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  • MIL-OSI: Enlight Announces the Financial Close for Project Roadrunner

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The debt financing package includes $550 million of construction loans

    Roadrunner consists of 290 MW of solar generation and 940 MWh of energy storage capacity, and is expected to reach full COD by the end of 2025

    TEL AVIV, Israel, Dec. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enlight Renewable Energy Ltd. (“Enlight”, “the Company”, NASDAQ: ENLT, TASE: ENLT.TA), a leading global renewable energy platform, today announced that the Company has arranged the debt financing (the “Debt Financing”) for project Roadrunner (“Roadrunner” or “the Project”), located near Tuscon, Arizona, USA.

    As part of the Debt Financing, Enlight, through its subsidiary Clenera Holdings LLC, has entered into a loan agreement with a consortium of four leading global banks including BNP Paribas Securities Corp, Crédit Agricole, Natixis CIB, and Norddeutsche Landesbank Girozentrale (Nord/LB), totaling $550 million, which are expected to convert into a $290 million term loan and $320 million of tax equity funding upon the Project’s COD. The term loan is structured with an amortization tenor of 20-25 years and is to be fully repaid 5 years from the Project’s COD (mini perm). The loans are subject to an all-in interest rate of SOFR + 1.5%-1.75%, which rises by 0.125% after four years. Paragon Energy Capital served as Clenera’s exclusive financial advisor on the transaction.

    During the Project’s construction period, the Company’s equity investment is expected to amount to 10% of the expected total Project cost of $610 million. The debt financing arrangements are expected to enable the Company to recycle the entire equity investment upon COD subject to minimum project coverage ratios. The Company expects to conclude a tax equity transaction during 2025, noting that the project has secured safe harbor status.

    Roadrunner (also known as Apache Solar II) is the second-largest project in Enlight’s history, consists of 290 MW solar generation and 940 MWh of energy storage capacity, and is expected to reach full COD by the end of 2025. Construction at the 1200-acre site has already begun, and all procurement contracts have been signed. The Project has a 20-year busbar power purchase agreement covering its entire output with the Arizona Electric Power Cooperative (AEPCO), and is expected to generate revenues of $51-54 million and EBITDA1 of $41-44 million in its first full year of operation. A summary of the Project’s financial information appears in the tables below:

    (as expected at COD)

    Total project cost

    Term debt

    Upfront tax equity

    Sponsor equity upon COD
     

    $ 610 million

    $ 290 million

    $320 million

    $0
     

    Total project cost net of tax equity

    Revenues in first full year

    EBITDA in first full year1
     

    $ 290 million

    $51-54 million

    $41-44 million

    1EBITDA is a non-IFRS financial measure. This figure represents EBITDA for the project and excludes all ITC and PTC proceeds, as well as the impact of a potential tax equity transaction. The tax equity partner’s share is expected to range between 10-15% of the Project’s EBITDA during the first years of operation.

    Roadrunner is being built in the Sulphur Springs Valley region near Tucson, Arizona. Arizona possesses one of highest rates of growth in data centers in the U.S., driving a significant increase in the demand for electricity. The area’s high altitude, mild weather, and very high irradiance make it especially suitable for a utility-scale solar plant. The Project is located in a sparsely populated area and integrates with the larger Apache Generating Station, a diverse energy complex used by AEPCO.

    After the completion of Apex in Montana and Atrisco in New Mexico, Roadrunner is one of several major solar and energy storage projects that Enlight and Clenera are now constructing in the U.S. These include Country Acres (392 MW and 688 MWh) and Quail Ranch (128 MW and 400 MWh). Along with additional projects planned to be built in the years to come, these projects are driving Enlight’s massive expansion into the U.S. renewable energy market. This is best illustrated by the growing run rate of Enlight’s U.S. revenue base, which is expected to reach $195-207 million annually after the completion of the projects now under construction.

    The Company’s next projects in Arizona are Snowflake (600 MW and 1,900 MWh) and CO Bar (1,211 MW and 824 MWh). The two mega projects have almost completed their development phase, and are scheduled to begin construction in the coming months. Each of the two projects are set to achieve grid connection of 1.0 GW, one of the largest in the US. These grid connections generate potential additional development opportunities in the future through the Company’s “Connect and Expand” strategy, which seeks to leverage existing interconnect infrastructure with additional generation capacity.

    Nir Yehuda, CFO of Enlight, commented, “We appreciate our financial partners’ support and commitment in arranging the debt financing for project Roadrunner, which has made it possible for us to progress with its construction. Roadrunner is expected to begin commercial operation by the end of 2025. We look forward to continued collaboration on Country Acres and Quail Ranch, projects which we are now in the process of building and financing.”

    “We are grateful to have established our business as a reliable partner for these financial institutions,” said Adam Pishl, President and CEO of Clenera. “We have demonstrated our ability to build projects on time and on budget, and manage operational solar and storage farms that generate consistent long-term returns. It is exciting to close this deal and fuel our continued growth with projects across America.”

    Aashish Mohan, Co-Head of Energy, Resources & Infrastructure Americas, at BNP Paribas, commented, “BNP Paribas is proud to have supported Clenera and Enlight as Coordinating Lead Arranger on this landmark clean energy project financing. Supporting premier platforms like Clenera squarely fits our energy transition ambitions, and we look forward to partnering with the company again as they continue to execute on their high-quality pipeline.”

    Daniel Feigin, Head of Energy & Infrastructure Group, North America at Crédit Agricole CIB, said, “Crédit Agricole CIB’s collaboration with Enlight and Clenera on this landmark project in Arizona is a testament to the power of partnership and innovation. Roadrunner will provide clean, low-cost energy and storage. We are honored to have played a crucial role in helping a world class developer bringing this project to financial close and contributing to our mission of facilitating clean power generation and economic growth.”

    Nasir Khan, Managing Director & Head of Infrastructure & Energy Finance Americas at Natixis CIB, said, “We are thrilled to announce the successful close our first transaction with Enlight and Clenera, and would especially like to thank the teams for their professionalism and partnership over the past several months. Natixis CIB is committed to driving the energy transition through financing high-quality landmark projects such as Roadrunner, and we look forward to seeing it reach completion in the next year.”

    Sondra Martinez, Managing Director and Head of Originations at NORD/LB New York, commented, “Nord/LB is thrilled to support Clenera and Enlight on the Roadrunner transaction. This transaction represents our commitment to partnerships and supporting clients as they advance the energy transition.”

    About Enlight Renewable Energy

    Founded in 2008, Enlight develops, finances, constructs, owns, and operates utility-scale renewable energy projects. Enlight operates across the three largest renewable segments today: solar, wind and energy storage. A global platform, Enlight operates in the United States, Israel and 10 European countries. Enlight has been traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange since 2010 (TASE: ENLT) and completed its US IPO (NASDAQ: ENLT) in 2023. Learn more at enlightenergy.co.il.

    Investor Contact

    Yonah Weisz
    Director IR
    investors@enlightenergy.co.il

    Erica Mannion or Mike Funari
    Sapphire Investor Relations, LLC
    +1 617 542 6180
    investors@enlightenergy.co.il

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. 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 as 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 contained in this press release other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company’s expectations relating to the Project, the PPA and the related interconnection agreement and lease option, and the completion timeline for the Project, are forward-looking statements. The words “may,” “might,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “target,” “seek,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “contemplate,” “possible,” “forecasts,” “aims” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, though not all forward-looking statements use these words or expressions. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but 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, including, but not limited to, the following: our ability to site suitable land for, and otherwise source, renewable energy projects and to successfully develop and convert them into Operational Projects; availability of, and access to, interconnection facilities and transmission systems; our ability to obtain and maintain governmental and other regulatory approvals and permits, including environmental approvals and permits; construction delays, operational delays and supply chain disruptions leading to increased cost of materials required for the construction of our projects, as well as cost overruns and delays related to disputes with contractors; our suppliers’ ability and willingness to perform both existing and future obligations; competition from traditional and renewable energy companies in developing renewable energy projects; potential slowed demand for renewable energy projects and our ability to enter into new offtake contracts on acceptable terms and prices as current offtake contracts expire; offtakers’ ability to terminate contracts or seek other remedies resulting from failure of our projects to meet development, operational or performance benchmarks; various technical and operational challenges leading to unplanned outages, reduced output, interconnection or termination issues; the dependence of our production and revenue on suitable meteorological and environmental conditions, and our ability to accurately predict such conditions; our ability to enforce warranties provided by our counterparties in the event that our projects do not perform as expected; government curtailment, energy price caps and other government actions that restrict or reduce the profitability of renewable energy production; electricity price volatility, unusual weather conditions (including the effects of climate change, could adversely affect wind and solar conditions), catastrophic weather-related or other damage to facilities, unscheduled generation outages, maintenance or repairs, unanticipated changes to availability due to higher demand, shortages, transportation problems or other developments, environmental incidents, or electric transmission system constraints and the possibility that we may not have adequate insurance to cover losses as a result of such hazards; our dependence on certain operational projects for a substantial portion of our cash flows; our ability to continue to grow our portfolio of projects through successful acquisitions; changes and advances in technology that impair or eliminate the competitive advantage of our projects or upsets the expectations underlying investments in our technologies; our ability to effectively anticipate and manage cost inflation, interest rate risk, currency exchange fluctuations and other macroeconomic conditions that impact our business; our ability to retain and attract key personnel; our ability to manage legal and regulatory compliance and litigation risk across our global corporate structure; our ability to protect our business from, and manage the impact of, cyber-attacks, disruptions and security incidents, as well as acts of terrorism or war; changes to existing renewable energy industry policies and regulations that present technical, regulatory and economic barriers to renewable energy projects; the reduction, elimination or expiration of government incentives for, or regulations mandating the use of, renewable energy; our ability to effectively manage our supply chain and comply with applicable regulations with respect to international trade relations, tariffs, sanctions, export controls and anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws; our ability to effectively comply with Environmental Health and Safety and other laws and regulations and receive and maintain all necessary licenses, permits and authorizations; our performance of various obligations under the terms of our indebtedness (and the indebtedness of our subsidiaries that we guarantee) and our ability to continue to secure project financing on attractive terms for our projects; limitations on our management rights and operational flexibility due to our use of tax equity arrangements; potential claims and disagreements with partners, investors and other counterparties that could reduce our right to cash flows generated by our projects; our ability to comply with tax laws of various jurisdictions in which we currently operate as well as the tax laws in jurisdictions in which we intend to operate in the future; the unknown effect of the dual listing of our ordinary shares on the price of our ordinary shares; various risks related to our incorporation and location in Israel; the costs and requirements of being a public company, including the diversion of management’s attention with respect to such requirements; certain provisions in our Articles of Association and certain applicable regulations that may delay or prevent a change of control; and other risk factors set forth in the section titled “Risk factors” in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and our other documents filed with or furnished to the SEC.

    These statements reflect management’s current expectations regarding future events and speak only as of the date of this press release. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. Except as may be required by applicable law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The AAIB has sent a team of inspectors to Belfast City Airport

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A team of inspectors has been sent to investigate an accident which occurred on 22 December 2024

    An investigation has begun into an accident involving a fixed-wing aircraft which occurred at Belfast City Airport on 22 December 2024.  AAIB inspectors have commenced the on-site investigation to gather evidence and make enquiries.

    Media enquiries:
    During office hours 01932 440015
    Out of office hours 0300 777 7878

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 December 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lord Stuart Peach visits Bosnia and Herzegovina

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    UK Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for the Western Balkans, Lord Stuart Peach visited Bosnia and Herzegovina from 18 to 20 December 2024.

    Lord Stuart Peach

    Lord Stuart Peach’s visit was part of the UK’s ongoing commitment to the security, stability and prosperity of the country, and support for BiH aspirations for Euro-Atlantic integration.

    Over the course of his visit, Lord Peach met BiH Presidency members Zeljko Komsic and Denis Becirovic, Chairwoman of the BiH Council of Minister Borjana Kristo, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Elmedin Konakovic to discuss economic, political and security issues. Lord Peach reiterated the UK’s continuous strong support for BiH’s reform agenda and the UK’s readiness to support the delivery of sustainable reforms that deliver real change for the people of BiH.

    He also met Chief of BiH Armed Forces Joint Staff General Gojko Knezevic and Deputies Major General Mirsad Ahmic and Major General Tomo Kolenda to whom he reaffirmed UK commitment to Western Balkans security and support to the Armed Forces of BiH. Lord Peach praised BiH for hosting an important Women Peace and Security Chiefs of Defence Network Conference, organised in cooperation with the UK, emphasised mutual benefits of recent joint training of BiH and UK Armed Forces, and highlighted importance of Armed Forces and Ministry of Defence BiH embracing reform and modernisation in pursuit of Euro-Atlantic integration.

    In the light of ongoing pressures on cultural institutions of importance to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Lord Peach hosted a dinner with representatives of these institutions which are a vital part of the shared history and values of Bosnia and Herzegovina. He was keen to hear from them about the challenges they are facing and potential solutions for ensuring a sustainable future for these institutions, including through proper and timely funding.

    Lord Peach’s latest visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina follows visits to North Macedonia and Serbia earlier this week.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 December 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Alexander Novak took part in the launch of the third line of the Kysyl-Syr – 84 km gas pipeline

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    Alexander Novak, via video link, performed the ceremonial launch of the 3rd line of the main gas pipeline “Kysyl-Syr – 84 km”. With Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) Aisen Nikolaev

    December 23, 2024

    Alexander Novak performed the ceremonial launch of the 3rd line of the main gas pipeline “Kysyl-Syr – 84 km” via video link. With Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) Aisen Nikolaev

    December 23, 2024

    Alexander Novak, via video link, performed the ceremonial launch of the 3rd line of the main gas pipeline “Kysyl-Syr – 84 km”. With Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) Aisen Nikolaev

    December 23, 2024

    Alexander Novak, via video link, performed the ceremonial launch of the 3rd line of the main gas pipeline “Kysyl-Syr – 84 km”. With Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) Aisen Nikolaev

    December 23, 2024

    Previous news Next news

    Alexander Novak performed the ceremonial launch of the 3rd line of the main gas pipeline “Kysyl-Syr – 84 km” via video link. With Head of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) Aisen Nikolaev

    Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak held a ceremonial launch of the third line of the Kysyl-Syr – 84 km main gas pipeline via video link. The head of the Sakha Republic (Yakutia) Aisen Nikolaev and the general director of JSC Sakhatransneftegaz Alexey Kolodeznikov also took part in the gas launch ceremony.

    “The launch of the Kysyl-Syr main gas pipeline with its subsequent inclusion in the unified gas transportation system is of the utmost socio-economic importance for the residents of the republic and will ensure reliable gas supply to the Central Energy Region of Yakutia. These are 102 settlements, including Yakutsk, Pokrovsk and Vilyuysk. These settlements are home to 456 thousand people, 626 social infrastructure facilities are located – 220 schools, 235 kindergartens, 171 medical institutions,” noted Alexander Novak.

    From 2021 to 2025, the construction of 11 inter-settlement gas pipelines, 6 gas pipeline branches and gas distribution stations is planned in Yakutia. Another 28 settlements will be gasified. In 2025, it is planned to gasify at least 1.5 thousand households as part of the social additional gasification program.

    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: Castellum, Inc. Wins OASIS+ Unrestricted IDIQ Contract

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VIENNA, Va., Dec. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Castellum, Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM) (“Castellum”), a cybersecurity, electronic warfare, and software engineering services company focused on the federal government, announces that its subsidiary Specialty Systems, Inc., teaming with Castellum’s other two subsidiaries Corvus Consulting, LLC and Global Technology and Management Resources, Inc., was awarded all four unrestricted domains upon which it submitted proposals. This award is in addition to the three small business domains the Castellum team has already been awarded on One Acquisition Solution for Integrated Services Plus (“OASIS+”).

    OASIS+ is a suite of government-wide, multi-award contracts designed to support federal agencies’ procurement requirements for services-based solutions. With a potential ten-year performance period and no ceiling value, OASIS+ represents a significant opportunity for the Castellum team to expand its support to federal customers. Learn more at: https://www.gsa.gov/oasis-plus/about/

    “Our Castellum team could not be more excited and inspired to learn of this major strategic win, the most important in Castellum’s history, and we are 100% prepped and energized to push full throttle and maximize the considerable potential OASIS+ unrestricted IDIQ contract represents. Our award in the unrestricted category includes four key domains where we are laser-focused, determined, and galvanized for organic growth: intelligence services, technical and engineering, research and development, and management & advisory. These domains represent some of the most relevant and critically important needs and requirements across our federal government and for many of our current and future mission customers, and they also represent what we do best. OASIS+ could not be a better fit for us and our strengths. As I have reinforced in past press releases, our winning advantage starts with our exceptional Castellum professionals that bring those world-class skills, talent, and experience, specific to these domains, for our customers and our vital national security mission. And together with our strong mission and technical capabilities and extensive and relevant past performance that are also directly linked to these four domains, our Castellum team will be well-postured to successfully pursue our strong and viable organic growth plans and goals for the new year and beyond,” said Glen Ives, President and Chief Executive Officer of Castellum.

    About Castellum, Inc.

    Castellum, Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM) is a cybersecurity, electronic warfare, and software engineering services company focused on the federal government – http://castellumus.com/.

    Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements:

    This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements represent the Company’s expectations or beliefs concerning future events and can generally be identified by the use of statements that include words such as “estimate,” “project,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “shooting to,” “intend,” “plan,” “foresee,” “likely,” “will,” “would,” “appears,” “goal,” “target” or similar words or phrases. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s expectations for revenue growth and new customer opportunities including opportunities arising from the OASIS+ unrestricted contract, improvements to cost structure, and profitability. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are outside of the Company’s control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, including, among others: the Company’s ability to compete against new and existing competitors; its ability to effectively integrate and grow its acquired companies; its ability to identify additional acquisition targets and close additional acquisitions; the impact on the Company’s revenue due to a delay in the U.S. Congress approving a federal budget or continuing resolution; and the Company’s ability to maintain the listing of its common stock on the NYSE American LLC. For a more detailed description of these and other risk factors, please refer to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) which can be viewed at www.sec.gov. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of the Company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. The Company expressly disclaims any intent or obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements made in this release or in any of its SEC filings except as may be otherwise stated by the Company.

    Contact:

    Glen Ives, President and Chief Executive Officer
    Phone: (703) 752-6157
    Contact: Info@castellumus.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fede7b34-328b-4712-af1f-9dac580afdb7

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Partners Value Investments L.P. Announces Renewal of Normal Course Issuer Bids

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Dec. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Partners Value Investments L.P. (the “Partnership”) (TSX VENTURE: PVF) announced today that it has received approval from the TSX Venture Exchange (the “Exchange”) to renew its normal course issuer bids to purchase up to 3,521,732 of its non‐voting equity limited partnership units (the “Equity LP Units”), representing approximately 5% of its currently outstanding Equity LP Units; and to purchase up to 938,226 of its non‐voting Class A preferred limited partnership units, Series 1 (the “Preferred LP Units”), representing approximately 5% of its currently outstanding Preferred LP Units (collectively, the “Bids”). The period of the Bids will be effective from January 3, 2025 to January 2, 2026, or such earlier date that the Partnership completes its purchases.

    Purchases by the Partnership pursuant to the Bids will be made by its broker, RBC Capital Markets, through the facilities of the Exchange, other designated exchanges and alternative trading systems in Canada. The price which the Partnership will pay for any Equity LP Units and Preferred LP Units purchased will be the market price of the Equity LP Units and Preferred LP Units at the time of acquisition. Any Equity LP Units and/or Preferred LP Units acquired through the Bids will be cancelled. As of December 13, 2024, there were 70,434,631 Equity LP Units outstanding and 18,764,512 Preferred LP Units outstanding.

    Of the 3,533,556 Equity LP units and 938,350 Preferred LP Units approved for purchase under the Partnership’s prior normal course issuer bids that commenced on January 3, 2024 and will be expiring on January 2, 2025, the Partnership purchased 278,324 Equity LP Units at an average price of $102.02 and did not make any purchase of Preferred LP Units through the facilities of the Exchange, other designated exchanges or an alternative trading system in Canada.

    The Partnership believes that, from time to time, the market price of its securities may not adequately reflect their value. In such circumstances, the Partnership believes the purchase of its outstanding securities may represent an appropriate and desirable use of its available funds. All Equity LP Units and Preferred LP Units acquired by the Partnership under the Bids will be cancelled.

    In connection with the Bids, the Partnership entered into an automatic purchase plan with its designated broker, RBC Capital Markets. The automatic purchase plan will allow for the purchase of Equity LP Units and Preferred LP Units when the Partnership would not ordinarily be active in the market due to its own internal trading blackout periods, insider trading rules or otherwise. Outside of these periods, Equity LP Units and Preferred LP Units will be repurchased in accordance with management’s discretion and in compliance with applicable law.

    For further information, contact Investor Relations at ir@pvii.ca or 416-643-7621.

    Note: This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian provincial securities laws and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities regulations. Expressions which are predictions of or indicate future events, trends or prospects and which do not relate to historical matters identify forward- looking information and forward-looking statements.

    Although the Partnership believes that its anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and information are based upon reasonable assumptions and expectations, the reader should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond its control, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Partnership to differ materially from anticipated future results, performance or achievement expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and information.

    Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by forward-looking statements and information include, but are not limited to: the financial performance of Brookfield Corporation and Brookfield Asset Management Ltd., the impact or unanticipated impact of general economic, political and market factors; the behavior of financial markets, including fluctuations in interest and foreign exchanges rates; global equity and capital markets and the availability of equity and debt financing and refinancing within these markets; strategic actions including dispositions; changes in accounting policies and methods used to report financial condition (including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and estimates); the effect of applying future accounting changes; business competition; operational and reputational risks; technological change; changes in government regulation and legislation; changes in tax laws, catastrophic events, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, or pandemics/epidemics; the possible impact of international conflicts and other developments including terrorist acts; and other risks and factors detailed from time to time in the Partnership’s documents filed with the securities regulators in Canada.

    The Partnership cautions that the foregoing list of important factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When relying on the Partnership’s forward-looking statements and information, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Except as required by law, the Partnership undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements and information, whether written or oral, that may be as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Castellum, Inc. Announces Pricing of $3.6 Million Registered Direct Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VIENNA, Va., Dec. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Castellum, Inc. (the “Company”) (NYSE-American: CTM), a cybersecurity, electronic warfare, and software services company focused on the federal government, today announced that it has entered into a securities purchase agreement with several institutional investors to purchase 9,473,700 shares of common stock in a registered direct offering. The shares of common stock are being sold at an offering price of $0.38 per share.

    The gross proceeds to the Company from the registered direct offering are estimated to be approximately $3.6 million before deducting the placement agent’s fees and other estimated offering expenses payable by the Company. The offering is expected to close on or about December 24, 2024, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

    Maxim Group LLC is acting as the sole placement agent in connection with the offering.

    The shares of common stock are being offered pursuant to a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-275840), which was declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on December 12, 2023. The offering of shares of common stock will be made only by means of a prospectus supplement that forms a part of such registration statement.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor will there be any sales of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. A prospectus supplement relating to the shares of common stock will be filed by the Company with the SEC. When available, copies of the prospectus supplement relating to the registered direct offering, together with the accompanying prospectus, can be obtained at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or from Maxim Group LLC, 300 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10022, Attention: Syndicate Department, or via email at syndicate@maximgrp.com or telephone at (212) 895-3500.

    About Castellum, Inc.

    Castellum, Inc. (NYSE-American: CTM) is a defense-oriented technology company that is executing strategic acquisitions in the cybersecurity, MBSE, and information warfare areas – http://castellumus.com/.

    Forward-Looking Statements:

    This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, based on current expectations and assumptions concerning future events or future performance of the company. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are only predictions and speak only as of the date hereof. Words such as “will,” “would,” “believe,” and “expects,” and similar language or phrasing are indicative of forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are outside of the Company’s control, that could cause actual results to differ (sometimes materially) from the results expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, including, among others: the Company’s ability to close the described debt financing; its ability to effectively integrate and grow its acquired companies; its ability to identify additional acquisition targets and close additional acquisitions; the impact on the Company’s revenue due to a delay in the U.S. Congress approving a federal budget; and the Company’s ability to maintain the listing of its common stock on the NYSE American LLC. In evaluating such statements, prospective investors should review carefully various risks and uncertainties identified in Item 1A. “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s recently filed Form 10-Q, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recent Form 10-K, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission which can be viewed at www.sec.gov. These risks and uncertainties, or not closing the described potential debt financing in this press release, could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Except to the extent required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, a change in events, conditions, circumstances or assumptions underlying such statements, or otherwise.

    Contact:

    Glen Ives, President and Chief Executive Officer
    Phone: (703) 752-6157
    Contact: Info@castellumus.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f3d9cecc-6bab-4be4-a011-1a1ac2c9d09a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Expert Forum on Anti-Corruption in the Age of AI

    Source: Caribbean Development Bank

    Dr. Darran Newman

    Advisor to the Acting President (Ag.), Caribbean Development Bank

    Dr. Darran Newman found the work that was meant for her when she started her development career as a sociologist at the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ).  Today she is a highly competent international development expert with over 25 years of policy-related and field experience from working with multilateral, bilateral development agencies and government, providing global development leadership.  Her extensive experience in social development included integrating gender equality and social inclusion in development programming and policy processes.

    During the period 1999-2013 she worked with the UK Government’s Department for International Development (renamed FCDO) and the European Commission, carrying out socio-political and poverty analysis, and bringing expertise in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment to interdisciplinary team working and global research.

    As a social development specialist, she conducted social audits and social impact and gender assessments for agricultural innovation initiatives in India and Central and Western Africa.  Championing gender equality and the rights and empowerment of women and girls was a central part of the social development analytical support for Eastern Europe, Tajikistan, Kyrgzhstan and Southern Africa country programmes.

    Driven by a strong urge to support international development in the Caribbean, in 2013 she returned to the region to join the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) as Portfolio Manager for the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF).   Subsequently, she led the Bank’s Technical Cooperation Division for 4 years.  Since 2021 she held position of Advisor to the Vice-President (Operations) and more recently holds the position of Advisor to the Acting President.

    One of her major aspirations is to always be a change-maker and work with others to achieve deep and wide systemic change in the Caribbean.

    Darran has always wanted to be in a position where she could help to create better futures especially for children.  This passionate advocacy for children’s rights led her to investigate child policy implementation in Jamaica.  She has a master’s degree in Sociology and completed a PhD in Social Policy.

    Monday December 9

    Time Zone

    America/Barbados

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Reprovisioned checkpoint opens

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki addressed the opening ceremony of the reprovisioned Chung Ying Street Checkpoint in Sha Tau Kok today.

    A pilot scheme for facial recognition technology has been introduced at the new checkpoint, enabling people living or working at Chung Ying Street to access the area unimpeded through “contactless channels” without having to stop and produce their Closed Area Permit (CAP) or use their fingerprint to verify their identity.

    Addressing the opening ceremony, Mr Chan noted that to facilitate entry to and exit from Chung Ying Street, the Government has replaced the former checkpoint made up of marquees with a permanent structure, and for the first time introduced facial recognition technology, allowing people living and working on Chung Ying Street to be the first to use “contactless channels” for unimpeded access.

    He said the Government will continue to explore the application of relevant technology to complement the future opening of Chung Ying Street for tourism, adding that in the future, holders of valid CAPs for access to Chung Ying Street may, upon prior enrolment, pass through the checkpoint via “contactless channels”.

    The Chief Secretary highlighted that in adopting the pilot scheme, the Government hopes to replace the current mode of manual inspections through applying innovative technology to assist users of the checkpoint, enhance its capacity and highlight Hong Kong’s high-quality digital technology as an international metropolis.

    Mr Chan also thanked the various government departments and organisations for their joint efforts in the successful completion of the reprovision project, providing better facilities for Chung Ying Street, an area rich in unique historical and cultural value.

    The checkpoint’s design has integrated historical and modern elements, showcasing the characteristics of Hong Kong’s traditional train stations.

    Its exterior wall is decorated with copper plate engravings featuring a historical train, preserving the history of the branch line. Multiple energy-saving designs have also been incorporated in the checkpoint.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Boralex adds another 97 MW in its expanding UK portfolio

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EDINBURGH, United Kingdom, Dec. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Boralex Inc. (“Boralex” or the “Company”) (TSX: BLX) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a joint venture for the development, construction and operation of the proposed 145MW Clashindarroch Wind Farm Extension and adjacent 50MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), for a total capacity of 195MW. The project is located near Dufftown in Moray, Scotland. Boralex has been developing this project for a number of years on behalf of Clashindarroch Wind Farm Extension Ltd.

    Esbjorn Wilmar, Country Director of Boralex in the United Kingdom said: “We are delighted to have become co-owners of this exciting project. We already have extensive experience in the area through the initial development of the 177MW Dorenell Wind Farm. We now look forward to taking Clashindarroch Wind Farm Extension through the remaining stages of development.”

    Nicolas Wolff, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Boralex in Europe said: “This latest achievement by our UK team will enable us to accelerate the deployment of our Strategic Plan. Through this joint venture, we are adding to our already solid portfolio, supported by our organic developments and the recent acquisition of the 50MW Sallachy wind project.”

    Today’s announcement comes at a pivotal moment in the UK. Earlier in the month, the UK government unveiled its Clean Power Action Plan, setting out how it wants to achieve its grid decarbonisation targets by 2030. This plan, seen as a landmark for the clean energy sector, aims to unlock £40 billion annually from the private sector for investments in infrastructure and renewable energy. It also states that onshore wind capacity should be almost doubled to meet the decarbonisation target, from 14GW installed today to 27GW by 2030.

    The Company submitted a Section 36 application to the Scottish Government. The application is currently under consideration by the Government’s Energy Consents Unit (ECU). The Clashindarroch Wind Farm Extension application consists of up to 22 wind turbines each with an installed capacity of up to 6.6MW, as well as a battery storage facility of up to 50MW.

    On this transaction, CMS acted as Boralex’s legal advisers.

    About Boralex

    At Boralex, we have been providing affordable renewable energy accessible to everyone for over 30 years. As a leader in the Canadian market and France’s largest independent producer of onshore wind power, we also have facilities in the United States and development projects in the United Kingdom. Over the past five years, our installed capacity has more than doubled to over 3.1 GW. We are developing a portfolio of more than 7.2 GW in wind, solar projects and storage projects, guided by our values and our corporate social responsibility (CSR) approach. Through profitable and sustainable growth, Boralex is actively participating in the fight against global warming. Thanks to our fearlessness, our discipline, our expertise and our diversity, we continue to be an industry leader. Boralex’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol BLX.

    For more information, visit boralex.com or sedarplus.com. Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

    For more information

    MEDIA  INVESTOR RELATIONS 
    Camille Laventure 
    Senior Advisor, Public Affairs and External Communications
    Boralex Inc. 

    438-883-8580 
    camille.laventure@boralex.com  

    		 Stéphane Milot 
    Vice President, Investor Relations 

    Boralex Inc. 

    514-213-1045 
    stephane.milot@boralex.com  

    Source: Boralex Inc.        

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: The Future of Growth: Rethinking Prosperity for All

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    Explore how the World Economic Forum’s Future of Growth initiative is shaping sustainable and inclusive economic models for the 21st century. https://initiatives.weforum.org/future-of-growth-initiative/home

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
    Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/worldeconomicforum/
    YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/wef
    Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/worldeconomicforum/ 
    Twitter ► https://twitter.com/wef
    LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-economic-forum
    TikTok ► https://www.tiktok.com/@worldeconomicforum
    Flipboard ► https://flipboard.com/@WEF

    #WorldEconomicForum #InclusiveGrowth #Sustainability #InvestingInPeople #wef25

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uquQHM8z0Yw

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI: TeraWulf to Deliver over 70 MW of Data Center Infrastructure for G42’s US Operations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Core42, a Subsidiary of G42, will utilize the facility to expand its industry-leading AI Infrastructure offerings tailored to US customers

    Strategic Expansion of TeraWulf’s Platform into AI-Driven HPC Hosting, Complementing Profitable Bitcoin Mining Operations

    Management to Host Conference Call and Live Audio Webcast at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time Today

    EASTON, Md., Dec. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TeraWulf Inc. (Nasdaq: WULF) (“TeraWulf” or the “Company”), a leading owner and operator of vertically integrated, next-generation digital infrastructure powered by predominantly zero-carbon energy, today announced the signing of long-term data center lease agreements with Core42, a G42 company specializing in sovereign cloud, AI infrastructure, and digital services.

    Under the data center lease agreements, TeraWulf will deliver over 70 megawatts (MW)1 of turn-key data center infrastructure to host Core42’s deployment at the Lake Mariner facility in Upstate New York. The infrastructure will be released for production in phases between Q1 and Q3 2025.

    TeraWulf will customize the data halls to support Core42’s GPU clusters, which will feature state-of-the-art Dell Integrated Rack Scalable Solutions, the Dell IR5000. These integrated racks include direct liquid cooled Dell PowerEdge XE9680L GPU servers and will come online in phases.

    The data center leases reflect TeraWulf’s strategic extension into AI-driven computing, complementing its profitable Bitcoin mining operations and aligning with the Company’s mission to leverage scalable, sustainable energy to power the digital economy.

    Leadership Commentary

    “Our strategic relationship with G42, and most specifically with Core42, positions TeraWulf at the intersection of two of today’s most transformative computational networks: AI compute and Bitcoin mining,” said Paul Prager, Chief Executive Officer of TeraWulf. “The surging demand for scalable, energy-efficient infrastructure presents a tremendous opportunity. Our ability to rapidly deliver customized, predominantly zero-carbon-powered solutions solidifies our position as a leader in the digital infrastructure space. This agreement not only diversifies our revenue streams but also significantly enhances our long-term earnings potential.”

    Nazar Khan, Chief Technology Officer of TeraWulf, emphasized the strength of the collaboration by remarking, “Core42’s entrepreneurial vision and impressive growth trajectory make them an exceptional partner. Together, we are uniquely equipped to meet the growing demand for AI-driven computing solutions.”

    “TeraWulf’s Lake Mariner facility represents an ideal match for Core42’s expanding next-generation digital infrastructure in North America,” said Edmondo Orlotti, Chief Growth Officer of Core42. “The facility’s access to predominantly zero-carbon power, combined with TeraWulf’s demonstrated ability to rapidly deploy customized data center solutions, aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainable, high-performance AI compute infrastructure.” 

    Arthur Lewis, President of the Infrastructure Solutions Group at Dell Technologies commented: “Dell Technologies is committed to empowering organizations of all types with tools like the Dell AI Factory to thrive in a data-driven world. With TeraWulf and Core42, we’re delivering industry-leading, liquid-cooled server solutions that enable scalable, sustainable data center infrastructure, accelerating AI innovation across industries.”

    Financial Highlights

    The data center leases include two five-year renewal options, providing a long-term, stable, high-margin revenue stream for TeraWulf. Additionally, the data center lease agreements include provisions for expanding near-term hosting capacity for Core42 by an additional 135 MW gross, which is equivalent to 108 MW of critical IT load, underscoring the potential for future scalability and revenue growth.

    Advisors

    TeraWulf is being advised by JP Morgan and Morgan Stanley as financial advisors and Milbank LLP and Stutzman, Bromberg, Esserman & Plifka, P.C. as legal advisors.

    Conference Call and Webcast Details

    TeraWulf will host a conference call to discuss the partnership with Core42. Hosting the call and webcast will be Paul Prager, Chief Executive Officer, Nazar Khan, Chief Technology Officer, Patrick Fleury, Chief Financial Officer, Kerri Langlais, Chief Strategy Officer, and John Larkin, Director of Investor Relations.

    Date: December 23, 2024
    Time: 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time
    Participant Dial-In: 1-877-407-0789 or 1-201-689-8562

    Investors are invited to submit questions ahead of the call to info@terawulf.com. The management team will address as many questions as possible during the live call.

    All interested parties may also access a live webcast of the event at www.investors.terawulf.com, under the “News and Events” tab, or by using the following link:

    https://viavid.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1702352&tp_key=2f26f643b7

    For those unable to participate during the live webcast, a replay will be available at www.investors.terawulf.com.

    All questions pertaining to G42 can be addressed to media@g42.ai.

    All questions pertaining to Core42 can be addressed to communications@core42.ai.

    About TeraWulf

    TeraWulf develops, owns, and operates environmentally sustainable, next-generation data center infrastructure in the United States, specifically designed for Bitcoin mining and hosting HPC workloads. Led by a team of seasoned energy entrepreneurs, the Company owns and operates the Lake Mariner facility situated on the expansive site of a now retired coal plant in Western New York. Currently, TeraWulf generates revenue primarily through Bitcoin mining, leveraging predominantly zero-carbon energy sources, including hydroelectric and nuclear power. Committed to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles that align with its business objectives, TeraWulf aims to deliver industry-leading economics in mining and data center operations at an industrial scale.

    About Core42

    Core42, a G42 company, empowers individuals, enterprises, and nations to unlock the full potential of AI through its comprehensive enablement capabilities. As a leading provider of sovereign cloud, AI infrastructure, and services, our mission is to accelerate the achievements of others and help them reach their most ambitious goals.

    To learn more, please visit www.core42.ai and follow Core42 LinkedIn, Core42 Instagram, Core42 X.

    About G42

    G42 is a global leader in creating visionary artificial intelligence capabilities for a better tomorrow. Born in Abu Dhabi and operating around the world, G42 champions AI as a powerful force for good. Its people are constantly reimagining what technology can do, applying advanced thinking and innovation to accelerate progress and tackle society’s most pressing problems.

    G42 is joining forces with nations, corporations and individuals to create the infrastructure for tomorrow’s world. From molecular biology to space exploration and everything in between, G42 realizes exponential possibilities, today.

    For further information visit www.g42.ai.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Such forward-looking statements include statements concerning anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as “plan,” “believe,” “goal,” “target,” “aim,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “outlook,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “continue,” “could,” “may,” “might,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “should,” “would” and other similar words and expressions, although the absence of these words or expressions does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are based on the current expectations and beliefs of TeraWulf’s management and are inherently subject to a number of factors, risks, uncertainties and assumptions and their potential effects. There can be no assurance that future developments will be those that have been anticipated. Actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements based on a number of factors, risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including, among others: (1) conditions in the cryptocurrency mining industry, including fluctuation in the market pricing of bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, and the economics of cryptocurrency mining, including as to variables or factors affecting the cost, efficiency and profitability of cryptocurrency mining; (2) competition among the various providers of cryptocurrency mining services; (3) changes in applicable laws, regulations and/or permits affecting TeraWulf’s operations or the industries in which it operates, including regulation regarding power generation, cryptocurrency usage and/or cryptocurrency mining, and/or regulation regarding safety, health, environmental and other matters, which could require significant expenditures; (4) the ability to implement certain business objectives and to timely and cost-effectively execute integrated projects; (5) failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and/or on acceptable terms with regard to growth strategies or operations; (6) loss of public confidence in bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies and the potential for cryptocurrency market manipulation; (7) adverse geopolitical or economic conditions, including a high inflationary environment; (8) the potential of cybercrime, money-laundering, malware infections and phishing and/or loss and interference as a result of equipment malfunction or break-down, physical disaster, data security breach, computer malfunction or sabotage (and the costs associated with any of the foregoing); (9) the availability, delivery schedule and cost of equipment necessary to maintain and grow the business and operations of TeraWulf, including mining equipment and infrastructure equipment meeting the technical or other specifications required to achieve its growth strategy; (10) employment workforce factors, including the loss of key employees; (11) litigation relating to TeraWulf and/or its business; and (12) other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Potential investors, stockholders and other readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they were made. TeraWulf does not assume any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement after it was made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law or regulation. Investors are referred to the full discussion of risks and uncertainties associated with forward-looking statements and the discussion of risk factors contained in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available at www.sec.gov.

    Investors:
    Investors@terawulf.com 

    Media:
    media@terawulf.com 

    ____________________________
    1     Represents gross capacity. Critical IT capacity is as follows: 2 MW for the Wulf Den, 16 MW for CB-1, and 42 MW for CB-2.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2024 in Review: Highlighting the Best of Landsat

    Source: US Geological Survey

    What makes Landsat so valuable is its unmatched record, with more than 50 years of data about Earth’s land surface. And it’s all open to the public at no cost. This vital resource continues to monitor change in the world’s land masses and water resources.  

    This year, international reports echoed the message that Landsat is among the most impactful, quality-driven Earth observation imaging programs. Scroll down to read about two such reports. 

    Landsat data has long provided opportunities for improved monitoring and management of all of Earth’s landforms and ecosystems. From delicate mangroves and freshwater wetlands to mountainous forests damaged by fire and landmasses and ice sheets from pole to pole. Landsat is an invaluable resource, helping land managers and scientists evaluate the changes to land surfaces, and then determine the best step forward to mitigate or influence future land change. 

    Scroll through the stories below to learn how applying Landsat data enabled scientists to advance research in 2024. 

    Landsat’s reputation for top quality Earth observation capabilities helps strengthen the partnerships the USGS maintains with longstanding international collaborators. This year, important new agreements were signed relating to the future of Earth observation and the next Landsat mission. These partnerships are made possible by the Landsat 2030 International Partnership Initiative that was announced in late 2023. 

    Scroll down to read more about the new agreements, see highlights from a visiting international ambassador, and learn how international cooperators and their ground station operators keep informed about Landsat.

    Spectral band comparisons between Landsat 8 and Landsat 9 , with those of Landsat Next. Click to enlarge. 

    The new Landsat Next mission will help unlock new opportunities for research studies relating to water quality, crop production and plant stress, climate and snow dynamics, soil health and other essential environmental variables.

    A significant milestone for the Landsat Next mission this year is the selection of a contractor to design, build, test, and deliver the sensors that will be on board the Landsat Next mission’s constellation of 3 identical satellites. Each sensor will collect Earth observation data in 26 spectral bands with high resolution. Overall, the constellation will collect about 20 times more data than Landsat 8 or Landsat 9.  

    Visit the links below to hear a podcast and view webpages to learn more about the Landsat Next mission. 

    After 25 years of orbiting around the Earth more than 132,000 times, the Landsat 7 mission is nothing short of legendary. The Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus sensor onboard the satellite captured over 3.3 million images. Move the slider back and forth on the image below to see the massive growth of the Las Vegas area from 1999 to 2024. The 2024 image marks the satellite’s 25th anniversary and stands as a tribute to Landsat 7’s quarter-century legacy of Earth observation.

    Landsat 7 images of Las Vegas: July 4, 1999, and May 28, 2024. 
    Click to view full size graphic. 

    Landsat 7 satellite images continue to support studies of how land is used and how it has changed across urban, agriculture, forest, snow, and ice-covered areas around the globe, as well as natural and manmade disasters. 

    The magnitude and impact that Landsat 7 brought to scientists and those interested in studying the Earth’s landmasses are summarized in this graphic. 

    Read the USGS News release about the Landsat 7 mission. 

     

    Events captured by Landsat 7

    Landsat 7 witnessed events that changed the landscape on Earth slowly, such as the expanding Las Vegas urban sprawl shown above. Some of the significant events that changed the Earth much faster include the 2001 World Trade Center attack, the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and the Deepwater Horizon Oil Slick in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010.   

    The images and podcasts linked below provide just a glimpse into the 25 years of Landsat 7. From its launch in 1999 to sending down its final science mission data in 2024, this historic mission helped us appreciate and better understand Earth’s land surfaces. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Charges Dual Russian and Israeli National as Developer of LockBit Ransomware Group

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Defendant Rostislav Panev in Custody Pending Extradition from Israel to the United States

    Note: A copy of the superseding criminal complaint can be found here.

    A superseding criminal complaint filed in the District of New Jersey was unsealed today charging a dual Russian and Israeli national for being a developer of the LockBit ransomware group.

    In August, Rostislav Panev, 51, a dual Russian and Israeli national, was arrested in Israel pursuant to a U.S. provisional arrest request with a view towards extradition to the United States. Panev is currently in custody in Israel pending extradition on the charges in the superseding complaint.

    “The Justice Department’s work going after the world’s most dangerous ransomware schemes includes not only dismantling networks, but also finding and bringing to justice the individuals responsible for building and running them,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “Three of the individuals who we allege are responsible for LockBit’s cyberattacks against thousands of victims are now in custody, and we will continue to work alongside our partners to hold accountable all those who lead and enable ransomware attacks.”

    “The arrest of Mr. Panev reflects the Department’s commitment to using all its tools to combat the ransomware threat,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “We started this year with a coordinated international disruption of LockBit — the most damaging ransomware group in the world. Fast forward to today and three LockBit actors are in custody thanks to the diligence of our investigators and our strong partnerships around the world. This case is a model for ransomware investigations in the years to come.”

    “The arrest of alleged developer Ratislav Panev is part of the FBI’s ongoing efforts to disrupt and dismantle the LockBit ransomware group, one of the most prolific ransomware variants across the globe,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The LockBit group has targeted both public and private sector victims around the world, including schools, hospitals, and critical infrastructure, as well as small businesses and multi-national corporations.  No matter how hidden or advanced the threat, the FBI remains committed to working with our interagency partners to safeguard the cyber ecosystem and hold accountable those who are responsible for these criminal activities.” 

    “The criminal complaint alleges that Rotislav Panev developed malware and maintained the infrastructure for LockBit, which was once the world’s most destructive ransomware group and attacked thousands of victims, causing billions of dollars in damage,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Along with our domestic and international law enforcement partner actions to dismantle LockBit’s infrastructure, the Criminal Division has disrupted LockBit’s operations by charging seven of its key members (including affiliates, developers, and its administrator) and arresting three of these defendants — including Panev. We are especially grateful for our partnerships with authorities in Europol, the United Kingdom, France, and Israel, which show that, when likeminded countries work together, cybercriminals will find it harder to escape justice.”

    “As alleged by the complaint, Rostislav Panev for years built and maintained the digital weapons that enabled his LockBit coconspirators to wreak havoc and cause billions of dollars in damage around the world,” said U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger for the District of New Jersey. “But just like the six other LockBit members previously identified and charged by this office and our FBI and Criminal Division partners, Panev could not remain anonymous and avoid justice indefinitely. He must now answer for his crimes. Today’s announcement represents another blow struck by the United States and our international partners against the LockBit organization, and our efforts will continue relentlessly until the group is fully dismantled and its members brought to justice.”

    According to the superseding complaint, documents filed in this and related cases, and statements made in court, Panev acted as a developer of the LockBit ransomware group from its inception in or around 2019 through at least February 2024. During that time, Panev and his LockBit coconspirators grew LockBit into what was, at times, the most active and destructive ransomware group in the world. The LockBit group attacked more than 2,500 victims in at least 120 countries around the world, including 1,800 in the United States. Their victims ranged from individuals and small businesses to multinational corporations, including hospitals, schools, nonprofit organizations, critical infrastructure, and government and law-enforcement agencies. LockBit’s members extracted at least $500 million in ransom payments from their victims and caused billions of dollars in other losses, including lost revenue and costs from incident response and recovery.

    LockBit’s members comprised “developers,” like Panev, who designed the LockBit malware code and maintained the infrastructure on which LockBit operated. LockBit’s other members, called “affiliates,” carried out LockBit attacks and extorted ransom payments from LockBit victims. LockBit’s developers and affiliates would then split ransom payments extorted from victims.

    As alleged in the superseding complaint, at the time of Panev’s arrest in Israel in August, law enforcement discovered on Panev’s computer administrator credentials for an online repository that was hosted on the dark web and stored source code for multiple versions of the LockBit builder, which allowed LockBit’s affiliates to generate custom builds of the LockBit ransomware malware for particular victims. On that repository, law enforcement also discovered source code for LockBit’s StealBit tool, which helped LockBit affiliates exfiltrate data stolen through LockBit attacks. Law enforcement also discovered access credentials for the LockBit control panel, an online dashboard maintained by LockBit developers for LockBit’s affiliates and hosted by those developers on the dark web.

    The superseding complaint also alleges that Panev exchanged direct messages through a cybercriminal forum with LockBit’s primary administrator, who, in an indictment unsealed in the District of New Jersey in May, the United States alleged to be Dimitry Yuryevich Khoroshev (Дмитрий Юрьевич Хорошев), also known as LockBitSupp, LockBit, and putinkrab. In those messages, Panev and the LockBit primary administrator discussed work that needed to be done on the LockBit builder and control panel.

    Court documents further indicate that, between June 2022 and February 2024, the primary LockBit administrator made a series of transfers of cryptocurrency, laundered through one or more illicit cryptocurrency mixing services, of approximately $10,000 per month to a cryptocurrency wallet owned by Panev. Those transfers amounted to over $230,000 during that period.

    In interviews with Israeli authorities following his arrest in August, Panev admitted to having performed coding, development, and consulting work for the LockBit group and to having received regular payments in cryptocurrency for that work, consistent with the transfers identified by U.S. authorities. Among the work that Panev admitted to having completed for the LockBit group was the development of code to disable antivirus software; to deploy malware to multiple computers connected to a victim network; and to print the LockBit ransom note to all printers connected to a victim network. Panev also admitted to having written and maintained LockBit malware code and to having provided technical guidance to the LockBit group.

    The LockBit Investigation

    The superseding complaint against, and apprehension of, Panev follows a disruption of LockBit ransomware in February by the United Kingdom (U.K.)’s National Crime Agency (NCA)’s Cyber Division, which worked in cooperation with the Justice Department, FBI, and other international law enforcement partners. As previously announced by the Department, authorities disrupted LockBit by seizing numerous public-facing websites used by LockBit to connect to the organization’s infrastructure and by seizing control of servers used by LockBit administrators, thereby disrupting the ability of LockBit actors to attack and encrypt networks and extort victims by threatening to publish stolen data. That disruption succeeded in greatly diminishing LockBit’s reputation and its ability to attack further victims, as alleged by documents filed in this case.

    The superseding complaint against Panev also follows charges brought in the District of New Jersey against other LockBit members, including its alleged primary creator, developer, and administrator, Dmitry Yuryevich Khoroshev. An indictment against Khoroshev unsealed in May alleges that Khoroshev began developing LockBit as early as September 2019, continued acting as the group’s administrator through 2024, a role in which Khoroshev recruited new affiliate members, spoke for the group publicly under the alias “LockBitSupp,” and developed and maintained the infrastructure used by affiliates to deploy LockBit attacks. Khoroshev is currently the subject of a reward of up to $10 million through the U.S. Department of State’s Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) Rewards Program, with information accepted through the FBI tip website at www.tips.fbi.gov/.

    A total of seven LockBit members have now been charged in the District of New Jersey. Beyond Panev and Khoroshev, other previously charged LockBit defendants include:

    • In July, two LockBit affiliate members, Mikhail Vasiliev, also known as Ghostrider, Free, Digitalocean90, Digitalocean99, Digitalwaters99, and Newwave110, and Ruslan Astamirov, also known as BETTERPAY, offtitan, and Eastfarmer, pleaded guilty in the District of New Jersey for their participation in the LockBit ransomware group and admitted deploying multiple LockBit attacks against U.S. and foreign victims. Vasiliev and Astamirov are presently in custody awaiting sentencing.
    • In February, in parallel with the disruption operation described above, an indictment was unsealed in the District of New Jersey charging Russian nationals Artur Sungatov and Ivan Kondratyev, also known as Bassterlord, with deploying LockBit against numerous victims throughout the United States, including businesses nationwide in the manufacturing and other industries, as well as victims around the world in the semiconductor and other industries. Sungatov and Kondratyev remain at large.
    • In May 2023, two indictments were unsealed in Washington, D.C., and the District of New Jersey charging Mikhail Matveev, also known as Wazawaka, m1x, Boriselcin, and Uhodiransomwar, with using different ransomware variants, including LockBit, to attack numerous victims throughout the United States, including the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Police Department. Matveev remains at large and is currently the subject of a reward of up to $10 million through the U.S. Department of State’s TOC Rewards Program, with information accepted through the FBI tip website at www.tips.fbi.gov/.

    The U.S. Department of State’s TOC Rewards Program is offering rewards of:

    Information is accepted through the FBI tip website at tips.fbi.gov.

    Khoroshev, Matveev, Sungatov, and Kondratyev have also been designated for sanctions by the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control for their roles in launching cyberattacks.

    Victim Assistance

    LockBit victims are encouraged to contact the FBI and submit information at www.ic3.gov/. As announced by the Department in February, law enforcement, through its disruption efforts, has developed decryption capabilities that may enable hundreds of victims around the world to restore systems encrypted using the LockBit ransomware variant. Submitting information at the IC3 site will enable law enforcement to determine whether affected systems can be successfully decrypted.

    LockBit victims are also encouraged to visit www.justice.gov/usao-nj/lockbit for case updates and information regarding their rights under U.S. law, including the right to submit victim impact statements and request restitution, in the criminal litigation against Panev, Astamirov, and Vasiliev.

    The FBI Newark Field Office, under the supervision of Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado, is investigating the LockBit ransomware variant. Israel’s Office of the State Attorney, Department of International Affairs, and Israel National Police; France’s Gendarmerie Nationale Cyberspace Command, Paris Prosecution Office — Cyber Division, and judicial authorities at the Tribunal Judiciare of Paris; Europol; Eurojust; the U.K.’s NCA; Germany’s Landeskriminalamt Schleswig-Holstein, Bundeskriminalamt, and the Central Cybercrime Department North Rhine-Westphalia; Switzerland’s Federal Office of Justice, Public Prosecutor’s Office of the Canton of Zurich, and Zurich Cantonal Police; Spain’s Policia Nacional and Guardia Civil; Japan’s National Police Agency; Australian Federal Police; Sweden’s Polismyndighetens; Canada’s Royal Canadian Mounted Police; Politie Dienst Regionale Recherche Oost-Brabant of the Netherlands; and Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation have provided significant assistance and coordination in these matters and in the LockBit investigation generally.

    Trial Attorneys Debra Ireland and Jorge Gonzalez of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew M. Trombly, David E. Malagold, and Vinay Limbachia for the District of New Jersey are prosecuting the charges against Panev and the other previously charged LockBit defendants in the District of New Jersey.

    The Justice Department’s Cybercrime Liaison Prosecutor to Eurojust, Office of International Affairs, and National Security Division also provided significant assistance.

    Additional details on protecting networks against LockBit ransomware are available at StopRansomware.gov. These include Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Advisories AA23-325A, AA23-165A, and AA23-075A. 

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Dominican Republic: A Strategic Destination Attracting Multimillion-Dollar Investments

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, Dec. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Dominican Republic continues to consolidate itself as a strategic destination for foreign investment, standing out for its highly skilled human talent, favorable business climate, and geographical proximity to the United States. These factors, combined with tax incentives and a modern free trade zone ecosystem, have turned the country into a magnet for important multinational companies.

    A clear example of this confidence can be seen in the recent financial operations of major global companies, including operations in the Dominican Republic. Medical technology giants Edwards Lifesciences and Becton Dickinson (BD) completed a US$4.2 billion transaction. Meanwhile, Ecolab completed the sale of its global surgical solutions unit to Medline in a transaction valued at approximately US$950 million, including most of its current operations in the Dominican Republic, highlighting the country’s attractiveness as a strategic center for manufacturing and services.

    A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link.

    BD’s acquisition of the Critical Care division of Edwards Lifesciences reflects its interest in expanding its global portfolio and strengthening its production capacity, taking advantage of the competitive advantages offered by the Dominican Republic, such as political and economic stability, a solid legal framework, attractive tax incentives, first-rate logistical connectivity, and a young and dynamic workforce.

    Similarly, Medline’s operation underscores the Dominican Republic’s key role in global supply chains. The country has been instrumental in the success of its surgical solutions, including Microtek’s innovative technologies, which are known for their reliability and advanced design. This focus on innovation has enabled companies such as Medline to leverage Ecolab’s legacy of quality and strengthen their position in the global marketplace.

    The Dominican Republic has positioned itself as a leader in medical device manufacturing in Latin America, thanks to developing and strengthening its free trade zones and its commitment to excellence. These BD and Medline operations are tangible proof of the confidence of major international companies in the country’s business environment and the quality of its human resources.

    These investments boost national economic growth and consolidate the Dominican Republic as a reliable and strategic destination for high-impact business. With its proximity to the United States, one of the world’s largest markets, and its focus on innovation and competitiveness, the country continues to attract global leaders’ attention.

    About the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and MSME’s (MICM)
    MICM is the government body responsible for policy formulation, adoption, monitoring, evaluation, and control in the fields of industry, exports, foreign trade, free zones, special regimes, and SMEs.

    Contact information
    Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and MSME’s (MICM)
    Viceministry of Free Zone and Special Regimes
    (1) 809-685-5171 ext 1017
    www.micm.gob.do

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Joint statement on Afghanistan

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Joint statement on the situation in Afghanistan following a G7+ meeting in Geneva

    Special Envoys and Representatives for Afghanistan of Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Switzerland, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, and the United States met in Geneva on December 16, 2024 to discuss the situation in Afghanistan. Deputy Special Representative for Afghanistan in the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights, Representatives of the World Bank (WB) and of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) also participated in the meeting as observers.

    The Special Envoys and Representatives for Afghanistan:

    1. Expressed grave concern over the Taliban’s decisions in December 2024 to ban women and girls from attending public and private medical training institutions; and expressed concern that this new ban will have devastating consequences for all Afghans, especially mothers and infants – both born and unborn, both boys and girls – and will further destabilize an already fragile healthcare system. These decisions, which come on the back of the Taliban’s “Law on the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice” announced in August 2024, expand upon the already over 80 repressive, discriminatory edicts aimed at excluding Afghan women and girls from education, public and economic life. We call for the immediate reversal of these unacceptable practices and policies.

    2. Noted with grave concern recent terrorist attacks in Kabul and the region, as well as the continuing threat terrorism poses to security and stability in Afghanistan; and acknowledged the Taliban actions to tackle terrorist threats from ISIS-K, while recalling the need for the Taliban to pursue actions to tackle terrorist threats, in accordance with Resolution 2593 of the United Nations Security Council and underscoring that some terrorist groups still reside safely inside Afghanistan and are able to plan and carry-out internal and cross-border terrorist strikes.

    3. Underscored that achieving long-term stability in Afghanistan requires a credible and inclusive national dialogue leading to a constitutional order with a representative and inclusive political system, as well as accountable political leaders and the State of Afghanistan meeting its international obligations.

    4. Emphasized the need for implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2721 (2023), which took positive note of the UN’s independent assessment prepared pursuant to UNSCR 2679 (2023), encouraged member states and all other relevant stakeholders to consider implementation of its recommendations and requested the UN Secretary General to appoint a Special Envoy for Afghanistan to take forward a process between Afghan stakeholders and the international community for long term peace and stability in Afghanistan.

    5. Commended the work of the United Nations, including the UN-led Doha Process, and recognized the important and specific work of UNAMA, UN agencies present in the country, the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank and the many international and local NGOs and other humanitarian actors that continue to support the people of Afghanistan through ongoing social and humanitarian crisis.

    6. Reaffirmed that international NGOs are indispensable to humanitarian work in Afghanistan; and reinforced the importance of a united humanitarian response that includes representation from UN agencies, international and national NGOs, and other humanitarian actors.

    7. Highlighted the necessity to continue helping Afghans who are suffering in the ongoing humanitarian crisis with appropriate consideration for vulnerable populations, including women and women-led households, children and members of ethnic and religious minority communities.

    8. Looked forward to deepening engagement with neighbouring countries and other countries of the region on a joint response to the developing situation in Afghanistan, including countering potential threats such as terrorism and illegal migration to regional security and stability emanating from Afghanistan; commended the efforts of Muslim-majority countries and the OIC in engaging with the Taliban on women’s and girls’ rights and welcomed the leadership they have demonstrated on issues such as access to education and encouraged them to continue their active engagement on these and related issues.

    9. Expressed their appreciation to Switzerland for organizing these consultations and hosting the meeting; and looked forward to this Group of Special Envoys and Representatives meeting again in the near future.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 20 December 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Yukon launches eighth intake of Housing Initiatives Fund

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Government of Yukon launches eighth intake of Housing Initiatives Fund
    jlutz

    The Government of Yukon has opened applications for the eighth intake of the Housing Initiatives Fund. With a commitment of up to $4 million for two different funding streams, this initiative aims to support the development of new affordable housing units across the territory.

    The Housing Initiatives Fund supports shovel-ready, partner-led projects with funding to accelerate the delivery of quality, affordable housing for Yukoners. Projects must exceed the National Building Code energy efficiency standards by 25 per cent, ensure that 20 per cent of units in multi-unit buildings are built to accessibility standards and remain affordable (below median market rental rates) for at least 20 years. Additionally, projects must create a minimum of four affordable units in Whitehorse or one unit in rural communities.

    Through the program’s year-round project concepts stream, proponents can access up to $20,000 to support the development of affordable housing project proposals and other pre-development activities.

    The deadline for the eighth intake of shovel-ready project proposals is March 15, 2025. Applications for project concept funding are accepted year-round.

    Since 2018, the Government of Yukon has committed more than $35 million to support projects that will create 931 new units across the territory, including 827 that will remain affordable for 20 years. By supporting private developers alongside partners like the Northern Community Land Trust Society, Da Daghay Development Corporation, Normandy Living, Boreal Commons, Opportunities Yukon and the Safe at Home Society, it has created economic opportunities, strengthened communities and addressed the Yukon’s diverse housing needs.

    The Housing Initiatives Fund helps Yukoners play a key role in creating affordable housing solutions within their own communities. By supporting the development of more affordable rental properties and new homes, this program directly improves the lives of individuals and families across the territory. As the eighth annual intake opens, the Housing Initiatives Fund continues to be a vital resource in easing the housing pressures that impact so many Yukoners.

    Premier and Minister responsible for Yukon Housing Corporation Ranj Pillai

    Quick facts

    • Proponents must be Yukon residents (with proof of residency) or registered Yukon businesses. 

    • Eligible applicants include community housing providers, First Nations governments and development corporations, municipalities and private sector organizations or individuals, committed to completing shovel-ready projects within two years.

    • Shovel-ready construction projects may be eligible for up to $100,000 per unit, with a maximum of $1 million per project. 

    • Additional consideration will be given to projects that address diverse housing needs in the Yukon, including housing for seniors, tenants earning below Yukon Housing Corporation’s household income limits, individuals experiencing homelessness, youth aged 18 to 25 and First Nations-led initiatives.

    • Funding can be combined with other Yukon Housing Corporation programs, such as the Municipal Matching Rental Construction Program and the Developer Build Loan Program, as well as federal funding initiatives.

    Media contact

    Laura Seeley
    Cabinet Communications
    867-332-7627
    laura.seeley@yukon.ca 

    Kim Sheridan
    Communications, Yukon Housing Corporation
    867-667-8818
    kim.sheridan@yukon.ca 

    News release #:
    Related information:
    Apply for funding for housing initiatives
    Yukon Housing Corporation

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Premier Pillai on the Council of Federation Fall 2024 meeting

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Statement from Premier Pillai on the Council of Federation Fall 2024 meeting
    zaburke

    Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:

    “This week, I had the privilege to join Premiers for the Council of the Federation Fall 2024 meeting in Toronto. We discussed key priorities for the coming year, uniting our voices on issues that matter to all Canadians, including Canada-U.S. relations, health care and energy security.

    “Canada-U.S. relations were a central focus of our discussions. For the Yukon, this means continuing to strengthen our relationship with Alaska, which benefits both sides of the border. Premiers are committed to working hard to avoid any potential U.S. tariffs and agreed on the need to accelerate achieving the NATO defence spending target of two per cent of gross domestic product (GDP). Arctic security was also highlighted in these discussions, and I look forward to raising our interests during the Premiers’ mission to Washington, D.C. in February 2025.

    “For Yukoners, improving health care is a top priority. Our government is working to address the health workforce shortage by supporting recruitment and retention efforts. I know that Minister of Health and Social Services, Tracy-Anne McPhee, along with many health system partners, highlighted our progress in the first annual report on the Health Human Resources Strategy. Premiers continue to stress the need for more resources to tackle the Substance Use Health Emergency, which continues to deeply impact communities across the territory. Faster access to prescription medicines was also an important part of the Premiers’ discussion, and I look forward to seeing progress on this file, led by our respective health ministers.

    “Energy security was another major topic of discussion. As emerging technologies create new opportunities, we must work together to ensure energy is reliable, affordable, and sustainably produced. Critical minerals and energy corridors will play a crucial role in securing Canada’s future prosperity.

    “In addition to the Council of the Federation meeting, I was honoured to once again join Premier of Nunavut P.J. Akeeagok and Premier of the Northwest Territories R.J. Simpson to discuss northern priorities on the national stage. Arctic security, infrastructure and critical minerals were at the top of the agenda. We emphasized the need for more federal investment in these areas to address the unique challenges faced by northern communities. The North must have a seat at the table when it comes to decisions that impact our future. I would like to thank Premier P.J. Akeeagok for his work as chair over the past year and look forward to hosting the 2025 Northern Premiers’ Forum as incoming chair.

    “Attending the Council of Federation is an important opportunity to amplify Yukoners’ voices and advocate for the North. I am honoured to join Premiers in promoting collaboration and remaining committed to working together. I am proud of our continued partnership on these crucial issues and thank Premier Ford for hosting us in Toronto.”
     

    Media contact

    Laura Seeley
    Cabinet Communications
    867-332-7627
    laura.seeley@yukon.ca 
     

    News release #:
    Related information:
    Premiers Discuss Important Issues for Canadians
    Government of Yukon addresses Health Human Resources challenges
    Statement from Premier Pillai on meeting with northern Premiers

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Joint statement from Premier Ranj Pillai and Minister Sandy Silver on Canada’s 2024 Fall Economic Statement

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Joint statement from Premier Ranj Pillai and Minister Sandy Silver on Canada’s 2024 Fall Economic Statement
    zaburke

    Premier Ranj Pillai and Minister of Finance Sandy Silver have issued the following joint statement:

    “This week, federal House Leader Karina Gould delivered an update on how Canada’s finances and economy are doing along with measures to address critical issues for Canadians in the 2024 Fall Economic Statement. Many of these issues are keenly felt in the Yukon and our government is pleased to see the statement recognizes the importance of reducing everyday costs, fostering innovation, adjusting to the current realities of global trade and promoting investment.

    “We are happy to see that the Government of Canada has responded to repeated requests from our government by including a proposal to amend the Yukon Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Act in the Fall Economic Statement. The proposed amendment would allow certain projects, identified with consent from affected Yukon First Nations, to be exempt from re-assessments. Such a change will help combine a strong regulatory framework that protects the Yukon environment with one that eases the way for investment. We look forward to this legislative change creating a more efficient assessment process and are happy to see them move forward after several years of advocacy from our government and support from First Nations governments.

    “Canada’s Premiers have been continually asking for bail reform, so it is heartening to see that the statement commits to amending the Criminal Code to specifically address the bail system. The federal government has also put forward $1.3 billion in new funding towards a comprehensive border security package and we await more details on what this package will look like. This announcement promises to strengthen Canada-U.S. relations and could help curb the flow of fentanyl into the Yukon. 

    “Meeting housing needs is another major area that our government is working with the Government of Canada to address and is crucial to making life in the Yukon more affordable. The statement includes programs that lay the groundwork for putting housing within reach of more Canadians through the Affordable Housing Fund and Canada is also extending the Federal Community Housing Initiative to include residents of non-profit and co-op housing. Our government will examine how these programs will work within the Yukon to increase our housing supply or improve access to existing housing stock. Our government will also make sure that Yukoners can take advantage of the Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program mentioned in this statement, which will fund retrofits to make homes more energy efficient.

    “We are ready to discuss the programs and initiatives mentioned in the Fall Economic Statement with the Government of Canada and find ways to ensure these measures bring the most benefits to Yukoners, as well as laying out our priorities for the territory for the future.”
     

    Media contact

    Laura Seeley
    Cabinet Communications
    867-332-7627
    laura.seeley@yukon.ca 
     

    News release #:
    Related information:
    Investing in Jobs and Growth (Government of Canada news release)
    2024 Fall Economic Statement

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Government of Yukon and Government of Canada announce new investments to make heat pumps more affordable for Yukoners

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Government of Yukon and Government of Canada announce new investments to make heat pumps more affordable for Yukoners
    zaburke

    This is a joint news release between the Government of Yukon and the Government of Canada.

    The Government of Canada and the Government of Yukon are partnering to help Yukoners switch to smart electric heating systems, making life more affordable while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

    Today, Member of Parliament for the Yukon, Brendan Hanley on behalf of Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Jonathan Wilkinson and Minister of Environment and Climate Change Steven Guilbeault, announced a federal investment of $1.4 million from the Federal Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program (OHPA) and $287,000 from Canada’s Low Carbon Economy Fund (LCEF). Yukon Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources John Streicker announced that the Government of Yukon will provide an additional $700,000 in territorial funding towards further helping low-to-middle-income households cover the cost of purchasing and installing a heat pump. 

    Heat pumps are one of the best ways for homeowners to save money on energy bills and combat climate change. They are two to three times more efficient than other electric home heating sources, providing greater savings for homeowners while reducing energy consumption for utilities and power grids.

    As part of the Government of Yukon’s Affordable Heap Pump Program, eligible Yukon homeowners can receive 100 percent of the cost to purchase and install a heat pump to a maximum of $24,000. Additionally, homeowners can receive an upfront payment of $250 to add high-efficiency heat pumps in homes currently heated with oil. Homeowners using other energy sources, such as propane or electric baseboards, could also be eligible for cold climate heat pump rebates funded by LCEF and the Government of Yukon.

    Through these investments, the governments of Canada and Yukon are helping Yukoners access energy-efficient heat pumps, save on their energy bills and reduce their carbon emissions to protect the environment. 
     

    Our government believes that we can save money and our planet at the same time. Through Our Clean Future, our government committed to helping Yukoners transition from fossil fuels to smart electric heating systems like heat pumps. I’m pleased that these new investments will help make life more affordable for Yukoners while reducing our territory’s greenhouse gas emissions. 

    Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources John Streicker

    Making the switch to more energy-efficient heating systems can help Canadians save thousands on their energy bills, reduce their energy use and decrease their carbon footprint. That’s why we are strengthening the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program and ensuring that families are in the Yukon supported in making the switch from heating oil to an efficient heat pump. 

    Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Jonathan Wilkinson

    Yukoners face some of the coldest temperatures in Canada and need reliable, affordable heating systems to stay warm. This is now truer than ever as climate change is making weather increasingly unpredictable.  Heat pumps have shown to be an efficient way to heat homes reducing emissions, protecting the environment and helping Canadians save on their utility bills. That’s why we are investing in programs like this that support the transition and get us closer to our emission reduction goals.

    Minister of Environment and Climate Change Steven Guilbeault

    Transitioning to energy-efficient heating systems offers Canadians and Yukoners the opportunity to save money on more-efficient home energy systems. The Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program will ensure that families in the Yukon receive the necessary support to switch from heating oil to efficient heat pumps, which will benefit local installers and businesses while also helping ease northern Canada’s pathway to home heating that is less expensive and more environmentally friendly.

    Member of Parliament for Yukon, Brendan Hanley

    Quick facts

    • The federal government’s Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program was first introduced in November 2022 as a $250 million investment in a new stream within the Canada Greener Homes Initiative. On February 22, 2023, the program was opened to pre-registration and was fully launched in late March 2023, with the first grants being issued shortly thereafter.

    • Introduced in October 2023, the federal government announced working with provinces and territories on co-delivery agreements including an upfront payment of $250 for eligible applicants through the Canada Heat Pump Bonus.

    • Every year, on average, a household participating in the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program saves $1,337 on energy costs and 2.78 tonnes in greenhouse gas reductions.

    • The federal government currently has OHPA program co-delivery arrangements in place with British Columbia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Active discussions are underway with other provinces and territories to deliver new, strengthened OHPA co-delivery agreements to make heat pumps even more affordable for Canadians across the country. In jurisdictions without co-delivery arrangements, oil-heated households can continue to apply to the national program to receive up to $10,000 in federal OHPA funding for switching to electric heat pumps.

    • The federal government’s Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program has received over 29,000 applications to date nationally.

    • Under Budget 2024, the Government of Canada is taking numerous steps to make life more affordable for Canadians while addressing climate change. This includes the Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program, which will support the direct installation of energy efficiency retrofits for Canadian households with low to median incomes.

    • Yukoners who participate in the Affordable Heat Pump Program (the Yukon’s version of the federal government’s Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program) may retain their pre-existing heating sources as backup systems for periods of extreme cold.

    Media contact

    Media Relations 
    Natural Resources Canada 
    343-292-6096 
    media@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca 

    Joanna Sivasankaran
    Director of Communications
    Office of the Minister of Energy
    and Natural Resources
    joanna.sivasankaran@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca 

    Laura Seeley
    Cabinet Communications
    867-332-7627
    laura.seeley@yukon.ca 

    Kate Erwin 
    Energy, Mines and Resources 
    867-667-7627
    kate.erwin@yukon.ca 
     

    News release #:
    Related information:
    Yukon affordable heat pump program
    Oil to heat pump affordability program
    Low carbon economy fund
    Canada greener homes initiative
    Canada green building strategy

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: The Government of Yukon and the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce announce community safety funding

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Government of Yukon and the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce announce community safety funding
    zaburke

    This is a joint news release between the Government of Yukon and the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce.

    As part of the Downtown Whitehorse safety action plan, the Government of Yukon is working with the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce to administer crime prevention programming for businesses in downtown Whitehorse. 

    The Yukon government is working with the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce to facilitate delivery of crime and theft prevention and de-escalation tools to Whitehorse businesses and organizations. 

    The content of this programming has been developed with industry partners following discussions with affected businesses. It will provide:

    • Subsidies to businesses in downtown Whitehorse for security assessments of locations, including assessment of layout and design to aid in crime prevention. 
       
    • Training to business owners and staff, including but not limited to de-escalation and conflict resolution training.
       
    • An updated Who’s Minding Your Business security checklist to support businesses as they work to address security elements. 

    This new pilot programming is being offered as year one of the Crime Prevention Grant program. Security assessments conducted this year may be helpful in adjusting the program design and guidelines in the future to better address the specific needs of participants. The aim is to provide qualifying businesses and NGOs with practical skills, updated resources and security strategies. 
     

    Program guidelines and information on how to apply will be posted on the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce website in January 2025.
     

    Businesses and NGOs in Whitehorse have been resilient in the face of ongoing challenges, but work is needed to ensure they can operate safely. We will continue to provide resources to support them and to increase overall community safety in our territory’s capital. I want to thank the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce for their dedication to advocating for a safer city and for taking on the administration of phase one of this program. 

    Premier and Minister of Economic Development Ranj Pillai

    This pilot program is an important first step in addressing the safety and security concerns of Whitehorse businesses and organizations. By providing practical tools such as security assessments, de-escalation training and updated resources, we aim to empower businesses and organizations with preventative strategies while working together to create a safer and more resilient community.

    Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Andrei Samson

    Quick facts

    • This programming is being created in accordance with the Downtown Whitehorse safety action plan.

    • Funding has been approved for three fiscal years, from 2024–25 through 2026–27. This new agreement with the Chamber will support them in distributing this funding for the first year. 

    • The planned phases include:

      • Phase 1 (January 2025 to March 2025): Establish a project team, orient staff, and begin communications with stakeholders.
      • Phase 2 (April 2025 to September 2025): Collect qualitative data, meet with stakeholders, roll out a survey, and conduct data analysis.
      • Phase 3 (October 2025 to March 2026): Perform safety assessments, host further community meetings, and conduct validating surveys.
      • Phase 4 (April 2026 to July 2026): Develop, review, and present a final Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan.
         

    • Over the next three years, the Crime Prevention Grant will focus on providing subsidies for security equipment purchases and installations, as well as assistance for damage caused by break-ins or vandalism, including costs not covered by insurance.

    Media contact

    Laura Seeley
    Cabinet Communications
    867-332-7627
    laura.seeley@yukon.ca 

    Damian Topps
    Economic Development Communications
    867-667-5378
    damian.topps@yukon.ca 
     

    News release #:
    Related information:
    Government of Yukon provides update on work underway to enhance public safety i…
    Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce
    Downtown Whitehorse safety response action plan

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chair Murray Statement on Government Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement on the path forward to fund the government:

    “I’m ready to stay here through Christmas because we’re not going to let Elon Musk run the government. Put simply, we should not let an unelected billionaire rip away research for pediatric cancer so he can get a tax cut or tear down policies that help America outcompete China because it could hurt his bottom line. We had a bipartisan deal—we should stick to it. The deal that was already agreed to would responsibly fund the government, offer badly needed disaster relief to communities across America, and deliver some good bipartisan policy reforms.

    “The American people do not want chaos or a costly government shutdown all because an unelected billionaire wants to call the shots—I am ready to work with Republicans and Democrats to pass the bipartisan deal both sides negotiated as soon as possible.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Green Peers respond to House of Lords appointments

    Source: Green Party of England and Wales

    Green Peers Jenny Jones and Natalie Bennett respond to news that new Peers have been appointed to the House of Lords:

    “We are the two Green Party peers who have campaigned for the Lords to be replaced with an elected second chamber. We hope these new peers will join us in doing the same. 

    “If the second chamber matched the votes at the general election, there would be more than fifty greens under a fair votes system. Instead, we have the establishment parties constantly appointing people and increasing the size of the house for their own purposes.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: November 2024 Transaction Data

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    This data provides information about the number and types of applications that HM Land Registry completed in November 2024.

    NicoElNino/Shutterstock.com

    Please note this data shows what HM Land Registry has been able to process during the time period covered and is not necessarily a reflection of market activity.

    In November:

    • HM Land Registry completed more than 1,943,100 applications to change or query the Land Register 
    • the South East topped the table of regional applications with 435,883

    HM Land Registry completed 1,943,101 applications in November compared with 2,140,187 in October and 1,793,402 last November 2023, of which: 

    • 306,054 were applications for register updates compared with 310,269 in October
    • 1,110,956 were applications for an official copy of a register compared with 1,235,375 in October
    • 209,365 were search and hold queries (official searches) compared with 231,874 in October
    • 89,170 were transactions for value compared with 91,561 in October
    • 16,723 were postal applications from non-account holders compared with 17,806 in October

    Applications by region and country 

    Region/country September applications October applications November applications
    South East 437,185 482,889 435,883
    Greater London 362,510 403,283 365,053
    North West 219,362 238,586 216,160
    South West 188,834 207,134 185,863
    West Midlands 163,947 184,916 168,918
    Yorkshire and the Humber 155,258 173,833 155,460
    East Midlands 142,378 156,106 146,092
    North 95,537 105,772 95,129
    East Anglia 80,620 91,431 87,995
    Isles of Scilly 159 137 103
    Wales 89,016 95,981 86,328
    England and Wales (not assigned) 110 119 117
    Total 1,934,916 2,140,187 1,943,101

    Top 5 local authority areas 

    November 2024 applications

    Top 5 local authority areas November applications
    Birmingham 29,319
    City of Westminster 26,518
    Leeds 22,886
    North Yorkshire 21,615
    Buckinghamshire 19,974

    October 2024 applications

    Top 5 local authority areas October applications
    Birmingham 33,745
    City of Westminster 31,294
    Leeds 25,654
    North Yorkshire 25,103
    Cornwall 22,138

    Top 5 customers 

    November 2024 applications

    Top 5 customers November applications
    Infotrack Limited 187,524
    Orbital Witness Limited 39,998
    Landmark Information Group Ltd 35,947
    Enact 30,521
    O’Neill Patient 27,874

    October 2024 applications

    Top 5 customers October applications
    Infotrack Limited 213,540
    Landmark Information Group Ltd 48,797
    Enact 33,503
    Orbital Witness Limited 33,417
    O’Neill Patient 30,657

    Access the full dataset on our Use land and property data service.

    Next publication 

    Transaction Data is published on the 15th working day of each month. The December 2024 data will be published at 11am on Wednesday 22 January 2025.

    Updates to this page

    Published 20 December 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Town ambition for Liverpool North

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Plans to redevelop one of Britain’s most deprived areas and to build more than 10,000 new homes have been set out by Liverpool City Council.

    A visionary submission for New Town status has been sent to the Department of Housing, Communities and Local Government for New Town status to expand the regeneration of the northern fringe of the City through to Bootle town centre.

    The new development – to be known as Liverpool North – would span 5km between Bootle and Liverpool and include Everton, Anfield and Kirkdale.

    The bold proposal would see the transformation of a number of brownfield sites, which would also lay the foundations for economic growth and sustainability, encompassing Everton FC’s new £500m stadium at Bramley Moore Dock and the £20m Bootle New Strand development project.

    Liverpool City Council has worked in collaboration with Sefton Council, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, Homes England, and key landowners in the area to set out a 10-year vision for the area.

    The partnership could see the ambitious proposals revitalise communities blighted by high deprivation, unlocking economic potential for decades to come. The plan will focus on building on unused land, repurposing old buildings while maintaining and supporting communities that already call the area home.

    New Town status is a designation given to certain areas in the UK that are undergoing significant redevelopment. These areas are often characterised by a mix of old and new housing, commercial spaces and infrastructure. The goal of New Town status is to revitalise these areas and to make them more attractive places to live, work and play.

    Liverpool North is strategically located with existing transport links and presents a key opportunity for large-scale urban expansion and regeneration.

    Liverpool City Council is planning to accelerate housing development in the Liverpool North area through several key projects. These include:
    • Goodison Legacy: working with Everton Football Club and Everton in the Community, the Council is developing plans for the area around Goodison Park, including a new strategic walking and cycling route that will unlock key housing sites (“The Toffee Trail”).
    • County Road: proposals for County Road are also being developed, with a focus on linking Goodison to the new Bramley Moore Stadium.
    • Anfield: The Council is working with housing associations, commercial partners and Liverpool Football Club to bring forward housing and mixed-use development in the Anfield area, including a “Red Walk” connection.
    • Greatie Market: a £5 million investment in Great Homer Market is expected to stimulate increased housing development around the market.

    These projects are all linked to other major developments in the area, such as Liverpool Waters, Bramley Moore Dock, Ten Streets Creative District and Pumpfields.

    The Council has developed these transformational plans with the support of Everton Football Club, Everton in the Community and Liverpool Football Club, in addition to key landowners and place shapers in the area – including Torus, Riverside Group, and One Vision.

    The Liverpool North corridor represents a unique opportunity to marry urban development in Liverpool with regeneration plans in Bootle, creating a strategic city fringe location. This area currently faces significant challenges, including high deprivation, economic inactivity, and poor housing quality.

    The vision is to create a sustainable and attractive new community. This will be achieved through the building of high-quality housing with a significant proportion of affordable homes, investing in existing homes to improve quality and significantly improving transport infrastructure.

    Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “These ambitious plans mark the beginning of an era of change and transformation for the whole Liverpool City Region. If given the go-ahead by the UK Government, Liverpool North will be a dramatic new landmark between the city centre and Bootle and provide a catalytic boost to the area.

    “The revitalisation of communities across a huge area, from Bootle through Kirkdale, to Anfield and Everton, will give the whole region a massive economic boost, provide thousands of affordable homes and create new districts providing employment, leisure and educational opportunities.

    “I can’t wait to see how this plan develops in the coming months and the difference it will make to our great City.”

    Councillor Marion Atkinson, Leader of Sefton Council, said: “We welcome the Government’s commitment to regeneration and this would super-charge our plans to transform Bootle and south Sefton for the benefit of residents and businesses.

    “We’ve already seen the impact that our work has had so far with the creation of the Salt and Tar entertainment venue along with plans to improve the Strand Shopping Centre so it becomes a modern town centre but this would take things on to another level.

    “We all know too well the challenges we have with some of the housing quality in the borough so this would also see huge improvements in the housing stock while improving our links into the city centre and beyond.

    “By working across the city region area there are so many opportunities for us to benefit from the significant investment on our doorstep through projects such as Everton’s new stadium and I’m excited to see how this develops.”

    Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said: “Our plans for North Liverpool and South Sefton is a perfect example of how the Liverpool City Region’s bold, joined-up thinking can help deliver on the government’s national missions, including the drive to build 1.5 million new homes. We’re not just about hitting targets for the sake of it; but transforming areas that have been left behind for far too long and showing the power of regeneration to improve lives.

    “Our vision aligns perfectly with what the country needs right now—thousands of high-quality, affordable homes that lay the foundations for strong, thriving communities. Working hand in hand with local councils, housing associations, and national partners, we’re proving that the Liverpool City Region is ready to lead the way again.

    “This will be about much more than bricks and mortar; it’s about giving people pride in their place, creating opportunities, and showing how ambition and collaboration can deliver real change. Together, we’re not just building houses—we’re building hope, ambition, and a brighter future for our region.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: VA begins early-stage planning for the next Federal Electronic Health Record rollout in mid-2026, continues ongoing improvement efforts at existing sites

    Source: US Department of Veterans Affairs

    Skip to content

    WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced that it is beginning early-stage planning to deploy the Federal Electronic Health Record (EHR) system to four Michigan facilities — Ann Arbor, Battle Creek, Detroit, and Saginaw — in mid-2026.

    This decision comes after VA made critical improvements to the EHR system during a pause in deployments announced in April 2023, which has helped the system better serve Veterans and clinicians — and resulted in improved Veteran trust at all sites that use the EHR. These improvement efforts will continue unabated while VA begins early-stage deployment efforts in Michigan.

    “We paused deployments of the EHR for more than a year and a half to listen to Veterans and clinicians, understand the issues, and make improvements to the system,” said VA Deputy Secretary Tanya Bradsher. “As a result of those efforts, Veteran trust and system performance have improved across the board. Now, we’re ready to begin planning for new deployments in 2026 — while continuing to improve at all existing sites.”

    “VA is ready to begin planning for the next Federal EHR deployments in 2026, while at the same time remaining committed to the continuous improvement efforts that have been our focus for the past 18 months,” said Acting Program Executive Director of the EHRM Integration Office Dr. Neil Evans,. “We’re going to keep listening to and learning from Veterans and VA staff every step of the way.”

    During the Reset period, VA paused future deployment activities to focus entirely on improving the Federal EHR at sites where it is currently in use. Throughout this process, VA has listened to Veterans and VA staff, taken steps to understand the issues, updated contracts to better hold Oracle Health accountable, made hundreds of improvements to the system, and instituted a simpler and more effective process to address concerns when they arise. As a result of these efforts, the EHR has improved significantly for Veterans and clinicians, including:

    • Increasing Veteran trust in VA health care at all facilities with the EHR: Veteran outpatient trust scores have increased at all EHR sites since the beginning of the Reset period — reaching 93 % at Columbus VA, an 11.6% increase since Q1 2023; 88% at Walla Walla VA, a 4% increase since Q1 2023; 92% at Mann-Grandstaff VA, a 3.5% increase since Q1 2023; 85% at Roseburg, a 5.2% increase since Q1 2023; and 89% at White City VA, a nearly 6.5% increase since Q1 2023. Additionally, Veteran trust at the North Chicago VA has increased to 90.8% from 90.2% since Federal EHR deployment in Q2 2024. These improvements are the result of direct surveys of Veterans and their experience with VA outpatient care.
    • Dramatically decreasing outages, which disrupt patient care: Since January 2024, there has been a significant decrease in outages for the Federal EHR — with the system functioning 100% of the time for 10 of the last 16 months, and 99.8% of the time or better in the remaining months. As of early this month, it has been more than 200 days since the last outage.
    • Decreasing the number of interruptions for clinicians, therefore minimizing slowdowns for Veterans: The average user now experiences near zero interruptions (freezes or delays, for example) per day.
    • Increasing clinician and staff satisfaction: Clinician and staff satisfaction with the Federal EHR has increased each year since 2022 — including increases in agreement in employee surveys with the phrases “the EHR is available when I need it” and “this EHR enables me to deliver high-quality care.”
    • Launching the EHR successfully in Chicago: During the Reset period, VA launched the Federal EHR in North Chicago because it is a joint facility with DOD. This launch has been successful, with the facility rapidly increasing in productivity and use — outperforming previous rollouts. 

    VA will kick off pre-deployment activities in the coming weeks. Given the time it will take to prepare to activate the Federal EHR, these facilities are expected to go live with the system in mid-2026.

    For more information about VA’s overall EHR modernization effort, visit https://www.ehrm.va.gov/.

    Reporters and media outlets with questions or comments should contact the Office of Media Relations at vapublicaffairs@va.gov

    Veterans with questions about their health care and benefits (including GI Bill). Questions, updates and documents can be submitted online.

    Contact us online through Ask VA

    Veterans can also use our chatbot to get information about VA benefits and services. The chatbot won’t connect you with a person, but it can show you where to go on VA.gov to find answers to some common questions.

    Learn about our chatbot and ask a question

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Charges Dual Russian And Israeli National As Developer Of Lockbit Ransomware Group

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant Rostislav Panev in Custody Pending Extradition from Israel to the United States

    NEWARK, N.J. – A superseding criminal complaint filed in the District of New Jersey was unsealed today charging a dual Russian and Israeli national for being a developer of the LockBit ransomware group, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

    In August, Rostislav Panev, 51, a dual Russian and Israeli national, was arrested in Israel pursuant to a U.S. provisional arrest request with a view towards extradition to the United States. Panev is currently in custody in Israel pending extradition on the charges lodged in the superseding complaint.

    “As alleged by the complaint, Rostislav Panev for years built and maintained the digital weapons that enabled his LockBit coconspirators to wreak havoc and cause billions of dollars in damage around the world. But just like the six other LockBit members previously identified and charged by this office and our FBI and Criminal Division partners, Panev could not remain anonymous and avoid justice indefinitely. He must now answer for his crimes. Today’s announcement represents another blow struck by the United States and our international partners against the LockBit organization, and our efforts will continue relentlessly until the group is fully dismantled and its members brought to justice.”

    U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger

    “The Justice Department’s work going after the world’s most dangerous ransomware schemes includes not only dismantling networks, but also finding and bringing to justice the individuals responsible for building and running them,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “Three of the individuals who we allege are responsible for LockBit’s cyberattacks against thousands of victims are now in custody, and we will continue to work alongside our partners to hold accountable all those who lead and enable ransomware attacks.”

    “The arrest of Mr. Panev reflects the Department’s commitment to using all its tools to combat the ransomware threat,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “We started this year with a coordinated international disruption of LockBit — the most damaging ransomware group in the world. Fast forward to today and three LockBit actors are in custody thanks to the diligence of our investigators and our strong partnerships around the world. This case is a model for ransomware investigations in the years to come.”

    “The arrest of alleged developer Rostislav Panev is part of the FBI’s ongoing efforts to disrupt and dismantle the LockBit ransomware group, one of the most prolific ransomware variants across the globe,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The LockBit group has targeted both public and private sector victims around the world, including schools, hospitals, and critical infrastructure, as well as small businesses and multi-national corporations. No matter how hidden or advanced the threat, the FBI remains committed to working with our interagency partners to safeguard the cyber ecosystem and hold accountable those who are responsible for these criminal activities.”

    “The criminal complaint alleges that Rotislav Panev developed malware and maintained the infrastructure for LockBit, which was once the world’s most destructive ransomware group and attacked thousands of victims, causing billions of dollars in damage,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Along with our domestic and international law enforcement partner actions to dismantle LockBit’s infrastructure, the Criminal Division has disrupted LockBit’s operations by charging seven of its key members (including affiliates, developers, and its administrator) and arresting three of these defendants — including Panev. We are especially grateful for our partnerships with authorities in Europol, the United Kingdom, France, and Israel, which show that, when likeminded countries work together, cybercriminals will find it harder to escape justice.”

    “For five years, Panev helped to grow LockBit into a ransomware machine of deception and extortion,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado of the FBI Newark Field Office.  “His reach was far and wide but FBI Newark and our international law enforcement partners were able to disrupt his reign. Panev’s arrest marks a victory against these conspirators, and is a step towards upholding justice and neutralizing these criminals.”

    According to the superseding complaint, documents filed in this and related cases, and statements made in court, Panev acted as a developer of the LockBit ransomware group from its inception in or around 2019 through at least February 2024. During that time, Panev and his LockBit coconspirators grew LockBit into what was, at times, the most active and destructive ransomware group in the world. The LockBit group attacked more than 2,500 victims in at least 120 countries around the world, including 1,800 in the United States. Their victims ranged from individuals and small businesses to multinational corporations, including hospitals, schools, nonprofit organizations, critical infrastructure, and government and law-enforcement agencies. LockBit’s members extracted at least $500 million in ransom payments from their victims and caused billions of dollars in other losses, including lost revenue and costs from incident response and recovery.

    LockBit’s members comprised “developers,” like Panev, who designed the LockBit malware code and maintained the infrastructure on which LockBit operated. LockBit’s other members, called “affiliates,” carried out LockBit attacks and extorted ransom payments from LockBit victims. LockBit’s developers and affiliates would then split ransom payments extorted from victims.

    As alleged in the superseding complaint, at the time of Panev’s arrest in Israel in August, law enforcement discovered on Panev’s computer administrator credentials for an online repository that was hosted on the dark web and stored source code for multiple versions of the LockBit builder, which allowed LockBit’s affiliates to generate custom builds of the LockBit ransomware malware for particular victims. On that repository, law enforcement also discovered source code for LockBit’s StealBit tool, which helped LockBit affiliates exfiltrate data stolen through LockBit attacks. Law enforcement also discovered access credentials for the LockBit control panel, an online dashboard maintained by LockBit developers for LockBit’s affiliates and hosted by those developers on the dark web.

    The superseding complaint also alleges that Panev exchanged direct messages through a cybercriminal forum with LockBit’s primary administrator, who, in an indictment unsealed in the District of New Jersey in May, the United States alleged to be Dimitry Yuryevich Khoroshev (Дмитрий Юрьевич Хорошев), also known as LockBitSupp, LockBit, and putinkrab. In those messages, Panev and the LockBit primary administrator discussed work that needed to be done on the LockBit builder and control panel.

    Court documents further indicate that, between June 2022 and February 2024, the primary LockBit administrator made a series of transfers of cryptocurrency, laundered through one or more illicit cryptocurrency mixing services, of approximately $10,000 per month to a cryptocurrency wallet owned by Panev. Those transfers amounted to over $230,000 during that period.

    In interviews with Israeli authorities following his arrest in August, Panev admitted to having performed coding, development, and consulting work for the LockBit group and to having received regular payments in cryptocurrency for that work, consistent with the transfers identified by U.S. authorities. Among the work that Panev admitted to having completed for the LockBit group was the development of code to disable antivirus software; to deploy malware to multiple computers connected to a victim network; and to print the LockBit ransom note to all printers connected to a victim network. Panev also admitted to having written and maintained LockBit malware code and to having provided technical guidance to the LockBit group.

    The LockBit Investigation

    The superseding complaint against, and apprehension of, Panev follows a disruption of LockBit ransomware in February by the U.K. National Crime Agency (NCA)’s Cyber Division, which worked in cooperation with the Justice Department, FBI, and other international law enforcement partners. As previously announced by the Department, authorities disrupted LockBit by seizing numerous public-facing websites used by LockBit to connect to the organization’s infrastructure and by seizing control of servers used by LockBit administrators, thereby disrupting the ability of LockBit actors to attack and encrypt networks and extort victims by threatening to publish stolen data. That disruption succeeded in greatly diminishing LockBit’s reputation and its ability to attack further victims, as alleged by documents filed in this case.

    The superseding complaint against Panev also follows charges brought in the District of New Jersey against other LockBit members, including its alleged primary creator, developer, and administrator, Dmitry Yuryevich Khoroshev. An indictment against Khoroshev unsealed in May alleges that Khoroshev began developing LockBit as early as September 2019, continued acting as the group’s administrator through 2024, a role in which Khoroshev recruited new affiliate members, spoke for the group publicly under the alias “LockBitSupp,” and developed and maintained the infrastructure used by affiliates to deploy LockBit attacks. Khoroshev is currently the subject of a reward of up to $10 million through the U.S. Department of State’s Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) Rewards Program, with information accepted through the FBI tip website at www.tips.fbi.gov/.

    A total of seven LockBit members have now been charged in the District of New Jersey. Beyond Panev and Khoroshev, other previously charged LockBit defendants include:

    • In July, two LockBit affiliate members, Mikhail Vasiliev, also known as Ghostrider, Free, Digitalocean90, Digitalocean99, Digitalwaters99, and Newwave110, and Ruslan Astamirov, also known as BETTERPAY, offtitan, and Eastfarmer, pleaded guilty in the District of New Jersey for their participation in the LockBit ransomware group and admitted deploying multiple LockBit attacks against U.S. and foreign victims. Vasiliev and Astamirov are presently in custody awaiting sentencing.
    • In February, in parallel with the disruption operation described above, an indictment was unsealed in the District of New Jersey charging Russian nationals Artur Sungatov and Ivan Kondratyev, also known as Bassterlord, with deploying LockBit against numerous victims throughout the United States, including businesses nationwide in the manufacturing and other industries, as well as victims around the world in the semiconductor and other industries. Sungatov and Kondratyev remain at large.
    • In May 2023, two indictments were unsealed in Washington, D.C., and the District of New Jersey charging Mikhail Matveev, also known as Wazawaka, m1x, Boriselcin, and Uhodiransomwar, with using different ransomware variants, including LockBit, to attack numerous victims throughout the United States, including the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Police Department. Matveev remains at large and is currently the subject of a reward of up to $10 million through the U.S. Department of State’s TOC Rewards Program, with information accepted through the FBI tip website at www.tips.fbi.gov/.

    The U.S. Department of State’s Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) Rewards Program is offering rewards of:

    Information is accepted through the FBI tip website at tips.fbi.gov.

    Khoroshev, Matveev, Sungatov, and Kondratyev have also been designated for sanctions by the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control for their roles in launching cyberattacks.

    Victim Assistance

    LockBit victims are encouraged to contact the FBI and submit information at www.ic3.gov. As announced by the Department in February, law enforcement, through its disruption efforts, has developed decryption capabilities that may enable hundreds of victims around the world to restore systems encrypted using the LockBit ransomware variant. Submitting information at the IC3 site will enable law enforcement to determine whether affected systems can be successfully decrypted.

    LockBit victims are also encouraged to visit www.justice.gov/usao-nj/lockbit for case updates and information regarding their rights under U.S. law, including the right to submit victim impact statements and request restitution, in the criminal litigation against Panev, Astamirov, and Vasiliev.

    The FBI Newark Field Office, under the supervision of Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado, is investigating the LockBit ransomware variant. Israel’s Office of the State Attorney, Department of International Affairs, and Israel National Police; France’s Gendarmerie Nationale Cyberspace Command, Paris Prosecution Office — Cyber Division, and judicial authorities at the Tribunal Judiciare of Paris; Europol; Eurojust; the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency; Germany’s Landeskriminalamt Schleswig-Holstein, Bundeskriminalamt, and the Central Cybercrime Department North Rhine-Westphalia; Switzerland’s Federal Office of Justice, Public Prosecutor’s Office of the Canton of Zurich, and Zurich Cantonal Police; Spain’s Policia Nacional and Guardia Civil; Japan’s National Police Agency; Australian Federal Police; Sweden’s Polismyndighetens; Canada’s Royal Canadian Mounted Police; Politie Dienst Regionale Recherche Oost-Brabant of the Netherlands; and Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation have provided significant assistance and coordination in these matters and in the LockBit investigation generally.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew M. Trombly, David E. Malagold, and Vinay Limbachia for the District of New Jersey and Trial Attorneys Debra Ireland and Jorge Gonzalez of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) are prosecuting the charges against Panev and the other previously charged LockBit defendants in the District of New Jersey.

    The Justice Department’s Cybercrime Liaison Prosecutor to Eurojust, Office of International Affairs, and National Security Division also provided significant assistance.

    Additional details on protecting networks against LockBit ransomware are available at StopRansomware.gov. These include Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Advisories AA23-325A, AA23-165A, and AA23-075A. 

    The charges and allegations contained in the superseding complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    Defense counsel: Frank Arleo, Esq.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dr. Donald J. Dinello, D.M.D. Agrees to Pay $120,000 in Civil Penalties for Violations of the Controlled Substances Act

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HARRISBURG, PA —The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Dr. Donald J. Dinello, D.M.D., with practice locations in Harrisburg and Hershey, has agreed to pay the United States $120,000 in civil penalties for allegedly failing to comply with recordkeeping and other requirements of the Controlled Substances Act.

    The Controlled Substances Act, 21 U.S.C. sections 801 et seq. (CSA), was passed to combat illegal distribution and abuse of controlled substances, including prescription medications.  The CSA’s recordkeeping and prescribing requirements are to prevent the diversion of controlled substances for illegal purposes. The CSA is enforced by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Diversion Control Division, whose mission is to prevent, detect, and investigate the diversion of controlled pharmaceuticals and listed chemicals from legitimate sources while ensuring adequate and uninterrupted supply for legitimate medical, commercial, and scientific needs. Under the CSA, entities registered with the DEA who purchase, distribute, dispense, transfer, or sell controlled substances must comply with prescription, inventory, and other documentation requirements.  Regulations promulgated under the CSA require that each DEA registrant, including registered practitioners, maintain complete and accurate records of each substance manufactured, received, sold, delivered, dispensed, or otherwise disposed of by the registrant.  These requirements play a vital role in ensuring the appropriate handling, accounting, and distribution of controlled substances.  Violations of the record-keeping and prescription requirements subject DEA registrants to civil monetary penalties.

    According to the allegations, between January of 2023 and August of 2024, Dr. Dinello failed to use the required DEA form 222 for each distribution of a Schedule II Controlled Substance, failed to maintain complete and accurate records of controlled substances dispensed by him at both his registered locations, failed to maintain biennial inventory at both his registered locations, and in one instance, failed to issue a prescription for a Schedule IV controlled substance  in the usual course of his professional practice.  Dr. Dinello acknowledges he is required to operate in accordance with the statutory and regulatory provisions of the CSA and its implementing regulations.

    “Practitioners who register with DEA in order to prescribe and dispense medications that fall under the Controlled Substances Act have an obligation to prescribe appropriately and keep careful records and inventories,” said U.S. Attorney Gerard M. Karam. “Not fulfilling those obligations makes it difficult or even impossible to be sure those potentially dangerous medications are being dispensed and handled appropriately and are not being diverted. The pursuit of this matter illustrates the continued dedication of our office to protecting the public in MDPA.” 

    “The goal of DEA’s closed system of distribution is to ensure accountability for controlled substances and physicians who fail to maintain proper records of controlled substances create conditions ripe for diversion” said Thomas Hodnett, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Philadelphia Field Division. “The government’s pursuit of this matter illustrates its emphasis on combating diversion of controlled substances.  The record keeping and other regulations applicable to DEA registrants, including physicians, are the tools by which the DEA deters drug diversion.” 

    The Settlement Agreement is neither an admission of liability by Dr. Dinello nor a concession by the United States that its claims are not well founded.

    The case was investigated by Drug Enforcement Administration’s Diversion Control Division. The investigation was handled by Assistant United States Attorney, Tamara J. Haken and the Affirmative Civil Enforcement (ACE) Unit within the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Artificial Intelligence and Its Potential Effects on the Economy and the Federal Budget

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems that can perform tasks that have traditionally required human intelligence, such as learning and performing other activities that require cognitive ability. A general attribute of AI is its ability to identify patterns and relationships and to respond to queries that arise in complex scenarios for which the precise computational algorithm that is needed cannot be specified in advance.

    Because AI has the potential to change how businesses and the federal government provide goods and services, it could affect economic growth, employment and wages, and the distribution of income in the economy. Such changes could in turn affect the federal budget. The direction of those effects—whether they increased or decreased federal revenues or spending—along with their size and timing, are uncertain. Some budgetary effects could occur relatively quickly, whereas others might take longer. In this report, the Congressional Budget Office provides an overview of the channels through which the adoption of AI could affect the U.S. economy and the federal budget.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: BitMart Research: BMX 2024 Annual Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Singapore, Dec. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Recently, BitMart released the BMX 2024 Annual Report.

    1. 2024 Crypto Market Review

    At the beginning of the year, capitalizing on the momentum generated by the previous year’s bull market, BTC achieved a peak price of $73,881 in March. Nevertheless, despite the occurrence of its halving event in April, the market did not transition into a sustained upward trajectory. Instead, it underwent a significant decline in June, resulting in an extended period of adjustment. The primary catalysts in the first half of the year included the approval of an ETF for both Bitcoin and Ethereum, as well as the halving event. While the introduction of the ETF attracted institutional investment and enhanced the recognition of cryptocurrency assets within traditional financial markets, the halving event, despite lacking immediate positive impacts, is anticipated to substantially increase the value of Bitcoin over the long term. The market correction observed in June was precipitated by numerous factors, including Japan’s interest rate hikes, developments surrounding the Mt. Gox compensation case, and the German government’s liquidation of crypto assets, which collectively heightened selling pressure and instigated market panic.

    In the latter half of the year, the cryptocurrency market experienced a resurgence of momentum. Expectations regarding interest rate cuts revitalized the market, while the election victory of Donald Trump contributed to a robust recovery, resulting in BTC prices exceeding the $100,000 threshold and reaching a new all-time high of $104,088. Consequently, the total market capitalization of cryptocurrencies and trading volumes witnessed significant increases. In this context, altcoins displayed strong performance, with substantial gains observed in SOL, ETH, XRP, and ADA across various sectors. Trump’s proposed policies — characterized by the easing of regulations, the establishment of national reserves, and the support of mining enterprises — emerged as central themes for market recalibration. This highlights the positive influence of clear regulatory frameworks in enhancing User confidence and fostering growth within the industry.

    In contrast to previous years, the participation of institutional users has begun to significantly reshape market dynamics. Bitcoin’s dominance has continued to strengthen, while Ethereum has encountered challenges to its previously monopolistic position due to competition from emerging blockchain technologies and its constrained value capture capabilities. Concurrently, the decline in the popularity of altcoins has facilitated the emergence of the MEME sector as a new focal point within the market. These developments indicate a discernible trend toward diversification within the cryptocurrency industry.

    2. BMX Market Performance

    Figure 1: Annual Changes in Exchange Platform Tokens’ Prices and Market Capitalizations

    (Data Source：CMC、CG)

     According to data from CoinMarketCap and CoinGecko, the prices and market capitalizations of platform tokens from major exchanges have exhibited an upward trajectory over the past year, although notable variations in performance have been observed. BMX experienced a price escalation of 57.9% accompanied by a market capitalization increase of 56.8%, culminating in a total market capitalization of $262 million, indicative of consistent growth. Generally, lower-market-cap tokens have experienced substantial benefits due to their smaller baselines, resulting in rapid growth. In contrast, higher-market-cap tokens have demonstrated stable growth, reflecting resilience albeit with comparatively slower rates of increase.

    It is worth noting that Trump’s presidency may lead to clearer crypto market regulations, potentially reshaping the global cryptocurrency landscape. This development could significantly impact the future of the crypto industry. The resignation of SEC Chairman Gary Gensler further signals a turning point for crypto enterprises previously targeted by SEC lawsuits. Centralized exchanges, long under SEC scrutiny, are likely to benefit substantially from this leadership change, potentially achieving significant progress in regulatory compliance.

     Figure 2: Comparison of Exchange Spot Average Daily Trading Volume and Circulating Market Capitalization Over the Past Year

    (Data Source：CMC、CG)

     According to data from CoinGecko, the circulating market capitalization of BMX currently amounts to $262 million, a figure that is significantly lower than that of other exchange platform tokens. However, BitMart has demonstrated an average daily spot trading volume of $803 million over the past year. A comparison of BMX’s market capitalization with BitMart’s daily trading volume reveals that the exchange’s trading activity exceeds the valuation of its platform token. Furthermore, both the market capitalization and price of BMX have experienced considerable growth over the last year. This trend indicates that, despite its relatively modest market capitalization, BMX is undergoing heightened market activity and demand, as the broader market gradually starts to acknowledge its potential value.

     3. BMX Burn Progress

    Figure 3: BMX Burn Progress Table

    In accordance with the repurchase mechanism detailed in the BMX whitepaper, BitMart executed the repurchase of approximately 5,672,978 BMX tokens in the year 2024, amounting to a total value of approximately $2,034,343. This series of repurchase initiatives underscores BitMart’s ongoing commitment and confidence in its platform token, BMX. By allocating a portion of its revenue generated from transaction fees towards these repurchases, BitMart has effectively decreased the circulating supply of BMX in the market, thereby contributing to its stability and scarcity.

     4. New Features and Activities for BMX in 2024

    Figure 4: New BMX Features in 2024

    In 2024, BMX introduced a series of new features that substantially enhanced its value and liquidity. The implementation of a staking feature enables users to obtain stable annual returns without facing any entry barriers, thereby attracting a larger number of long-term participants. Additionally, the small asset conversion feature addresses the issue of “dust” balances in user accounts, improving the utility of minor assets while expanding the practical use cases for BMX. Users can also benefit from transaction fee discounts and engage in various platform activities. Furthermore, the establishment of a P2P trading market has rendered BMX trading more adaptable, allowing users to conduct transactions using diverse payment methods, which, in turn, increases the liquidity and market demand for BMX. The listing of BMX on KuCoin signifies an important step in its expansion within the global market, drawing greater interest from users. Additionally, the introduction of the BMX Flash Sale feature has further elevated the exclusive benefits available to holders.

    The introduction of the stake-to-list feature has empowered BMX holders to make independent decisions regarding the listing of projects on BitMart, while also benefiting from shared transaction fees and additional advantages. This initiative fosters a sense of collective ownership, enhances decision-making authority, and provides users with control, growth opportunities, and shared responsibilities within the BitMart community.

    The recent enhancements to the BMX platform have significantly broadened its range of applications, offering users an increased array of opportunities for investment returns and active participation. With functionalities including staking, conversion, peer-to-peer trading, IEO, and stake-to-list mechanisms, the diverse features of BMX have substantially elevated its market appeal and liquidity. These improvements have not only enriched the user experience but have also contributed to the platform’s growth and adoption within the cryptocurrency market.

    Figure 5: New BMX Activities in 2024

    In 2024, BMX implemented several strategic initiatives that significantly enhanced its market appeal and user engagement. These initiatives encompassed trading competitions, external collaborations, and community-building programs. The trading competitions incentivized a substantial influx of participants, thereby increasing the liquidity of BMX. External collaborations not only served to promote BMX but also elevated the visibility of related projects. The community-building program recognized and rewarded active members, while also providing essential traffic support. Collectively, these initiatives not only broadened the applications of BMX but also improved its liquidity and market influence. Through this program, BMX fostered user retention, attracted a greater number of dedicated users and community contributors, and bolstered its market activity and long-term growth potential.

    5. BMX Value Benefits

    – Higher Account Levels and Trading Fee Discounts: BMX holders are eligible for higher account levels and better trading fee rates. The more BMX a user holds, the greater the discount they receive.

    – Higher Copy Trading Profit Share: BMX holders qualify for a higher percentage of copy trading profit sharing.

    – Participation in Launchpad: BMX holders can participate in BitMart’s exclusive Launchpad and receive free airdrops of newly listed tokens.

    – VIP Membership Upgrade Criteria: BitMart offers a lifetime VIP membership plan, and holding BMX is one of the criteria for upgrading.

    – Stake-to-List: Users can stake BMX to support their favorite projects and earn rewards.

    – Participation in BitMart Products: Users can stake BMX to participate in various products offered by BitMart and earn higher interest rates.

    – Ecosystem Payment Token: BMX can be used as a payment token for projects within the BitMart ecosystem.

    – Holding Trading Rebate: Invite friends to hold and trade BMX to earn rebates.

    Risk Warning:

    Use of BitMart services is entirely at your own risk. All crypto investments, including earnings, are highly speculative in nature and involve substantial risk of loss. Past, hypothetical, or simulated performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

    The value of digital currencies can go up or down and there can be a substantial risk in buying, selling, holding, or trading digital currencies. You should carefully consider whether trading or holding digital currencies is suitable for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances, and risk tolerance. Investing involves risks, and the content should be approached with caution. BitMart does not provide any investment, legal or tax advice.

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.  

    The MIL Network –