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Category: Politics

  • MIL-OSI Global: Land seizure and South Africa’s new expropriation bill: scholar weighs up the new act

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Zsa-Zsa Temmers Boggenpoel, Academic, Stellenbosch University

    South Africa has a new law to govern the expropriation (or compulsory acquisition) of private property by government for public purposes or in the public interest.

    The passing of the Expropriation Act 13 of 2024 followed a parliamentary process that began in 2020.

    The act repeals the apartheid-era Expropriation Act 63 of 1975, and aims to align expropriation law with the constitution. It sets out the procedures, rules and regulations for expropriation. Besides setting out in quite a detailed fashion how expropriations are to take place, the act also provides an outline regarding how compensation is to be determined.

    In South Africa’s colonial and apartheid past, land distribution was grossly unequal on the basis of race. The country is still suffering the effects of this. So expropriation of property is a potential tool to reduce land inequality. This has become a matter of increasing urgency. South Africans have expressed impatience with the slow pace of land reform.

    Property rights and land reform

    There is much debate in the country about the provisions of the new act. The debate is mostly about the extent to which it affects existing private property rights. Some argue the act is unconstitutional. Others welcome it as a necessary step in the right direction.

    I’m a professor of law with a keen interest in this area of the law, and recently edited a book on land expropriation in South Africa by leading experts. My view is that an expropriation act that is aligned with the constitution should be welcomed, to enable land reform to work effectively.



    Read more:
    Land reform in South Africa: what the real debate should be about

    Land reform also needs a capable and proactive state that implements the legal framework in such a manner that prioritises expropriation as a mechanism to ensure land reform.

    So far, expropriation has not been used effectively to redistribute land more equitably, as part of land reform.

    I am not convinced that the act, in its current form, is the silver bullet to effect large-scale land reform – at least not the type of radical land reform that South Africa urgently needs.

    Understandably, the act will have a severe impact on property rights. But it still substantially protects landowners affected by expropriation. Only in very limited cases would they not be compensated.

    Protections for land owners

    The act says that property must not be expropriated arbitrarily or for a purpose other than a public purpose or in the public interest.

    Public purpose means by or for the benefit of the public. For example, expropriating property to build roads, schools and hospitals. Public interest is broader and includes the nation’s commitment to land reform.

    “Arbitrary” would usually mean without reason or justification.



    Read more:
    South Africa has another go at an expropriation law. What it’s all about

    The act further requires that an expropriating authority – an organ of state or person empowered by the act or any other legislation – must first try to reach an agreement with the owner to acquire the property on reasonable terms before considering expropriation.

    This gives some power to a landowner, even though expropriation does not normally require consent. The act also says a specific expropriation must always be authorised by a law.

    No compensation?

    Section 12 of the act deals with compensation for expropriation. It is arguably the most controversial part of the new legislation. Section 12(1) does not appear to be problematic and is largely the same wording as section 25(3) of the constitution. This part of the property clause sets out what must be taken into account when compensation for expropriation is determined.

    Section 12(3) of the act refers to “nil compensation” – when nil rand (monetary) compensation may be paid. There is no explicit reference to nil compensation in the current wording of section 25 of the constitution. It’s a new thing in the Expropriation Act.

    However, courts have toyed with the idea that section 25 of the constitution already provides room for a reduction in compensation.

    The circumstances in which nil compensation could be granted in terms of the new act are in fact very limited. Section 12(3) leaves the discretion to the expropriating authority to determine when it may be just and equitable to pay nil compensation. However, the act lacks guidelines on how such a discretion must be exercised.



    Read more:
    Land is a heated issue in South Africa – the print media are presenting only one side of the story

    The scope of section 12(3) is also limited in some respects. For one, it is restricted to land. Only where land is expropriated would nil compensation be an option. Therefore, not all forms of property can be expropriated without compensation. The notion of property under section 25(1) of the constitution is generally wide and includes various rights and interests, which are broader than just land. For instance, personal rights, mineral rights and licences are included under the section 25(1) notion of property.

    This wide understanding of property is not applicable to section 12(3), which refers to “land” being expropriated.

    Section 12(3) is also limited to the expropriation of land “in the public interest”. Nil compensation is therefore envisaged only in the context of expropriation of land undertaken in the public interest, and not also for a public purpose.

    Three of the four categories listed in section 12(3), where nil compensation is envisaged, are linked to the way in which the property was being used prior to the expropriation. Land used in a productive manner is therefore not evidently envisaged under section 12(3).

    Nil compensation is not necessarily limited to the instances listed. Still, the amount of compensation must – in all instances – be just and equitable.

    Novel approach

    The act forces South Africans to engage with the idea of nil compensation in a much more direct manner.

    The presence of a clause dedicated to nil compensation provides new clarity on when this could apply.

    It is hard to determine whether this act will pass constitutional muster without seeing how expropriation under it will work in practice. It remains to be seen whether it will have the far-reaching consequences that many fear, or call for.

    Zsa-Zsa Temmers Boggenpoel 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. Land seizure and South Africa’s new expropriation bill: scholar weighs up the new act – https://theconversation.com/land-seizure-and-south-africas-new-expropriation-bill-scholar-weighs-up-the-new-act-244697

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AMERICA/COLOMBIA – Catatumbo: Humanitarian aid corridor established and state of emergency declared

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Thursday, 30 January 2025

    Caritas Colombia

    Tibú (Agenzia Fides) – The wave of violence, mainly due to the control of international cocaine trafficking in the Catatumbo region, has led President Gustavo Petro to declare a state of emergency and deploy the army.As reported by the National Coordinator for Disaster Risk Management of Caritas Colombia, among the victims of this serious crisis, the worst since 2002, are civilians, minors, pregnant women, people with disabilities and members of indigenous communities.In about 10 days, the clashes between the guerrillas of the National Liberation Army (ELN) and the fighters of the “Frente 33” of the former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) have left more than a hundred dead, thousands of internally displaced people have had to flee their homes and just as many are isolated and unable to move due to the violent clashes. Meanwhile, many people continue to flee to areas considered safe.To help the many innocent victims, a humanitarian aid corridor has been set up to provide additional support by delivering products, drinks, food for immediate consumption and tools. In the affected areas, thousands of people have sought refuge in the parishes and seminaries of the Catholic Church in Tibú, Ocaña, Gabarra and Tabo. Thanks to the collaboration of the dioceses of Cúcuta, Ocaña and Tibú with the “Asociación Nacional de Empresarios de Colombia” (ANDI), “Bancos de Alimentos de Colombia” (ÁBACO) and through monetary donations, 23,622 kilos of food and essential goods have already been provided.According to the Ministry of Defense, to date more than 47,000 displaced people have fled to the towns of Tibú (10,482 displaced), Ocaña (10,719), Cúcuta (16,663) and other municipalities (11,699). It is also estimated that more than 23,000 people are trapped in the region.The Front Comuneros del Sur, a dissident group of the ENL, is one of the causes of the crisis between the armed group and the government after officially joining the peace process initiated in 2016, which was sealed with the peace agreement signed between the Colombian government and the then FARC guerrillas. “We are evacuating the leaders and signatories from Catatumbo who are being persecuted by the ELN; a first contingent of 400 men is said to have already arrived in the region,” said Defense Minister Iván Velásquez. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 30/1/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/PAKISTAN – Blasphemy law becomes a trap and a business: accusations organized for the purpose of blackmail and extortion

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Islamabad (Agenzia Fides) – There is a criminal group that makes a business out of framing innocent people with false accusations of blasphemy. The organization uses the blasphemy law as a trap and as a business for blackmail, which has already affected 450 innocent victims. This is what Christian and Muslim lawyers in Pakistan are complaining about, who have been observing a cluster of similar cases in recent months: young people, regardless of their religion, are tricked and then accused of blasphemy online, leading to arrest, detention and formal accusation of blasphemy, which in Pakistan can also mean life imprisonment or the death penalty.As the Catholic lawyer and MP Khalil Tahir Sandhu tells Fides, the families of those falsely accused of blasphemy, together with their legal representatives, recently held a public conference to expose the mechanism, raise the alarm and demand targeted intervention by the police and judicial authorities. The fraud has shaken many families, who are now calling on the government and the judicial authorities to ensure justice for those wrongfully detained.The case was also officially confirmed by the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR), which conducted an independent investigation and described the activities of an organization that criminally exploits blasphemy for its own benefit and traps innocent people for extortion. The NCHR report shows that most of the victims belong to low-income or middle-class families. According to the information, more than 450 people have been victims of these accusations, all of which are fabricated.More than 150 people are detained in Adiala Jail, 170 in Lahore Jail and Kot Lakhpat Jail and 55 in Karachi Central Jail. The lawyers raise serious concerns about the integrity of the legal system and the rule of law, noting that “these cases are clearly baseless and if this practice is not stopped, it will leave an indelible stain on the judiciary.” “This practice raises serious doubts about the transparency of our judicial system. There is an urgent need to set up a transparent and impartial commission of inquiry to investigate and dismantle the organized group responsible for this conspiracy,” said Sardar Mushtaq Gill, lawyer and founder of NGO Legal Evangelical Association Development (LEAD). The way it works is this: Young men are made aware of girls through Facebook and other social media platforms. They are then invited to join WhatsApp groups for personal conversations. They start chatting and the girls gain their trust. Later, the girl sends a message with a blasphemous image or writing. The unsuspecting victim asks for an explanation. The girl pretends not to know what it is about and asks to send the message back. Once this is done, the girl immediately blocks the victim and sets a trap for him, accusing him of sharing blasphemous content online. To make matters worse, some young defendants have died in custody due to torture. This, according to the lawyers, indicates a collusion between officials of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), the federal agency that is supposed to shed light on the criminal practices. There are also lawyers who defend the plaintiffs in court and put pressure on the judges. In Pakistan, monitoring groups such as the Legal Commission on Blasphemy Pakistan (LCBP), a network of 13 organizations that claim to be “taking a firm stand against online blasphemy”. According to observers, the network is linked to the radical Islamic political party Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan. Lawyers and members of non-governmental organizations are calling for investigations into these circles to uncover criminal activities. “This alarming abuse of religious laws has become a terrible tool of extortion and raises serious concerns about the security and rights of all citizens,” said lawyer Sardar Mushtaq Gill. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 30/1/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA, Partners to Welcome Fourth Axiom Space Mission to Space Station

    Source: NASA

    NASA and its international partners have approved the crew for Axiom Space’s fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station, launching from the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida no earlier than spring 2025.
    Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, will command the commercial mission, while ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot. The two mission specialists are ESA (European Space Agency) project astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary.
    “I am excited to see continued interest and dedication for the private astronaut missions aboard the International Space Station,” said Dana Weigel, manager of NASA’s International Space Station Program at the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. “As NASA looks toward the future of low Earth orbit, private astronaut missions help pave the way and expand access to the unique microgravity environment.”
    The Axiom Mission 4, or Ax-4, crew will launch aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft and travel to the space station. Once docked, the private astronauts plan to spend up to 14 days aboard the orbiting laboratory, conducting a mission comprised of science, outreach, and commercial activities. The mission will send the first ISRO astronaut to the station as part of a joint effort between NASA and the Indian space agency. The private mission also carries the first astronauts from Poland and Hungary to stay aboard the space station.
    “Working with the talented and diverse Ax-4 crew has been a deeply rewarding experience,” said Whitson. “Witnessing their selfless dedication and commitment to expanding horizons and creating opportunities for their nations in space exploration is truly remarkable. Each crew member brings unique strengths and perspectives, making our mission not just a scientific endeavor, but a testament to human ingenuity and teamwork. The importance of our mission is about pushing the limits of what we can achieve together and inspiring future generations to dream bigger and reach farther.”
    The first private astronaut mission to the station, Axiom Mission 1, lifted off in April 2022 for a 17-day mission aboard the orbiting laboratory. The second private astronaut mission to the station, Axiom Mission 2, also was commanded by Whitson and launched in May 2023 with four private astronauts who spent eight days in orbit. The most recent private astronaut mission, Axiom Mission 3, launched in January 2024; the crew spent 18 days docked to the space station.
    The International Space Station is a convergence of science, technology, and human innovation that enables research not possible on Earth. For more than 24 years, NASA has supported a continuous human presence aboard the orbiting laboratory, through which astronauts have learned to live and work in space for extended periods of time.
    The space station is a springboard for developing a low Earth economy. NASA’s goal is to achieve a strong economy in low Earth orbit where the agency can purchase services as one of many customers to meet its science and research objectives in microgravity. NASA’s commercial strategy for low Earth orbit will provide the government with reliable and safe services at a lower cost, enabling the agency to focus on Artemis missions to the Moon in preparation for Mars while also continuing to use low Earth orbit as a training and proving ground for those deep space missions. 
    Learn more about NASA’s commercial space strategy at:
    https://www.nasa.gov/commercial-space
    -end-
    Josh Finch / Claire O’SheaHeadquarters, Washington202-358-1100joshua.a.finch@nasa.gov / claire.a.o’shea@nasa.gov
    Anna SchneiderJohnson Space Center, Houston281-483-5111anna.c.schneider@nasa.gov
    Alexis DeJarnetteAxiom Space850-368-9446alexis@axiomspace.com

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS RELEASE: MONTHLY SIREN AND EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM TEST – FEBRUARY 2025

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    NEWS RELEASE: MONTHLY SIREN AND EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM TEST – FEBRUARY 2025

    Posted on Jan 29, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

     

    DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

    KA ʻOIHANA PILI KAUA

     

    Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency

    Keʻena Hoʻomalu Pōulia O Hawaiʻi

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

    MAJOR GENERAL STEPHEN F. LOGAN

    DIRECTOR OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
    Luna Hoʻomalu Pōulia

    JAMES DS. BARROS

    ADMINISTRATOR OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
    Kahu Hoʻomalu Pōulia

     

     

    MONTHLY SIREN AND EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM TEST FOR FEBRUARY 2025

     

    For Immediate Release                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  2025-001

    JANUARY 29, 2025

     

     

    HONOLULU — The monthly test of the all-hazard Statewide Outdoor Warning Siren System is scheduled for Monday, February 3, 2025, at 11:45 a.m. The siren test will be coordinated with a test of the Live Audio Broadcast segment of the Emergency Alert System.

    During this monthly test, all Statewide Outdoor Warning Sirens will sound a one-minute Attention Alert Signal (steady tone). Atest of the Live Audio Broadcast segment of the Emergency Alert System is conducted at roughly the same time as the monthly siren sounding, in cooperation with the Hawai‘i broadcast industry. There will be no exercise or drill accompanying the test.

    The all-hazard Outdoor Siren Warning System for Public Safety is one part of the Hawai‘i Statewide Alert and Warning System used to notify the public during emergencies. If you hear this siren tone in circumstances other than a test, follow emergency information and instructions provided by official government channels. These may be in the form of a local radio or television station broadcast and/or a cellular Wireless Emergency Alert.

    Wireless Emergency Alerts deliver sound-and-text warnings to compatible mobile cellular phones. The Emergency Alert System and Wireless Emergency Alert notifications are sent via the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, the nation’s alert and warning infrastructure, managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

    Emergency management and disaster preparedness information may be found in the “Get Ready” section of ready.hawaii.gov,as well as in the front section of telephone directories in most counties. For the latest information from the Hawai‘i Emergency Management Agency (HI-EMA), or to sign up for county alerts, visit ready.hawaii.gov.

    The public may contact emergency management and county civil defense agencies to report siren operation issues through the following numbers:

    City and County of Honolulu: 808-723-8960
    Maui County: 808-270-7285
    Kauaʻi County: 808-241-1800
    Hawaiʻi County: 808-935-0031

     

    # # #

    Contact:

    1. Kīelekū Amundson

    Communications Director

    808-733-4300 Ext 522

    [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: RELEASE: DCCA URGES RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES TO PRIORITIZE EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AMID INCREASING WEATHER EVENTS

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    RELEASE: DCCA URGES RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES TO PRIORITIZE EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AMID INCREASING WEATHER EVENTS

    Posted on Jan 29, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS

    KA ʻOIHANA PILI KĀLEPA

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    NADINE Y. ANDO

    DIRECTOR

    KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

    DCCA URGES RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES TO PRIORITIZE EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AMID INCREASING WEATHER EVENTS

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    January 29, 2025

    HONOLULU — The state of Hawai‘i Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA) is urging residents and business owners to prioritize emergency preparedness in response to the rise of weather events throughout the state. The department is offering vital resources and information on how to safeguard property, ensure continued utility services, understand insurance coverage, avoid scams, and navigate the disaster recovery process.

    Key Emergency Preparedness Tips:

     

    1. Preparing Homes and Businesses for Disasters
    • Create an Emergency Plan: Establish clear evacuation routes, designating safe areas for family members or employees. Ensure everyone knows the plan and conduct practice drills regularly.
    • Secure Property: Reinforce windows and doors, check roofing and siding for potential vulnerabilities, and secure outdoor objects that could become projectiles.
    • Emergency Kits: Stock essential supplies including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, cash, and any special items required by family members or staff.
    • Prepare for Business Disruption: Businesses should develop continuity plans, back up important data, and ensure essential services can be maintained during and after a disaster.
    1. Utility Emergency Preparedness
    • Sign Up for Crucial Updates: Register for utility provider notifications to receive alerts about service disruptions, outages and updates during emergencies. Visit the links below to sign up:
      • Hawaiian Electric
      • KIUC
    • Keep the Lights On: Consider investing in backup power sources like generators or solar-powered systems to maintain key operations during service outages.
    • Stay Safe: Keep gas, water and electrical systems well-maintained, and learn how to shut off utilities in case of a leak or other emergency. Visit the links below to report a power outage or potential safety issues:
      • Hawaiian Electric
      • KIUC
    • Stay Informed: To learn more about public utilities and utility preparedness, please visit the DCCA Division of Consumer Advocacy.

     

    1. Understanding Insurance Coverage for Disasters
    • Review Your Insurance Policy: Ensure that your home and business insurance policies cover common disaster-related risks, including floods, fires and hurricanes. Standard policies may not cover all types of damage.
    • Document Property: Take inventory of your belongings and keep photos and/or videos of property, valuables and important documents in case you need to file an insurance claim.
    • Know Your Deductibles and Coverage Limits: Be aware of your policy’s terms, including any exclusions or specific disaster-related deductibles.
    • Seek Input or Assistance: The DCCA Insurance Division can help you understand the claims process and provide assistance with other insurance questions or issues.
    • Stay Informed: To learn more about Insurance, please visit the DCCA Insurance Division.
    1. Identifying Disaster-Related Consumer Scams
    • Be Cautious of Fraud: Scammers often exploit disasters to prey on vulnerable consumers. Common scams include fake contractors, charity fraud and phishing emails or texts offering government assistance.
    • Check Credentials: When doing repairs on your property, always hire licensed and insured contractors, and never pay for services up front. Report suspicious activities to the DCCA Regulated Industries Complaints Office.
    • Verify Charity Solicitations: Before donating to disaster relief efforts, ensure that the charity is legitimate. Use resources like the Better Business Bureau or Charity Navigator to check organizations’ credibility.
    • Stay Informed: To learn more about consumer protection, please visit the DCCA Office of Consumer Protection.
    1. Disaster Recovery Resources for Homeowners and Business Owners
    • For Homeowners: FEMA and other government agencies offer financial assistance for home repairs, temporary housing and disaster-related expenses. Visit https://www.fema.gov/ for more information.
    • For Business Owners: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides low-interest disaster loans to help businesses recover from physical damage and economic losses. Visit https://www.sba.gov/ for more information.
    • Stay Informed: To learn more about disaster recovery loans and financial assistance, please visit the DCCA Division of Financial Institutions.

    These resources, along with other emergency preparedness information, are available on the DCCA website.

    “Taking steps to prepare now can make all the difference in the aftermath of a disaster,” shares DCCA Director Nadine Ando. “Whether it’s preparing your property, understanding your insurance, or protecting yourself from fraud, DCCA is here to help our community stay safe and recover quickly.”

    For more information or to report any disaster-related consumer concerns, visit the DCCA website or contact the DCCA directly.

    ###

    Media Contact:

    Communications Office
    Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs

    Phone: 808-586-2760
    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom provides ongoing support to help business owners and workers recover from LA firestorms

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jan 29, 2025

    What you need to know: As part of ongoing actions to help support workers and businesses impacted by the Los Angeles area fires, Governor Newsom is issuing an executive order to defer licensing fees and streamline requirements for certain small businesses. The order also defers annual licensure fees for thousands of impacted workers – from nurses and barbers to contractors and dental hygienists.

    LOS ANGELES — To help Los Angeles continue to recover and rebuild, Governor Gavin Newsom today issued an executive order to support small business owners and workers impacted by Los Angeles-area firestorms. The executive order provides relief to help local businesses recover quickly by deferring annual licensure fees for workers and businesses and waiving other requirements that may impose barriers to recovery. 

    “Small businesses are not only key to a thriving economy but make up the heart of healthy communities. As we help Los Angeles rise and rebuild, it is crucial that we protect and support the businesses and workers affected. Just as we have removed red tape to rebuild our homes, we are breaking down barriers and helping pave the way for impacted businesses and workers to get back on their feet.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    The executive order helps workers and business owners by:

    • Extending the deadline to pay for renewing licenses, certificates, and permits for one year for licenses with a renewal date occurring between January 1, 2025, and July 1, 2025.
    • Waiving fees for businesses and workers requesting duplicate or replacement of a license certificate that was burned or destroyed.
    • Extending deadlines for businesses to appeal license-related proceedings.
    • Eliminating requirements that make it more difficult to relocate certain businesses impacted by the fires. 

    Find resources to help your business at gov.ca.gov/LAfires/help-your-business.

    Helping businesses and workers recover

    California has worked with federal and local providers to help businesses and workers with the resources and support they need to recover and rebuild from the firestorms.

    • Supporting workers and employers: The Employment Development Department (EDD) supports workers with unemployment, disability insurance, or Paid Family Leave benefits, including Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) for those who do not qualify for regular unemployment benefits. Citizenship or immigration status doesn’t affect eligibility for disability insurance or Paid Family leave. Employers can request a 60-day extension on payroll reports and taxes, or participate in the Work Sharing program. California also announced $20 million to create temporary jobs in impacted areas and deliver other supportive services through America’s Job Center of California.
    • On-the-ground advisors for small businesses: 200+ business advisors from Small Business Support Centers funded through the California Office of the Small Business Advocate’s (CalOSBA) Technical Assistance Program (TAP) are staffed across the region, including business advisors from the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and Women’s Business Center (WBC). All of these TAP partners can answer questions about key aspects of economic recovery, including the loan application process, insurance inquiries, employee and workforce support, and business planning related individual recovery plans.  SBDC and WBC staff are co-located at the Disaster Recovery Center at Pasadena City College and the Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Camarillo (Ventura County), as well as various Business Recovery Centers organized by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
    • Providing resources for recovery: CalOSBA has launched a Resource Guide for small businesses impacted by the wildfires through its Outsmart Disaster website, and is conducting a series of online trainings in both English and Spanish.
    • Financial assistance for businesses: The California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank (IBank) is offering loan programs for businesses from one to 750 employees affected by the LA wildfires. Disaster Relief Loan Guarantee Program (DRLGP) issues loan guarantees up to 95% of the loan through IBank’s partner Financial Development Corporations to help small business borrowers impacted by disaster who need term loans or lines of credit for working capital. 
    • Expediting licensing for contractors: The Contractor State Licensing Board (CSLB) is processing licensing applications as fast as 48 hours from the time an application and exam are complete. Rapid licensing will support the Governor’s efforts to rebuild the homes and businesses destroyed. 
    • Helping fire survivors rebuild safely: CSLB is also partnering with state agencies to directly assist survivors at the Southern California Disaster Recovery Centers, urging them to only hire California-licensed contractors for repairs or to rebuild their homes or businesses. CSLB’s Disaster Hotline 1-800-962-1125 and online Disaster Help Center are also providing valuable support to survivors.
    • Protecting against unlicensed contractors: Investigation teams are on the ground, posting signs to put unlicensed contractors on notice that it is a felony to contract without a license in a California disaster area. Consumers are urged to always check licenses before hiring a contractor and notify the state of unlicensed activity immediately. Consumers can file complaints and find additional resources online at www2.cslb.ca.gov.
    • Helping licensees rebuild their businesses: The Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, the Board of Accountancy, and other DCA boards are rescheduling licensing examinations at no charge and assisting licensees by issuing duplicate licenses due to a physical license being lost in the fires.

    Governor Newsom has issued a number of executive orders in response to the Los Angeles firestorms to help aid in rebuilding and recovery, create more temporary housing, and protect survivors from exploitation and price gouging.

    Get help today

    For those Californians impacted by the firestorms in Los Angeles, there are resources available.Californians can go to CA.gov/LAfires – a hub for information and resources from state, local and federal government.  

    Individuals and business owners who sustained losses from wildfires in Los Angeles County can apply for disaster assistance:

    If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: CIRA unveils new Internet Performance Test to help Canadians better understand broadband speeds

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OTTAWA, Ontario, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, CIRA is proud to unveil a completely redesigned version of its popular Internet Performance Test (IPT) as part of its Net Good program. First launched in 2015, CIRA’s Internet Performance Test enables Canadians to test their mobile and home broadband performance across dozens of data points while gathering comprehensive and accurate data on broadband coverage and quality nationwide. The latest version of IPT provides users with an enhanced test-results dashboard, to ensure users understand critical aspects of their internet performance including how their connection supports common online activities like streaming services or video calls.

    While Canada has made great strides to bridge the digital divide in the past few years, there is still work to be done to ensure the speeds that are being promised are actually attained. The new IPT will allow Canadians to verify whether they are receiving the speeds and quality of service advertised. CIRA will then leverage Canadians’ anonymous broadband data and real-world daily experience to help municipalities, local and federal governments and consumers create a heat map of where connectivity upgrades are most urgently needed.

    Key features

    • The new user interface guides participants intuitively through the testing process, improving accessibility for users of all technical backgrounds.
    • Enhanced user interface makes running a test faster and easier on smartphones, tablets and desktops.
    • Through a new, interactive dashboard, users can now explore trends and performance data from previous tests, gaining a deeper understanding of internet performance changes. These insights empower individuals, researchers and policymakers to track progress and identify gaps.
    • More accurate user location estimation improves the quality of location-specific internet performance data, which is vital in analyzing broadband access across regions or within a community or neighbourhood.

    Executive quote

    “With this upgrade, CIRA is taking a significant step forward in our mission to empower Canadians with insights into their internet connectivity. We encourage everyone to use the new Internet Performance Test regularly to understand their speeds under real-world conditions and contribute to the heat map of Canada’s connectivity so we can work together to build a stronger, reliable internet across the country.”

    — Charles Noir, vice-president, Community Investment, Policy and Advocacy

    Resource

    About CIRA 

    CIRA is the national not-for-profit best known for managing the .CA domain on behalf of all Canadians. As a leader in Canada’s internet ecosystem, CIRA offers a wide range of products, programs and services designed to make the internet a secure and accessible space for all. CIRA advocates for Canada on both national and international stages to support its goal of building a trusted internet for Canadians by helping shape the future of the internet.

    Media contact
    Delphine Avomo Evouna
    613.315.1458
    delphine.avomoevouna@cira.ca

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4970dd9d-e2c1-4bbb-af1b-631cad2352a1

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Enphase Energy Expands in Southeast Asia with Market Entry in Vietnam and Malaysia

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FREMONT, Calif., Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enphase Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: ENPH), a global energy technology company and the world’s leading supplier of microinverter-based solar and battery systems, today announced that it is expanding in Southeast Asia by entering the solar markets in Vietnam and Malaysia. Enphase is now shipping IQ8P™ Microinverters, with peak output AC power of 480 W, for residential and commercial applications in Vietnam and Malaysia to support newer high-powered solar modules. Enphase announced first shipments of IQ8P Microinverters in Thailand and the Philippines last year.

    IQ8™ Microinverters are designed to maximize energy production and can manage a continuous DC current of 14 amperes, supporting higher-powered solar modules through increased energy harvesting. The IQ8P Microinverters are the most powerful microinverters available to date from Enphase. The product features a peak output power of 480 W and is built to seamlessly pair with a full range of solar modules up to 640 W DC. All IQ8P Microinverters activated in Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines come with an industry-leading 25-year limited warranty.

    “The Vietnamese solar market is poised for explosive growth thanks to the new Decree 135/2024/ND-CP on October 22, 2024,” said Phan Ngoc Anh, CEO of Alena Energy, a distributor of Enphase products in Vietnam. “This will be a major boost to the government’s ambitious 2050 net-zero carbon goal. Enphase IQ8P Microinverters are a game-changer, delivering unparalleled performance and safety – perfect for our solar installations.”

    “In Malaysia, the demand for energy savings and reliable, clean power solutions is driving solar adoption,” said Bernard Fok, general manager of MYSOLARPOWER SDN BHD, a distributor of Enphase products in Malaysia. “As the global leader in microinverter technology, Enphase offers the IQ8P Microinverters, which provide an ideal blend of efficiency and reliability. This empowers our customers to enjoy consistent energy production while reducing both their carbon footprint and utility costs.”

    The Enphase IQ8P Microinverter is built to use low-voltage alternating current (AC) power instead of high-voltage direct current (DC) power used by central (“string”) inverter-based solar systems. Additionally, Enphase IQ® Microinverters include built-in rapid shutdown to help keep first responders and utility workers safe. In an emergency, solar power can be turned off instantly and easily.

    “At KG Solar, we prioritize safety and reliability in every project, whether it’s a simple installation or a sensitive site like a gas station,” said Gunn Teeraniti, engineering director of KG Solar, an Enphase installer in Thailand. “That’s why we choose Enphase. The Enphase IQ8P Microinverters, backed by their impressive 25-year warranty, provide unmatched peace of mind for us and our customers. Their advanced safety features and consistent energy savings make them the ideal choice for all types of installations, from straightforward setups to the most demanding environments.”

    “As homeowners, our homes are likely to be one of the most expensive investments we’ll ever make in our entire lives,” said Hsin Yao Cheng, CEO at Helios, an installer of Enphase products in the Philippines. “We care a lot about our homes and the loved ones we nurture in them. Therefore, it’s a no brainer to put in the absolute safest and highest quality equipment to protect your investment and your family. Enphase IQ8P Microinverters stand out for their safety, durability, and exceptional performance. The 25-year limited warranty reassures us of their long-term reliability, while the system’s efficiency helps our clients achieve significant energy savings.”

    “At Enphase, our focus remains on expanding access to leading-edge, reliable energy technology across Southeast Asia,” said Ken Fong, senior vice president and general manager of the Americas and APAC at Enphase Energy. “We deeply value our partnerships with regional solar installers and are committed to supporting their work as we drive the adoption of resilient, renewable energy solutions.” 

    For more information about IQ8P Microinverters, please visit the Enphase websites for Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines.

    About Enphase Energy, Inc.

    Enphase Energy, a global energy technology company based in Fremont, CA, is the world’s leading supplier of microinverter-based solar and battery systems that enable people to harness the sun to make, use, save, and sell their own power—and control it all with a smart mobile app. The company revolutionized the solar industry with its microinverter-based technology and builds all-in-one solar, battery, and software solutions. Enphase has shipped approximately 78.0 million microinverters, and over 4.5 million Enphase-based systems have been deployed in more than 160 countries. For more information, visit https://enphase.com/.

    ©2025 Enphase Energy, Inc. All rights reserved. Enphase Energy, Enphase, the “e” logo, IQ, and certain other marks listed at https://enphase.com/trademark-usage-guidelines are trademarks or service marks of Enphase Energy, Inc. in the United States and other countries. Other names are for informational purposes and may be trademarks of their respective owners.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements, including statements related to the expected capabilities and performance of Enphase Energy’s technology and products, including safety, quality, and reliability; and the availability and market adoption of Enphase’s products in Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines. These forward-looking statements are based on Enphase Energy’s current expectations and inherently involve significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those contemplated by these forward-looking statements as a result of such risks and uncertainties including those risks described in more detail in Enphase Energy’s most recently filed Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, Annual Report on Form 10-K, and other documents filed by Enphase Energy from time to time with the SEC. Enphase Energy undertakes no duty or obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information, future events or changes in its expectations, except as required by law.

    Contact:

    Enphase Energy

    press@enphaseenergy.com

    This press release was published by a CLEAR® Verified individual.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Standard Lithium, Equinor announce Smackover Lithium as new joint venture name

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LEWISVILLE, Ark., Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Standard Lithium Ltd. (“Standard Lithium”) (TSXV:SLI) (NYSE:A:SLI), a leading near-commercial lithium developer, and Equinor, a global energy leader, today announced Smackover Lithium as the new name for their joint venture developing direct lithium extraction (“DLE”) projects in Southwest Arkansas and East Texas.

    Smackover Lithium was announced yesterday at a community meeting in Lewisville, Arkansas, home of a planned field office and nearby the joint venture’s South West Arkansas (“SWA”) project. The SWA project, located in Lafayette and Columbia counties, is expected to be one of the world’s first commercial-scale DLE facilities.

    “Smackover Lithium is a natural fit for the joint venture given the Smackover formation’s prolific resource and our joint venture’s commitment to adding to the incredible legacy of American energy production from this region,” said David Park, CEO of Standard Lithium.

    In May 2024, Equinor formed a joint venture with Standard Lithium to advance DLE projects in the Smackover basin, focused on Southwest Arkansas and East Texas. Smackover Lithium is now the external brand for the joint venture and will continue building on Standard Lithium’s work with local communities to enhance economic development and grow educational and workforce opportunities.

    “We are excited to be a part of Smackover Lithium, developing critical mineral projects in the Smackover basin and building the next generation of lithium development,” said Allie Kennedy Thurmond, Vice President of US Lithium at Equinor.

    For more information on Smackover Lithium, please visit: www.smackoverlithium.com.

    About Standard Lithium Ltd.

    Standard Lithium is a leading near-commercial lithium development company focused on the sustainable development of a portfolio of large, high-grade lithium-brine properties in the United States. The Company prioritizes projects characterized by the highest quality resources, robust infrastructure, skilled labor, and streamlined permitting. Standard Lithium aims to achieve sustainable, commercial-scale lithium production via the application of a scalable and fully integrated DLE and purification process. The Company’s flagship projects are located in the Smackover Formation, a world-class lithium brine asset, focused in Arkansas and Texas. In partnership with global energy leader Equinor, Standard Lithium is advancing the SWA project, a greenfield project located in southern Arkansas, and actively exploring promising lithium brine prospects in East Texas. Additionally, the Company is advancing the Phase 1A project in partnership with LANXESS Corporation, a brownfield development project located in southern Arkansas. Standard Lithium also holds an interest in certain mineral leases in the Mojave Desert in San Bernardino County, California.

    Standard Lithium trades on both the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV”) and the NYSE American under the symbol “SLI”; and on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol “S5L”. Please visit the Company’s website at www.standardlithium.com.

    About Equinor

    Equinor is an international energy company committed to long-term value creation in a low-carbon future. Equinor’s portfolio of projects encompasses oil and gas, renewables and low-carbon solutions, with an ambition of becoming a net-zero energy company by 2050. Headquartered in Norway, Equinor is the leading operator on the Norwegian continental shelf and is present in around 30 countries worldwide. Our partnership with Standard Lithium to mature DLE projects builds on our broad US energy portfolio of oil and gas, offshore wind, low carbon solutions and battery storage projects.

    For more information on Equinor in the US, please visit: Equinor in the US – Equinor

    Media Contacts:

    Chris Lang
    Standard Lithium Ltd.
    investors@standardithium.com

    Ola Morten Aanestad
    Equinor
    oaan@equinor.com

    Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “target, “plan”, “forecast”, “may”, “schedule” and other similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information may relate to intended development timelines, future prices of commodities, accuracy of mineral or resource exploration activity, reserves or resources, regulatory or government requirements or approvals, the reliability of third party information, continued existence and success of the joint venture, continued access to mineral properties or infrastructure, fluctuations in the market for lithium and its derivatives, changes in exploration costs and government regulation in Canada and the United States, and other factors or information. Such statements and information represent the Company’s current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation to, update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements or information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New submarine facility in Bristol opened by Defence Minister

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    New Submarine Availability Support Hub will support 100 new jobs, boost engineering capabilities and deliver on the Government’s Plan for Change.

    Defence Minister Maria Eagle opening the facility

    • New Submarine Availability Support Hub will support 100 new jobs, boost engineering capabilities and deliver on the Government’s Plan for Change.
    • The state-of-the-art facility will bring Government and industry closer together – enabling faster decision- making and innovative problem solving.
    • Follows the launch of the Government’s new Defence Industrial Strategy, which will ensure the defence sector is an engine for growth.

    Britain’s nuclear submarine patrols will be strengthened by a new hub that brings Government and industry closer together, creating 100 new jobs and supporting apprenticeships across the UK.

    The Submarine Availability Support Hub (SASH) will improve submarine delivery, boost UK engineering capabilities, and help maintain the continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent.

    The opening of the state-of-the-art facility will help deliver the government’s Plan for Change by strengthening security and supporting the mission to kickstart economic growth. 

    The facility will enable the Defence Nuclear Enterprise – the partnership of organisations that operate, maintain, renew and sustain the UK’s nuclear deterrent – to work together more seamlessly with Babcock and other contractors to drive better submarine availability and delivery.  

    This will be achieved through utilising cutting-edge digital and learning tools and drawing together technical and engineering expertise in a collaborative space.

    The investment demonstrates the government’s commitment to the national security and follows the launch of the consultation for the Defence Industrial Strategy – which will place deterrence at the heart of a new approach and ensures the defence sector is an engine for growth in every region and nation of the UK.

    Defence Minister Maria Eagle today opened the SASH in Bristol, which adds to the 42,000 jobs, and supply chain of 3,000 businesses already supporting our national endeavour to maintain the continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent. 

    Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle MP, said:  

    It was a privilege to open the new Babcock Submarine Availability Support Hub in Bristol, and to have the opportunity to speak with civilian colleagues and Navy personnel alike.

    The investment in this new facility is another demonstration of the government’s commitment to making defence an engine for growth. 

    This brand new facility will benefit the UK’s nuclear deterrent, which safeguards our security, and bolsters our country’s prosperity.

    Submarine Delivery Agency, CEO Sir Chris Gardner KBE said:

    The opening of the Submarine Availability Support Hub in Bristol provides a collaborative space that will support submarine availability for the Royal Navy in defence of our nation. This innovative facility is a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to the UK’s nuclear enterprise.

    It offers a dedicated space for the Submarine Delivery Agency and Babcock to undertake vital joint work which will support waterfront operations, as well as presenting an opportunity to develop future talent by providing placement roles for engineering students.

    In addition, the activity taking place within the SASH enables waterfront operations at Clyde and Devonport by improving the content, planning and preparation for maintenance periods as part of an integrated Naval Nuclear business to support submarine availability.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UKHSA launches new metagenomic surveillance for health security

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK launches mSCAPE, a world-first metagenomics initiative by UKHSA to enhance health security through rapid pathogen detection and surveillance.

    The UK has taken a leap forward in its efforts to use pathogen genomics to improve health security. Today the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) launches a world-first metagenomics initiative to aid in the rapid detection of infectious diseases that could threaten the UK. The metagenomics Surveillance Collaboration and Analysis Programme (mSCAPE), which has been in development over the last year, is piloting the use of metagenomic data for public health surveillance and pathogen analysis.    

    The programme is a collaborative initiative, led by UKHSA and involving a consortium of NHS and academic partners including the University of Birmingham, University of Edinburgh, and the NHS Clinical Respiratory Metagenomics Network led by Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust.    

    UKHSA will take anonymous pathogen data from multiple labs that are using metagenomics for diagnosis, including those in the NHS, and analyse it at a national level to monitor trends, epidemiology and pathogen emergence at speed. This will allow for assessment of the ability to significantly improve identification of new outbreaks as well as enabling the source of an outbreak to be better understood, predictions to be made about the effectiveness of potential treatments, and any concerning mutations can be identified.  

    Effective use of metagenomic data will add a new, crucial insight to current health protection surveillance systems in the UK. mSCAPE aims to develop the capability to use this data as part of UKHSA’s ongoing surveillance of new and emerging infections, pathogens of pandemic potential, and to monitor the evolution of pathogens that cause disease.    

    Metagenomic methodology allows for untargeted sequencing of patient samples for the presence of pathogenic viruses and bacteria, which is a significant step forward in detection and diagnosis abilities. Traditional genomic methodologies have required scientists to target sample sequencing towards pathogens that are already known to the scientific and medical community. Pathogen-agnostic metagenomic methods do not require scientists to know for sure what pathogens are present in a sample before the sequencing is conducted.  

    This is a major advantage in the detection of known but unexpected pathogens for which specific tests are not readily available and for pathogens not normally found in humans. It is also beneficial in the event of the emergence of a previously unknown novel pathogen.  Metagenomic sequencing is becoming established as a clinical diagnostic test, and its use is currently being expanded in the NHS.  

    Professor Susan Hopkins, UKHSA Chief Medical Advisor, said:  

    Genomics has been a crucial aspect of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic from the very start, and the UK’s enormous technical expertise in this area has allowed us to play a leading role in the identification and analysis of COVID-19 variants as they emerge.   

    The new mSCAPE programme will allow us to use the UK’s leading genomics capability to conduct community surveillance using pathogen-agnostic sequencing data for the first time anywhere in the world, and our new initiative to share our pathogen genomic data demonstrates our commitment to our data being used to improve health globally.  

    This is a hugely exciting development which will increase our ability to respond at speed to new and emerging pathogens and will help to ensure that we are as prepared as possible to act quickly and effectively to protect the public from future threats. 

    Professor Dame Sue Hill, Chief Scientific Officer for NHS England and Senior Responsible Officer for NHS Genomics, said:

    Genomics is revolutionising the way we predict, prevent, diagnose and treat illness – whether it’s diagnosing rare conditions in children more quickly, helping personalise cancer treatments to make them more effective, or identifying people at greater risk from kidney disease.

    The mSCAPE programme is another great example of how the UK is leading the world in this field, and we are pleased to be able to support it through our Networks of Excellence in Severe Respiratory Infections.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/DR CONGO – “Foreigners leave Bukavu: fears of advance of the M23 rebel movement on the capital of South Kivu province”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Thursday, 30 January 2025 war  

    Kinshasa (Agenzia Fides) – “In Bukavu, foreigners are fleeing,” missionaries from the capital of the Congolese province of South Kivu tell Fides. “The various embassies in Kinshasa have ordered their compatriots to leave the city because they fear that the M23 rebels could conquer it after taking control of Goma and the province of North Kivu,” the observers say. “Important departments of international organizations of the United Nations and various international non-governmental organizations are based in Bukavu. Now the foreign staff of these organizations are being evacuated via Rwanda.” “Currently, the rebel troops are already in Nyabibwe, in the Kalehe area of South Kivu,” the observers say. “It is a mountainous peak and if you go down to the south you are 25 km from the shores of Lake Kivu; from there you can easily reach Bukavu.” “The movements of the M23 units are facilitated by the means made available to them by the Rwandan army, which transported new off-road vehicles to Goma by barge, which were handed over to the rebels,” the observers added. Nyabibwe is home to a mine that extracts coltan and cassiterite, two of the strategic minerals that are the subject of the ongoing war involving local and regional actors backed by world powers and multinational mining companies.Meanwhile, the situation in Goma, which was captured by Rwandan troops and the M23 rebels they support, is stabilizing. The M23 rebels have organized the first patrols in the city to reassure the population and fight pockets of resistance from the Congolese army and the pro-government “Wazalendo” militiamen.”The rebels are trying to portray themselves as ‘liberators’ against what they call ‘the repressive regime in Kinshasa’: they are therefore trying to ensure a minimum of order and services for the population of the city they have conquered,” the observers report. As Corneille Nangaa, the leader of the Congo River Alliance, explained, the guerrillas’ goal is to march on the capital Kinshasa (about 1,600 km as the crow flies from Goma, but the road distance is more than 2,500 km) to overthrow President Félix Tshisekedi. “It seems like we have gone back about thirty years, when the guerrillas began their triumphal march at the end of 1996, which began in the east of the country and overthrew Mobutu in Kinshasa in the spring of 1997. But at that time the guerrillas, supported by Rwanda and Uganda, were also supported by other foreign powers. Now we must see what international interests are at work today,” commented the observers. To counter the rebels’ advance, President Tshisekedi has meanwhile ordered general mobilization and called on former soldiers and young people to join the army. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 30/1/2025)
    Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: From YMCA to MAGA: why Trump plays Village People at his rallies

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By William Rees, University of Exeter

    It was a bizarre sight watching a huge gay 1970s disco hit being performed at Donald Trump’s 2025 pre-inauguration rally. Many prominent artists from Beyoncé to Bruce Springsteen prohibit Trump from using their music. So why do Village People – a band synonymous with the 1970s gay liberation movement – allow their music to be associated with a political movement that has fixed and repressive ideas about sexual identity and morality?

    Village People’s recent incarnation has had a complicated relationship with the “make America great again” movement (Maga). In 2020, their song YMCA began featuring at Maga anti-lockdown rallies and soon became a prominent song in Trump’s re-election campaign.

    At the time, the band asked Trump not to use its music and later supported Kamala Harris for the presidency in 2024. Since then Village People have dramatically changed tack.

    To be clear, of the group that performed at Trump’s pre-inauguration rally, only one of the original Village People remains. The band, put together by the gay producers Jacques Morali and Henri Belolo in 1978, was named after New York’s Greenwich Village gay scene.

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    In the 1970s, the group was mostly gay-fronted except the first recruit, lead singer and co-songwriter Victor Willis (sometimes the policeman, sometimes the admiral figure). Willis took control of the name and the hits in 2017 after an out-of-court settlement with co-owner Henri Belolo.

    Willis is now the only member of the original line up still performing under the official band name. Perhaps to ensure mainstream popularity, he has tried to move Village People away from its gay associations – the biography on the band’s website makes no mention of the act’s significance to queer audiences. He recently wrote on Facebook that he will sue every news organisation that suggests “YMCA is somehow a gay anthem”.

    Victor Willis, the last remaining original member of Village People in a 1978 video for Just A Gigolo.

    But it’s difficult to untangle Village People from queer history as it was the trendsetting gay community of underground disco culture that made them famous. Record companies selected the songs and artists to promote based on how DJs reported their popularity in the hottest clubs. Many of these clubs were gay dominated, and disco itself was tied up with the growing confidence of the gay liberation movement in America and the era of sexual liberalisation that followed the 1960s.

    Jacques Morali put together Village People knowing the band could offer influential gay clubbers something they had always been denied: cultural representation, and with it, acknowledgement of their existence.

    It worked. One self-proclaimed “disco doll” writing to LGBTQ+ newspaper The Advocate in 1978 recalled first hearing Village People: “The music was very hot … and the words were about us, about our scene. I couldn’t believe it.”

    Village People’s innuendos and knowing references to gay culture often went over the heads of many straight listeners. Songs like Macho Man and the group’s hypermasculine image epitomised the “clone” movement in 1970s gay culture.

    Queer men, long derided for being effeminate, would bulk up at the gym and dress in leathers like bikers, effectively becoming more of an embodiment of masculinity than straight men. Go West was a reference to San Francisco’s more liberal environment for gay men. The YMCA was a place to “hang out with all the boys”.

    But skyrocketing into the mainstream made Village People an awkward fit for gay disco culture. This vibrant community wanted their own scene that was not part of the mainstream. They felt betrayed by a band publicly denying their gayness as they juggled the hardcore homosexual audience that had made them famous alongside a family-friendly audience.

    The backlash was fierce. A 1978 letter to gay lib magazine The Body Politic declared: “The commercial exploiters are disguising it to gain the commercially lucrative straight audience”, describing Village People as “traitors of the worst kind”.

    But even if they became momentarily unpopular in the hottest gay clubs, for many LGBTQ+ people, Village People’s hits have endured as anthems played at queer nights and Pride events. In their sound, appearance and sheer 1970-ness, they are undeniably camp icons.

    Which of course leads many to question why people attending Trump’s rallies – hardly famous for their inclusivity – would embrace their music. One explanation is that Maga audiences simply do not care about past gay associations as the music is simple, catchy and positive.

    Another is that just like the 1970s, the queer messaging of Village People’s music still goes over the heads of straight Maga audiences. Perhaps despite its past gay associations, they are consciously trying to culturally repurpose disco for their own movement. Or they’re trying to be ironic.

    Most likely, though, the music might have a particular meaning to LGBTQ+ audiences, it has other meanings depending on the context in which it is played. To many, Village People are the epitome of a novelty, apolitical pop group. Their hits are associated with weddings, children’s parties and good-time disco. The prosaic truth may be that Trump fans just enjoy a really catchy tune.

    But for Trump’s team, the use of these songs is politically calculated toward their core supporters who have changed the lyrics of YMCA to “MAGA”. And don’t forget Village People were joined at the pre-inauguration rally by WWE wrestling’s Hulk Hogan. Both are nostalgic late 20th-century acts that revel in blatant performances of muscled masculinity.

    They seem to be the embodiment of that imagined past of American virility that Trump vaguely refers to when he promises to make the nation “great again”. It’s not difficult to work out what Trump’s message is, especially when he dances along to Macho Man at rallies.

    Both these acts are carnivalesque, like Trump himself. They indicate an era of politics as spectacle, but beneath the surface messages, we must carefully pay attention to what is actually being said and done.

    William Rees 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. From YMCA to MAGA: why Trump plays Village People at his rallies – https://theconversation.com/from-ymca-to-maga-why-trump-plays-village-people-at-his-rallies-248457

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear Energy to Work with Thermal Engineering International to Fabricate Primary and Secondary Heat Exchangers for its Portable ODIN Microreactor

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, N.Y., Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, today announced that it has contracted with Thermal Engineering International (TEi), a Babcock Power Inc.® company, to advance the design and fabrication of several heat exchangers for use in NANO Nuclear’s proprietary, portable ODIN nuclear microreactor in development.

    TEi is a leading supplier of heat transfer technology to the electric power generation industry, designing and fabricating surface condensers, feedwater heaters, power plant heat exchangers and moisture separator reheaters for the world’s power generation industry continuously for over 100 years.

    “We are proud to support innovative SMR developers like NANO Nuclear with their heat exchange needs,” said Ken Murakoshi, President and CEO of Thermal Engineering International Inc. “TEi is excited to contribute to the successful deployment of NANO Nuclear’s ODIN transportable reactor and help advance clean, portable energy solutions for the future.”

    Under the terms of the contract, TEi will develop detailed designs for key heat exchanger technology integral to the ODIN microreactor. This includes the eventual fabrication of both primary and secondary heat exchangers. TEi will lead a broad, cross-functional initiative, drawing on its expertise to design practical heat transfer systems in collaboration with NANO Nuclear’s world-class technical team, from procurement to the eventual fabrication of the exchangers.

    “We are very pleased to take the next step in the development of the ODIN microreactor in tandem with TEi, who we believe have valuable expertise in this sector,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer and Head of Reactor Development of NANO Nuclear Energy. “The design and fabrication of heat exchangers will mark a critical milestone in ODIN’s development roadmap, and TEi is well-equipped to oversee this essential phase. By designing and fabricating these heat transfer technologies, we can advance our testing and demonstration efforts that will support our prototype construction, while equipping our world-class technical teams with data that can be broadly applied to our other reactors in development.”

    Figure 1 – NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. to Work with Thermal Engineering International to Design and Fabricate Key Enabling Heat Transfer Technology for Use in its ODIN Microreactor.

    “Collaborating with an industry-leading manufacturer on the design of our heat exchangers marks a major stride in advancing the plans for our portable ODIN microreactor,” said Prof. Eugene Shwageraus, Lead of Nuclear Reactor Engineering of NANO Nuclear Energy. “By having such a reputable industry partner for both primary and secondary exchanger designs, we can optimize performance while maintaining the highest safety standards and ensure that the reactor functions at the highest achievable efficiency. We believe this collaboration will help minimize developments risks going forward and ensure we meet performance benchmarks before advancing to full demonstration.”

    The heat transfer systems are essential components within NANO Nuclear’s innovative portable ODIN microreactor and their integration marks a significant milestone in advancing NANO Nuclear’s proprietary microreactor toward demonstration, regulatory licensing and eventual market introduction. This agreement builds on the work done by NANO Nuclear’s world-class technical team and follows last year’s external technical audit of the ODIN reactor by the Idaho National Laboratory, during which crucial design solutions and the system components were examined, reassuring the design development strategy.

    “Incorporating the heat exchangers into a compact system like ODIN marks a significant milestone in advancing our proprietary microreactor design” said Prof. Ian Farnan, Lead for Nuclear Fuel Cycle, Radiation and Materials at NANO Nuclear Energy. “TEi’s expertise is well known in designing these critical heat transfer solutions. Accelerating this aspect of the compact reactor design is vital for meeting our milestones and ensuring that the microreactor meets our operational requirements.”

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

    NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors. NANO Nuclear is also developing patented stationary KRONOS MMR™ Energy System and space focused, portable LOKI MMR™.

    Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.

    HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.

    NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

    For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/

    For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact:
    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

    PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE:

    NANO Nuclear Energy LINKEDIN
    NANO Nuclear Energy YOUTUBE
    NANO Nuclear Energy X PLATFORM

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. In this press release, forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, the anticipated benefits to NANO Nuclear of its relationship with Tei as described herein (including the potential for progressing the development, demonstration, regulatory licensing and commercial deployment of the ODIN microreactor). Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Parker Reports Fiscal 2025 Second Quarter Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CLEVELAND, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Parker Hannifin Corporation (NYSE: PH), the global leader in motion and control technologies, today reported results for the quarter ended December 31, 2024, that included the following highlights (compared with the prior year quarter):

    Fiscal 2025 Second Quarter Highlights:

    • Sales were $4.7 billion; organic sales growth was 1%
    • Net income was $949 million, an increase of 39%, or $853 million adjusted, an increase of 6%
    • EPS were $7.25, an increase of 39%, or $6.53 adjusted, an increase of 6%
    • Segment operating margin was 22.1%, an increase of 100 bps, or 25.6% adjusted, an increase of 110 bps
    • YTD cash flow from operations increased 24% to $1.7 billion, or 17.4% of sales

    “Our performance this quarter reflects our focus on operational excellence and the strength of our balanced portfolio,” said Jenny Parmentier, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “We delivered record segment operating margin across all businesses, record earnings per share and year-to-date cash flow from operations. Strong cash flow from operations coupled with proceeds from previously announced divestitures allowed us to substantially reduce debt by $1.1 billion this quarter. We are encouraged to see industrial orders turn positive mainly in our longer-cycle businesses. Looking ahead, we have updated our outlook for fiscal year 2025 to reflect stronger Aerospace growth, currency headwinds and a continued delay in the expected industrial recovery. Our strong cash generation creates capital deployment optionality, and we remain committed to our strategy of actively deploying capital to drive shareholder value.”

    This news release contains non-GAAP financial measures. Reconciliations of adjusted numbers and certain non-GAAP financial measures are included in the financial tables of this press release.

    Outlook

    Guidance for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025 has been updated. The company expects:

    • Sales growth in fiscal 2025 of (2%) to 1%, with organic sales growth of approximately 2%; divestitures of (1.5%) and unfavorable currency of (1.0%)
    • Total segment operating margin of approximately 22.7%, or approximately 25.8% on an adjusted basis
    • EPS of $24.46 to $25.06, or $26.40 to $27.00 on an adjusted basis

    Segment Results

    Diversified Industrial Segment

    North America Businesses              
    $ in mm FY25 Q2   FY24 Q2   Change   Organic Growth
    Sales $ 1,928     $ 2,110       -8.6 %     -5.0 %
    Segment Operating Income $ 427     $ 462       -7.6 %    
    Segment Operating Margin   22.1 %     21.9 %   20 bps    
    Adjusted Segment Operating Income $ 473     $ 510       -7.2 %    
    Adjusted Segment Operating Margin   24.6 %     24.2 %   40 bps    
    • Achieved record adjusted segment operating margin
    • Continued softness in transportation and off-highway markets
    • Delayed industrial recovery
    International Businesses      
    $ in mm FY25 Q2   FY24 Q2   Change   Organic Growth
    Sales $ 1,325     $ 1,404       -5.7 %     -3.0 %
    Segment Operating Income $ 284     $ 290       -2.2 %        
    Segment Operating Margin   21.4 %     20.7 %   70 bps        
    Adjusted Segment Operating Income $ 320     $ 323       -1.2 %        
    Adjusted Segment Operating Margin   24.1 %     23.0 %   110 bps        
    • Achieved record adjusted segment operating margin
    • Broad-based softness continued in Europe
    • Gradual recovery continued in Asia

    Aerospace Systems Segment

    $ in mm FY25 Q2   FY24 Q2   Change   Organic Growth
    Sales $ 1,490     $ 1,306       14.0 %     14.0 %
    Segment Operating Income $ 338     $ 263       28.5 %    
    Segment Operating Margin   22.7 %     20.1 %   260 bps    
    Adjusted Segment Operating Income $ 420     $ 347       21.2 %    
    Adjusted Segment Operating Margin   28.2 %     26.5 %   170 bps    
    • Achieved record sales and adjusted segment operating margin
    • Achieved 14% organic sales growth
    • 20%+ aftermarket and mid-single digit OEM sales growth

    Order Rates

      FY25 Q2
    Parker +5 %
    Diversified Industrial Segment – North America Businesses +3 %
    Diversified Industrial Segment – International Businesses +4 %
    Aerospace Systems Segment +9 %
    • Company order rates increased across all reported businesses
    • North America orders turned positive on long-cycle strength
    • International order growth continued, led by Asia
    • Aerospace orders accelerated against a tough prior year comparison

    About Parker Hannifin
    Parker Hannifin is a Fortune 250 global leader in motion and control technologies. For more than a century the company has been enabling engineering breakthroughs that lead to a better tomorrow. Learn more at www.parker.com or @parkerhannifin.

    Contacts:  
    Media: Financial Analysts:
    Aidan Gormley Jeff Miller
    216-896-3258 216-896-2708
    aidan.gormley@parker.com jeffrey.miller@parker.com
       

    Notice of Webcast
    Parker Hannifin’s conference call and slide presentation to discuss its fiscal 2025 second quarter results are available to all interested parties via live webcast today at 11:00 a.m. ET, at investors.parker.com. A replay of the webcast will be available on the site approximately one hour after the completion of the call and will remain available for one year. To register for e-mail notification of future events please visit investors.parker.com.

    Note on Orders The company reported orders for the quarter ending December 31, 2024, compared with the same quarter a year ago. All comparisons are at constant currency exchange rates, with the prior year quarter restated to the current-year rates, and exclude divestitures. Diversified Industrial comparisons are on 3-month average computations and Aerospace Systems comparisons are on rolling 12-month average computations.

    Note on Non-GAAP Financial Measures
    This press release contains references to non-GAAP financial information including (a) adjusted net income; (b) adjusted earnings per share; (c) adjusted operating margin and segment operating margins; (d) adjusted operating income and segment operating income and (e) organic sales growth. The adjusted net income, adjusted earnings per share, adjusted operating margin, adjusted segment operating margin, adjusted operating income, adjusted segment operating income and organic sales measures are presented to allow investors and the company to meaningfully evaluate changes in net income, earnings per share and segment operating margins on a comparable basis from period to period. Although adjusted net income, adjusted earnings per share, adjusted operating margin and segment operating margins, adjusted operating income and segment operating income, and organic sales growth are not measures of performance calculated in accordance with GAAP, we believe that they are useful to an investor in evaluating the results of this quarter versus the prior period. Comparable descriptions of record adjusted results in this release refer only to the period from the first quarter of FY2011 to the periods presented in this release. This period coincides with recast historical financial results provided in association with our FY2014 change in segment reporting. A reconciliation of non-GAAP measures is included in the financial tables of this press release.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    Forward-looking statements contained in this and other written and oral reports are made based on known events and circumstances at the time of release, and as such, are subject in the future to unforeseen uncertainties and risks. Often but not always, these statements may be identified from the use of forward-looking terminology such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “may,” “should,” “could,” “expects,” “targets,” “is likely,” “will,” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions, and may also include statements regarding future performance, orders, earnings projections, events or developments. Parker cautions readers not to place undue reliance on these statements. It is possible that the future performance may differ materially from expectations, including those based on past performance.

    Among other factors that may affect future performance are: changes in business relationships with and orders by or from major customers, suppliers or distributors, including delays or cancellations in shipments; disputes regarding contract terms, changes in contract costs and revenue estimates for new development programs; changes in product mix; ability to identify acceptable strategic acquisition targets; uncertainties surrounding timing, successful completion or integration of acquisitions and similar transactions; ability to successfully divest businesses planned for divestiture and realize the anticipated benefits of such divestitures; the determination and ability to successfully undertake business realignment activities and the expected costs, including cost savings, thereof; ability to implement successfully business and operating initiatives, including the timing, price and execution of share repurchases and other capital initiatives; availability, cost increases of or other limitations on our access to raw materials, component products and/or commodities if associated costs cannot be recovered in product pricing; ability to manage costs related to insurance and employee retirement and health care benefits; legal and regulatory developments and other government actions, including related to environmental protection, and associated compliance costs; supply chain and labor disruptions, including as a result of tariffs and labor shortages; threats associated with international conflicts and cybersecurity risks and risks associated with protecting our intellectual property; uncertainties surrounding the ultimate resolution of outstanding legal proceedings, including the outcome of any appeals; effects on market conditions, including sales and pricing, resulting from global reactions to U.S. trade policies; manufacturing activity, air travel trends, currency exchange rates, difficulties entering new markets and economic conditions such as inflation, deflation, interest rates and credit availability; inability to obtain, or meet conditions imposed for, required governmental and regulatory approvals; changes in the tax laws in the United States and foreign jurisdictions and judicial or regulatory interpretations thereof; and large scale disasters, such as floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, industrial accidents and pandemics. Readers should also consider forward-looking statements in light of risk factors discussed in Parker’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024 and other periodic filings made with the SEC.

    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Unaudited) December 31,   December 31,
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net sales $ 4,742,593     $ 4,820,947     $ 9,646,577     $ 9,668,435  
    Cost of sales   3,022,229       3,101,962       6,119,948       6,199,311  
    Selling, general and administrative expenses   782,421       806,802       1,631,210       1,680,493  
    Interest expense   100,802       129,029       213,893       263,497  
    Other income, net   (328,716 )     (85,011 )     (359,517 )     (163,466 )
    Income before income taxes   1,165,857       868,165       2,041,043       1,688,600  
    Income taxes   217,208       186,108       393,866       355,471  
    Net income   948,649       682,057       1,647,177       1,333,129  
    Less: Noncontrolling interests   107       206       215       451  
    Net income attributable to common shareholders $ 948,542     $ 681,851     $ 1,646,962     $ 1,332,678  
                   
    Earnings per share attributable to common shareholders:              
    Basic earnings per share $ 7.37     $ 5.31     $ 12.80     $ 10.38  
    Diluted earnings per share $ 7.25     $ 5.23     $ 12.60     $ 10.23  
                   
    Average shares outstanding during period – Basic   128,752,836       128,426,247       128,707,962       128,449,398  
    Average shares outstanding during period – Diluted   130,758,808       130,367,351       130,716,482       130,314,326  
                   
                   
    CASH DIVIDENDS PER COMMON SHARE              
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Unaudited) December 31,   December 31,
    (Amounts in dollars)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Cash dividends per common share $ 1.63     $ 1.48     $ 3.26     $ 2.96  
                   
    RECONCILIATION OF ORGANIC GROWTH
    (Unaudited) Three Months Ended
      As Reported           Adjusted
      December 31, 2024   Currency   Divestitures   December 31, 2024
    Diversified Industrial Segment   (7.4 )%     (1.3 )%     (1.9 )%     (4.2 )%
    Aerospace Systems Segment   14.0 %     — %     — %     14.0 %
    Total   (1.6 )%     (0.9 )%     (1.4 )%     0.7 %
                   
    (Unaudited) Six Months Ended
      As Reported           Adjusted
      December 31, 2024   Currency   Divestitures   December 31, 2024
    Diversified Industrial Segment   (5.9 )%     (0.8 )%     (1.0 )%     (4.1 )%
    Aerospace Systems Segment   15.9 %     0.3 %     — %     15.6 %
    Total   (0.2 )%     (0.5 )%     (0.8 )%     1.1 %
    RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO COMMON SHAREHOLDERS TO ADJUSTED NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO COMMON SHAREHOLDERS
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Unaudited) December 31,   December 31,
    (Dollars in thousands)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net income attributable to common shareholders $ 948,542     $ 681,851     $ 1,646,962     $ 1,332,678  
    Adjustments:              
    Acquired intangible asset amortization expense   138,126       142,027       278,247       297,547  
    Business realignment charges   20,855       14,354       30,361       27,446  
    Integration costs to achieve   6,893       10,014       13,304       16,420  
    Gain on sale of building   —       —       (10,461 )     —  
    Gain on divestitures   (249,748 )     (12,391 )     (249,748 )     (25,651 )
    Tax effect of adjustments1   (11,437 )     (33,476 )     (45,648 )     (69,624 )
    Adjusted net income attributable to common shareholders $ 853,231     $ 802,379     $ 1,663,017     $ 1,578,816  
                   
    RECONCILIATION OF EARNINGS PER DILUTED SHARE TO ADJUSTED EARNINGS PER DILUTED SHARE
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Unaudited) December 31,   December 31,
    (Amounts in dollars)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Earnings per diluted share $ 7.25     $ 5.23     $ 12.60     $ 10.23  
    Adjustments:              
    Acquired intangible asset amortization expense   1.06       1.09       2.13       2.28  
    Business realignment charges   0.16       0.11       0.23       0.21  
    Integration costs to achieve   0.05       0.08       0.10       0.13  
    Gain on sale of building   —       —       (0.08 )     —  
    Gain on divestitures   (1.91 )     (0.10 )     (1.91 )     (0.20 )
    Tax effect of adjustments1   (0.08 )     (0.26 )     (0.33 )     (0.53 )
    Adjusted earnings per diluted share $ 6.53     $ 6.15     $ 12.74     $ 12.12  
                   
    1This line item reflects the aggregate tax effect of all non-tax adjustments reflected in the preceding line items of the table. We estimate the tax effect of each adjustment item by applying our overall effective tax rate for continuing operations to the pre-tax amount, unless the nature of the item and/or the tax jurisdiction in which the item has been recorded requires application of a specific tax rate or tax treatment, in which case the tax effect of such item is estimated by applying such specific tax rate or tax treatment.
    BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION              
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Unaudited) December 31,   December 31,
    (Dollars in thousands)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net sales              
    Diversified Industrial $ 3,252,806     $ 3,514,473     $ 6,708,964     $ 7,133,001  
    Aerospace Systems   1,489,787       1,306,474       2,937,613       2,535,434  
    Total net sales $ 4,742,593     $ 4,820,947     $ 9,646,577     $ 9,668,435  
    Segment operating income              
    Diversified Industrial $ 710,562     $ 752,334     $ 1,494,108     $ 1,559,088  
    Aerospace Systems   338,184       263,112       661,170       489,372  
    Total segment operating income   1,048,746       1,015,446       2,155,278       2,048,460  
    Corporate general and administrative expenses   56,264       49,902       105,058       105,558  
    Income before interest expense and other income, net   992,482       965,544       2,050,220       1,942,902  
    Interest expense   100,802       129,029       213,893       263,497  
    Other income, net   (274,177 )     (31,650 )     (204,716 )     (9,195 )
    Income before income taxes $ 1,165,857     $ 868,165     $ 2,041,043     $ 1,688,600  
    RECONCILIATION OF SEGMENT OPERATING MARGINS TO ADJUSTED SEGMENT OPERATING MARGINS
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Unaudited) December 31,   December 31,
    (Dollars in thousands)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Diversified Industrial Segment sales $ 3,252,806     $ 3,514,473     $ 6,708,964     $ 7,133,001  
                   
    Diversified Industrial Segment operating income $ 710,562     $ 752,334     $ 1,494,108     $ 1,559,088  
    Adjustments:              
    Acquired intangible asset amortization   62,570       67,309       127,834       135,260  
    Business realignment charges   19,343       13,285       28,243       25,924  
    Integration costs to achieve   627       871       1,405       2,010  
    Adjusted Diversified Industrial Segment operating income $ 793,102     $ 833,799     $ 1,651,590     $ 1,722,282  
                   
    Diversified Industrial Segment operating margin   21.8 %     21.4 %     22.3 %     21.9 %
    Adjusted Diversified Industrial Segment operating margin   24.4 %     23.7 %     24.6 %     24.1 %
                   
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Unaudited) December 31,   December 31,
    (Dollars in thousands)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Aerospace Systems Segment sales $ 1,489,787     $ 1,306,474     $ 2,937,613     $ 2,535,434  
                   
    Aerospace Systems Segment operating income $ 338,184     $ 263,112     $ 661,170     $ 489,372  
    Adjustments:              
    Acquired intangible asset amortization   75,556       74,718       150,413       162,287  
    Business realignment charges   386       (123 )     394       330  
    Integration costs to achieve   6,266       9,143       11,899       14,410  
    Adjusted Aerospace Systems Segment operating income $ 420,392     $ 346,850     $ 823,876     $ 666,399  
                   
    Aerospace Systems Segment operating margin   22.7 %     20.1 %     22.5 %     19.3 %
    Adjusted Aerospace Systems Segment operating margin   28.2 %     26.5 %     28.0 %     26.3 %
                   
    RECONCILIATION OF SEGMENT OPERATING MARGINS TO ADJUSTED SEGMENT OPERATING MARGINS
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Unaudited) December 31,   December 31,
    (Dollars in thousands)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Total net sales $ 4,742,593     $ 4,820,947     $ 9,646,577     $ 9,668,435  
                   
    Total segment operating income $ 1,048,746     $ 1,015,446     $ 2,155,278     $ 2,048,460  
    Adjustments:              
    Acquired intangible asset amortization   138,126       142,027       278,247       297,547  
    Business realignment charges   19,729       13,162       28,637       26,254  
    Integration costs to achieve   6,893       10,014       13,304       16,420  
    Adjusted total segment operating income $ 1,213,494     $ 1,180,649     $ 2,475,466     $ 2,388,681  
                   
    Total segment operating margin   22.1 %     21.1 %     22.3 %     21.2 %
    Adjusted total segment operating margin   25.6 %     24.5 %     25.7 %     24.7 %
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET      
    (Unaudited) December 31,   June 30,
    (Dollars in thousands)   2024       2024  
    Assets      
    Current assets:      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 395,507     $ 422,027  
    Trade accounts receivable, net   2,445,845       2,865,546  
    Non-trade and notes receivable   304,829       331,429  
    Inventories   2,806,983       2,786,800  
    Prepaid expenses   246,467       252,618  
    Other current assets   148,831       140,204  
    Total current assets   6,348,462       6,798,624  
    Property, plant and equipment, net   2,800,992       2,875,668  
    Deferred income taxes   87,400       92,704  
    Investments and other assets   1,232,636       1,207,232  
    Intangible assets, net   7,444,670       7,816,181  
    Goodwill   10,357,303       10,507,433  
    Total assets $ 28,271,463     $ 29,297,842  
           
    Liabilities and equity      
    Current liabilities:      
    Notes payable and long-term debt payable within one year $ 2,373,286     $ 3,403,065  
    Accounts payable, trade   1,794,884       1,991,639  
    Accrued payrolls and other compensation   420,477       581,251  
    Accrued domestic and foreign taxes   364,143       354,659  
    Other accrued liabilities   1,034,501       982,695  
    Total current liabilities   5,987,291       7,313,309  
    Long-term debt   6,667,955       7,157,034  
    Pensions and other postretirement benefits   409,873       437,490  
    Deferred income taxes   1,394,882       1,583,923  
    Other liabilities   684,401       725,193  
    Shareholders’ equity   13,118,553       12,071,972  
    Noncontrolling interests   8,508       8,921  
    Total liabilities and equity $ 28,271,463     $ 29,297,842  
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS      
      Six Months Ended
    (Unaudited) December 31,
    (Dollars in thousands)   2024       2023  
    Cash flows from operating activities:      
    Net income $ 1,647,177     $ 1,333,129  
    Depreciation and amortization   454,869       468,165  
    Stock incentive plan compensation   106,472       108,061  
    Gain on sale of businesses   (250,373 )     (25,964 )
    (Gain) loss on property, plant and equipment and intangible assets   (6,975 )     5,097  
    Net change in receivables, inventories and trade payables   70,981       (42,804 )
    Net change in other assets and liabilities   (405,002 )     (407,366 )
    Other, net   61,584       (86,331 )
    Net cash provided by operating activities   1,678,733       1,351,987  
    Cash flows from investing activities:      
    Capital expenditures   (216,493 )     (204,117 )
    Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment   13,259       1,360  
    Proceeds from sale of businesses   622,182       74,595  
    Other, net   (6,941 )     (2,954 )
    Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities   412,007       (131,116 )
    Cash flows from financing activities:      
    Net payments for common stock activity   (189,681 )     (136,394 )
    Acquisition of noncontrolling interests   —       (2,883 )
    Net payments for debt   (1,494,484 )     (784,847 )
    Dividends paid   (420,061 )     (381,115 )
    Net cash used in financing activities   (2,104,226 )     (1,305,239 )
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash   (13,034 )     (7,999 )
    Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents   (26,520 )     (92,367 )
    Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year   422,027       475,182  
    Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 395,507     $ 382,815  
           
    RECONCILIATION OF FORECASTED ORGANIC GROWTH  
    (Unaudited)  
    (Amounts in percentages) Fiscal Year 2025
    Forecasted net sales (2%) to 1%
    Adjustments:  
    Currency 1.0%
    Divestitures 1.5%
    Adjusted forecasted net sales 0.5% to 3.5%
       
    RECONCILIATION OF FORECASTED SEGMENT OPERATING MARGIN TO ADJUSTED FORECASTED SEGMENT OPERATING MARGIN
       
    (Unaudited)  
    (Amounts in percentages) Fiscal Year 2025
    Forecasted segment operating margin ~ 22.7%
    Adjustments:  
    Business realignment charges 0.2%
    Costs to achieve 0.1%
    Acquisition-related intangible asset amortization expense 2.8%
    Adjusted forecasted segment operating margin ~ 25.8%
       
     
    RECONCILIATION OF FORECASTED EARNINGS PER DILUTED SHARE TO ADJUSTED FORECASTED EARNINGS PER DILUTED SHARE
       
    (Unaudited)  
    (Amounts in dollars) Fiscal Year 2025
    Forecasted earnings per diluted share $24.46 to $25.06
    Adjustments:  
    Business realignment charges 0.39
    Costs to achieve 0.15
    Acquisition-related intangible asset amortization expense 4.22
    Net gain on divestitures (1.91)
    Gain on sale of building (0.08)
    Tax effect of adjustments1 (0.83)
    Adjusted forecasted earnings per diluted share $26.40 to $27.00
       
       
    1This line item reflects the aggregate tax effect of all non-tax adjustments reflected in the preceding line items of the table. We estimate the tax effect of each adjustment item by applying our overall effective tax rate for continuing operations to the pre-tax amount, unless the nature of the item and/or the tax jurisdiction in which the item has been recorded requires application of a specific tax rate or tax treatment, in which case the tax effect of such item is estimated by applying such specific tax rate or tax treatment.
       
    Note: Totals may not foot due to rounding
    SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
                   
    BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION              
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Unaudited) December 31,   December 31,
    (Dollars in thousands)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net sales              
    Diversified Industrial:              
    North America businesses $ 1,928,008     $ 2,110,203     $ 4,028,332     $ 4,340,109  
    International businesses   1,324,798       1,404,270       2,680,632       2,792,892  
                   
    Segment operating income              
    Diversified Industrial:              
    North America businesses $ 426,567     $ 461,850     $ 911,130     $ 967,903  
    International businesses   283,995       290,484       582,978       591,185  
    RECONCILIATION OF ORGANIC GROWTH            
    (Unaudited) Three Months Ended
      As Reported               Adjusted
      December 31, 2024     Currency     Divestitures   December 31, 2024
    Diversified Industrial Segment:                          
    North America businesses   (8.6 )%     (0.4 )%     (3.2 )%     (5.0 )%
    International businesses   (5.7 )%     (2.7 )%     — %     (3.0 )%
                               
    (Unaudited) Six Months Ended
        As Reported                   Adjusted  
        December 31, 2024       Currency     Divestitures     December 31, 2024  
    Diversified Industrial Segment:                          
    North America businesses   (7.2 )%     (0.5 )%     (1.7 )%     (5.0 )%
    International businesses   (4.0 )%     (1.3 )%     — %     (2.7 )%
    RECONCILIATION OF SEGMENT OPERATING MARGINS TO ADJUSTED SEGMENT OPERATING MARGINS
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Unaudited) December 31,   December 31,
    (Dollars in thousands)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Diversified Industrial Segment:              
    North America businesses sales $ 1,928,008     $ 2,110,203     $ 4,028,332     $ 4,340,109  
                   
    North America businesses operating income $ 426,567     $ 461,850     $ 911,130     $ 967,903  
    Adjustments:              
    Acquired intangible asset amortization   40,985       44,699       83,960       89,382  
    Business realignment charges   5,444       3,250       8,888       5,834  
    Integration costs to achieve   445       562       1,050       1,507  
    Adjusted North America businesses operating income $ 473,441     $ 510,361     $ 1,005,028     $ 1,064,626  
                   
    North America businesses operating margin   22.1 %     21.9 %     22.6 %     22.3 %
    Adjusted North America businesses operating margin   24.6 %     24.2 %     24.9 %     24.5 %
                   
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Unaudited) December 31,   December 31,
    (Dollars in thousands)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Diversified Industrial Segment:              
    International businesses sales $ 1,324,798     $ 1,404,270     $ 2,680,632     $ 2,792,892  
                   
    International businesses operating income $ 283,995     $ 290,484     $ 582,978     $ 591,185  
    Adjustments:              
    Acquired intangible asset amortization   21,585       22,610       43,874       45,878  
    Business realignment charges   13,899       10,035       19,355       20,090  
    Integration costs to achieve   182       309       355       503  
    Adjusted International businesses operating income $ 319,661     $ 323,438     $ 646,562     $ 657,656  
                   
    International businesses operating margin   21.4 %     20.7 %     21.7 %     21.2 %
    Adjusted International businesses operating margin   24.1 %     23.0 %     24.1 %     23.5 %

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Climate Minister in Brussels to kickstart growth in the North Seas

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Climate Minister forges stronger UK-EU cooperation to drive growth and energy security.

    • Closer UK-EU cooperation in the North Seas to deliver growth and greater energy security
    • new independent report shows economic benefits of working with EU on clean energy
    • collaboration with European partners on the clean energy transition will help to drive government’s Plan for Change, protecting bills and creating thousands of jobs

    Cooperation on the North Seas was at the top of the agenda for Climate Minister Kerry McCarthy’s first visit to Brussels yesterday (Tuesday 28 January). 

    During the visit, Minister McCarthy delivered a keynote speech to European leaders at the European Energy Forum, where she said that by working together the UK and the EU can turn the North Seas into the green power plant of Europe and unlock thousands of well-paid, skilled British jobs. 

    This comes as independent consultants Grant Thornton publish a report commissioned by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, which finds that closer cooperation on the clean energy transition in the North Seas could lower bills, create up to 51,000 jobs, and add up to £36 billion to the UK economy.  

    Minister McCarthy also made the case to EU counterparts that the energy transition in the North Seas will ensure the oil and gas workforce are the ones who deliver the North Sea’s decarbonised future, through offshore wind, carbon capture and storage and hydrogen.  

    Climate Minister Kerry McCarthy said:

    The EU is a crucial ally in bolstering our energy security and protecting families and businesses across Europe from volatile fossil fuel markets.  

    There is so much more we can do to speed up the clean energy transition, deliver our Plan for Change and make the North Seas the green power plant of Europe. 

    Through greater cooperation, we can build on our Mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower by 2030 helping keep bills down and kickstarting economic growth. 

    Tsvetelina Penkova President of the European Energy Forum and Member of the European Parliament said: 

    We simply have to build a robust cooperation between the EU and the UK on energy matters. It is crucial for addressing our shared challenges and ensuring energy security.  

    Key areas such as energy grids, connectivity and nuclear power require close collaboration to strengthen infrastructure, drive innovation, and support the transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy systems. By working together, we can create a more resilient and interconnected energy network that benefits both parties and contributes to a secure and sustainable energy future. 

    Minister McCarthy has met with a series of international partners including Belgian Energy Minister, Tinne van der Straeten and the European Union’s Principal Adviser on Energy Diplomacy, Tibor Stelaczky.  

    The visit comes as the UK continues work to reset its relationship with Europe, an ambition grounded in a new spirit of co-operation intended to strengthen ties, tackle barriers to trade and collaborate in the face of shared global challenges from climate change to illegal migration.

    Updates to this page

    Published 29 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘All I wanted was to bid my daughter a final farewell’ – Gaza hostages, mainstream media and truth

    Palestinian politician, MP and activist Khalida Jarrar . . . AFTER being jailed by the Israeli military and released last Sunday as part of the ceasefire deal. Image: www.solidarity.co.nz

    COMMENTARY: By Eugene Doyle

    Watching footage of Palestinian parliamentarian and hostage Khalida Jarrar emerge from Israeli captivity was jarring — a far, muffled cry from the sense of happiness and relief most of us felt seeing the young female Israeli soldiers released by Hamas around the same time.

    What a study in contrast.

    Khalida was clearly emaciated, traumatised and had turned, in the same period of time, from a powerful dynamic woman into a fragile, elderly human being who moved with difficulty.

    What a difference it makes who holds you captive. It goes without saying I didn’t see this on any mainstream news outlet.

    In a previous period of imprisonment — for being a member of the PFLP, a proscribed organisation — the Israelis wouldn’t even allow Khalida Jarrar to attend the funeral of her own daughter.

    Instead she sent a message that was read at Suha’s funeral in 2021:

    I am in so much pain, my child, only because I miss you.
    I am in so much pain, my child, only because I miss you.

    From the depths of my agony, I reached out and
    embraced the sky of our homeland through the window
    of my prison cell in Damon Prison, Haifa.
    Worry not, my child.
    I stand tall, and steadfast, despite the shackles and the jailer.
    I am a mother in sorrow, from yearning to see you one last time.

    Suha, my precious.

    They have stripped me from bidding you a final goodbye kiss.
    I bid you farewell with a flower.
    Your absence is searingly painful, excruciatingly painful.
    But I remain steadfast and strong,
    Like the mountains of beloved Palestine.

    No mainstream coverage
    I searched online and found no mainstream outlet had covered Khalida’s release amid the flood of stories about the Israeli hostages. A search to see if Australian or New Zealand MPs had called for the release of their fellow legislator netted zero results.

    To them, she is no doubt a non-person. Yet, Khalida Jarrar is a leading political activist and one of dozens of legislators imprisoned by the Israelis. She endured. She remained steadfast.

    “The entire system of political imprisonment is based on suppressing Palestinian organising,” said Charlotte Kates, coordinator of Samidoun, the Palestinian Prisoner Support Network.

    The four female Israeli “Offence” Force (IDF) soldiers, according to all the many images and reports, were fit, happy and well-fed after their 15 months in Hamas captivity.

    The four female IDF soldiers, according to all the many images and reports, were fit, happy and well-fed after their 15 months in Hamas captivity. Images: Al Jazeera/www.solidarity.co.nz

    In contrast Palestinian prisoners typically had lost 16kg by the time they were freed. The Israelis with all the food and resources in the world made a policy — an actual policy — of mistreating prisoners, reducing food to a minimum, often beating them, finding perverse ways to humiliate them and on many occasions sexually assaulting men, women, boys and girls who had been dragged into their custody without charge.

    Many, an unknown number, died at their hands.

    Israeli Minister of National Security, Itamar Ben-Gvir, called months ago for legislation to allow the execution of Palestinian prisoners “with a shot in the head” and said he would provide minimal food to them until the law was enacted. I couldn’t find a single Western leader who called for him to be arrested.

    Israeli human rights report
    These crimes are filling compendia being compiled by the United Nations, the ICC and multiple organisations worldwide. You can read some of it here in an Israeli human rights report, “Welcome to Hell, the Israeli prison system as a network of torture camps”.

    Our media has a lot to answer for — for what was done to the thousands of Palestinian hostages because of its starring role in silencing Palestinian voices and hiding from view the realities of the Israeli prison system. Thousands were never charged with any crime — other than being Palestinian.

    Entire congregations in mosques, groups of people in refugee centres, were indiscriminately swept up and tossed into Israeli concentration camps.

    Were future historians to look back on these times and only have the mainstream media to go by, they would have lots of wonderful photos of the Israeli hostages, know them by name, see family hugs, biographical details, and listen to interviews with friends and relatives. In contrast, the Palestinians would turn towards History and we would see blank faces, erased of personality, all the detail of their stories rubbed out.

    That’s why it is imperative to find better sources of news and information, like Middle East Eye, Palestine Chronicle, Electronic Intifada and Pearls & Irritations, that can enrich our understanding of our times and the experience of the victims of Western genocidal violence.

    In his excellent article “The Other Hostages”, human rights lawyer Jonathan Kuttab says: “From the Palestinian perspective: there are about 13,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees in Israeli jails who are just as worthy of our concern and also merit our sympathy, and whose families will rejoice at their long-awaited release.”

    Turning a blind eye to Israeli mistreatment of prisoners — and the mainstream media bias in favour of all things Israeli — goes back decades. But let’s look at the months since October 7th.

    No fact-checking
    All the mainstream media and servile politicians raced to report without fact-checking the lies the Israelis and Americans, including President Biden, told about beheaded babies and mass rapes. Few had the decency to walk back the calumnies even after official retractions and international investigations disproved them.

    In October 2023 I wrote one of my first stories post-October 7th on this very topic.

    Within a month of October 7, eight BBC journalists wrote to Al Jazeera saying “the corporation is failing to humanise Palestinians . . .  investing greater effort in humanising Israeli victims compared with Palestinians, and omitting key historical context in coverage.”

    CNN staff told British colleagues last year that their network’s pro-Israel slant amounts to “journalistic malpractice”.

    Hats off to Novara Media, one of the larger alternative news and analysis platforms for its exposure of bias. What they found was that Palestinians are “killed” whereas Israelis are “massacred” or “slaughtered”.

    Checking over 1000 articles by the UK’s supposedly progressive, left-leaning outlets — The Guardian, The Independent, Daily Mirror – Novara found that “all three publications favoured Israeli lives, narratives and voices.”

    Taking a list of emotive words they cross-checked and found that 77 percent were about violence against Israelis and only 23 percent about Palestinians. Well over 95 percent of victims of violence are Palestinians, 100 percent of land thefts are by Israelis. Facts matter.

    Journalism ‘used’ for racist war crimes
     This is journalism being used in the service of racist war crimes, used to normalise the mistreatment of prisoners and other Palestinian untermenschen.

    In the case of The Independent, it ran 70 stories on Israeli hostages (who at peak numbered about 250) and just one story on a Palestinian hostage (they number over 10,000).

    British journalist Owen Jones deserves a medal for reports like: “BBC in Civil War over Gaza.” The report details the efforts of journalists within the organisation to deliver more balanced coverage but the extent to which those efforts are thwarted by powerful pro-Israel operatives within the corporation who ensure “systematic pro-Israel propaganda at the corporation.”

    Palestinian lawmaker Khalida Jarrar (centre) with her daughter Suha. This story appeared in Electronic Intifada. Its author Ali Abunimah was arrested in Switzerland this week to prevent him giving a speech. Image: www.solidarity.co.nz

    “This unprecedented slaughter could not have happened without powerful cheerleaders,” Jones said in a recent piece about media co-conspirators with Israel in the genocide. “Hold them to account.”

    Damn right. I pray to whatever gods may be that justice will one day be served on all those who by their actions or by their “journalism” allowed these crimes to be committed.

    I’ll give the last word to Khalida Jarrar as I wish her a full and speedy recovery:

    “All I wanted was to bid my daughter a final farewell – with a kiss on her forehead and to tell her I love her as much as I love Palestine.”

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government aims to crack down on rogue higher education operators

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Proposed reforms to tighten rules around franchising and crack down on fraud in the student finance system that cost taxpayers £2m in 2022/23.   

    Tough new reforms proposed by the Department for Education would tighten controls on university franchising arrangements in England to safeguard public money and shore up the reputation of our world class higher education sector.   

    Franchising enables universities to subcontract courses to external providers. When done right, it makes it easier for more students to access higher education, especially in areas where options are limited, or when people such as mature students are balancing study around work and life.    

    The number of students studying at franchised providers has more than doubled in recent years, with over 130,000 using their services. But an investigation by the National Audit Office (NAO) raised concerns about franchising arrangements, with fraud in the sector costing the public purse £2m in 2022/23.    

    More than half of 341 franchised institutions are currently unregistered with the Office for Students (OfS), meaning they are not directly regulated. In some cases, students are offered poor-quality courses that fail to justify their cost, showing a clear need for reform.   

    Under new government plans published for consultation today (30 January), delivery partners with 300 or more students would be required to register with the OfS to ensure their courses meet rigorous quality standards, in order to be eligible to access to student finance.   

    If the OfS finds that a provider is not meeting the standards required of registered providers, they will be publicly held to account and could risk facing fines and the suspension of their registration, in the most extreme circumstances. The OfS will also publish student outcome data for all subcontracted partnerships every year.   

    The move comes ahead of a significant package of higher education reforms due to be announced this summer that will put students first and cement universities’ status as engines of growth in their communities, as the government delivers its Plan for Change to drive economic growth and raise living standards.   

    Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said:   

    We are committed to cracking down on rogue operators who misuse public money and damage the reputation of our world-class universities.  

    Franchising can be a valuable tool to widen access to higher education, and these proposals will ensure students can trust the quality of their courses, no matter where or how they choose to study.   

    The credibility of our universities is at stake, but these proposals seek to protect students and safeguard taxpayer’s money, as part of our work to drive growth through our Plan for Change.  

    Franchising allows courses to be adapted to suit different needs and circumstances. It also helps colleges and universities work more closely together and gives new, innovative education providers a chance to get started.   

    Providers such as London South Bank University, which partners with some of the city’s top NHS teaching Trusts to help students’ studying midwifery and other front-line services, demonstrate the real-world benefits of franchising – with students achieving their qualifications alongside invaluable workplace experience, helping to address the critical shortage of healthcare professionals.   

    Universities and colleges whose names and brands are being used by franchises will remain responsible for ensuring their subcontracted arrangements meet quality and standards requirements. New regulations could come into effect as soon as spring next year, depending on the outcome of the consultation.  

    These reforms would protect the high standards of the UK’s higher education sector, which contributes around £265bn to the UK economy, ensuring it continues to drive economic growth and benefit both students and the wider economy.

    These proposals would strengthen the OfS’s ability to protect the public money that goes into franchising. The consultation aligns with the OfS’s work to strengthen conditions of registration related to governance and student interests.    

    The OfS will shortly be consulting on changes to requirements for providers that wish to join its register to ensure they are all managed and governed effectively.   

    The OfS has currently paused registration of new higher education providers to support the sector with financial sustainability concerns, after finding 72 per cent of providers could be operating in deficit by next year.   

    They expect the pause to stay in place until August 2025 but will review the decision every three months, meaning the registration process should be open again by the time the government’s proposed changes would take effect.   

    The Department for Education’s consultation will be open from 30 January to 4 April 2024. After the consultation closes, the Department for Education will review the responses and aims to publish its official response in the summer.

    DfE media enquiries

    Central newsdesk – for journalists 020 7783 8300

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK response to the President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly: UK statement to the OSCE, January 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Ambassador Neil Holland thanks the President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly for the Assembly’s work which underscores our collective commitment to strengthen democracy across the OSCE region.

    Thank you, Chair.  Madam President, welcome back to the Permanent Council and thank you for your address.  

    January is a time of new beginnings.  Here at the OSCE we have welcomed Finland as our new Chair in Office, and a new Secretary General. But sadly the agenda and the issues we face remain the same.  Russia continues to inflict its war on its neighbour, endangering the lives of ordinary citizens and threatening regional peace and stability. We have consistently supported Ukraine and the international community’s efforts to investigate, document, pursue and prosecute those committing war crimes. National parliaments and the Parliamentary Assembly have played an important role in maintaining political commitment in our capitals and promoting OSCE and national support for Ukraine. We look forward to hearing about the outcome of your upcoming visit to Kyiv.  

    Beyond Ukraine, we cannot neglect other vulnerable regions. Moldova and the South Caucasus remain unstable and we are concerned by the situation in Georgia. The OSCE has a versatile toolbox which could help address the challenges that we are witnessing and support participating States in meeting their OSCE commitments. We must ensure that it is sufficiently resourced and empowered to do that.   

    Madam President, you also mentioned the Assembly’s work on election monitoring.  This observation is an integral part of the democratic process, supporting electoral integrity and documenting whether elections are credible and inclusive. Last year was a bumper year for elections in the OSCE region including in the United Kingdom. We thank the hundreds of parliamentary observers who participated in the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s missions and those who will do so in Albania and Moldova in the coming months. This coming together in a collective exercise to strengthen democracy across the OSCE is an important manifestation of our shared commitments. 

    Madam President, we look forward to marking with you and parliamentarians from across our region the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act this summer and in doing so reinvigorating our commitment to the principles within it. We would like to thank you, Secretary General Montella and the Assembly for the work you are doing. We offer our full support to you and your excellent team and look forward to continued co-operation.

    Updates to this page

    Published 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: 1.8 million square meters of real estate have been commissioned under integrated territorial development projects

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Within the framework of integrated territorial development projects (ITD) in Russian regions, construction of residential complexes, social, transport and communal infrastructure facilities, as well as resettlement of dilapidated and hazardous housing stock continues.

    “Since 2021, when the KRT mechanism was launched, regions have had the opportunity to use it for the comprehensive development of their settlements. Since then, more and more entities have joined this work. New residential complexes and various infrastructure facilities are being built, which in turn has a positive effect on the quality of life and comfort for people. In general, more than 1.8 million square meters of real estate have been commissioned under integrated territorial development projects to date, of which about 1.6 million square meters is residential space. In total, 866 integrated territorial development projects with an area of 19.6 thousand hectares are under implementation in 77 regions across the country,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The Deputy Prime Minister noted that the total urban development potential of KRT projects under implementation amounts to 139.7 million square meters of real estate, of which 101.9 million square meters are residential areas.

    In total, the regions adopted 720 decisions on integrated development of territories, of which 217 relate to 2024. Also, 790 trade procedures were carried out and 737 contracts on integrated development of territories were concluded. In addition, 321 sets of planning documents were developed and approved for territories with an urban development potential of 36.6 million sq. m.

    “The selection of new territories for integrated development is also continuing throughout the country. Today, 1,429 territories with a total area of 35.7 thousand hectares are being developed. The urban development potential of these sites reaches 252.3 million square meters, of which 182.6 million square meters are housing,” said First Deputy Minister of Construction and Housing and Public Utilities Alexander Lomakin.

    The resettlement of dilapidated and emergency housing is also one of the priorities for the application of the KRT in the regions.

    “Currently, the resettlement of dilapidated and emergency housing under the KRT projects is being carried out in 32 regions. As of today, 228.25 thousand square meters of housing have been resettled, including 195.49 thousand square meters of emergency housing. More than 13 thousand people were able to improve their living conditions. This work will continue in 2025,” noted Ilshat Shagiakhmetov, CEO of the Territorial Development Fund.

    Integrated development of territories also covers land plots that belong to the Russian Federation. The Government Commission for the Development of Housing Construction and Evaluation of the Efficiency of Using Land Plots Owned by the Russian Federation has made positive decisions on 78 such KRT projects in 38 regions with a total urban development potential of 17 million sq. m.

    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 Video: DR Congo, Palestine & other topics – Daily Press Briefing (29 January)

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Noon briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.

    Highlights:
    Senior Personnel Appointment
    Democratic Republic of the Congo/Peacekeeping
    Democratic Republic of the Congo/Security Council
    Democratic Republic of the Congo/Humanitarian
    Occupied Palestinian Territory
    Syria
    Peace Operations
    Ukraine
    Myanmar
    Lunar New Year

    SENIOR PERSONNEL APPOINTMENT
    Yesterday, the Secretary-General appointed Lt. Gen. Ulisses De Mesquita Gomes of Brazil as the new Force Commander for the UN Peacekeeping Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).

    DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO / PEACEKEEPING
    The peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo – MONUSCO- say that the situation in Goma remains tense today, but it is also calmer. But there is, however, continued sporadic shooting but an overall reduction in exchanges of fire within the city.
    Continued clashes have been reported in surrounding areas, including in Sake, Northwest of Goma.
    The Mission’s priority right now remains the protection of its personnel, its assets and the many civilians sheltering within UN premises. UN peacekeepers are planning on sending patrols today in Goma to assess the situation, to conduct resupplies and assess routes.
    In the capital, Kinshasa, the situation is also calm today despite calls for protests that we have seen. The main roads are reported to be empty, and supermarkets are closed due to high risk of looting. That is what the peacekeeping mission is reporting.
    You will also remember that a few days ago, we paid tribute to three UN peacekeepers who were killed in the last few days. We are now able to share their names : They were Private Rodolpho Cipriano Alverez Suarez from Uruguay, who was 39; Private Mokote Joseph Mobe, aged 33, and Private Andries Tshidiso Mabele, aged 30. The latter two were from South Africa. We send our deepest condolences to their families, their friends, governments and to all members of the peacekeeping mission.
    The total number of UN peacekeepers injured since the most recent assault by the M23 now stands at 22. We reiterate that attacks against UN peacekeepers are not only unacceptable but may also constitute a war crime.

    DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO / SECURITY COUNCIL
    Yesterday afternoon, the Deputy Special Representative for Protection and Operations for the Peacekeeping Mission in Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo – MONUSCO, Vivian van de Perre, briefed Council members.
    She reiterated that the violence in the eastern part of the country has resulted in massive displacement and worsened an already dire humanitarian and protection situation. The degree of suffering that the population in Goma and neighbouring areas is enduring is truly unimaginable, she said.
    In the past few days, Ms. Van de Perre told Council members that the peacekeeping mission has received a large number of people seeking refuge.
    She called on all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians, open humanitarian corridors, and work towards a sustainable and peaceful resolution to this conflict.
    Resuming the Luanda Process is of the utmost urgency to ensure a path toward de-escalation and to avert the looming threat of a third Congo war, she added. Military action cannot resolve this conflict, she told council members

    Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/ossg/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=29+January+2025

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

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: East Africa Energy Cooperation Summit (EA-ECS) and the East African Community (EAC): Driving Energy Across the Region

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

    ARUSHA, Tanzania, January 30, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The expansion of the East African regional energy sector is happening right now and is set for future growth. This was the clear message from the East Africa Energy Cooperation Summit (EA-ECS) as the two-day summit kicked off in Arusha.  

    Africa’s energy IPPs, EPCF stakeholders, investors and policy makers were welcomed to a summit set to shape the future of East Africa’s energy landscape by Jean-Baptiste Havugimana, Director Productive Sectors, East African Community (EAC). 

    Speaking at the opening ceremony, he noted that the access to electricity in the East African region is currently below 50 percent on average, although countries such as Kenya have gone beyond 75 percent. 

    “The EAC Secretariat is cooperating with all Member States to increase the rate of access. This is being achieved through shared mini hydro power grids strategically placed along border regions. The EAC is also working to establish a regional power exchange market for shared resources,” said Mr.Havugimana. 

    Abundant resource discoveries and large-scale projects highlight East Africa’s readiness for market expansion like never before. In the round table titled “Powering East Africa—The Time Is Now,” leaders from the public sector and utilities from Malawi, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania discussed the vision and roadmap for the future.  

    Costa Rubagumya, Deputy MD, TANESCO, Tanzania said, “Our country connects an average of 500,000 new clients per year. But with Tanzania being among the 12 signatories of Mission 300, from the recent African Energy Summit, the country targets to triple the number to 1.6 million new customers per annum.” 

    With the theme “Resource Wealth. Energy Access. Investment Opportunities” the two-day summit will explore what this means for private sector opportunities in depth.  

    Some of the discussions expected to take center stage  is the push for alternative sources of energy.  Stakeholders have emphasized the importance of a diversified energy mix to ensure grid stability and support large-scale industrial expansion and commercial and industrial (C&I) power generation.  

    Joseph Siror , the Managing Director and  Chief Executive Officer of Kenya Power and Lighting (KPLC) said the East African countries should now move away from over dependency on Hydro sources of energy. He pointed out that, with climate change and fluctuating weather patterns, hydroelectricity is no longer reliable and the EAC region must now consider auxiliary power sources such as Geothermal, Solar, Wind and Biogas. 

    EA-ECS is welcoming prominent politicians and leaders from across the EAC and its energy sector. They join the private sector business developers shaping the future of East Africa’s energy landscape.  

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: YieldMax™ Launches Option Income Strategy ETF on CARVANA CO. (CVNA)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO and MILWAUKEE and NEW YORK, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YieldMax™ announced the launch today of the following ETF:

    YieldMax™ CARVANA Option Income Strategy ETF (NYSE Arca: CVNY)

    CVNY seeks to generate current income by pursuing options-based strategies on CARVANA CO. (CVNA). CVNY is actively managed by Tidal Financial Group. CNVY does not invest directly in CVNA.

    CVNY is the newest member of the YieldMax™ ETF family and like all YieldMax™ ETFs, aims to deliver current income to investors. With respect to distributions, CVNY will be a Group C ETF and its first distribution is expected to be announced on March 5, 2025. Please see table below for distribution information for all outstanding YieldMax™ ETFs as of January 29, 2025.

    ETF Ticker1 ETF Name Reference Asset Distribution per Share2
    TSLY YieldMax™ TSLA Option Income Strategy ETF TSLA $ 0.7170
    OARK YieldMax™ Innovation Option Income Strategy ETF ARKK $ 0.3298
    APLY YieldMax™ AAPL Option Income Strategy ETF AAPL $ 0.2841
    NVDY YieldMax™ NVDA Option Income Strategy ETF NVDA $ 0.8294
    AMZY YieldMax™ AMZN Option Income Strategy ETF AMZN $ 0.4005
    FBY YieldMax™ META Option Income Strategy ETF META $ 0.6390
    GOOY YieldMax™ GOOGL Option Income Strategy ETF GOOGL $ 0.3324
    NFLY YieldMax™ NFLX Option Income Strategy ETF NFLX $ 0.5830
    CONY YieldMax™ COIN Option Income Strategy ETF COIN $ 0.8339
    MSFO YieldMax™ MSFT Option Income Strategy ETF MSFT $ 0.3667
    DISO YieldMax™ DIS Option Income Strategy ETF DIS $ 0.2782
    XOMO YieldMax™ XOM Option Income Strategy ETF XOM $ 0.3485
    JPMO YieldMax™ JPM Option Income Strategy ETF JPM $ 0.6929
    AMDY YieldMax™ AMD Option Income Strategy ETF AMD $ 0.3404
    PYPY YieldMax™ PYPL Option Income Strategy ETF PYPL $ 0.4264
    SQY YieldMax™ SQ Option Income Strategy ETF SQ $ 0.6338
    MRNY YieldMax™ MRNA Option Income Strategy ETF MRNA $ 0.2730
    AIYY YieldMax™ AI Option Income Strategy ETF AI $ 0.3763
    YMAX YieldMax™ Universe Fund of Option Income ETFs Multiple $ 0.1469
    YMAG YieldMax™ Magnificent 7 Fund of Option Income ETFs Multiple $ 0.1898
    MSTY YieldMax™ MSTR Option Income Strategy ETF MSTR $ 2.2792
    ULTY YieldMax™ Ultra Option Income Strategy ETF Multiple $ 0.5715
    YBIT YieldMax™ Bitcoin Option Income Strategy ETF Bitcoin ETP $ 0.7893
    CRSH YieldMax™ Short TSLA Option Income Strategy ETF TSLA $ 0.2862
    GDXY YieldMax™ Gold Miners Option Income Strategy ETF GDX® $ 0.5937
    SNOY YieldMax™ SNOW Option Income Strategy ETF SNOW $ 0.7392
    ABNY YieldMax™ ABNB Option Income Strategy ETF ABNB $ 0.4220
    FIAT YieldMax™ Short COIN Option Income Strategy ETF COIN $ 0.6530
    DIPS YieldMax™ Short NVDA Option Income Strategy ETF NVDA $ 0.5026
    BABO YieldMax™ BABA Option Income Strategy ETF BABA $ 0.4693
    YQQQ YieldMax™ Short N100 Option Income Strategy ETF N100 $ 0.3873
    TSMY YieldMax™ TSM Option Income Strategy ETF TSM $ 0.6449
    SMCY YieldMax™ SMCI Option Income Strategy ETF SMCI $ 1.7215
    PLTY YieldMax™ PLTR Option Income Strategy ETF PLTR $ 2.9826
    BIGY YieldMax™ Target 12™ Big 50 Option Income ETF Multiple $ 0.5130
    SOXY YieldMax™ Target 12™ Semiconductor Option Income ETF Multiple $ 0.5256
    MARO YieldMax™ MARA Option Income Strategy ETF MARA $ 2.1002
    FEAT YieldMax™ Dorsey Wright Featured 5 Income ETF Multiple $ 2.1944
    FIVY YieldMax™ Dorsey Wright Hybrid 5 Income ETF Multiple $ 1.6771
    LFGY YieldMax™ Crypto Industry & Tech Option Income ETF Multiple $ 0.6294
    GPTY* YieldMax™ AI & Tech Option Income ETF Multiple   –

    Note: DIPS, FIAT, CRSH and YQQQ are hereinafter referred to as the “Short ETFs” and “ADR” stands for American Depositary Receipt.

    You are not guaranteed a distribution under the ETFs. Distributions for the ETFs (if any) are variable and may vary significantly from period to period and may be zero.

    Investors in the Funds will not have rights to receive dividends or other distributions with respect to the underlying reference asset(s).

    *The inception date for GPTY is January 22, 2025.

    1Each ETF’s strategy (except those of the Short ETFs) will cap potential gains if its reference asset’s shares increase in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset’s shares decrease in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF. Each Short ETF’s strategy will cap potential gains if its reference asset decreases in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset increases in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF.

    2 The Distribution per Share is the most recently declared such amount as of close on January 29, 2025.

    Each Fund has a limited operating history and while each Fund’s objective is to provide current income, there is no guarantee the Fund will make a distribution. Distributions are likely to vary greatly in amount.

    Important Information

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

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

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

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

    Risk Disclosures (applicable to all YieldMax ETFs referenced above, except the Short ETFs)

    YMAX, YMAG, FEAT and FIVY generally invest in other YieldMax™ ETFs. As such, these two Funds are subject to the risks listed in this section, which apply to all the YieldMax™ ETFs they may hold from time to time.

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

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

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

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

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

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given month. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

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

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

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

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

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

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, which focuses on an individual security (ARKK, TSLA, AAPL, NVDA, AMZN, META, GOOGL, NFLX, COIN, MSFT, DIS, XOM, JPM, AMD, PYPL, SQ, MRNA, AI, MSTR, Bitcoin ETP, GDX®, SNOW, ABNB, BABA, TSM, SMCI, PLTR, MARA, CVNA), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole.

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

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GPTY)

    Artificial Intelligence Risk. Issuers engaged in artificial intelligence typically have high research and capital expenditures and, as a result, their profitability can vary widely, if they are profitable at all. The space in which they are engaged is highly competitive and issuers’ products and services may become obsolete very quickly. These companies are heavily dependent on intellectual property rights and may be adversely affected by loss or impairment of those rights. The issuers are also subject to legal, regulatory and political changes that may have a large impact on their profitability. A failure in an issuer’s product or even questions about the safety of the product could be devastating to the issuer, especially if it is the marquee product of the issuer. It can be difficult to accurately capture what qualifies as an artificial intelligence company.

    Technology Sector Risk. The Fund will invest substantially in companies in the information technology sector, and therefore the performance of the Fund could be negatively impacted by events affecting this sector. Market or economic factors impacting technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technological advances could have a significant effect on the value of the Fund’s investments. The value of stocks of information technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technology is particularly vulnerable to rapid changes in technology product cycles, rapid product obsolescence, government regulation and competition, both domestically and internationally, including competition from foreign competitors with lower production costs. Stocks of information technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technology, especially those of smaller, less-seasoned companies, tend to be more volatile than the overall market. Information technology companies are heavily dependent on patent and intellectual property rights, the loss or impairment of which may adversely affect profitability.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to MARO)

    Digital Assets Risk: The Fund does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. The Fund does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. The Fund does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than the Fund. Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to BABO and TSMY)

    Currency Risk: Indirect exposure to foreign currencies subjects the Fund to the risk that currencies will decline in value relative to the U.S. dollar. Currency rates in foreign countries may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time for a number of reasons, including changes in interest rates and the imposition of currency controls or other political developments in the U.S. or abroad.

    Depositary Receipts Risk: Investment in ADRs may be less liquid than the underlying shares in their primary trading market.

    Foreign Market and Trading Risk: The trading markets for many foreign securities are not as active as U.S. markets and may have less governmental regulation and oversight.

    Foreign Securities Risk: Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers involve certain risks that may not be present with investments in securities of U.S. issuers, such as risk of loss due to foreign currency fluctuations or to political or economic instability, as well as varying regulatory requirements applicable to investments in non-U.S. issuers. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. issuer than a U.S. issuer. Non-U.S. issuers may also be subject to different regulatory, accounting, auditing, financial reporting and investor protection standards than U.S. issuers.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GDXY)

    Risk of Investing in Foreign Securities. The Fund is exposed indirectly to the securities of foreign issuers selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies. Investments in the securities of foreign issuers involve risks beyond those associated with investments in U.S. securities.

    Risk of Investing in Gold and Silver Mining Companies. The Fund is exposed indirectly to gold and silver mining companies selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies.

    The Fund invests in options contracts based on the value of the VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX®), which subjects the Fund to some of the same risks as if it owned GDX®, as well as the risks associated with Canadian, Australian and Emerging Market Issuers, and Small-and Medium-Capitalization companies.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YBIT)

    YBIT does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than YBIT.

    Bitcoin Investment Risk: The Fund’s indirect investment in Bitcoin, through holdings in one or more Underlying ETPs, exposes it to the unique risks of this emerging innovation. Bitcoin’s price is highly volatile, and its market is influenced by the changing Bitcoin network, fluctuating acceptance levels, and unpredictable usage trends.

    Digital Assets Risk: Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility. Potentially No 1940 Act Protections. As of the date of this Prospectus, there is only a single eligible Underlying ETP, and it is an investment company subject to the 1940 Act.

    Bitcoin ETP Risk: The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Bitcoin ETP. This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of the Bitcoin ETP, even though it does not. Bitcoin ETPs are subject, but not limited, to significant risk and heightened volatility. An investor in a Bitcoin ETP may lose their entire investment. Bitcoin ETPs are not suitable for all investors. In addition, not all Bitcoin ETPs are registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Those Bitcoin ETPs that are not registered under such statute are therefore not subject to the same regulations as exchange traded products that are so registered.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to the Short ETFs)

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Price Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the value of the underlying reference asset. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the underlying reference asset, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, the Fund is subject to the risk that the value of the underlying reference asset increases. If the value of the underlying reference asset increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses.

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

    Purchased OTM Call Options Risk. The Fund’s strategy is subject to potential losses if the underlying reference asset increases in value, which may not be offset by the purchase of out-of-the-money (OTM) call options. The Fund purchases OTM calls to seek to manage (cap) the Fund’s potential losses from the Fund’s short exposure to the underlying reference asset if it appreciates significantly in value. However, the OTM call options will cap the Fund’s losses only to the extent that the value of the underlying reference asset increases to a level that is at or above the strike level of the purchased OTM call options. Any increase in the value of the underlying reference asset to a level that is below the strike level of the purchased OTM call options will result in a corresponding loss for the Fund. For example, if the OTM call options have a strike level that is approximately 100% above the then-current value of the underlying reference asset at the time of the call option purchase, and the value of the underlying reference asset increases by at least 100% during the term of the purchased OTM call options, the Fund will lose all its value. Since the Fund bears the costs of purchasing the OTM calls, such costs will decrease the Fund’s value and/or any income otherwise generated by the Fund’s investment strategy.

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

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

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

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given month. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings.

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

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

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

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

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, for any Fund that focuses on an individual security (e.g., TSLA, COIN, NVDA), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole.

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

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YQQQ)

    Index Overview. The Nasdaq 100 Index is a benchmark index that includes 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market, based on market capitalization.

    Index Level Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the Index level. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the Index, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the Index level, the Fund is subject to the risk that the Index level increases. If the Index level increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses. The Fund may also be subject to the following risks: innovation and technological advancement; strong market presence of Index constituent companies; adaptability to global market trends; and resilience and recovery potential.

    Index Level Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will benefit from decreases in the Index level experienced over the Put Period. This means that if the Index level experiences a decrease in value below the strike level of the sold put options during a Put Period, the Fund will likely not experience that increase to the same extent and any Fund gains may significantly differ from the level of the Index losses over the Put Period. Additionally, because the Fund is limited in the degree to which it will participate in decreases in value experienced by the Index level over each Put Period, but has significant negative exposure to any increases in value experienced by the Index level over the Put Period, the NAV of the Fund may decrease over any given time period. The Fund’s NAV is dependent on the value of each options portfolio, which is based principally upon the inverse of the performance of the Index level. The Fund’s ability to benefit from the Index level decreases will depend on prevailing market conditions, especially market volatility, at the time the Fund enters into the sold put option contracts and will vary from Put Period to Put Period. The value of the options contracts is affected by changes in the value and dividend rates of component companies that comprise the Index, changes in interest rates, changes in the actual or perceived volatility of the Index and the remaining time to the options’ expiration, as well as trading conditions in the options market. As the Index level changes and time moves towards the expiration of each Put Period, the value of the options contracts, and therefore the Fund’s NAV, will change. However, it is not expected for the Fund’s NAV to directly inversely correlate on a day-to-day basis with the returns of the Index level. The amount of time remaining until the options contract’s expiration date affects the impact that the value of the options contracts has on the Fund’s NAV, which may not be in full effect until the expiration date of the Fund’s options contracts. Therefore, while changes in the Index level will result in changes to the Fund’s NAV, the Fund generally anticipates that the rate of change in the Fund’s NAV will be different than the inverse of the changes experienced by the Index level.

    Holdings

    As of January 29, 2025, the YieldMax™ CARVANA Option Income Strategy ETF did not hold any shares of CARVANA CO. (CVNA). As of such date, the holdings of CVNA in such fund were 0.00%.

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

    © 2025 YieldMax™ ETFs

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Roper Technologies announces 2024 financial results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SARASOTA, Fla., Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Roper Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: ROP) reported financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024. The results in this press release are presented on a continuing operations basis.

    Fourth quarter 2024 highlights

    • Revenue increased 16% to $1.88 billion; acquisition contribution was +9% and organic revenue was +7%
    • Operating cash flow was $722 million; adjusted operating cash flow increased 13%
    • GAAP net earnings increased 22% to $462 million; adjusted net earnings increased 10% to $520 million
    • Adjusted EBITDA increased 13% to $744 million
    • GAAP DEPS increased 22% to $4.28; adjusted DEPS increased 10% to $4.81

    Full year 2024 highlights

    • Revenue increased 14% to $7.04 billion; acquisition contribution was +8% and organic revenue was +6%
    • Operating cash flow was $2.39 billion; adjusted operating cash flow increased 16%
    • GAAP net earnings increased 13% to $1.55 billion; adjusted net earnings increased 10% to $1.98 billion
    • Adjusted EBITDA increased 13% to $2.83 billion
    • GAAP DEPS increased 13% to $14.35; adjusted DEPS increased 10% to $18.31

    “It was an outstanding year for Roper’s long-term cash flow compounding model. We grew free cash flow 16% to $2.3 billion, surpassing the $2 billion milestone for the first time in our history,” said Neil Hunn, Roper Technologies’ President and CEO. “Our total revenue growth of 14% for the year was driven by 6% organic growth and an 8% contribution from our disciplined and process-driven capital deployment capability. To this end, we deployed $3.6 billion of capital toward high-quality vertical software acquisitions, highlighted by Procare Solutions, a leading early childhood education software company, and Transact Campus, which was successfully combined with our CBORD education & healthcare software business.”

    2025 outlook and guidance

    “Roper not only grew substantially in 2024, but we enter 2025 as a fundamentally better company. This past year, we upgraded key leadership talent, expanded our capital deployment function, and advanced our operating model. As a result, we are entering 2025 with broad-based and positive momentum. Our double-digit 2025 total revenue growth outlook is fueled by improving organic growth and meaningful contributions from our 2024 acquisitions. We believe these growth trends, combined with our significant M&A firepower and large pipeline of attractive acquisition opportunities, position Roper well to continue delivering compelling long-term cash flow compounding for our shareholders,” concluded Mr. Hunn.

    Roper expects full year 2025 adjusted DEPS of $19.75 – $20.00 with first quarter adjusted DEPS of $4.70 – $4.74. The Company expects full year total revenue growth of 10%+, with organic revenue growth of +6 – 7%.

    The Company’s guidance excludes the impact of unannounced future acquisitions or divestitures.

    Conference call to be held at 8:00 AM (ET) today

    A conference call to discuss these results has been scheduled for 8:00 AM ET on Thursday, January 30, 2025. The call can be accessed via webcast or by dialing +1 800-836-8184 (US/Canada) or +1 646-357-8785, using conference call ID 30275. Webcast information and conference call materials will be made available in the Investors section of Roper’s website (www.ropertech.com) prior to the start of the call. The webcast can also be accessed directly by using the following URL https://event.webcast. Telephonic replays will be available for up to two weeks and can be accessed by dialing +1 646-517-4150 with access code 30275#.

    Use of non-GAAP financial information

    The Company supplements its consolidated financial statements presented on a GAAP basis with certain non-GAAP financial information to provide investors with greater insight, increase transparency and allow for a more comprehensive understanding of the information used by management in its financial and operational decision-making. Reconciliation of non-GAAP measures to their most directly comparable GAAP measures are included in the accompanying financial schedules or tables. The non-GAAP financial measures disclosed by the Company should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, and the financial results prepared in accordance with GAAP and reconciliations from these results should be carefully evaluated.

    Minority interests

    Following the sale of a majority stake in its industrial businesses to CD&R, Roper holds a minority interest in Indicor. The fair value of Roper’s equity investment in Indicor is updated on a quarterly basis and reported as “equity investments gain, net.” During the quarter, Roper sold its minority interest in Certinia and recognized the associated gain within “equity investments gain, net.” Roper makes non-GAAP adjustments for the impacts associated with these investments.

    Table 1: Revenue and adjusted EBITDA reconciliation ($M)
    (from continuing operations)
      Q4 2023   Q4 2024   V %   FY 2023   FY 2024   V %
    GAAP revenue $ 1,613     $ 1,877       16 %   $ 6,178     $ 7,039       14 %
                           
    Components of revenue growth                      
    Organic           7 %             6 %
    Acquisitions           9 %             8 %
    Foreign exchange           — %             — %
    Revenue growth           16 %             14 %
                           
    Adjusted EBITDA reconciliation                      
    GAAP net earnings $ 378     $ 462         $ 1,368     $ 1,549      
    Taxes   99       128           375       418      
    Interest expense   50       71           165       259      
    Depreciation   9       9           35       37      
    Amortization   187       202           720       776      
    EBITDA $ 723     $ 873       21 %   $ 2,663     $ 3,039       14 %
                           
    Restructuring-related expenses associated with the Syntellis (’23) and Transact (’24) acquisitions   —       —           9       9      
    Transaction-related expenses for completed acquisitions   3       1           8       8      
    Financial impacts associated with the minority investments in Indicor & CertiniaA   (67 )     (141 )         (165 )     (235 )    
    Gain on sale of non-operating assets   —       —           (3 )     —      
    Legal settlement charge   —       11           —       11      
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 659     $ 744      13 %   $ 2,511     $ 2,832       13 %
    % of revenue   40.8 %     39.6 %    (120 bps )     40.6 %     40.2 %     (40 bps )
    Table 2: Adjusted net earnings reconciliation ($M)
    (from continuing operations)
      Q4 2023   Q4 2024   V %   FY 2023   FY 2024   V %
    GAAP net earnings $ 378     $ 462       22 %   $ 1,368     $ 1,549       13 %
    Restructuring-related expenses associated with the Syntellis (’23) and Transact (’24) acquisitions   —       —           7       7      
    Transaction-related expenses for completed acquisitions   2       1           6       6      
    Financial impacts associated with the minority investments in Indicor & CertiniaA   (52 )     (105 )         (135 )     (182 )    
    Gain on sale of non-operating assets   —       —           (3 )     —      
    Legal settlement charge   —       9           —       9      
    Amortization of acquisition-related
    intangible assetsB    		   143       153           552       588      
    Adjusted net earningsC $ 471     $ 520       10 %   $ 1,795     $ 1,978       10 %
    Table 3: Adjusted DEPS reconciliation
    (from continuing operations)
      Q4 2023   Q4 2024   V %   FY 2023   FY 2024   V %
    GAAP DEPS $ 3.50     $ 4.28       22 %   $ 12.74     $ 14.35       13 %
    Restructuring-related expenses associated with the Syntellis (’23) and Transact (’24) acquisitions   —       —           0.06       0.07      
    Transaction-related expenses for completed acquisitions   0.02       0.01           0.06       0.06      
    Financial impacts associated with the minority investments in Indicor & CertiniaA   (0.48 )     (0.97 )         (1.25 )     (1.68 )    
    Gain on sale of non-operating assets   —       —           (0.02 )     —      
    Legal settlement charge   —       0.08           —       0.08      
    Amortization of acquisition-related intangible assetsB   1.33       1.41           5.13       5.45      
    Adjusted DEPSC $ 4.37     $ 4.81       10 %   $ 16.71     $ 18.31       10 %
    Table 4: Adjusted cash flow reconciliation ($M)
    (from continuing operations)
      Q4 2023   Q4 2024   V %   FY 2023   FY 2024   V %
    Operating cash flow $ 622     $ 722       16 %   $ 2,037     $ 2,393       17 %
    Taxes paid in period related to divestiture   16       —           32       —      
    Adjusted operating cash flow $ 638     $ 722       13 %   $ 2,070     $ 2,393       16 %
    Capital expenditures   (30 )     (27 )         (68 )     (66 )    
    Capitalized software expenditures   (11 )     (12 )         (40 )     (45 )    
    Adjusted free cash flow $ 596     $ 684       15 %   $ 1,962     $ 2,282       16 %
    Table 5: Forecasted adjusted DEPS reconciliation
    (from continuing operations)
      Q1 2025   FY 2025
      Low End   High End   Low End   High End
    GAAP DEPSD $ 3.29     $ 3.33     $ 14.21     $ 14.46  
    Financial impacts associated with the minority investment in IndicorA   TBD       TBD       TBD       TBD  
    Amortization of acquisition-related intangible assetsB   1.41       1.41       5.54       5.54  
    Adjusted DEPSC $ 4.70     $ 4.74     $ 19.75     $ 20.00  

    Footnotes:

    A. Adjustments related to the financial impacts associated with the minority investments in Indicor & Certinia as shown below ($M, except per share data). Forecasted results do not include any potential impacts associated with our minority investment in Indicor, as these potential impacts cannot be reasonably predicted. These impacts will be excluded from all non-GAAP results in future periods.
                                 
        Q4 2023A   Q4 2024A     FY 2023A   FY 2024A     Q1 2025E   FY 2025E
      Pretax $ (67 )   $ (141 )     $ (165 )   $ (235 )     TBD   TBD
      After-tax $ (52 )   $ (105 )     $ (135 )   $ (182 )     TBD   TBD
      Per share $ (0.48 )   $ (0.97 )     $ (1.25 )   $ (1.68 )     TBD   TBD
                                 
    B. Actual results and forecast of estimated amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets as shown below ($M, except per share data).
                                 
        Q4 2023A   Q4 2024A     FY 2023A   FY 2024A     Q1 2025E   FY 2025E
      Pretax $ 181     $ 193       $ 698     $ 745       $ 193   $ 762
      After-tax $ 143     $ 153       $ 552     $ 588       $ 153   $ 602
      Per share $ 1.33     $ 1.41       $ 5.13     $ 5.45       $ 1.41   $ 5.54
                                 
    C. All actual and forecasted non-GAAP adjustments are taxed at 21% with the exception of the financial impacts associated with minority investments.
                                 
    D. Forecasted GAAP DEPS do not include any potential impacts associated with our minority investment in Indicor. These impacts will be excluded from all non-GAAP results in future periods.
       

    Note: Numbers may not foot due to rounding.

    About Roper Technologies

    Roper Technologies is a constituent of the Nasdaq 100, S&P 500, and Fortune 1000. Roper has a proven, long-term track record of compounding cash flow and shareholder value. The Company operates market leading businesses that design and develop vertical software and technology enabled products for a variety of defensible niche markets. Roper utilizes a disciplined, analytical, and process-driven approach to redeploy its excess capital toward high-quality acquisitions. Additional information about Roper is available on the Company’s website at www.ropertech.com.

    Contact information:
    Investor Relations
    941-556-2601
    investor-relations@ropertech.com

    The information provided in this press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These forward-looking statements may include, among others, statements regarding operating results, the success of our internal operating plans, and the prospects for newly acquired businesses to be integrated and contribute to future growth, profit and cash flow expectations. Forward-looking statements may be indicated by words or phrases such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “plans,” “expects,” “projects,” “should,” “will,” “believes,” “intends” and similar words and phrases. These statements reflect management’s current beliefs and are not guarantees of future performance. They involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Such risks and uncertainties include our ability to identify and complete acquisitions consistent with our business strategies, integrate acquisitions that have been completed, realize expected benefits and synergies from, and manage other risks associated with, acquired businesses, including obtaining any required regulatory approvals with respect thereto. We also face other general risks, including our ability to realize cost savings from our operating initiatives, general economic conditions and the conditions of the specific markets in which we operate, including risks related to labor shortages and rising interest rates, changes in foreign exchange rates, risks related to changing U.S. and foreign trade policies, including increased trade restrictions or tariffs, risks associated with our international operations, cybersecurity and data privacy risks, including litigation resulting therefrom, risks related to political instability, armed hostilities, incidents of terrorism, public health crises (such as the COVID-19 pandemic) or natural disasters, increased product liability and insurance costs, increased warranty exposure, future competition, changes in the supply of, or price for, parts and components, including as a result of inflation and potential supply chain constraints, environmental compliance costs and liabilities, risks and cost associated with litigation, potential write-offs of our substantial intangible assets, and risks associated with obtaining governmental approvals and maintaining regulatory compliance for new and existing products. Important risks may be discussed in current and subsequent filings with the SEC. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. These statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update publicly any of them in light of new information or future events.

     

    Roper Technologies, Inc.      
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited)
    (Amounts in millions)      
           
      December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
    ASSETS:      
           
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 188.2     $ 214.3  
    Accounts receivable, net   885.1       829.9  
    Inventories, net   120.8       118.6  
    Income taxes receivable   25.6       47.7  
    Unbilled receivables   127.3       106.4  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   195.7       164.5  
    Total current assets   1,542.7       1,481.4  
           
    Property, plant and equipment, net   149.7       119.6  
    Goodwill   19,312.9       17,118.8  
    Other intangible assets, net   9,059.6       8,212.1  
    Deferred taxes   54.1       32.2  
    Equity investments   772.3       795.7  
    Other assets   443.4       407.7  
    Total assets $ 31,334.7     $ 28,167.5  
           
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:      
           
    Accounts payable $ 148.1     $ 143.0  
    Accrued compensation   289.0       250.0  
    Deferred revenue   1,737.4       1,583.8  
    Other accrued liabilities   546.2       446.5  
    Income taxes payable   68.4       40.4  
    Current portion of long-term debt, net   1,043.1       499.5  
    Total current liabilities   3,832.2       2,963.2  
           
    Long-term debt, net of current portion   6,579.9       5,830.6  
    Deferred taxes   1,630.6       1,513.1  
    Other liabilities   424.4       415.8  
    Total liabilities   12,467.1       10,722.7  
           
    Common stock   1.1       1.1  
    Additional paid-in capital   3,014.6       2,767.0  
    Retained earnings   16,034.9       14,816.3  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (166.5 )     (122.8 )
    Treasury stock   (16.5 )     (16.8 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   18,867.6       17,444.8  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 31,334.7     $ 28,167.5  
           
    Roper Technologies, Inc.          
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings (unaudited)
    (Amounts in millions, except per share data)
                   
      Three months ended December 31,   Year ended December 31,
        2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net revenues $ 1,877.1     $ 1,613.5     $ 7,039.2     $ 6,177.8  
    Cost of sales   594.8       488.3       2,160.9       1,870.6  
    Gross profit   1,282.3       1,125.2       4,878.3       4,307.2  
                   
    Selling, general and administrative expenses   757.6       662.4       2,881.5       2,562.0  
    Income from operations   524.7       462.8       1,996.8       1,745.2  
                   
    Interest expense, net   70.8       50.1       259.2       164.7  
    Equity investments gain, net   (141.0 )     (66.7 )     (234.6 )     (165.4 )
    Other expense, net   4.1       2.7       5.0       2.8  
                   
    Earnings before income taxes   590.8       476.7       1,967.2       1,743.1  
                   
    Income taxes   128.5       99.2       417.9       374.7  
                   
    Net earnings from continuing operations   462.3       377.5       1,549.3       1,368.4  
                   
    Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax   —       —       —       (4.1 )
    Gain on disposition of discontinued operations, net of tax   —       11.5       —       19.9  
    Net earnings from discontinued operations   —       11.5       —       15.8  
                   
    Net earnings $ 462.3     $ 389.0     $ 1,549.3     $ 1,384.2  
                   
    Net earnings per share from continuing operations:              
    Basic $ 4.31     $ 3.53     $ 14.47     $ 12.83  
    Diluted $ 4.28     $ 3.50     $ 14.35     $ 12.74  
                   
    Net earnings per share from discontinued operations:              
    Basic $ —     $ 0.11     $ —     $ 0.15  
    Diluted $ —     $ 0.11     $ —     $ 0.15  
                   
    Net earnings per share:              
    Basic $ 4.31     $ 3.64     $ 14.47     $ 12.98  
    Diluted $ 4.28     $ 3.61     $ 14.35     $ 12.89  
                   
    Weighted average common shares outstanding:              
    Basic   107.3       106.9       107.1       106.6  
    Diluted   108.1       107.7       108.0       107.4  
    Roper Technologies, Inc.            
    Selected Segment Financial Data (unaudited)            
    (Amounts in millions; percentages of net revenues)            
                                   
      Three months ended December 31,   Year ended December 31,
        2024       2023       2024       2023  
      Amount   %   Amount   %   Amount   %   Amount   %
    Net revenues:                              
    Application Software $ 1,056.9         $ 851.8         $ 3,868.3         $ 3,186.9      
    Network Software   373.5           362.7           1,475.6           1,439.4      
    Technology Enabled Products   446.7           399.0           1,695.3           1,551.5      
    Total $ 1,877.1         $ 1,613.5         $ 7,039.2         $ 6,177.8      
                                   
                                   
    Gross profit:                              
    Application Software $ 708.0       67.0 %   $ 586.6       68.9 %   $ 2,647.6       68.4 %   $ 2,195.8       68.9 %
    Network Software   318.9       85.4 %     311.6       85.9 %     1,254.8       85.0 %     1,225.6       85.1 %
    Technology Enabled Products   255.4       57.2 %     227.0       56.9 %     975.9       57.6 %     885.8       57.1 %
    Total $ 1,282.3       68.3 %   $ 1,125.2       69.7 %   $ 4,878.3       69.3 %   $ 4,307.2       69.7 %
                                   
                                   
    Operating profit*:                              
    Application Software $ 272.9       25.8 %   $ 219.5       25.8 %   $ 1,023.4       26.5 %   $ 820.8       25.8 %
    Network Software   174.4       46.7 %     167.4       46.2 %     666.5       45.2 %     632.4       43.9 %
    Technology Enabled Products   150.3       33.6 %     127.0       31.8 %     574.3       33.9 %     518.7       33.4 %
    Total $ 597.6       31.8 %   $ 513.9       31.9 %   $ 2,264.2       32.2 %   $ 1,971.9       31.9 %
                                   
                                   
    * Segment operating profit is before unallocated corporate general and administrative expenses and enterprise-wide stock-based compensation. These expenses were $72.9 and $51.1 for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, and $267.4 and $226.7 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
    Roper Technologies, Inc.  
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited)
    (Amounts in millions)      
      Year ended December 31,
        2024       2023  
    Cash flows from operating activities:      
    Net earnings from continuing operations $ 1,549.3     $ 1,368.4  
    Adjustments to reconcile net earnings from continuing operations to cash flows from operating activities:      
    Depreciation and amortization of property, plant and equipment   37.1       35.4  
    Amortization of intangible assets   775.7       719.8  
    Amortization of deferred financing costs   9.8       9.9  
    Non-cash stock compensation   145.9       123.5  
    Equity investments gain, net   (234.6 )     (165.4 )
    Income tax provision   417.9       374.7  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquired businesses:      
    Accounts receivable   14.4       (50.2 )
    Unbilled receivables   (18.5 )     (7.5 )
    Inventories   (1.9 )     (6.6 )
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   (19.5 )     (4.3 )
    Accounts payable   (13.0 )     18.2  
    Other accrued liabilities   109.3       (1.0 )
    Deferred revenue   110.7       93.9  
    Cash taxes paid for gain on disposal of business   —       (32.5 )
    Cash income taxes paid, excluding tax associated with gain on disposal of business   (483.8 )     (423.4 )
    Other, net   (5.6 )     (15.5 )
    Cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations   2,393.2       2,037.4  
    Cash used in operating activities from discontinued operations   —       (2.3 )
    Cash provided by operating activities   2,393.2       2,035.1  
           
    Cash flows from (used in) investing activities:      
    Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired   (3,612.9 )     (2,052.7 )
    Capital expenditures   (66.0 )     (68.0 )
    Capitalized software expenditures   (45.0 )     (40.0 )
    Distributions from equity investment   10.8       32.5  
    Proceeds from sale of equity investment   245.6       —  
    Other, net   (1.0 )     (0.1 )
    Cash used in investing activities from continuing operations   (3,468.5 )     (2,128.3 )
    Cash provided by disposition of discontinued operations   —       2.0  
    Cash used in investing activities   (3,468.5 )     (2,126.3 )
           
    Cash flows from (used in) financing activities:      
    Proceeds from senior notes   2,000.0       —  
    Payments of senior notes   (500.0 )     (700.0 )
    Borrowings (payments) under revolving line of credit, net   (235.0 )     360.0  
    Debt issuance costs   (24.6 )     —  
    Cash dividends to stockholders   (321.9 )     (290.2 )
    Treasury stock sales   18.5       15.5  
    Proceeds from stock-based compensation, net   88.6       115.2  
    Other, net   43.9       —  
    Cash provided by (used in) financing activities   1,069.5       (499.5 )
           
    (Continued)
    Roper Technologies, Inc.  
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited) – Continued
    (Amounts in millions)      
      Year ended December 31,
        2024       2023  
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash   (20.3 )     12.2  
           
    Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents   (26.1 )     (578.5 )
           
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year   214.3       792.8  
           
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of year $ 188.2     $ 214.3  
           

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bread Financial Provides Performance Update for December 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    COLUMBUS, Ohio, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bread Financial®Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: BFH), a tech-forward financial services company that provides simple, personalized payment, lending and saving solutions, provided a performance update. The following tables present the Company’s net loss rate and delinquency rate for the periods indicated.

      For the
    month ended
    December 31, 2024    		   For the
    three months
    ended
    December 31, 2024
      (dollars in millions)
    End-of-period credit card and other loans $ 18,896     $ 18,896  
    Average credit card and other loans (1) $ 18,647     $ 18,156  
    Year-over-year change in average credit card and other loans (1)   — %     (1 %)
    Net principal losses (2) $ 129     $ 367  
    Net loss rate (1)(2)   8.1 %     8.0 %
                   
      As of
    December 31, 2024    		   As of
    December 31, 2023
      (dollars in millions)
    30 days + delinquencies – principal $ 1,034     $ 1,163  
    Period ended credit card and other loans – principal $ 17,418     $ 17,906  
    Delinquency rate   5.9 %     6.5 %
                   

    ______________________________

    (1) Beginning in January 2024, we revised the calculation of Average credit card and other loans to more closely align with industry practice by incorporating an average daily balance. Prior to 2024, Average credit card and other loans represent the average balance of the loans at the beginning and end of each month, averaged over the periods indicated. Consequentially, the calculations for Year-over-year change in average credit card and other loans and Net loss rate differ for the periods presented.
    (2) As a result of hurricanes Helene and Milton we froze delinquency progression for cardholders in Federal Emergency Management Agency identified impact zones for one billing cycle, which will result in modestly lower Net principal losses and Net loss rate in the fourth quarter of 2024, and consequently these actions will negatively impact Net principal losses and Net loss rate in the second quarter of 2025.
       

    About Bread Financial® 
    Bread Financial® (NYSE: BFH) is a tech-forward financial services company that provides simple, personalized payment, lending and saving solutions to millions of U.S. consumers. Our payment solutions, including Bread Financial general purpose credit cards and savings products, empower our customers and their passions for a better life. Additionally, we deliver growth for some of the most recognized brands in travel & entertainment, health & beauty, jewelry and specialty apparel through our private label and co-brand credit cards and pay-over-time products providing choice and value to our shared customers.

    To learn more about Bread Financial, our global associates and our sustainability commitments, visit breadfinancial.com or follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements give our expectations or forecasts of future events and can generally be identified by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “project,” “plan,” “likely,” “may,” “should” or other words or phrases of similar import. Similarly, statements that describe our business strategy, outlook, objectives, plans, intentions or goals also are forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements we make regarding, and the guidance we give with respect to, our anticipated operating or financial results, future financial performance and outlook, future dividend declarations, and future economic conditions.

    We believe that our expectations are based on reasonable assumptions. Forward-looking statements, however, are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and, in many cases, beyond our control. Accordingly, our actual results could differ materially from the projections, anticipated results or other expectations expressed in this release, and no assurances can be given that our expectations will prove to have been correct. Factors that could cause the outcomes to differ materially include, but are not limited to, the following: macroeconomic conditions, including market conditions, inflation, interest rates, labor market conditions, recessionary pressures or concerns over a prolonged economic slowdown, and the related impact on consumer spending behavior, payments, debt levels, savings rates and other behaviors; global political and public health events and conditions, including ongoing wars and military conflicts and natural disasters; future credit performance, including the level of future delinquency and write-off rates; the loss of, or reduction in demand from, significant brand partners or customers in the highly competitive markets in which we compete; the concentration of our business in U.S. consumer credit; inaccuracies in the models and estimates on which we rely, including the amount of our Allowance for credit losses and our credit risk management models; the inability to realize the intended benefits of acquisitions, dispositions and other strategic initiatives; our level of indebtedness and ability to access financial or capital markets; pending and future federal and state legislation, regulation, supervisory guidance, and regulatory and legal actions, including, but not limited to, those related to financial regulatory reform and consumer financial services practices, as well as any such actions with respect to late fees, interchange fees or other charges; impacts arising from or relating to the transition of our credit card processing services to third party service providers that we completed in 2022; failures or breaches in our operational or security systems, including as a result of cyberattacks, unanticipated impacts from technology modernization projects or otherwise; and any tax or other liability or adverse impacts arising out of or related to the spinoff of our former LoyaltyOne segment or the bankruptcy filings of Loyalty Ventures Inc. (LVI) and certain of its subsidiaries and subsequent litigation or other disputes. In addition, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has issued a final rule that, absent a successful legal challenge, will place significant limits on credit card late fees, which would have a significant impact on our business and results of operations for at least the short term and, depending on the effectiveness of the mitigating actions that we have taken or may in the future take in anticipation of, or in response to, the final rule, may potentially adversely impact us over the long term; we cannot provide any assurance as to the effective date of the rule, the result of any pending or future challenges or other litigation relating to the rule, or our ability to mitigate or offset the impact of the rule on our business and results of operations. The foregoing factors, along with other risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in forward-looking statements, are described in greater detail under the headings “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the most recently ended fiscal year, which may be updated in Item 1A of, or elsewhere in, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed for periods subsequent to such Form 10-K. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made, and we undertake no obligation, other than as required by applicable law, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events, anticipated or unanticipated circumstances or otherwise.

    Contacts
    Brian Vereb — Investor Relations
    Brian.Vereb@breadfinancial.com

    Susan Haugen — Investor Relations
    Susan.Haugen@breadfinancial.com

    Rachel Stultz — Media
    Rachel.Stultz@breadfinancial.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Brightstar Capital Partners Acquires WW Williams, a Nationwide Provider of Mechanical Repair Services and Products

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK and COLUMBUS, Ohio, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brightstar Capital Partners (“Brightstar”), a middle market private equity firm focused on investing in business services, industrials, consumer, and government services and technology, announced today that it has acquired WW Williams (“Williams” or the “Company”) from One Equity Partners. Williams is a provider of equipment and aftermarket parts and service for commercial trucks, dry and refrigerated trailers, diesel engines, and power generation systems. The Company’s senior management team will retain an ownership stake in the business.

    Founded in 1912, WW Williams is a diversified aftermarket parts and service provider to the commercial vehicle and equipment markets that operates across the US. The Company represents major original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and provides a full range of industry-leading products, parts and services focused on keeping customers’ vehicles and equipment in operation and minimizing downtime. The Company operates in 23 states, with over 50 locations and more than 1,250 staff members.

    “Williams has built an impressive reputation for quality service and technical expertise during its long and distinguished history,” said Reidar Brekke, Partner at Brightstar. “We see significant opportunities to partner with the leadership team and accelerate Williams’ growth by expanding its offerings, continuing to support and grow its OEM relationships, executing a targeted M&A strategy, and investing in people and technology to enhance operational efficiency.”

    “Williams has proudly served customers for more than 110 years and joining forces with Brightstar marks an exciting new chapter for the Company,” said John Simmons, CEO of Williams. “Brightstar’s operational expertise and experience scaling industrial businesses align perfectly with our vision for the future. We’re eager to work together to expand our capabilities and geographic reach while maintaining our commitment to exceptional customer service.”

    “Partnering with Brightstar opens up exciting new avenues for Williams,” said Bobby Bell, CFO of Williams. “We are confident that with Brightstar’s support we will continue to provide differentiated services to current customers, build new customer relationships, improve our systems, and expand our business segments.”

    “Talented and dedicated technicians are the heart of Williams’ success,” said Larry Schmidlapp, Managing Director at Brightstar. “At Brightstar, we have extensive experience partnering with companies that rely on a skilled technician base, and we’re excited to apply this knowledge to accelerate Williams’ growth.”

    Moelis & Company LLC served as financial advisor and Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal counsel to Brightstar. Robert W. Baird & Co. served as financial advisor and Milbank LLP served as legal counsel to Williams.

    About WW Williams

    Founded in 1912, WW Williams is a diversified provider of aftermarkets parts and service the commercial vehicle and equipment markets operating across the US. The company represents major original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and provides a full range of industry-leading products, parts, and services focused on keeping customers’ vehicles and equipment in operation and minimizing downtime. The Company operates in 23 states, with over 50 locations and more than 1,250 staff members. For more information, please visit www.wwwilliams.com.

    About Brightstar Capital Partners

    Brightstar Capital Partners is a middle market private equity firm with $5bn AUM that is focused on investing in business services, industrials, consumer, and government services and technology, where Brightstar believes it can drive significant value with respect to the management, operations, and strategic direction of the business. Since its founding in 2015, Brightstar has accumulated extensive experience partnering with family, founder, or entrepreneur-led businesses. Brightstar employs an operationally intensive “Us & Us” approach that leverages its considerable hands-on operational expertise and deep relationship network to help companies reach their full potential. For more information, please visit www.brightstarcp.com.

    Brightstar Contact:

    Prosek Partners
    Pro-Brightstar@Prosek.com

    WW Williams Contact:

    Bobby Bell
    bbell@wwwilliams.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Allegro MicroSystems Reports Third Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MANCHESTER, N.H., Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. (“Allegro” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: ALGM), a global leader in power and sensing semiconductor solutions for motion control and energy efficient systems, today announced financial results for its third quarter ended December 27, 2024.  

    “We delivered on our commitments with third quarter sales of $178 million and non-GAAP EPS of $0.07, both above the midpoint of our guidance,” said Vineet Nargolwala, President and CEO of Allegro. “During the quarter, we introduced a record number of new magnetic sensing and power products to the market, further expanding our differentiated portfolios. This increasing velocity further solidifies our market leadership and positions us well for above market growth.”

    Third Quarter Financial Highlights:

    In thousands, except per share data   Three-Month Period Ended     Nine-Month Period Ended  
        December 27, 2024     September 27, 2024     December 29, 2023     December 27, 2024     December 29, 2023  
        (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)  
    Net Sales                              
    Automotive   $ 130,066     $ 141,893     $ 194,764     $ 403,143     $ 577,515  
    Industrial and other     47,806       45,498       60,220       129,039       231,271  
    Total net sales   $ 177,872     $ 187,391     $ 254,984     $ 532,182     $ 808,786  
    GAAP Financial Measures                              
    Gross margin %     45.7 %     45.7 %     52.5 %     45.4 %     55.8 %
    Operating margin %     — %     2.2 %     14.4 %     (1.2 )%     22.3 %
    Diluted EPS   $ (0.04 )   $ (0.18 )   $ 0.17     $ (0.31 )   $ 0.82  
    Non-GAAP Financial Measures                              
    Gross margin %     49.1 %     48.8 %     54.6 %     48.9 %     57.0 %
    Operating margin %     10.8 %     11.7 %     27.2 %     9.6 %     29.8 %
    Diluted EPS   $ 0.07     $ 0.08     $ 0.32     $ 0.18     $ 1.11  
                                             

    Business Outlook

    For the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2025 ending March 28, 2025, the Company expects total net sales to be in the range of $180 million to $190 million.

    The Company also estimates the following results on a non-GAAP basis:

    • Gross Margin is expected to be between 46% and 48%, which contemplates the impact of annual pricing agreements ahead of cost reductions, as well as higher capacity charges resulting from adjusted production levels in the quarter,
    • Operating expenses are expected to increase by approximately 5% sequentially to $72 million, primarily  due to annual payroll tax resets,
    • As a result of the expected repricing of the term loan and anticipated $30 million Q4 debt repayment, the Company now expects Interest Expense to be approximately $6 million, and
    • Diluted Earnings per Share are expected to be between $0.03 and $0.07.

    Allegro has not provided a reconciliation of its fourth fiscal quarter outlook for non-GAAP Gross Margin, non-GAAP Operating Expenses, non-GAAP Interest Expense, and non-GAAP Diluted Earnings per Share because estimates of all of the reconciling items cannot be provided without unreasonable efforts. It is difficult to reasonably provide a forward-looking estimate between such forward-looking non-GAAP measures and the comparable forward-looking U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) measures. Certain factors that are materially significant to Allegro’s ability to estimate these items are out of its control and/or cannot be reasonably predicted.

    Earnings Webcast

    A webcast will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2025 at 8:30 a.m., Eastern Time. Vineet Nargolwala, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Derek P. D’Antilio, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will discuss Allegro’s business and financial results.

    The webcast will be available on the Investor Relations section of the Company’s website at investors.allegromicro.com. A recording of the webcast will be posted in the same location shortly after the call concludes and will be available for at least 90 days.

    About Allegro MicroSystems

    Allegro MicroSystems is a leading global designer, developer, fabless manufacturer and marketer of sensor integrated circuits (“ICs”) and application-specific analog power ICs enabling emerging technologies in the automotive and industrial markets. Allegro’s diverse product portfolio provides efficient and reliable solutions for the electrification of vehicles, automotive ADAS safety features, automation for Industry 4.0 and power saving technologies for data centers and clean energy applications.

    Forward-Looking Statements         

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, contained in this press release including statements regarding our future results of operations and financial position, business strategy, prospective products and the plans and objectives of management for future operations, including, among others, statements regarding the liquidity, growth and profitability strategies and factors affecting our business are forward-looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements.

    Without limiting the foregoing, in some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as “aim,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “exploring,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “could,” “intend,” “target,” “project,” “would,” “contemplate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “seek,” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. No forward-looking statement is a guarantee of future results, performance or achievements, and one should avoid placing undue reliance on such statements.

    Forward-looking statements are based on our management’s current expectations, beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to us. Such beliefs and assumptions may or may not prove to be correct. Additionally, such forward-looking statements are subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions, and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements due to various factors, including, but not limited to, those identified in Part II, Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended March 29, 2024, as any such factors may be updated from time to time in our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: downturns or volatility in general economic conditions; our ability to compete effectively, expand our market share and increase our net sales and profitability; our reliance on a limited number of third-party semiconductor wafer fabrication facilities and suppliers of other materials; any failure to adjust purchase commitments and inventory management based on changing market conditions or customer demand; shifts in our product mix, customer mix or channel mix, which could negatively impact our gross margin; the cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry, including the analog segment in which we compete; any downturn or disruption in the automotive market or industry; our ability to successfully integrate the acquisition of other companies or technologies and products into our business; our ability to compensate for decreases in average selling prices of our products and increases in input costs; our ability to manage any sustained yield problems or other delays at our third-party wafer fabrication facilities or in the final assembly and test of our products; our ability to accurately predict our quarterly net sales and operating results and meet the expectations of investors; our dependence on manufacturing operations in the Philippines; our reliance on distributors to generate sales; events beyond our control impacting us, our key suppliers or our manufacturing partners; our ability to develop new product features or new products in a timely and cost-effective manner; our ability to manage growth; any slowdown in the growth of our end markets; the loss of one or more significant customers; our ability to meet customers’ quality requirements; uncertainties related to the design win process and our ability to recover design and development expenses and to generate timely or sufficient net sales or margins; changes in government trade policies, including the imposition of export restrictions and tariffs; our exposures to warranty claims, product liability claims and product recalls; our dependence on international customers and operations; the availability of rebates, tax credits and other financial incentives on end-user demands for certain products; risks, liabilities, costs and obligations related to governmental regulations and other legal obligations, including export/trade control, privacy, data protection, information security, cybersecurity, consumer protection, environmental and occupational health and safety, antitrust, anti-corruption and anti-bribery, product safety, environmental protection, employment matters and tax; the volatility of currency exchange rates; our ability to raise capital to support our growth strategy; our indebtedness may limit our flexibility to operate our business; our ability to effectively manage our growth and to retain key and highly skilled personnel; our ability to protect our proprietary technology and inventions through patents or trade secrets; our ability to commercialize our products without infringing third-party intellectual property rights; disruptions or breaches of our information technology systems or confidential information or those of our third-party service providers; our principal stockholder continues to have influence over us; anti-takeover provisions in our organizational documents and under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware; any failure to design, implement or maintain effective internal control over financial reporting; changes in tax rates or the adoption of new tax legislation; the negative impacts of sustained inflation on our business; the physical, transition and litigation risks presented by climate change; and other events beyond our control. Moreover, we operate in an evolving environment. New risk factors and uncertainties may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for management to predict all risk factors and uncertainties.

    You should read this press release and the documents that we reference completely and with the understanding that our actual future results may be materially different from what we expect. We qualify all of our forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, and except as required by applicable law, we do not plan to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of any new information, future events, changed circumstances or otherwise.

    This press release includes certain non-GAAP financial measures as defined by the SEC rules. These non-GAAP financial measures are provided in addition to, and not as a substitute for or superior to measures of, financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. There are a number of limitations related to the use of these non-GAAP financial measures versus their most directly comparable GAAP equivalents. For example, other companies may calculate non-GAAP financial measures differently or may use other measures to evaluate their performance, all of which could reduce the usefulness of the presented non-GAAP financial measures as tools for comparison.

    This press release may not be reproduced, forwarded to any person or published, in whole or in part.

    ALLEGRO MICROSYSTEMS, INC.
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
    (in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
    (Unaudited)
     
        Three-Month Period Ended     Nine-Month Period Ended  
        December 27, 2024     December 29, 2023     December 27, 2024     December 29, 2023  
    Net sales   $ 177,872     $ 254,984     $ 532,182     $ 808,786  
    Cost of goods sold     96,657       121,156       290,534       357,505  
    Gross profit     81,215       133,828       241,648       451,281  
    Operating expenses:                        
    Research and development     43,317       44,396       132,031       130,799  
    Selling, general and administrative     37,939       52,746       116,221       140,135  
    Total operating expenses     81,256       97,142       248,252       270,934  
    Operating (loss) income     (41 )     36,686       (6,604 )     180,347  
    Interest and other (expense) income     (7,561 )     (315 )     (25,902 )     (2,801 )
    Loss on change in fair value of forward repurchase contract     —       —       (34,752 )     —  
    (Loss) income before income taxes     (7,602 )     36,371       (67,258 )     177,546  
    Income tax (benefit) provision     (803 )     2,969       (9,233 )     17,584  
    Net (loss) income     (6,799 )     33,402       (58,025 )     159,962  
    Net income attributable to non-controlling interests     61       57       185       150  
    Net (loss) income attributable to Allegro MicroSystems, Inc.   $ (6,860 )   $ 33,345     $ (58,210 )   $ 159,812  
    Net (loss) income per common share attributable to Allegro MicroSystems, Inc.:                        
    Basic   $ (0.04 )   $ 0.17     $ (0.31 )   $ 0.83  
    Diluted   $ (0.04 )   $ 0.17     $ (0.31 )   $ 0.82  
    Weighted average shares outstanding:                        
    Basic     184,011,189       192,724,541       188,886,583       192,384,315  
    Diluted     184,011,189       194,570,380       188,886,583       194,925,040  
     

    Supplemental Schedule of Total Net Sales

    The following table summarizes total net sales by market within the Company’s unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations:

        Three-Month Period Ended     Change     Nine-Month Period Ended     Change  
        December 27, 2024     December 29, 2023     Amount     %     December 27, 2024     December 29, 2023     Amount     %  
        (Dollars in thousands)     (Dollars in thousands)  
    Automotive   $ 130,066     $ 194,764     $ (64,698 )     (33 )%   $ 403,143     $ 577,515     $ (174,372 )     (30 )%
    Industrial and other     47,806       60,220       (12,414 )     (21 )%     129,039       231,271       (102,232 )     (44 )%
    Total net sales   $ 177,872     $ 254,984     $ (77,112 )     (30 )%   $ 532,182     $ 808,786     $ (276,604 )     (34 )%
     
    ALLEGRO MICROSYSTEMS, INC.
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (in thousands)
     
        December 27,     March 29,  
        2024
    (Unaudited)    		     2024  
    Assets            
    Current assets:            
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 138,452     $ 212,143  
    Restricted cash     10,510       10,018  
    Trade accounts receivable, net     83,805       118,508  
    Inventories     193,140       162,302  
    Prepaid income taxes     36,037       31,908  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets     33,683       33,584  
    Current portion of related party notes receivable     —       3,750  
    Total current assets     495,627       572,213  
    Property, plant and equipment, net     320,975       321,175  
    Deferred income tax assets     65,398       54,496  
    Goodwill     202,101       202,425  
    Intangible assets, net     261,553       276,854  
    Related party notes receivable, less current portion     —       4,688  
    Equity investment in related party     30,914       26,727  
    Other assets     65,172       72,025  
    Total assets   $ 1,441,740     $ 1,530,603  
    Liabilities, Non-Controlling Interests and Stockholders’ Equity            
    Current liabilities:            
    Trade accounts payable   $ 39,685     $ 35,964  
    Amounts due to related party     2,102       1,626  
    Accrued expenses and other current liabilities     57,751       76,389  
    Current portion of long-term debt     1,374       3,929  
    Total current liabilities     100,912       117,908  
    Long-term debt     374,729       249,611  
    Other long-term liabilities     31,673       31,368  
    Total liabilities     507,314       398,887  
    Commitments and contingencies            
    Stockholders’ Equity:            
    Preferred stock     —       —  
    Common stock     1,840       1,932  
    Additional paid-in capital     1,004,080       694,332  
    (Accumulated deficit) retained earnings     (38,791 )     463,012  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (34,084 )     (28,841 )
    Equity attributable to Allegro MicroSystems, Inc.     933,045       1,130,435  
    Non-controlling interests     1,381       1,281  
    Total stockholders’ equity     934,426       1,131,716  
    Total liabilities, non-controlling interests and stockholders’ equity   $ 1,441,740     $ 1,530,603  
    ALLEGRO MICROSYSTEMS, INC.
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
    (in thousands)
    (Unaudited)
     
        Three-Month Period Ended     Nine-Month Period Ended  
        December 27, 2024     December 29, 2023     December 27, 2024     December 29, 2023  
    Cash flows from operating activities:                        
    Net (loss) income   $ (6,799 )   $ 33,402     $ (58,025 )   $ 159,962  
    Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by operating activities:                        
    Depreciation and amortization     16,123       20,195       48,578       49,548  
    Amortization of deferred financing costs     694       185       1,781       292  
    Deferred income taxes     (3,751 )     (10,119 )     (11,546 )     (28,253 )
    Stock-based compensation     10,588       10,920       32,251       32,839  
    Loss on change in fair value of forward repurchase contract     —       —       34,752       —  
    Provisions for inventory and expected credit losses     3,031       429       7,519       9,851  
    Change in fair value of marketable securities     —       —       —       3,579  
    Other non-cash reconciling items     68       (25 )     6,645       18  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:                        
    Trade accounts receivable     (7,061 )     5,081       34,356       (2,564 )
    Inventories     (19,243 )     11,312       (38,074 )     (19,909 )
    Prepaid expenses and other assets     14,407       7,368       (1,401 )     (13,085 )
    Trade accounts payable     (8,203 )     (12,299 )     5,467       (9,604 )
    Due to and from related parties     (3,568 )     705       564       6,817  
    Accrued expenses and other current and long-term liabilities     (4,469 )     9,404       (21,307 )     (20,540 )
    Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities     (8,183 )     76,558       41,560       168,951  
    Cash flows from investing activities:                        
    Purchases of property, plant and equipment     (13,615 )     (34,399 )     (34,564 )     (110,500 )
    Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired     319       (408,119 )     319       (408,119 )
    Sales of marketable securities     —       —       —       16,175  
    Net cash used in investing activities     (13,296 )     (442,518 )     (34,245 )     (502,444 )
    Cash flows from financing activities:                        
    Net proceeds from Refinanced 2023 Term Loan Facility     —       —       193,483       —  
    Repayment of 2023 Term Loan Facility     (25,000 )     —       (75,000 )     —  
    Borrowings of senior secured debt, net of deferred financing costs     —       245,452       —       245,452  
    Repayment of 2020 Term Loan Facility     —       (25,000 )     —       (25,000 )
    Repayments of other debt     —       (743 )     —       (743 )
    Finance lease payments     (318 )     —       (703 )     —  
    Receipts on related party notes receivable     —       938       1,875       2,813  
    Payments for taxes related to net share settlement of equity awards     (483 )     (10,732 )     (12,780 )     (24,823 )
    Proceeds from issuance of common stock under employee stock purchase plan     —       —       1,987       1,899  
    Repurchases of common stock     (116 )     —       (853,921 )     —  
    Net proceeds from issuance of common stock     —       —       665,850       —  
    Payment of debt issuance costs     —       —       —       (1,450 )
    Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities     (25,917 )     209,915       (79,209 )     198,148  
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash     (2,680 )     1,349       (1,305 )     375  
    Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash     (50,076 )     (154,696 )     (73,199 )     (134,970 )
    Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period     199,038       378,431       222,161       358,705  
    Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period:   $ 148,962     $ 223,735     $ 148,962     $ 223,735  
     

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    In addition to the measures presented in our condensed consolidated financial statements, we regularly review other measures, defined as non-GAAP financial measures by the SEC, to evaluate our business, measure our performance, identify trends, prepare financial forecasts and make strategic decisions. The key measures we consider are non-GAAP Gross Profit, non-GAAP Gross Margin, non-GAAP Operating Expenses, non-GAAP Operating Income, non-GAAP Operating Margin, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA margin, non-GAAP Profit before Tax, non-GAAP Income Tax Provision, non-GAAP Effective Tax Rate, non-GAAP Net Income Attributable to Allegro MicroSystems, Inc, non-GAAP Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share, non-GAAP Free Cash Flow, and non-GAAP Free Cash Flow as percentage of net sales (collectively, the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures”). These Non-GAAP Financial Measures provide supplemental information regarding our operating performance on a non-GAAP basis that excludes certain gains, losses and charges of a non-cash nature or that occur relatively infrequently and/or that management considers to be unrelated to our core operations, and in the case of non-GAAP Income Tax Provision, management believes that this non-GAAP measure of income taxes provides it with the ability to evaluate the non-GAAP Income Tax Provision across different reporting periods on a consistent basis, independent of special items and discrete items, which may vary in size and frequency. These Non-GAAP Financial Measures are used by both management and our board of directors, together with the comparable GAAP information, in evaluating our current performance and planning our future business activities.

    The Non-GAAP Financial Measures are supplemental measures of our performance that are neither required by, nor presented in accordance with, GAAP. These Non-GAAP Financial Measures should not be considered as substitutes for GAAP financial measures, such as gross profit, gross margin, net income or any other performance measures derived in accordance with GAAP. Also, in the future we may incur expenses or charges, such as those being adjusted in the calculation of these Non-GAAP Financial Measures. Our presentation of these Non-GAAP Financial Measures should not be construed as an inference that future results will be unaffected by unusual or nonrecurring items. These Non-GAAP Financial Measures exclude costs related to acquisition and related integration expenses, amortization of acquired intangible assets, stock-based compensation, restructuring actions, related-party activities and other non-operational costs.

    Non-GAAP Income Tax Provision

    In calculating non-GAAP Income Tax Provision, we have added back the following to GAAP Income Tax Provision:

    • Tax effect of adjustments to GAAP results—Represents the estimated income tax effect of the adjustments to non-GAAP Profit before Tax described below and elimination of discrete tax adjustments.
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Gross Profit and Non-GAAP Gross Margin  
                                   
        Three-Month Period Ended     Nine-Month Period Ended  
        December 27, 2024     September 27, 2024     December 29, 2023     December 27, 2024     December 29, 2023  
        (Dollars in thousands)     (Dollars in thousands)  
    GAAP Gross Profit   $ 81,215     $ 85,662     $ 133,828     $ 241,648     $ 451,281  
    GAAP Gross Margin (% of net sales)     45.7 %     45.7 %     52.5 %     45.4 %     55.8 %
                                   
    Non-GAAP adjustments                              
    Transaction-related costs     5       10       523       14       523  
    Purchased intangible amortization     4,875       4,875       3,648       14,625       4,323  
    Restructuring costs     522       16       166       1,738       166  
    Stock-based compensation     802       817       1,073       2,180       4,625  
    Total Non-GAAP Adjustments   $ 6,204     $ 5,718     $ 5,410     $ 18,557     $ 9,637  
                                   
    Non-GAAP Gross Profit   $ 87,419     $ 91,380     $ 139,238     $ 260,205     $ 460,918  
    Non-GAAP Gross Margin (% of net sales)     49.1 %     48.8 %     54.6 %     48.9 %     57.0 %
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Operating Expenses  
                                   
        Three-Month Period Ended     Nine-Month Period Ended  
        December 27, 2024     September 27, 2024     December 29, 2023     December 27, 2024     December 29, 2023  
        (Dollars in thousands)     (Dollars in thousands)  
    GAAP Operating Expenses   $ 81,256     $ 81,595     $ 97,142     $ 248,252     $ 270,934  
                                   
    Research and Development Expenses                              
    GAAP Research and Development Expenses     43,317       43,510       44,396       132,031       130,799  
    Non-GAAP adjustments                              
    Transaction-related costs     333       206       343       1,568       352  
    Restructuring costs     568       260       908       997       908  
    Stock-based compensation     3,960       3,523       3,870       11,218       10,340  
    Other costs(1)     —       3       —       3       —  
    Non-GAAP Research and Development Expenses     38,456       39,518       39,275       118,245       119,199  
                                   
    Selling, General and Administrative Expenses                              
    GAAP Selling, General and Administrative Expenses     37,939       38,085       52,746       116,221       140,135  
    Non-GAAP adjustments                              
    Transaction-related costs     148       275       9,543       1,237       14,419  
    Purchased intangible amortization     535       535       495       1,605       1,210  
    Restructuring costs     1,264       2,046       5,795       4,355       5,795  
    Stock-based compensation     5,826       7,205       5,977       18,853       17,874  
    Other costs(1)     391       (1,820 )     283       (618 )     383  
    Non-GAAP Selling, General and Administrative Expenses     29,775       29,844       30,653       90,789       100,454  
                                   
    Total Non-GAAP Adjustments     13,025       12,233       27,214       39,218       51,281  
                                   
    Non-GAAP Operating Expenses   $ 68,231     $ 69,362     $ 69,928     $ 209,034     $ 219,653  
                                   
    (1) Included in non-GAAP other costs are non-recurring charges that are individually immaterial for separate disclosure, such as project evaluation costs, which consist of costs and estimated costs incurred in connection with debt and equity financings or other non-recurring transactions.  
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Operating Income and Non-GAAP Operating Margin  
                                   
        Three-Month Period Ended     Nine-Month Period Ended  
        December 27, 2024     September 27, 2024     December 29, 2023     December 27, 2024     December 29, 2023  
        (Dollars in thousands)     (Dollars in thousands)  
    GAAP Operating (Loss) Income   $ (41 )   $ 4,067     $ 36,686     $ (6,604 )   $ 180,347  
    GAAP Operating Margin (% of net sales)     — %     2.2 %     14.4 %     (1.2 )%     22.3 %
                                   
    Transaction-related costs     486       491       10,409       2,819       15,294  
    Purchased intangible amortization     5,410       5,410       4,143       16,230       5,533  
    Restructuring costs     2,354       2,322       6,869       7,090       6,869  
    Stock-based compensation     10,588       11,545       10,920       32,251       32,839  
    Other costs(1)     391       (1,817 )     283       (615 )     383  
    Total Non-GAAP Adjustments   $ 19,229     $ 17,951     $ 32,624     $ 57,775     $ 60,918  
                                   
    Non-GAAP Operating Income   $ 19,188     $ 22,018     $ 69,310     $ 51,171     $ 241,265  
    Non-GAAP Operating Margin (% of net sales)     10.8 %     11.7 %     27.2 %     9.6 %     29.8 %
                                   
    (1) Included in non-GAAP other costs are non-recurring charges that are individually immaterial for separate disclosure, such as project evaluation costs, which consist of costs and estimated costs incurred in connection with debt and equity financings or other non-recurring transactions.  
    Reconciliation of EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin  
                                   
        Three-Month Period Ended     Nine-Month Period Ended  
        December 27, 2024     September 27, 2024     December 29, 2023     December 27, 2024     December 29, 2023  
        (Dollars in thousands)     (Dollars in thousands)  
    GAAP Net (Loss) Income   $ (6,799 )   $ (33,613 )   $ 33,402     $ (58,025 )   $ 159,962  
    GAAP Net (Loss) Income Margin (% of net sales)     (3.8 )%     (17.9 )%     13.1 %     (10.9 )%     19.8 %
                                   
    Interest expense     7,762       10,353       3,854       23,492       5,381  
    Interest income     (388 )     (420 )     (857 )     (1,302 )     (2,550 )
    Income tax (benefit) provision     (803 )     (9,470 )     2,969       (9,233 )     17,584  
    Depreciation & amortization     16,123       15,997       20,227       48,578       49,645  
    EBITDA   $ 15,895     $ (17,153 )   $ 59,595     $ 3,510     $ 230,022  
                                   
    Transaction-related costs     486       3,295       10,409       5,623       15,294  
    Restructuring costs     2,354       2,067       6,869       6,835       6,869  
    Stock-based compensation     10,588       11,545       10,920       32,251       32,839  
    Loss on change in fair value of forward repurchase contract     —       34,752       —       34,752       —  
    Other costs(1)     998       (2,195 )     (551 )     1,610       5,339  
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 30,321     $ 32,311     $ 87,242     $ 84,581     $ 290,363  
    Adjusted EBITDA Margin (% of net sales)     17.0 %     17.2 %     34.2 %     15.9 %     35.9 %
                                   
    (1) Included in non-GAAP other costs are non-recurring charges that are individually immaterial for separate disclosure, such as project evaluation costs, which consist of costs and estimated costs incurred in connection with debt and equity financings or other non-recurring transactions, and income (loss) in earnings of equity investments.  
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Profit before Tax  
                                   
        Three-Month Period Ended     Nine-Month Period Ended  
        December 27, 2024     September 27, 2024     December 29, 2023     December 27, 2024     December 29, 2023  
        (Dollars in thousands)     (Dollars in thousands)  
    GAAP (Loss) Income before Income Taxes   $ (7,602 )   $ (43,083 )   $ 36,371     $ (67,258 )   $ 177,546  
                                   
    Transaction-related costs     486       3,295       10,409       5,623       15,294  
    Transaction-related interest     192       141       162       1,042       162  
    Purchased intangible amortization     5,410       5,410       4,143       16,230       5,533  
    Restructuring costs     2,354       2,067       6,869       6,835       6,869  
    Stock-based compensation     10,588       11,545       10,920       32,251       32,839  
    Loss on change in fair value of forward repurchase contract     —       34,752       —       34,752       —  
    Other costs(1)     1,427       1,428       (551 )     5,662       5,339  
    Total Non-GAAP Adjustments   $ 20,457     $ 58,638     $ 31,952     $ 102,395     $ 66,036  
                                   
    Non-GAAP Profit before Tax   $ 12,855     $ 15,555     $ 68,323     $ 35,137     $ 243,582  
                                   
    (1) Included in non-GAAP other costs are non-recurring charges that are individually immaterial for separate disclosure, such as project evaluation costs, which consist of costs and estimated costs incurred in connection with debt and equity financings or other non-recurring transactions, and income (loss) in earnings of equity investments.  
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Income Tax Provision and Non-GAAP Effective Tax Rate  
                                   
        Three-Month Period Ended     Nine-Month Period Ended  
        December 27, 2024     September 27, 2024     December 29, 2023     December 27, 2024     December 29, 2023  
        (Dollars in thousands)     (Dollars in thousands)  
    GAAP Income Tax (Benefit) Provision   $ (803 )   $ (9,470 )   $ 2,969     $ (9,233 )   $ 17,584  
    GAAP effective tax rate     10.6 %     22.0 %     8.2 %     13.7 %     9.9 %
                                   
    Tax effect of adjustments to GAAP results     398       10,071       3,748       10,074       10,128  
                                   
    Non-GAAP Income Tax (Benefit) Provision   $ (405 )   $ 601     $ 6,717     $ 841     $ 27,712  
    Non-GAAP effective tax rate     (3.2 )%     3.9 %     9.8 %     2.4 %     11.4 %
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Net Income Attributable to Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. and Non-GAAP Earnings per Share  
                                   
        Three-Month Period Ended     Nine-Month Period Ended  
        December 27, 2024     September 27, 2024     December 29, 2023     December 27, 2024     December 29, 2023  
        (Dollars in thousands)     (Dollars in thousands)  
    GAAP Net (Loss) Income Attributable to Allegro MicroSystems, Inc.(1)   $ (6,860 )   $ (33,675 )   $ 33,345     $ (58,210 )   $ 159,812  
    GAAP Basic weighted average common shares     184,011,189       189,182,850       192,724,541       188,886,583       192,384,315  
    GAAP Diluted weighted average common shares     184,011,189       189,182,850       194,570,380       188,886,583       194,925,040  
    GAAP Basic (Loss) Earnings per Share   $ (0.04 )   $ (0.18 )   $ 0.17     $ (0.31 )   $ 0.83  
    GAAP Diluted (Loss) Earnings per Share   $ (0.04 )   $ (0.18 )   $ 0.17     $ (0.31 )   $ 0.82  
                                   
    Transaction-related costs     486       3,295       10,409       5,623       15,294  
    Transaction-related interest     192       141       162       1,042       162  
    Purchased intangible amortization     5,410       5,410       4,143       16,230       5,533  
    Restructuring costs     2,354       2,067       6,869       6,835       6,869  
    Stock-based compensation     10,588       11,545       10,920       32,251       32,839  
    Loss on change in fair value of forward repurchase contract     —       34,752       —       34,752       —  
    Other costs(2)     1,427       1,428       (551 )     5,662       5,339  
    Total Non-GAAP Adjustments     20,457       58,638       31,952       102,395       66,036  
    Tax effect of adjustments to GAAP results(3)     (398 )     (10,071 )     (3,748 )     (10,074 )     (10,128 )
    Non-GAAP Net Income Attributable to Allegro MicroSystems, Inc.   $ 13,199     $ 14,892     $ 61,549     $ 34,111     $ 215,720  
    Basic weighted average common shares     184,011,189       189,182,850       192,724,541       188,886,583       192,384,315  
    Diluted weighted average common shares     184,485,792       189,710,595       194,570,380       189,577,693       194,925,040  
    Non-GAAP Basic Earnings per Share   $ 0.07     $ 0.08     $ 0.32     $ 0.18     $ 1.12  
    Non-GAAP Diluted Earnings per Share   $ 0.07     $ 0.08     $ 0.32     $ 0.18     $ 1.11  
                                   
    (1) GAAP Net (Loss) Income Attributable to Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. represents GAAP Net (Loss) Income adjusted for Net Income Attributable to non-controlling interests.  
    (2) Included in non-GAAP other costs are non-recurring charges that are individually immaterial for separate disclosure, such as project evaluation costs, which consists of costs and estimated costs incurred in connection with debt and equity financings or other non-recurring transactions, income (loss) in earnings of equity investments, and unrealized losses (gains) on investments.  
    (3) To calculate the tax effect of adjustments to GAAP results, the Company considers each non-GAAP adjustment by tax jurisdiction and reverses all discrete items to calculate an annual non-GAAP effective tax rate (“NG ETR”).  This NG ETR is then applied to Non-GAAP Profit Before Tax to arrive at the tax effect of adjustments to GAAP results.  
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Free Cash Flow and Non-GAAP Free Cash Flow as Percentage of Net Sales        
                                   
        Three-Month Period Ended     Nine-Month Period Ended  
        December 27, 2024     September 27, 2024     December 29, 2023     December 27, 2024     December 29, 2023  
        (Dollars in thousands)     (Dollars in thousands)  
    GAAP Operating Cash Flow   $ (8,183 )   $ 15,547     $ 76,558     $ 41,560     $ 168,951  
    GAAP Operating Cash Flow (% of net sales)     -4.6 %     8.3 %     30.0 %     7.8 %     20.9 %
    Non-GAAP adjustments                              
    Purchases of property, plant and equipment     (13,615 )     (9,972 )     (34,399 )     (34,564 )     (110,500 )
                                   
    Non-GAAP Free Cash Flow   $ (21,798 )   $ 5,575     $ 42,159     $ 6,996     $ 58,451  
    Non-GAAP Free Cash Flow (% of net sales)     (12.3 )%     3.0 %     16.5 %     1.3 %     7.2 %

    Investor Contact:
    Jalene Hoover
    VP of Investor Relations & Corporate Communications
    +1 (512) 751-6526
    jhoover@allegromicro.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Baroness Hazarika on tackling shoplifting and antisocial behaviour | Lord Speaker’s Corner

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

    ‘Where I live there is so much shoplifting going on.’
    Broadcast Ayesha Hazarika – Baroness Hazarika – is the latest guest on Lord Speaker’s Corner. She talks to the Lord Speaker about why she is using her new role to campaign for more to be done to tackle shoplifting and antisocial behaviour.

    Find out more, listen now wherever you get your podcasts or search ‘House of Lords’ on YouTube: https://www.parliament.uk/business/lords/house-of-lords-podcast/baroness-hazarika-lord-speakers-corner/

    #LordSpeakersCorner #HouseOfLords #LordsMembers

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wql65I9_g0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Highland growth opportunities showcased to international audience

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Whilst in attendance at the Scottish Cities Week the Council Leader had the opportunity to meet with the Secretary of State for Scotland and the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland making representation on a number of matters that are important to the whole of the Highland Council area . Pictured is The Highland Council Leader, Councillor Raymond Bremner with the Secretary of State for Scotland, The Rt Hon Ian Murray MP and Allan Maguire, the Council’s Head of Development and Regeneration.

    The Highland Council’s Leader Councillor Raymond Bremner attended Scottish Cities Week in London (20-22 January) to promote investment opportunities in Inverness, the Highlands and the Highland Council area.  Scottish Cities Week aims to provide a focused opportunity to create and develop long-term strategic partnerships, with a wide array of investors and developers.

    Its success is rooted in the cities working in collaboration with the Scottish and UK Government, via the Scottish Cities Alliance, to boost investor confidence and deliver a programme of activity promoting the benefits of investing in Scotland’s smart and sustainable cities. It also provides opportunities for Highland Council representatives to meet with government Ministers and Cabinet Secretaries and discuss matters of importance to the Highlands.

    The multi-day event is attended by national and international investors together with representatives from the Scottish Government, Scottish Development International and the Department of Business and Trade.  This year’s event programme focused on seizing the unique opportunities related to our contribution towards the transition to net zero and other high growth businesses and sectors, driving place-based investment and innovation and enabling infrastructure.  

    The event coincides with the council’s recent launch of the new Invest Highland brand which is aimed at promoting the Highlands’ wealth of investment opportunities.

    Council Leader Cllr Raymond Bremner said: “The Highland region is really coming into its own and is attracting interest from all over the world.  We have so much to offer inward investors and Scottish Cities Week is a great platform for showcasing the world class opportunities which exist throughout our area. Attracting investors to the region is essential to address societal challenges and unlock transformational change. 

    “With representatives also attending from Highlands and Islands Enterprise and the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport, it helps demonstrate the successful partnerships we have in Highland and shows our ambition for the future.”

    30 Jan 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –