misguided budget proposal from Republicans to cut hundreds of billions of dollars in benefits Americans rely on to fund tax breaks for billionaires:

    • “The second Trump Administration has begun clearly laying the groundwork to cut crucial programs that American families rely on in order to fund yet another round of tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy. … The budget is a reflection of our values and our priorities. And I want to talk about priorities. Not the President’s priorities. I want to talk about the American people’s priorities. I’ve heard over and over again that the outcome of last fall’s election was a mandate, and that the important takeaway from the election was Americans’ frustrations with a high cost of living. … Too many families, Republicans and Democrats, struggling to pay for groceries, to afford gas, struggling to pay the rent or the mortgage every month.”
    • “Folks, make no mistake, under these plans, life will be more expensive for working families and all for what? That’s really the big question I have. All for what? It’s crystal clear: to help pay for hundreds of billions of dollars in tax breaks for billionaires and large corporations. And to achieve this, President Trump and his allies here in Congress seem determined to slash the programs that American families depend on the most: Medicaid, nutrition assistance programs, Pell grants, affordable health care coverage, cancer research, investments in our energy sector, including for hydrogen, biofuels, and carbon capture.”

    Padilla also highlighted the immense costs of mass deportations, and the essential contributions of immigrants to the U.S. economy. Undocumented workers make up nearly 14 percent of construction workers — and roughly 42 percent of our agricultural workforce. Trump’s mass deportations plan would lead to skyrocketing prices for food, goods, and services, exacerbate our workforce shortages, and could drop the United States’ GDP by 6.8 percent:

    • “Here’s an inconvenient truth for many, and that’s the fact that immigrants, both documented and undocumented, are also critical to the success of our economy, because the percentage of immigrants — documented, undocumented — who are violent criminals, is a very, very small percentage.”
    • “If President Trump gets his way with the mass deportations that are not focused just on violent criminals, here’s what American families can expect. Get ready also for more expensive fruit, more expensive vegetables, and that’s if grocery stores can successfully keep up with stocking the shelves. If you’ve been saving up for years to buy a home, get ready to pay more and wait longer. Why? Because construction will slow down, and prices will go up.”

    As Republicans emphasize the need for American energy independence, Padilla stressed that the Trump Administration’s executive orders and the proposed budget resolution would undo the historic investments Congress made to diversify the energy sector:

    • “Undermining renewables isn’t just undermining energy independence. It’s a threat to our national security, and it’s a threat to the good-paying jobs we’ve created across the country in red states and blue states alike.”

    Video of Senator Padilla’s full remarks is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Presses Deputy Attorney General Nominee During Nomination Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    WATCH: Padilla criticizes Trump Administration’s unlawful firings of more than a dozen Inspectors General

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) questioned President Trump’s nominee for U.S. Deputy Attorney General, Todd Blanche, during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. Blanche was President Trump’s personal attorney in several criminal cases, including Trump’s New York hush money trial, in which the President was ultimately convicted of 34 felony counts. Padilla also condemned Trump’s attempt to unlawfully fire more than a dozen Inspectors General, and raised concerns about conflicts of interest regarding Blanche and the top officials at the Justice Department’s previous representation of Trump.  

    During the hearing, Padilla questioned Blanche on the Trump Administration’s unlawful firings of 19 Inspectors General across federal government agencies. Inspectors General play a critical role in identifying and preventing fraud, waste, and abuse within executive branch agencies. Following passage of the Securing Inspector General Independence Act of 2022, led by Senate Judiciary Chair Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Congress must be given the legally required 30-day notice and reasonings regarding the dismissals of Inspectors General, which the Trump Administration ignored. Blanche refused to comment on the matter, despite Chair Grassley agreeing that the Inspectors General firings, in fact, did not follow the law.

    Padilla also voiced his concerns with Blanche’s personal ties to President Trump, noting that he, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and Principal Associate Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove could all face potential conflicts of interest since they all represented the President in a personal capacity.

    Key Excerpts:

    • PADILLA: When the President of the United States violates the law, it’s important to call it out. And let me underscore, this isn’t when the President of the United States strays from historical norms in how he or she does the job. It’s not when the President does different than what’s been standard practice for prior presidents. … I’m talking about when the President of the United States violates the law.
    • PADILLA: Mr. Blanche, when you walked into my office, you repeatedly told me that you will always follow the law — your words, “full stop” — and you’ve repeated that same message here today. It’s numerically, mathematically impossible for President Trump to have abided by the law in dismissing Inspectors General. Yes or no?
    • BLANCHE: My answer remains the same. I’m not going to comment on what the decision made by the White House Counsel and President Trump, and what he did.
    • PADILLA: I’m not talking about how they reached their decision. And you clearly know this is not a hypothetical. He didn’t give Congress 30 days’ notice, he violated the law, and I’m disappointed that you’re failing to acknowledge that.
    • PADILLA: My colleagues on the other side of the aisle have taken issue with us voicing our concern about President Trump filling the top ranks of the Justice Department with his friends, his allies, and personal attorneys. I can only imagine how they would have reacted if a Democratic President installed his own personal criminal defense attorneys as Attorney General, as Deputy Attorney General, as Principal Associate Deputy Attorney General.

    Earlier this month, Senator Padilla joined U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats in demanding answers from Blanche and other Trump Administration nominees and officials on the removal or reassignment of career law enforcement officials across the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Padilla previously opposed advancing the nomination of Attorney General Pam Bondi after she refused to affirm birthright citizenship, which is constitutionally guaranteed, and declined to disavow the false claim that the 2020 election was stolen during her Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing. More information on Blanche’s nomination hearing is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Video: We’ll stop climate change, but ‘how soon’ is the life-and-death question – Al Gore

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

     

    As the world record’s it’s highest ever average global temperatures, and the US, once again, quits the UN climate change pact, Al Gore is surprisingly upbeat on humanity’s ability to tackle global warming.

    He spoke to Radio Davos at the Annual Meeting, where he presented a new system that tracks greenhouse gas emissions around the world, Climate TRACE.

     

    Links:

    Global Risks Report 2025: https://www.weforum.org/publications/global-risks-report-2025/

    Climate TRACE: www.climatetrace.org/explore (https://www.climatetrace.org/explore)

    Climate and Health Initiative: https://initiatives.weforum.org/climate-and-health/home

    Centre for Nature and Climate: https://centres.weforum.org/centre-nature-and-climate/home

     

    Related podcasts:

    Can climate action survive geopolitical upheaval?: https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/radio-davos/episodes/gfc-geopolitics-climate-global-south/

    Breathe! The cities working together on air pollution and climate change (https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/radio-davos/episodes/breathe-cities-air-pollution-jaime-pumarejo/) : https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/radio-davos/episodes/breathe-cities-air-pollution-jaime-pumarejo/

    What are the ‘positive tipping points’ that could help us accelerate out of climate disaster? (https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/radio-davos/episodes/climate-change-positive-tipping-points-tim-lenton/) : https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/radio-davos/episodes/climate-change-positive-tipping-points-tim-lenton/

    Al Gore on leadership skills, climate action and the ‘tipping point’ ahead (https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/meet-the-leader/episodes/al-gore-on-leadership-skills-climate-action-and-the-tipping-point-ahead/) : https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/meet-the-leader/episodes/al-gore-on-leadership-skills-climate-action-and-the-tipping-point-ahead/

    Check out all our podcasts on wef.ch/podcasts: 

    YouTube: – https://www.youtube.com/@wef/podcasts

    Radio Davos – subscribe: https://pod.link/1504682164

    Meet the Leader – subscribe: https://pod.link/1534915560

    Agenda Dialogues – subscribe: https://pod.link/1574956552

    Join the World Economic Forum Podcast Club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wefpodcastclub

     

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4OGQ38GkbRE

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-Evening Report: Here’s why some people still evade public transport fares – even when they’re 50 cents

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Milad Haghani, Associate Professor & Principal Fellow in Urban Risk & Resilience, The University of Melbourne

    Public transport in Queensland now costs just 50 cents. Yet in the first six months of the trial, it’s been revealed that thousands of commuters were fined for fare evasion.

    More than 3,000 people received fines of A$322 each, amounting to more than $1 million in penalties. And more than 21,000 were issued warnings over this period.

    Queensland’s 50 cent fares trial was designed to boost ridership and ease cost-of-living pressures. Now it has exposed a paradox: why do people evade fares even when the price is nearly free?

    Fare evasion isn’t just a Queensland problem — it’s a nationwide challenge. Queensland’s experience raises bigger questions about enforcement, policy, and the role of public transport funding.

    A nationwide challenge

    Across the country, fare evasion drains millions from state public transport budgets. In New South Wales, for example, fare evasion costs the state government about $80 million each year.

    The latest NSW Fare Compliance Survey inspected 52,152 tickets, including Opal cards, contactless payments, and single-trip tickets, across the NSW public transport network.

    Fare evasion costs the NSW government $80 million a year.
    Gordon Bell/Shutterstock

    It found most non-compliance came down to passengers travelling without a valid ticket. This included not only those customers carrying no ticket at all, but also those who did have an Opal or other payment card but hadn’t tapped on.

    Another form of non-compliance was when passengers used concessions for which they weren’t eligible.

    The survey also highlighted variations in compliance – across different modes of transport, times of day and days of the week.

    Overall, compliance did not significantly differ between weekends and weekdays.

    Looking at weekday use, Sydney Metro had the highest compliance rate at 97%. This was followed by Sydney Ferries (95.9%), all trains (93.6%), Sydney Light Rail (91%) and all buses (89.2%).

    Who evades fares and why?

    Fare evasion isn’t just about people trying to save money. Research shows there are different types of fare evaders, ranging from habitual dodgers to those who evade unintentionally.

    An international study on Santiago’s Transantiago system found that evaders could be categorised into four groups:

    • radical evaders who view non-payment as a form of protest
    • strategic evaders who evade when they believe the risk of being caught is low
    • ambivalent evaders who sometimes pay but don’t always see the value in it
    • accidental evaders who forget or run into ticketing system barriers.

    A separate study in Melbourne also identified a wide spectrum of attitudes on fare evasion, from those who consider it morally wrong to those who take calculated risks based on enforcement patterns.

    Does lowering fares reduce evasion?

    Queensland’s 50-cent fare trial presents a real-world test of a long-standing question: does cheaper public transport reduce fare evasion?

    Our calculations using the state’s early data show a 27% drop in fare evasion fines since the trial began, compared with the same period in the previous year.

    This aligns with the idea that fare evasion is, at least partially, a rational economic decision. When the price is lower, the incentive to evade diminishes – though it does not completely disappear.

    Modelling evidence from Santiago’s bus system also suggests price sensitivity, but with caveats. A 10% increase in fares led to a two-percentage-point rise in fare evasion.

    The role of trust and public perception

    A surprising insight from research is that fare evasion isn’t just an economic decision. It’s a social one, too.

    When passengers perceive the system as unfair (due to factors such as unreliable service, high fares or lack of investment), fare evasion rises.

    Further, if fare dodging behaviour is normalised within a city or demographic, it spreads like contagion.

    Studies have suggested that permissive social attitudes toward fare evasion are as strong a predictor as actual financial hardship.

    The limits of enforcement

    Most transit agencies rely on two standard deterrents: more ticket inspections, and harsher fines for fare evaders.

    Does this approach work? Research suggests only to a point.

    All states and territories have had to grapple with the issue of fare evasion.
    Adam Calaitzis/Shutterstock

    Empirical evidence suggests that potential evaders are more deterred by the certainty of getting caught than by the size of the fine.

    In other words, the visibility of inspectors matters more than the penalty itself. For many, the social stigma of getting caught is a key factor, regardless of how big the penalty is.

    A crucial question in the Queensland debate is: if public transport is already nearly free, does fare evasion even matter?

    The lost revenue from the unpaid fares by those who were issued a fine over the period in question amounts to just $1,663.

    Depending on the level of crackdown, at such low fees, enforcement measures could easily end up costing more than the revenue lost. Security patrols, inspections and fine processing can amount to significant costs.

    Why it matters

    There are at least two key factors to consider in relation to whether cracking down on evaders is worth it.

    First, allowing widespread fare evasion could erode social norms around paying for public services. If the expectation of compliance disappears, what happens if fares rise again?

    And second, even when fares are zero or near-zero, requiring passengers to validate a ticket (such as by tapping on and off) allows transport agencies to track demand, plan services, and prevent system abuse.

    Even in Tallinn, Estonia — where residents ride for free — tap-ons are still required for data collection and preventing system abuse.

    Even at 50 cents a trip, authorities still expect public transport to function within a structured system, with rules that encourage accountability and predictability.

    But enforcement alone won’t solve fare evasion. Winning public trust is just as important as enforcing rules. Investing in better service quality, reliability and community engagement can be as effective as increasing inspections.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    ref. Here’s why some people still evade public transport fares – even when they’re 50 cents – https://theconversation.com/heres-why-some-people-still-evade-public-transport-fares-even-when-theyre-50-cents-249739

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Airing climate justice in Costa Rica on World Radio Day

    Source: United Nations 2

    By Carla Garcia

    Climate and Environment

    Quality radio remains ever universal, popular and more reliable in an era of artificial intelligence (AI) and social media, including in Costa Rica, where unique programming raises awareness and promotes public participation on climate decision making in Latin America, the theme of this year’s World Radio Day, marked annually on 13 February.

    In a crucial year for climate action which, in accordance with the Paris Agreement, seeks to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, World Radio Day is dedicated in 2025 to highlighting the power of broadcasting to bring climate change issues to prominence.

    That’s the goal of Climate Radio Route.

    Radio democratises

    Radio is considered the most reliable medium, according to the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which supports radio stations, like Climate Radio Route, in their journalistic coverage of this year’s theme.

    Adrián Martínez, director of La Ruta del Clima – the Climate Route – a Costa Rican non-governmental organization (NGO) promoting public participation in climate and environmental decision-making that has been an observer, advocating at the UN climate summits since 2014.

    “Radio in all its versions, whether digital or transmitted by antennas, is super important because it democratizes,” he told UN News . “Radio traditionally reaches places and communities where there is no Internet. It is also very generational. People interact with the radio day by day because it is ephemeral.”

    Climate hits the radio waves

    The Climate Route studies and exposes impacts “on the human rights of people in vulnerable communities in Latin America, especially in Central America, who have to deal with the adverse effects of climate change, for which they have very little responsibility but which is transforming their territories and ways of life”, Mr. Martínez explained.

    With the aim of disseminating and raising awareness in society about these issues, in 2015 the organization created the Ruta del Clima Radio – the Climate Radio Route.

    The programme was broadcast in the first years by a radio station of the University of Costa Rica and then by digital media through podcasts.

    Communities can make their voices heard

    “Communication that can have a massive reach has become very expensive and elitist,” Mr. Martínez said. “However, digital or traditional radio opens up that opportunity for communities, social organizations and movements to create their window and make their voices heard.”

    UNESCO argues that beyond popularising environmental concepts, by disseminating information independent of economic, ideological and political powers, radio can condition listeners’ perception of climate change, and the importance given to the issue.

    As such, radio can also contribute to shaping the public agenda and influencing policies in this regard.

    © La Ruta del Clima

    A training workshop on damage and loss in the community of Cahuita in Costa Rica.

    Connecting climate change to people

    The Climate Radio Route has focused a lot on connecting the issue of climate change with people, not only at the national level in Costa Rica, but throughout the Latin American region.

    The programme discusses issues most relevant in climate governance and amplifies the work and experiences and opinions of colleagues,  activists and experts from this region and others on climate issues.

    “Citizens can have information and criteria beyond what is in the official media and thus can have a more comprehensive vision and promote the effective participation of our communities in climate decisions,” Mr. Martínez said.

    Climate Route Radio productions are self-contained and include climate summits, community interviews and online interviews with people around the world in English or Spanish.

    In line with the SDGs

    The Climate Route underlines the importance of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those that refer to: climate action; peace, justice and solid institutions; and partnerships to achieve the goals.

    Mr. Martínez points out that the NGO has worked with some UN agencies, such as the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the UN Development Programme (UNDP).

    “We collaborate, for example, with the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), on climate change issues, and we are always discussing with them and with the rapporteurs of the United Nations system or the OAS [Organization of American States] on environmental issues,” he said.

    Presidency of Costa Rica

    The impact of Storm Nate was catastrophic for Costa Rica, affecting 117 national roads and 113,000 hectares of agricultural production, damaging 423 bridges and causing more than $380 million in losses. (file)

    Climate justice claims

    Costa Rica is a country that for years has stood out for the ecological and climate awareness of its population and government, and the Climate Radio Route could have something to do with that awareness.

    “We know that we have a very specialised community of listeners and have helped to interact with this technical group from various countries: politicians, activists or members of governments or national delegations,” Mr. Martínez said, adding that it has also helped to talk about issues of human rights, gender and community perspective as well as make constructive criticism.

    This interaction, he adds, has made it possible to strengthen demands for climate justice.

    © La Ruta del Clima

    Adrián Martínez, director of La Ruta del Clima, facilitates a workshop on climate reparations at COP 29.

    A ‘very special’ radio

    “We are not a very large radio station, but perhaps very special in its message,” Mr. Martínez said. “I think that has opened doors for us to make our perspective known and create a link with this community that is sometimes difficult to engage.”

    In this vein, he underlined the relevance of radio.

    “It allows us to access communication in an oral way, which is sometimes very necessary to be able to have understanding,” he said. “The way we communicate orally is very different from the way we do in writing and sometimes we cannot communicate in the same way.”

    Radio is essential to be able to generate that dialogue of ideas, emotions and feelings that can enhance decision making for peace and for the construction of a better relationship with the environment.

    “I think we must continue to explore not only the use of radio, but also other media that connect us and understand the need to work together,” he said. “That is the important thing about the media: to be able to understand others and then to be able to take common action.”

    MIL OSI United Nations News