Category: Trade

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Trade and Investment Minister to hold trans-Tasman discussion

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay will travel to Australia today for meetings with Australian Trade Minister, Senator Don Farrell, and the Australia New Zealand Leadership Forum (ANZLF). 

    Mr McClay recently hosted Minister Farrell in Rotorua for the annual Closer Economic Relations (CER) Trade Ministers’ meeting, where ANZLF presented on trans-Tasman business growth opportunities. 

    “Australia is our closest partner and is critical to our trade and investment performance,” Mr McClay says.

    “Minister Farrell and I will discuss opportunities to further grow trans-Tasman trade and investment, WTO developments, and ways to cooperate internationally. 

    “I will also raise with him the joint letter from New Zealand, Australian, and United States dairy sectors to our respective governments on Canada’s dairy policy which harms international dairy trade.”

    Australia is the current chair of New Zealand’s leading trade agreement – the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). 

    “This will be an opportunity to explore ways to deepen CPTPP trade,” Mr McClay says. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rubio, Scott on Communist China’s Inhumane Foreign Adoption Ban

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio

    Next Week: Rubio Staff Hosts Mobile Office Hours

    U.S. Senator Marco Rubio’s (R-FL) office will host in-person and virtual Mobile Office Hours next week to assist constituents with federal casework issues in their respective local communities. These office hours offer constituents who do not live close to one of…

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    Rubio Demands Biden-harris Admin Stop Importation of Slave-made Pharmaceuticals

    Despite the passage of the Rubio-led Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) in 2021, a recent report has revealed that two Xinjiang-based pharmaceutical entities continue to exploit American laws for profit. To uphold the UFLPA, the U.S. Food and Drug…

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    ICYMI: Rubio: Cancel Trade Benefits for Offshoring

    Cancel Trade Benefits for Offshoring U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) October 31, 2024 Newsweek Last month, President Donald Trump made waves by threatening to impose a tariff on John Deere for moving production to Mexico…. [A]s I said in my own letter to John Deere…

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    Rubio, Scott Urge Biden-Harris Admin to Address IV Fluid Shortage

    Hurricane Helene significantly damaged North Carolina’s Baxter International IV fluid manufacturing plant. Baxter is responsible for producing more than half of the country’s IV fluid supply. This closure has strained the medical community, leading to delays in…

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    Rubio, Franklin, Colleagues Demand Compensation for Agricultural Land

    Hurricanes Helene and Milton brought high winds, flooding, and damage across Florida. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services estimates the total crop and infrastructure losses range from $1.5 to $2.5 billion. The State of Florida has requested…

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    Rubio, Scott Support Seminole Tribe’s Major Disaster Request

    Due to Hurricane Milton’s impact on the Seminole Tribe of Florida, their communities, and property, the tribe requested a major disaster declaration to assist in their response and recovery efforts.  U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Rick Scott (R-FL) sent a…

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Valdez wraps up activities to celebrate Small Business Month and highlights government supports for entrepreneurs

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    News release

    November 1, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario

    The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business, celebrated Small Business Month (SBM) by meeting with local entrepreneurs and business organizations to highlight the federal government supports that are available to help them thrive.

    Minister Valdez kicked off October by announcing that the federal government has negotiated lower credit card interchange fees by up to 27% for small businesses across Canada. These lower fees for Visa and Mastercard took effect on October 19, 2024. Minister Valdez also announced that the Canada Carbon Rebate will be distributing $2.5 billion to about 600,000 small and medium-sized businesses across Canada where the federal fuel charge applies. The amount is dependent on a business’ number of employees. For example, Ontarian small businesses will receive $401 per employee. Small and medium-sized businesses that filed their taxes before July 15 will receive an automatic payment by the end of this year.

    Throughout SBM, Minister Valdez met with small business owners across the country. She also engaged with diverse groups of entrepreneurs at the Mississauga Board of Trade, the CanadianSME Magazine Small Business Summit, the Casa Foundation for International Development’s Friends of Africa summit, the Elevate Festival, the Alliance of Nigerian Entrepreneurs gathering, the RPA Women Entrepreneur Awards Gala, the Federation of African Canadian Economics’ Small Business Sunday event, the Toronto Small Business Forum, and the Misfit Ventures Misfits Unleashed event.

    During these engagements, Minister Valdez highlighted the federal government’s groundbreaking investments—through programs like the 2SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program, the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy and the Black Entrepreneurship Program—that are helping fight the systemic barriers under-represented entrepreneurs face. She also spotlighted federal government investments in inclusive venture capital and Futurpreneur, as well as support for Indigenous entrepreneurs.

    Minister Valdez also updated entrepreneurs on federal investments to help small businesses adopt digital tools and innovations, including the $2.4 billion committed in Budget 2024 to secure Canada’s artificial intelligence (AI) advantage. This includes $200 million in the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative, which will help bring new AI technologies to market and accelerate AI adoption by small businesses across the country. She also mentioned the Canada Digital Adoption Program, which has helped more than 60,000 small businesses improve their digital capabilities and adopt e-commerce platforms.

    The Minister wrapped up her SBM-related activities on October 30 by announcing a new partnership between the First Nations Health Authority and the CAN Health Network that will help over 200 First Nations communities across British Columbia access health care innovations from Canadian start-ups. Start-ups in the health care sector have expressed that they face unique challenges breaking into the new market and increasing uptake of their technologies. The federal government’s investment in the CAN Health Network is connecting innovative health care providers with promising start-ups that are offering made-in-Canada solutions to meet their unique needs and challenges.

    Quotes

    “Small businesses are the heart of our communities and the backbone of our economy, employing nearly 8 million hard-working Canadians. It was incredible to spend Small Business Month celebrating their invaluable contributions and meeting key organizations that are dedicated to helping entrepreneurs thrive. Our government will continue to have the backs of small businesses from coast to coast to coast, whether they’re just starting out, looking to grow or striving to extend their reach into new markets.”
    – The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business 

    Quick facts

    • The Canada Carbon Rebate for Small Businesses is a refundable tax credit to return a portion of federal fuel charge proceeds directly to eligible businesses.

      • Businesses will not have to apply for this rebate. The Canada Revenue Agency will determine and automatically issue the rebate amounts for eligible businesses based on the payment rates of each applicable province for the corresponding fuel charge years, as specified by the Minister of Finance.
      • The rebate will be available to eligible Canadian-controlled private corporations that had 499 or fewer employees in Canada throughout the calendar year in which the applicable fuel charge year began.
      • The federal fuel charge currently applies in the provinces of Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island and Saskatchewan. The Government of Canada does not keep any direct proceeds from pollution pricing. All direct fuel charge proceeds are returned in the province or territory of origin.
    • The Code of Conduct for the Payment Card Industry in Canada was first released in 2010 and was last updated in 2015.

      • All major payment card network operators in Canada incorporate the code into their rules, making it binding on all their network participants: issuers, acquirers and payment processors.
      • More than 1 million businesses that accept payment cards in Canada will benefit from the code revisions. In 2023, these businesses accepted approximately 14.1 billion card payments worth $1.2 trillion.
      • The increased transparency and disclosure elements of the revised code require payment processors to notify eligible businesses if network fee reductions will not be passed on in full. Additionally, payment processors must remind those businesses of their right to terminate their contract, enabling them to switch to a processor that passes on the benefits of rate reductions.
      • Under the existing code, businesses have the right to exit their contracts without penalty if they do not receive the full benefits of certain network fee decreases, such as the upcoming small business interchange reductions. But businesses have not always been aware of this right.
    • Businesses pay fees to process credit card transactions, with the largest component being the interchange fee paid to credit card–issuing financial institutions, such as banks. The federal government has finalized agreements to lower these fees for small businesses starting on October 19, 2024. Visa and Mastercard have agreed to:

      • reduce domestic consumer credit interchange fees for in-store transactions to an annual weighted average interchange rate of 0.95%
      • reduce domestic consumer credit interchange fees for online transactions by 10 basis points, resulting in reductions of up to 7%
      • provide free access to online fraud and cybersecurity resources to help small businesses grow their online sales while preventing fraud and chargebacks
      • allow small businesses to qualify with each credit card network individually
    • Small businesses with an annual Visa sales volume below $300,000 will qualify for the lower interchange fees from Visa, and those with an annual Mastercard sales volume below $175,000 will qualify for the lower fees from Mastercard.

    • Non-profit organizations with transaction volumes below these thresholds will also benefit from reduced rates.

    Contacts

    Callie Franson
    Senior Communications Advisor and Issues Manager
    Office of the Minister of Small Business
    callie.franson@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
    media@ised-isde.gc.ca

    Stay connected

    Follow Canada Business on social media.
    X (Twitter): @canadabusiness | Facebook: Canada Business | Instagram: @cdnbusiness

    For easy access to government programs for businesses, download the Canada Business app.

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Video: PCAST: Discussion and Consideration for Approval of PCAST Letter & Reports to the President

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    On November 1, 2024, the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) will meet to discuss and consider for approval a letter to the President on The Value and Importance of Federal Research and Development as well as for the approval of reports to the President on A Review of the Networking and Information Technology Research and Development (NITRD) Program and Improving Groundwater Security in the U.S.

    For more information, please visit whitehouse.gov/PCAST/meetings.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ncQL9SyuTHs

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI: Crown LNG Announces Execution of Final Agreements to Acquire Kakinada and Grangemouth LNG Import Terminal Assets

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Crown LNG Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: CGBS) (“Crown” or “Crown LNG”), a leading provider of LNG liquefaction and regasification terminal technologies for harsh weather locations, today announced the conclusion of two strategic acquisition agreements forming the basis of Crown LNG’s entry into the global LNG infrastructure network: KGLNG and Grangemouth. The KGLNG agreement finalizes the acquisition of all shares of KGLNG, which owns the operating license for the Company’s planned LNG import terminal in Kakinada, India. The Grangemouth agreement finalizes the acquisition of LNG import terminal assets in Grangemouth, Scotland from GBTron Lands Limited.

    The Kakinada project, located on the East coast of India, is licensed to operate 365 days a year, a first for the harsh weather prone area. Imported gas from the planned terminal would reach demand centers via the East-West Pipeline, helping to support the Indian government’s drive to more than double the share of natural gas in the country’s energy mix to 15% by 2030.

    Total consideration for the KGLNG acquisition will be made in shares of Crown LNG equal to $60 million.

    The Grangemouth project, located on the East coast of Scotland, seeks to support the UK’s increasing drive for energy security post-Brexit and in the context of geopolitical impacts on energy markets. Currently, the UK relies on just three facilities for all of the country’s LNG imports, which increased 74% from 2021 to 2022.

    Total consideration for the GBTron acquisition will be made in shares of Crown LNG equal to $25 million.

    “We are excited and proud to announce the execution of these two transactions and move these two projects down the path,” said Swapan Kataria, Chief Executive Officer of Crown LNG. “With Crown LNG and our subsidiaries now firmly in control of the Kakinada and Grangemouth projects, we look forward to driving the success of these two transformative projects for both India and the UK.”

    Crown remains dedicated to delivering exceptional LNG liquefaction and regasification terminal infrastructure solutions services that cater to the evolving needs of the under-served markets across the globe. As we focus on expanding our operations in Europe and South Asia, we continue to forge strategic partnerships and explore new opportunities to provide efficient and reliable solutions.

    About Crown LNG Holdings Limited
    Crown LNG is a leading provider of offshore LNG liquefaction and regasification terminal infrastructure solutions for harsh weather locations, which represent a significant addressable market for bottom-fixed, gravity based (“GBS”) liquefaction and floating storage regasification units, as well as associated green and blue hydrogen, ammonia and power projects. Through this approach, Crown aims to provide lower carbon sources of energy securely to under-served markets across the globe. Visit www.crownlng.com/investors for more information.

    Forward-Looking Information and Statements

    Certain statements in this announcement are not historical facts but are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as “believe,” “may,” “could,” “will,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “plan,” “should,” “would,” “plan,” “future,” “outlook,” “potential,” “project” and similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding estimates and forecasts of other performance metrics and projections of market opportunity. They involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on various assumptions, whether or not identified in this press release and on current expectations of Crown’s management and are not predictions of actual performance. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as and must not be relied on by any investor as, a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of Crown. Some important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in any forward-looking statements could include changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political and legal conditions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC.

    Crown LNG Holdings Limited Contacts

    Investors
    Caldwell Bailey
    ICR, Inc.
    CrownLNGIR@icrinc.com

    Media
    Zach Gorin
    ICR, Inc.
    CrownLNGPR@icrinc.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Cuellar Announces Official Opening of New CBP Office in Laredo

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)

    Rep. Cuellar Announces Official Opening of New CBP Office in Laredo

    Laredo, TX | Fernanda Nunez Cazares, District Press Assistant (619-209-1834), November 1, 2024

    LAREDO, TX – Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28) announced the official opening of the new Laredo Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) Field Office at the World Trade Bridge (WTB) port of entry, in Laredo, Texas. Rep. Cuellar secured funding for this office through his support of CBP’s port of entry operations including robust staffing for the Office of Field Operations in the Fiscal Year 2024 Homeland Security Appropriations bill. 

    CTPAT is CBP’s flagship program public aimed at strengthening international supply chain security while at the same time facilitating legitimate low-risk cargo. Activities for the Laredo CTPAT office will include the review of CTPAT program applications, assessment of eligibility requirements, certification and validation of new members, and the continued maintenance of accounts and revalidation of CTPAT members in accordance with the SAFE Port Act of 2006. The area of responsibility (AOR) for the Laredo CTPAT office during its formation will include but is not limited to, the Laredo, Texas commuting area, and the cross-border cities within the state of Tamaulipas, Mexico.  

    “I am pleased to announce the official opening of this critical office,” said Dr. Henry Cuellar, Senior Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security. “Laredo is home to the nation’s number one port of entry, and we need every resource available to ensure it is not only secure but also able to process trade efficiently. That is why I fought hard to secure robust funding for CBP’s port of entry operations. I look forward to working with CBP to ensure this project is successful and that we continue to have the resources needed to keep our communities safe. I would like to thank JD Gonzalez, President of NCBFAA, as well as the Laredo trade community for their leadership and help in getting this done.” 

    ### 

    LAREDO, TX – Hoy, el congresista Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), anunció la apertura oficial de la nueva Oficina de Campo de la Alianza Comercial Aduanera contra el Terrorismo (CTPAT) en el puerto de entrada World Trade Bridge (WTB), en Laredo, Texas. El Rep. Cuellar aseguró la financiación de esta oficina a través de su apoyo a las operaciones de puerto de entrada de CBP, incluyendo una fuerte dotación de personal para la Oficina de Operaciones de Campo en el proyecto de ley de Asignaciones de Seguridad Nacional para el Año Fiscal 2024. 

    CTPAT es el programa insignia de CBP público destinado a reforzar la seguridad de la cadena de suministros internacionales y, al mismo tiempo, facilitar la carga legítima de bajo riesgo. Las actividades de la oficina CTPAT de Laredo incluirán la revisión de las solicitudes del programa CTPAT, la evaluación de los requisitos de elegibilidad, la certificación y validación de los nuevos miembros, y el mantenimiento continuo de las cuentas y la revalidación de los miembros CTPAT de conformidad con la Ley de Puertos Seguros de 2006. El área de responsabilidad (AOR) para la oficina CTPAT de Laredo durante su formación incluirá, pero no se limitará a, el área de Laredo, Texas, y las ciudades transfronterizas dentro del estado de Tamaulipas, México. 

    “Me alegra anunciar la apertura oficial de esta oficina fundamental,” declaró el Dr. Henry Cuellar, miembro principal del Subcomité de Asignaciones de la Cámara de Representantes para la Seguridad Nacional. “Laredo es el puerto de entrada número uno de la nación, y necesitamos todos los recursos disponibles para garantizar que no sólo es seguro, sino también capaz de procesar el comercio de manera eficiente. Es por eso que luché duro para asegurar una financiación sólida para las operaciones del puerto de entrada de CBP. Espero con interés trabajar con CBP para asegurar que este proyecto tenga éxito y que sigamos teniendo los recursos necesarios para mantener nuestras comunidades seguras. Me gustaría dar las gracias a JD González, Presidente de NCBFAA, así como a la comunidad comercial de Laredo por su liderazgo y ayuda para conseguir esto.” 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Honoring Fallen Retired Senior Investigator John L. Carey

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that flags will be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, Nov. 2 in honor of Senior Investigator John L. Carey — a retired New York State Police member who passed away from illness linked to his assignment at the World Trade Center following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

    “Senior Investigator Carey was a dedicated member of the New York State Police, and his passing is a reflection of the relentless bravery and unimaginable sacrifice that defines both a public servant and a hero,” Governor Hochul said. “The terrorist attacks of Sept. 11 have claimed the life of another New Yorker, a New Yorker who will always be remembered for protecting his community and for his fearlessness in service.”

    Senior Investigator Carey joined the State Police in 1982 and served for 32 years until his retirement on July 30, 2014. In September 2001, he was sent on a two-week assignment to Ground Zero to identify victims of the attacks on the World Trade Center, where he was then exposed to the toxic chemicals and fumes at the scene.

    Senior Investigator Carey is survived by his wife, Christine; their four children, Andrew, Ashley, Adam and Jennifer; and his granddaughter, Grace Elizabeth.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 01.11.2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation
    Stock Exchange Release
    1 November 2024 at 22:30 EET

    Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 01.11.2024

    Espoo, Finland – On 1 November 2024 Nokia Corporation (LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06) has acquired its own shares (ISIN FI0009000681) as follows:

    Trading venue (MIC Code) Number of shares Weighted average price / share, EUR*
    XHEL 1,068,314 4.35
    CEUX 231,330 4.35
    BATE
    AQEU
    TQEX
    Total 1,299,644 4.35

    * Rounded to two decimals

    On 25 January 2024, Nokia announced that its Board of Directors is initiating a share buyback program to return up to EUR 600 million of cash to shareholders in tranches over a period of two years. The first phase of the share buyback program started on 20 March 2024. On 19 July 2024, Nokia decided to accelerate the share buybacks by increasing the number of shares to be repurchased during the year 2024. The post-increase repurchases in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR), the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 and under the authorization granted by Nokia’s Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024 started on 22 July 2024 and end by 31 December 2024 with a maximum aggregate purchase price of EUR 600 million for all purchases during 2024.

    Total cost of transactions executed on 1 November 2024 was EUR 5,655,401. After the disclosed transactions, Nokia Corporation holds 180,839,724 treasury shares.

    Details of transactions are included as an appendix to this announcement.

    On behalf of Nokia Corporation

    BofA Securities Europe SA

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs.

    Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Inquiries:

    Nokia Communications
    Phone: +358 10 448 4900
    Email: press.services@nokia.com
    Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications

    Nokia Investor Relations
    Phone: +358 40 803 4080
    Email: investor.relations@nokia.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Jersey Resident Pleads Guilty to Helping Russia’s Defense Sector Evade U.S. Export Controls

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

    Defendant Facilitated Russia’s Acquisition of Millions of Dollars of U.S.-Made Dual-Use Electronics Used in Radar, Surveillance, and Military Research and Development

    Vadim Yermolenko, 43, a dual U.S.-Russian national and resident of New Jersey, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to violate the Export Control Reform Act, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and conspiracy to defraud the United States for his role in a transnational procurement and money laundering network that sought to acquire sensitive dual-use electronics for Russian military and intelligence services.

    “This defendant joins the nearly two dozen other criminals that our Task Force KleptoCapture has brought to justice in American courtrooms over the past two and a half years for enabling Russia’s military aggression,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “This defendant admitted to playing a central role in a now-disrupted scheme with Russian intelligence services to smuggle sniper rifle ammunition and U.S. military grade equipment into Russia. The Justice Department will never stop working to aggressively disrupt and prosecute both the criminal networks and the individuals responsible for bolstering the Russian war machine.”

    “The illegal export of sensitive, dual-use technologies in support of Russia’s war effort poses a significant threat to the United States and its allies and must not be tolerated,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The defendant in this case played a key role in exporting U.S. technology that in the hands of our adversaries could pose great danger to our national security. The FBI and its partners will continue to focus on protecting strategic innovation at home and hold accountable anyone who facilitates illegal transfers to hostile nations like Russia.”

    “To facilitate the Russian war machine, the defendant played a critical role in exporting sensitive, dual-use technologies to Russia, facilitating shipping and the movement of millions of dollars through U.S. financial institutions,” said U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York. “This plea highlights my Office and our law enforcement partners continued commitment to use all tools available to prosecute those who unlawfully procure U.S. technology to send to Russia.”

    According to court documents, the defendant was affiliated with Serniya Engineering and Sertal LLC, Moscow-based companies that operate under the direction of Russian intelligence services to procure advanced electronics and sophisticated testing equipment for Russia’s military industrial complex and research and development sector. Serniya and Sertal operated a vast network of shell companies and bank accounts throughout the world, including the United States, that were used in furtherance of the scheme to conceal the involvement of the Russian government and the true Russian end users of U.S.-origin equipment.

    The defendant and his co-conspirators unlawfully purchased and exported highly sensitive, export controlled electronic components, some of which can be used in the development of nuclear and hypersonic weapons, quantum computing and other military applications. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) levied sanctions and imposed additional export restrictions on Serniya, Sertal, and several individuals and companies used in the scheme, calling them “instrumental to the Russian Federation’s war machine.”

    Sertal was licensed to conduct highly sensitive and classified procurement activities by Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB), Russia’s principal security agency and the main successor agency to the Soviet Union’s KGB. The Serniya network’s Russian clients included State Corporation Rostec, the state-owned defense conglomerate; State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom (Rosatom); the Ministry of Defense; the Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR); and various components of the FSB, including the Department of Military Counterintelligence and the Directorate for Scientific and Technological Intelligence, commonly known as “Directorate T.”

    To carry out the scheme, the defendant helped set up numerous shell companies and dozens of bank accounts in the U.S. to illicitly move money and export-controlled goods. During the period charged in the indictment, more than $12 million passed through accounts owned or controlled by the defendant. These funds were used in part to purchase sensitive equipment used in radar, surveillance and military research and development. In one instance, money from one of the defendant’s accounts was used to purchase export-controlled sniper bullets, which were intercepted in Estonia before they could be smuggled into Russia.

    Co-defendant Alexey Brayman previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and is awaiting sentence. The case against co-defendant Vadim Konoshchenok, a suspected FSB operative, was dismissed after Konoshchenok was removed from the United States as part of a prisoner exchange negotiated between the United States and Russia. Defendant Nikolaos Bogonikolos’ case remains pending. Defendants Boris Livshits, Alexey Ippolitov, Svetlana Skvortsova, and Yevgeniy Grinin remain at large.        

    The FBI, BIS, and IRS are investigating the case.

    The U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, and Estonian authorities provided valuable assistance.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Artie McConnell, Andrew D. Reich, and Matthew Skurnik for the Eastern District of New York are prosecuting the case, with assistance from Trial Attorney Scott A. Claffee of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.

    Today’s actions were coordinated through the Justice Department’s Task Force KleptoCapture and the Justice and Commerce Departments’ Disruptive Technology Strike Force. Task Force KleptoCapture is an interagency law enforcement task force dedicated to enforcing the sweeping sanctions, export restrictions and economic countermeasures that the United States has imposed, along with its allies and partners, in response to Russia’s unprovoked military invasion of Ukraine. The Disruptive Technology Strike Force is an interagency law enforcement strike force co-led by the Departments of Justice and Commerce designed to target illicit actors, protect supply chains and prevent critical technology from being acquired by authoritarian regimes and hostile nation states.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: CNL Strategic Capital Launches Second Follow-On Offering of $1.1 Billion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Orlando, Fla., Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CNL Strategic Capital, a public, non-traded company that seeks to provide current income and long-term appreciation to its investors, has launched its second follow-on offering for up to $1.1 billion of shares.

    CNL Strategic Capital’s second follow-on offering will maintain its investment strategy that seeks to acquire and grow durable, middle-market businesses for its portfolio. The second follow-on offering was declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Nov. 1, 2024, and includes up to $100 million in shares to be issued pursuant to the company’s distribution reinvestment plan.

    The initial public offering closed to investors on Nov. 1, 2021, after raising aggregate gross offering proceeds of approximately $264.7 million from the sale of common shares. The follow-on public offering that ran from Nov. 1, 2021, through Nov. 1, 2024, raised aggregate gross offering proceeds of approximately $704.8 million from the sale of common shares. A combined total of $969.5 million was raised through the initial and follow-on public offerings.

    About CNL Strategic Capital
    CNL Strategic Capital is a publicly registered, non-traded limited liability Company that seeks to provide current income and long-term appreciation to individuals by acquiring controlling equity stakes in combination with loan positions in durable and growing middle-market businesses. The Company is externally managed by CNL Strategic Capital Management, LLC and Levine Leichtman Strategic Capital, LLC (LLSC). For additional information, please visit cnlstrategiccapital.com.

    About CNL Financial Group
    CNL Financial Group (CNL) is a leading private investment management firm providing alternative investment opportunities. Since inception in 1973, CNL and/or its affiliates have formed or acquired companies with more than $36 billion in assets. CNL is headquartered in Orlando, Florida. For more information, visit cnl.com.

    About Levine Leichtman Strategic Capital
    LLSC is an affiliate of Levine Leichtman Capital Partners, LLC (LLCP), a middle-market private equity firm with a 40-year track record of investing across various targeted sectors, including Franchising & Multi-unit, Business Services, Education & Training and Engineered Products & Manufacturing. LLCP utilizes a differentiated Structured Private Equity investment strategy, combining debt and equity capital investments in portfolio companies. LLCP believes that by investing in a combination of debt and equity securities, it offers management teams growth capital in a highly tailored, flexible investment structure that can be a more attractive alternative than traditional private equity.

    LLCP’s global team of dedicated investment professionals is led by 10 partners who have worked at LLCP for an average of 20 years. Since inception, LLCP has managed approximately $14.8 billion of institutional capital across 15 investment funds and has invested in over 100 portfolio companies. LLCP currently manages $10.2 billion of assets and has offices in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Miami, London, Stockholm, Amsterdam and Frankfurt. For additional information, please visit llcp.com.

    The information in this press release may include “forward-looking statements.” These statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of CNL Strategic Capital’s management and on the information currently available to management at the time of such statements. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the words “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “estimates” or similar expressions that indicate future events. Forward-looking statements are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and are generally beyond CNL Strategic Capital’s control. Important risks, uncertainties and factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include the risks associated with the Company’s ability to pay distributions and the sources of such distribution payments, the Company’s ability to locate and make suitable investments and other risks described in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and the other documents filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities.

    ###

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Members spotlight development issues in trade and environmental sustainability discussions

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Members spotlight development issues in trade and environmental sustainability discussions

    “Here we are at the end of 2024 and MC14 isn’t that far away. We’re committed to having concrete outcomes and so as part of achieving that, this session will be important,” said Richard Tarasofsky of Canada, which co-convenes TESSD together with Costa Rica, in opening the meeting. He added that a high-level TESSD plenary stocktaking session will be held on 4 December to seek members’ support for the proposed way forward towards achieving concrete outcomes at MC14 that reflect both the technical discussions in working groups as well as the written outcomes of those groups.
    “We are really making an effort to dig deeper into the development dimension, including in how we select topics such as climate adaptation,” said Mr. Tarasofsky.
    The four TESSD working groups advanced substantive work in their respective discussions at the meeting.
    In the Working Group on Trade-related Climate Measures (TrCMs), members deliberated on the use of TrCMs for achieving climate change adaptation and focused on developing country perspectives. They heard presentations from the International Institute for Sustainable Development, the WTO Secretariat, the World Bank, Barbados and Samoa.
    In the Working Group on Environmental Goods and Services, members exchanged views on trade-related aspects of water management and climate change adaptation, considering presentations on water management technologies and developing country experiences from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Copenhagen Climate Centre and the UN Climate Technology Centre & Network (CTCN). Members also considered presentations on identification and trade promotion of environmental goods and services from Australia, Finland and the WTO Secretariat.
    In the Working Group on Subsidies, members considered presentations on critical minerals, including how international cooperation can support developing countries in addressing challenges and seizing opportunities in the sector. The International Energy Agency, the African Development Bank, Australia and the Philippines provided presentations.
    In the Working Group on Circular Economy-Circularity, members heard from the Global Batteries Alliance on batteries passports and on circularity of batteries. They also heard from Rwanda on implementing circular economy principles in the transport sector. Members also were briefed on new analytical work from the International Chamber of Commerce, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, and the Forum on Trade, Environment and SDGs (TESS).
    Across the four working groups, members also discussed possible ways forward for outcomes at MC14, including a compilation and mapping of policy measures shared by members, practical ways to enhance cooperation, and expanding and refining the TESSD indicative list of environmental goods and services. They also considered developing guidelines for subsidy design and recommendations to enhance transparency, trade-related guidelines for a circular economy and trade‑related good practices for circularity in priority sectors.
    Presentations and documents related to the working group meetings are available here.
    At the close of the two-day meeting, Ana Lizano of Costa Rica, TESSD co-convenor, said: “We have heard support as well as constructive feedback from the participants to the suggestions on the way forward presented by the facilitators of the four groups. So the co-conveners, together with the facilitators, will put together the most balanced outlook possible for 2025 and towards the next Ministerial Conference.”
    “We will continue working on bringing to the table more voices from the developing and least-developed members to consolidate an agenda that is not only balanced but also representative of the needs, opportunities, and interests of all TESSD participants,” she said.
    Guided by their 2021 Ministerial Statement, TESSD seeks to complement the work of the WTO Committee on Trade and Environment and advance discussions at the intersection of trade and environmental sustainability towards identifying concrete actions that members could take individually or collectively. The initiative, which is open to all WTO members, is currently co-sponsored by 77 members representing all regions and all levels of development.

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    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: European Council President: For multilateralism to work we need trust, trade and to transform

    Source: World Trade Organization

    WTO ambassadors, Swiss authorities, heads of intergovernmental organizations, representatives of non-governmental organizations, business and academia participated in the event, which was opened by Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

    In his introduction, Mr Michel told a large audience that today the world “is on a knife edge”, with war and conflict piercing the heart of the multilateral system and global confidence. Current conflicts are creating a devastating cocktail of humanitarian catastrophes, destabilisation and insecurity, driving the world away from the rule of law toward the law of force, he noted.

    Every week, the world sees the devastating effects of climate change across regions, he said. It also has to live through the “mind-blowing revolution” of artificial intelligence (AI), with its vast potential but also with its risks for human rights, democracy and the global trading system. Against this backdrop, he stressed that “no country alone can face all these challenges,” making cooperation and multilateralism more necessary than ever.

    Mr Michel said that the success of the European Union is an example of how cooperation and integration help to build bridges, allowing member states to cooperate and reach compromise on difficult issues. That translates into reducing overdependence and building mutually beneficial partnerships. “We want to build bridges, not barriers. And that requires more trust. More dialogue between nations. And less polarisation that drives nations apart,” he said.

    Highlighting the need to build mutually beneficial partnerships, the President of the European Council called for a multipolar world where each country, or group of countries, can set its own path, with respect for the common rules. “It shouldn’t be about choosing one side over another. We need to listen, cooperate, and forge common decisions based on smart compromise. And we have to develop our collective intelligence for solving collective problems,” he noted.

    In order to make multilateralism work, he said: “We need to build more trust. People must believe in each other when they make agreements and work together. And building trust requires respect for international law, crucial when nations cooperate together. We also need trade because it generates prosperity and helps us achieve our common goals. And we must transform global multilateral institutions, so they are strong and fit for the 21st century.”

    Mr Michel commended the “tireless efforts and relentless determination” of DG Okonjo-Iweala to bring trust back to the heart of the WTO. He underlined that for the European Union, strengthening the WTO is a strategic priority. “A strong, well-functioning WTO is essential to fair and predictable global trade, based on common rules. We must pursue the necessary reforms to make the WTO a powerful force,” he said.

    This includes overhauling the WTO’s dispute settlement mechanism to include a reliable appeal process, he said, as agreed by members at the 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12) in June 2022, while preserving the core principles established in 1995. Looking forward, he also cited the need to address issues such as subsidies and state support and stated that WTO reform must ensure inclusivity, enabling both developed and developing nations to participate equitably.

    DG Okonjo-Iweala expressed her appreciation for the very timely insights of President Michel in the current challenging context. “He understands, as we do, that trade is not a means in itself, or even solely an engine of greater productivity and growth, but that trade is a force for social inclusion, economic development, environmental sustainability – and yes – peace.”

    DG Okonjo-Iweala said that President Michel is not just a committed multilateralist but someone who is committed to ensuring that multilateralism delivers results for people by using trade as a tool to integrate people and places left out of the gains of recent decades. “Our collective efforts to reform and update the WTO are part of making trade work for everyone,” she added.

    Following the lecture, Mr Michel took part in a conversation with DG Okonjo-Iweala on the future of international trade at a time of economic, political and environmental uncertainty, moderated by Professor Muhammadou Kah, Ambassador of the Gambia to the WTO.

    A recording of the event can be viewed here.

    About the WTO’s Presidential Lecture Series

    The WTO’s Presidential Lecture Series provides a platform for distinguished speakers from around the world to deliver lectures on various aspects of multilateral cooperation and global governance. Several events are held each year.

    More information on the lecture series is available here.

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    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Transparency and subsidy notification compliance spotlighted at committee meeting

    Source: WTO

    Headline: Transparency and subsidy notification compliance spotlighted at committee meeting

    The Chair noted that despite calls for members to notify their subsidies, compliance with the subsidy notification obligation under the WTO’s SCM Agreement remains concerningly low, affecting the Agreement’s proper functioning. 
    He highlighted that 84 members have not made their 2023 notifications, which were due by 30 June 2023, while 82 members have yet to make their 2021 notifications, which were due more than three years ago. He also noted that 71 members still have not submitted their 2019 notifications, now overdue by more than five years. Many of these members have either never notified or have done so only in the distant past, he said.
    The Chair emphasized that all members benefit from the collective effort of timely and complete notifications. “Ultimately, all members, in addition to being required to notify, have an interest in the notified information of other members,” he stated. He called on non-compliant members to fulfil their obligations, noting that transparency is fundamental to the SCM Agreement’s proper functioning.
    Highlighting efforts to improve compliance, the Chair drew attention to the WTO Secretariat’s technical assistance project on subsidy notifications. The first round of the project, completed in 2023, invited 43 members to take part, with 23 agreeing to participate. Of these, 11 members subsequently submitted their 2023 subsidy notifications in a timely fashion, accounting for 13% of all notifications received for that cycle. The Chair praised these tangible outcomes as evidence of the effectiveness of well-structured, customized assistance projects. He also informed members that a 2024-2025 round of the same technical assistance project will be launched towards the end of this year. He encouraged active engagement of the participating members.
    Several delegations took the floor to echo the Chair’s concerns, stressing the importance of timely and complete subsidy notifications for the SCM Agreement’s effective functioning. They also expressed appreciation for the Secretariat’s ongoing support and technical assistance efforts.
    Training session on subsidy notifications
    In response to a suggestion to organize a training session on the obligation to make subsidy notifications, the Chair acknowledged the potential benefits of such an initiative. He noted that holding a training session would be particularly useful given that a new notification cycle will begin in 2025. Recognizing the timeliness of such a session, he proposed that the Secretariat arrange this training early next year. The Secretariat will communicate the exact date and venue of the session in due course.
    Review of members’ subsidy notifications
    The Committee reviewed the 2023 new and full subsidy notifications submitted by Australia, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, the European Union (pertaining to Croatia, Luxembourg, and Slovenia), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Honduras, Iceland, Nepal, and Uruguay.
    The Committee also continued its review of 2023 subsidy notifications from Brazil, Canada, China, Eswatini, the European Union, Japan, Kenya, the Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Mauritius, Montenegro, Norway, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Vanuatu. It also continued its review of a 2019 notification from the Russian Federation.
    National legislation
    The Committee reviewed new notifications of countervailing duty legislation submitted by Brazil, Cabo Verde, Solomon Islands, and the United States. It also continued its review of the legislative notifications of Saint Kitts and Nevis, the European Union, and Ghana.
    Semi-annual reports of members on countervailing duty actions
    The Committee considered the semi-annual reports of countervailing duty actions submitted by Australia, Brazil, Canada, the European Union, India, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
    In addition to the semi-annual reports, the SCM Agreement requires members to submit without delay notifications of all preliminary and final countervailing duty actions taken. Reports received from Australia, Brazil, Canada, the European Union, India, Mexico, Chinese Taipei, the United Kingdom, and the United States were reviewed by the Committee.
    Other matters
    The Chair recalled the 31 December 2015 deadline for the elimination of export subsidies by members that received “fast track” extensions under Article 27.4 of the SCM Agreement. He noted that only 15 of the 19 members that had received extensions have provided the final required notifications. He called on the remaining members to comply without delay.
    The Committee discussed a separate item China placed on the agenda regarding discriminatory subsidies policies and measures of the United States.
    The Committee discussed a separate item the Republic of Korea placed on the agenda regarding France’s electric vehicle subsidies programme.
    The Committee also discussed a separate item Australia, Canada, the European Union, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States placed on the agenda regarding subsidies and capacity.
    In addition, the Committee discussed a separate item the United States placed on the agenda regarding Kazakhstan’s proposed preferences for domestically produced agricultural machinery.
    The Committee discussed a separate item the United States placed on the agenda regarding the WTO Secretariat’s activities on subsidies. The United States highlighted certain Secretariat-initiated activities relating to subsidies, calling for greater transparency and consultation between the Secretariat and the membership.  Australia, the European Union, India, and the United Kingdom commented on the issues raised by the US, including by expressing support for the call for greater transparency.
    The Secretariat informed the Committee that it has been working on a transparency portal that will allow members to access information about Secretariat-initiated activities and explained that it expected this portal would be rolled-out towards the end of November.
    Under other business, the United States provided an update on proposed guidelines for submission of questions and answers under Articles 25.8 and 25.9 of the SCM Agreement, previously submitted by Australia, Canada, the European Union, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, and discussed at the Committee’s regular meeting in April 2024.
    The Committee also adopted its 2024 annual report to the CTG.
    Next meeting
    The spring and autumn 2025 meetings of the SCM Committee are scheduled to take place in the weeks of 28 April and 27 October 2025, respectively.
    More information about the SCM Agreement and the WTO’s work on subsidies and countervailing measures can be found here.

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    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI USA: Landmarks to be Lit Teal for Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that 14 New York State landmarks will be lit teal on Friday, Nov. 1 to mark the beginning of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month.

    “Alzheimer’s is a debilitating and brutal disease, and, like many of you, it is one that I have a personal connection with,” Governor Hochul said. “I take Alzheimer’s Awareness Month as the time to reflect on the struggles my fellow New Yorkers have faced when it comes to watching a family member or a loved one battle an incredibly heartbreaking diagnosis. I am remembering my grandfather this month as well as all of the New Yorkers and their families who are currently battling an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.”

    The landmarks that will be lit include:

    • Albany International Airport Gateway
    • Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
    • Empire State Plaza
    • Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
    • Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
    • Kosciuszko Bridge
    • Moynihan Train Hall
    • MTA LIRR – East End Gateway at Penn Station
    • Niagara Falls
    • One World Trade Center
    • State Education Building
    • State Fairgrounds – Main Gate & Expo Center
    • The “Franklin D. Roosevelt” Mid-Hudson Bridge
    • The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building

    The Office of the Aging reported — according to New York State data shared by the Coalition of New York State Alzheimer’s Association Chapters — that more than 426,000 New Yorkers aged 65 or older have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. The 2024 New York Alzheimer’s statistics, which includes caregiving, workforce and healthcare data, can be found here.

    New York State is proud to have a network of resources for patients suffering from Alzheimer’s and their families. The New York State Department of Health outlines a map of counties across New York State which includes a list of Caregiver Support Programs and Centers for Excellence in Alzheimer’s Disease in each respective county. This list can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS concludes Riyadh trip

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Financial Secretary Paul Chan completed the final day of his visit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, yesterday by participating in several events at the Future Investment Initiative (FII) with his delegation.

    Speaking at a themed session at the conference, Mr Chan highlighted that Hong Kong is actively developing as an international centre for green tech and green finance, contributing to the future of the New Silk Road.

    Also during the FII, Mr Chan witnessed the signing of co-operation agreements between a number of Hong Kong organisations and enterprises with their Saudi counterparts.

    Among such agreements are a memorandum of understanding between the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund to jointly establish a new investment fund of up to US$ 1 billion and a pact between the Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation and the FII Institute to join the institute’s investment ecosystem.

    Earlier in the day, the Financial Secretary attended the listing ceremony of the SAB Invest Hang Seng Hong Kong Exchange Traded Fund at the Saudi Exchange.

    The product, developed in collaboration with Saudi Awwal Bank’s subsidiary, SAB Invest, provides Middle East investors with opportunities to invest in Hong Kong’s capital markets.

    After concluding his visit, Mr Chan departed for Hong Kong last night and is scheduled to arrive in the city this afternoon.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: BaFin warns consumers about the website ifsinvesting.com

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) warns consumers about the website ifsinvesting.com. According to information available to BaFin, the operator is providing financial and investment services on this website without the required authorisation.

    The operators of the website refer to themselves only as IFSinvesting without stating the company’s legal form. A business address in London, United Kingdom, is provided.

    BaFin has recently become aware of a number of websites with almost identical content and has also warned consumers about them. On all of the websites, the following sentence is displayed at the top of the homepage: “Step Into the Trading Arena with Confidence & [name of website]“.

    Anyone providing financial or investment services in Germany may do so only with authorisation from BaFin. However, some companies offer these services without the necessary authorisation. Information on whether a particular company has been granted authorisation by BaFin can be found in BaFin’s database of companies.

    Theinformation provided by BaFin is based on section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (KreditwesengesetzKWG).

    Please be aware:

    BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (BundeskriminalamtBKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese envoy urges US not to obstruct efforts for peace in Ukraine

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A Chinese envoy on Thursday called on the United States not to obstruct peace efforts in the Ukraine crisis, as U.S.-led arms transfers to Kyiv continue.

    Geng Shuang, China’s deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, made the remarks at a UN Security Council meeting, where UN Undersecretary-General for Disarmament Affairs Izumi Nakamitsu noted that the Ukrainian armed forces continue to receive arms transfers and other forms of military support, including heavy conventional weapons.

    Nakamitsu expressed concern over the use and transfer of cluster munitions, highlighting their indiscriminate nature and potential for widespread pollution.

    Geng said the immediate priority is to adhere to the principles of no battlefield spillover, no escalation of hostilities, and no incitement by any party to quickly de-escalate the situation and seek a political solution to the crisis. 

    China urges parties involved in the conflict to demonstrate political will and engage in peace talks as soon as possible, Geng said. He also called on the international community to create favorable conditions and provide constructive assistance for this process.

    It is the United States that has been aggravating security tensions in Europe, increasing trust deficits and promoting divisive confrontations, Geng said, adding that after the conflict broke out, the U.S. continued to send weapons to the battlefield, openly advocating for the weakening and defeat of Russia, pushing its geopolitical strategy in a blatant manner. 

    It is also the U.S. that has repeatedly smeared China’s peace efforts, tied China to Russia, tried to drive a wedge between China and Europe, and deliberately fostered camp-based rivalry, said the Chinese diplomat.

    Selling fear, creating enemies and inciting confrontation will not only bring disputes and chaos to the world but will also ultimately harm the U.S. itself, Geng warned.

    China has not provided weapons to any party in the Ukraine conflict and has strictly controlled dual-use items, Geng said in response to Deputy U.S. Ambassador to the UN Robert Wood’s accusations that China has provided decisive support for Russia.

    Chinese companies engage in regular trade with countries worldwide, including Russia and Ukraine, in compliance with World Trade Organization rules and market principles, and are beyond reproach, Geng added.

    From the very beginning, China has called for a ceasefire, an end to hostilities, the resolution of disputes through diplomatic negotiations, and a push toward a political solution, according to the Chinese envoy.

    Over the past three years, China has been vocal and active in these efforts, he said. “Who is truly supporting peace, and who is obstructing it? I think the international community sees this very clearly.”

    China opposes the United States’ use of the Ukraine issue to discredit and pressure China, imposing unilateral sanctions and illegal “long-arm jurisdiction” on Chinese entities and individuals, Geng said, adding that China will take all necessary measures to protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies and citizens.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI: Aktsiaselts Infortar subsidiary AS Eesti Gaas acquires a 100% shareholding in EWE Polska

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Aktsiaselts Infortar subsidiary AS Eesti Gaas acquires a 100% shareholding in EWE Polska

    AS Eesti Gaas, a wholly owned subsidiary of Aktsiaselts Infortar (Infortar) and the German energy group EWE AG have entered into an agreement on the 31st of October 2024, under which EWE AG will sell 100% of the shares of its wholly owned subsidiary EWE Polska sp. z o.o. (EWE Polska) which operates in Poland. EWE Polska has two wholly owned subsidiaries, EWE Energia sp. z o.o. and EWE Przesył sp. z o.o. (altogether EWE Polska group).
    Chairman of the Management Board of Infortar Ain Hanschmidt:
    “Our ambition is to expand beyond the Baltic-Finnish region into Central and Western Europe, implementing our proven model and experience as a gas supplier and network operator Poland, thereby delivering the best service to consumers. The acquisition of an energy company in Poland provides us with the necessary momentum in this large and important growing gas market, while also ensuring an additional steady cash flow for the company’s shareholders.”

    The fields of activity of EWE Polska group include a natural gas distribution network in Western Poland and all business lines of energy sales (including gas and electricity sales).

    The completion of the transaction requires approval from the Polish Competition Authority (Polish: Urząd Ochrony Konkurencji i Konsumentów), as well as corporate approval by the EWE AG Supervisory Board (German: Aufsichtsrat).

    The acquisition of shares in EWE Polska constitutes a significant transaction under Nasdaq Tallinn Stock Exchange Rules and Regulations. Therefore, the Stock Exchange Release includes comprehensive information on the transaction’s circumstances and EWE Polska’s financial results.

    EWE Polska is the second-largest privately-owned network operator in Poland. The company operates a natural gas distribution network of 2,316 km in western Poland, mainly around Poznan, serving over 25,000 clients. In addition to infrastructure management, the company sells natural gas and electricity, with energy sales totaling 1.2 TWh last year.

    The aim of the transaction is to significantly expand Infortar’s energy business in the Polish market, with the impact on the Infortar’s consolidation group being adding estimated revenues of more than 100 million euros.
    The acquisition of EWE Polska group increases our market presence in this large and important growing gas market, while also ensuring steady cash flow from regulated assets to our shareholders.

          1.   Terms of payment of purchase price for the shares of EWE Polska
    The purchase price for shares of EWE Polska is 120 000 000 euros payable as monetary payment.
    The purchase price will be paid at the completion of the transaction after being adjusted based on accrued interest and occurred leakage (if any).

          2.   EWE Polska’s financial results
    EWE Polska group total revenues in year 2023 amounted to 141.1 mEUR (2022: 133.2 mEUR and 2021: 76.4 mEUR) which is 6% higher than the year before and 85% higher than in year 2021. In 2023, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) was -2.2 mEUR, compared to 15.6 mEUR in 2022 and 15.0 mEUR in 2021. In 2023, the consolidated net profit was -3.7 mEUR, compared to net profit of 10.5 m EUR and 10.0 mEUR in years 2022 and 2021 respectively.

    EWE Polska group total assets in 2023 were 170.0 mEUR (2022: 182.4 mEUR and 2021: 156.5mEUR) including total fixed assets 115.8 mEUR that is 68% from total assets (2022: 63% and 2021: 69%). Total current assets in 2023 were 54.2 mEUR, including cash and equivalents 22.9 m EUR. In 2022 respective numbers were 66.7 mEUR and 20.7 mEUR. In 2021 the numbers were 48.1 mEUR and 16.2 mEUR.

    Total Equity in 2023 was 115.5 mEUR (in 2022 total equity was 121.5 mEUR and in 2021 114.6 mEUR).
    For more detailed information, please see appendix.

    Based on the additional information provided to Infortar, there have been no adverse changes in the business operations of the EWE Polska group since the close of the 2023 financial year. Unaudited consolidated figures for the first eight months of 2024 have been presented to Infortar, showing consolidated sales of 74.6 mEUR (2023 8 months: 94.2 mEUR), an EBITDA of 15.2 mEUR (2023 8 months: 5.9 mEUR), and a net profit of 12.3 mEUR (2023 8 months: -2.6 mEUR).

          3.   Overview of the loans undertaken by EWE Polska
    EWE Polska group has no outstanding loans in its consolidated balance sheet.

          4.   The structure of shareholders of EWE Polska
    EWE Polska is 100% owned by EWE AG. Upon completion of the transaction 100% of EWE Polska shares will be acquired by Infortar’s wholly owned subsidiary AS Eesti Gaas.

          5.   Information on significant court or arbitration proceedings involving EWE Polska
    According to information provided to Infortar, the companies within the EWE Polska group are not engaged in any significant court or arbitration proceedings. While certain legal proceedings related to their regular business activities are ongoing, Infortar has grounds to believe that the outcomes of these proceedings are unlikely to have a material impact on the business activities of EWE Polska group companies.

          6.   Information on valid contracts between Infortar and EWE Polska
    Currently there are no valid contracts between Infortar and EWE Polska group.

          7.   The composition of managing bodies of EWE Polska
    The Management Board of EWE Polska currently consists of Mr. Krzysztof Noga and Ms. Agnieszka Bielewicz. The Supervisory Board has not been formed.

    The contemplated transaction is not a transaction between related parties and the members of the Supervisory Board and the Management Board of Aktsiaselts Infortar have no personal interest in the transaction in any other way.

    Aktsiaselts Infortar operates in seven countries, the company’s main fields of activity are energy, maritime transport, and real estate. Aktsiaselts Infortar owns a 68.47% stake in Aktsiaselts Tallink Grupp, a 100% stake in AS Eesti Gaas and a versatile and modern real estate portfolio of approx. 113,000 m2. In addition to the three main areas of activity, Aktsiaselts Infortar also operates in construction and mineral resources, agriculture, printing, taxi business and other areas. A total of 104 companies belong to the Aktsiaselts Infortar group: 95 subsidiaries, 4 affiliated companies and 5 subsidiaries of affiliated companies. Excluding affiliates, Aktsiaselts Infortar employs 6,625 people.

    Additional information:
    Kadri Laanvee
    Investor Relations Manager
    Phone: +372 5156662
    e-mail: kadri.laanvee@infortar.ee
    www.infortar.ee/en/investor

    Appendix Balance Sheet and Profit and Loss Statements of EWE Polska group

    BALANCE SHEET      
    Amounts in millions of euros
    FX rate of 4.35 has been used for conversion
    31.12.2021 31.12.2022 31.12.2023
    Cash and equivalents 16,2 20,7 22,9
    Derivatives 14,3 16,3 6,0
    Receivables 14,7 24,7 15,1
    Inventories 2,5 4,8 4,3
    Other current assets 0,4 0,3 6,0
    Total current assets 48,1 66,7 54,2
    Total fixed assets 108,5 115,7 115,8
    TOTAL ASSETS 156,5 182,4 170,0
           
    Trade payables 14,4 23,0 16,0
    Derivatives 8,8 9,9 7,3
    Tax Liabilities 1,3 2,1 3,4
    Advances Received 1,8 7,1 6,2
    Connection fees 0,1 0,1 0,1
    Other current liabilities 2,6 3,4 6,4
    Total current liabilities 29,0 45,6 39,5
    Derivatives 0,0 0,2 0,2
    Other non-current liabilities 1,5 3,3 2,8
    Connection fees 11,4 11,8 12,1
    Total long-term liabilities 12,9 15,3 15,1
    Total Equity 114,6 121,5 115,5
    of which share capital 105,1 104,9 105,8
    TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 156,5 182,4 170,0
    PROFIT AND LOSS STATEMENT    
    Amounts in millions of euros 2021 2022 2023
    Sales revenues 76,0 132,9 139,3
    Other revenues 0,4 0,3 1,7
    TOTAL REVENUES 76,4 133,2 141,1
    Cost of goods sold -55,1 -104,3 -117,4
    Staff costs -4,6 -5,7 -6,4
    Other operating costs -6,5 -7,6 -8,1
    Other costs -1,9 -1,1 -1,4
    Derivatives 6,6 1,2 -9,9
    EBITDA 15,0 15,6 -2,2
    Depreciation and Amortisation -2,5 -2,6 -3,1
    EBIT 12,5 13,0 -5,2
    Financial costs and revenues 0,1 0,5 0,7
    Income tax -2,6 -3,0 0,8
    NET PROFIT 10,0 10,5 -3,7

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: northunion.io: BaFin warns consumers about website

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    The website operator is simply referred to as “NorthUnion”, and there is no information regarding its legal form. They give business addresses in Zurich, Switzerland, London, United Kingdom, Graz, Austria, and Madrid, Spain.

    BaFin has recently become aware of a number of websites with almost identical content and has also warned consumers about them. In each case, the website’s homepage displays the phrase: “Step Up Your Trading with [name of operator]“.

    Anyone providing financial or investment services in Germany may do so only with authorisation from BaFin. However, some companies offer these services without the necessary authorisation. Information on whether a particular company has been granted authorisation by BaFin can be found in BaFin’s database of companies database of companies.

    Theinformation provided by BaFin is based on section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (KreditwesengesetzKWG).

    Please be aware:

    BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (BundeskriminalamtBKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The Ministry of Economic Affairs Invites Offshore Wind Developers to Discuss Prompt Grid Connection at the agreed-upon schedule

    Source: Republic Of China Taiwan 2

    To ensure prompt grid connection of wind farms and adequate supply of green electricity, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) held a symposium on September 23rd, with offshore wind farm developers to discuss issues encountered in achieving timely grid connection. Industry representatives raised topics such as follow-up actions for the Industrial Relevance Policy, geological survey regulations, and state-owned banks’ participation in financing.

    The MOEA stated that it is currently in consultation with the EU under the WTO framework. Adhering to the principle of mutual trust, the consultation results need to be kept confidential, thus no detailed information can be disclosed at the moment. Nonetheless, the atmosphere of the consultations is positive, with efforts being made towards settling, and the MOEA is planning to loosen up the Industrial Relevance Policy. The MOEA explained that as long as the wind farms are completed on time and connected to the grid in compliance with public interest and relevant laws, the administrative departments will assist developers in overcoming related obstacles. Regarding the Industrial Relevance Policy involving force majeure or unattributable reasons, the Industrial Development Administration of the MOEA will follow general principles and adopt a case-by-case review approach, aiming to complete relevant reference models by the end of September to help developers complete wind farm installations on schedule.

    In response to the industry’s proposal for state-owned banks to participate in the offshore wind farm financing, the MOEA also mentioned that it had arranged for representatives from the National Development Council, the Ministry of Finance, the Financial Supervisory Commission, and state-owned banks, to visit offshore wind farms by the end of September, where they exchanged views on offshore wind farm financing issues, provided practical experience to banking industry representatives, and establish trust for the fiance of offshore wind farms, thereby creating a healthy financing environment.

    The MOEA emphasized that domestic corporate users have a significant and competitive demand for green electricity for exports (such as RE100) and that advanced manufacturing processes require higher proportions of green energy. Increasing the proportion of green electricity in Taiwan’s manufacturing by 2030 has become a priority. The MOEA will continue cooperating with offshore wind power developers to provide sufficient green electricity and enhance the international competitiveness of Taiwan’s industries.

    Spokesperson for Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs: Deputy Director General, Chun-Li Lee
    Phone: 02-2775-7700, 0936-250-838
    Email: chunlee@moeaea.gov.tw

    Business Contact: Director, Chung-Hsien Chen
    Phone: 02-2775-7770, 0919-998-339
    Email: ctchen2@moeaea.gov.tw

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs detects smuggling case involving ocean-going vessel and goods worth about $140 million (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Hong Kong Customs detected a suspected smuggling case involving an ocean-going vessel destined for the Philippines on September 26. A large batch of suspected smuggled goods with a total estimated market value of about $140 million was seized.

         Through intelligence analysis and risk assessment, Customs discovered that criminals intended to use ocean-going vessels to smuggle goods and thus formulated strategies to combat related activities.

         On September 26, Customs officers identified an ocean-going vessel preparing to depart from Hong Kong for the Philippines for inspection and seized a large batch of suspected smuggled items, including new tyre rims, red wine, game consoles, CPUs and electronic products inside two containers which were declared as carrying plastic protective travelling cases and plastic tableware respectively aboard the vessel.

         An investigation is ongoing. The likelihood of arrests is not ruled out.

         Being a government department primarily responsible for tackling smuggling activities, Customs has long been combating various smuggling activities at the forefront. Customs will keep up its enforcement action and continue to fiercely combat sea smuggling activities through proactive risk management and intelligence-based enforcement strategies, with targeted anti-smuggling operations carried out at suitable times to disrupt these activities.

         Smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years upon conviction.

         Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).   

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese envoy to US: Don’t hinder Ukraine peace efforts

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    A Chinese envoy on Thursday called on the United States not to obstruct peace efforts in the Ukraine crisis, as U.S.-led arms transfers to Kyiv continue.

    Geng Shuang, China’s deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, made the remarks at a UN Security Council meeting, where UN Undersecretary-General for Disarmament Affairs Izumi Nakamitsu noted that the Ukrainian armed forces continue to receive arms transfers and other forms of military support, including heavy conventional weapons.

    Nakamitsu expressed concern over the use and transfer of cluster munitions, highlighting their indiscriminate nature and potential for widespread pollution.

    Geng said the immediate priority is to adhere to the principles of no battlefield spillover, no escalation of hostilities, and no incitement by any party to quickly de-escalate the situation and seek a political solution to the crisis. 

    China urges parties involved in the conflict to demonstrate political will and engage in peace talks as soon as possible, Geng said. He also called on the international community to create favorable conditions and provide constructive assistance for this process.

    It is the United States that has been aggravating security tensions in Europe, increasing trust deficits and promoting divisive confrontations, Geng said, adding that after the conflict broke out, the U.S. continued to send weapons to the battlefield, openly advocating for the weakening and defeat of Russia, pushing its geopolitical strategy in a blatant manner. 

    It is also the U.S. that has repeatedly smeared China’s peace efforts, tied China to Russia, tried to drive a wedge between China and Europe, and deliberately fostered camp-based rivalry, said the Chinese diplomat.

    Selling fear, creating enemies and inciting confrontation will not only bring disputes and chaos to the world but will also ultimately harm the U.S. itself, Geng warned.

    China has not provided weapons to any party in the Ukraine conflict and has strictly controlled dual-use items, Geng said in response to Deputy U.S. Ambassador to the UN Robert Wood’s accusations that China has provided decisive support for Russia.

    Chinese companies engage in regular trade with countries worldwide, including Russia and Ukraine, in compliance with World Trade Organization rules and market principles, and are beyond reproach, Geng added.

    From the very beginning, China has called for a ceasefire, an end to hostilities, the resolution of disputes through diplomatic negotiations, and a push toward a political solution, according to the Chinese envoy.

    Over the past three years, China has been vocal and active in these efforts, he said. “Who is truly supporting peace, and who is obstructing it? I think the international community sees this very clearly.”

    China opposes the United States’ use of the Ukraine issue to discredit and pressure China, imposing unilateral sanctions and illegal “long-arm jurisdiction” on Chinese entities and individuals, Geng said, adding that China will take all necessary measures to protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies and citizens.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai meets delegation from Foreign Trade and Development Committee of Dutch House of Representatives

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    President Lai meets delegation from Foreign Trade and Development Committee of Dutch House of Representatives
    President Lai meets delegation from Foreign Trade and Development Committee of Dutch House of Representatives
    2024-11-01

    On the afternoon of November 1, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation from the Foreign Trade and Development Committee of the Dutch House of Representatives. In remarks, President Lai thanked the House of Representatives for its backing of Taiwan and for urging the Dutch government to prioritize the issue of peace across the Taiwan Strait and strengthen bilateral relations. The president noted that Taiwan and the Netherlands share the values of inclusion, diversity, democracy, and freedom, and that we enjoy close exchanges in such areas as semiconductors, renewable energy, and water resource management. He said that he looks forward to Taiwan and the Netherlands continuing to deepen our partnership in fields including digital trade, cybersecurity, and innovative agriculture as well as to jointly building resilient supply chains for global democracies so as to safeguard the rules-based international free trade order.
    A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
    I want to start by warmly welcoming Chair of the Foreign Trade and Development Committee of the Dutch House of Representatives Aukje de Vries and her delegation. This is the first time the House of Representatives has organized an official delegation to Taiwan. This large group of members from various Dutch political parties includes the spokespersons for foreign trade and foreign affairs. On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I would like to extend our warmest welcome.
    This year marks the 400th anniversary of the beginning of Taiwan-Netherlands relations. The Netherlands has made this the Year of Netherlands Innovation and Culture in Taiwan. Your visit serves to further advance bilateral exchanges and cooperation. Taiwan and the Netherlands share the values of inclusion, diversity, democracy, and freedom. We enjoy close exchanges in such areas as semiconductors, renewable energy, and water resource management. And we are both key players in global high-tech supply chains.
    I look forward to Taiwan and the Netherlands continuing to deepen our partnership in fields including digital trade, cybersecurity, and innovative agriculture. And I also look forward to strengthening each other’s hybrid approach to economic security by jointly building resilient supply chains for global democracies so as to safeguard the rules-based international free trade order. As authoritarian expansion continues, democratic partners must show resolve and work together to safeguard global security and prosperity.
    I especially want to thank the House of Representatives for its backing of Taiwan. So far this year, it has passed three motions in support of Taiwan. It has urged the Dutch government to prioritize the issue of peace across the Taiwan Strait and strengthen bilateral relations. The Netherlands was also the first country in Europe to pass a parliamentary motion rejecting China’s attempts to distort United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 and impede Taiwan’s right to international participation.
    This year, the Dutch government has demonstrated stronger support for Taiwan than ever before. It congratulated the Taiwanese people for successfully completing elections in January. In May, it dispatched the frigate Tromp to transit the Taiwan Strait, and it publicly voiced indirect support for Taiwan at the World Health Assembly. This all speaks to the Dutch parliament’s staunch backing of Taiwan.
    In closing, on behalf of the people of Taiwan, I welcome you all again and thank you for visiting, allowing Taiwan and the Netherlands to walk side by side on the road of democracy and freedom. I am confident that by working together we will make even greater contributions to the world.
    Chair de Vries then delivered remarks, first thanking President Lai for his gracious reception. She noted that this is the first time a delegation like this from the Dutch House of Representatives is visiting Taiwan. Over the last week, she said, they had a very intense program, and yesterday they were here during the typhoon. She added that they were impressed to see how Taiwan deals with this kind of natural phenomenon. She stated that the purpose of their visit is to get a better understanding of Taiwan’s political, economic and social developments, as well as the current state of cross-strait relations.
    Chair de Vries pointed out that the Netherlands and Taiwan enjoy excellent relations, engaging in intensive exchanges in the fields of trade and innovation, science and innovation, agriculture, education, and culture. And this year is a very special year, she emphasized, just as President Lai mentioned in his remarks, as it is exactly 400 years ago that the Dutch came to Taiwan’s shores for the first time. The chair said that various activities have been organized to mark the occasion through which our shared history is presented in an appropriate, measured, and balanced manner.
    Chair de Vries remarked that the commonalities and interactions between Taiwan and the Netherlands are manyfold. Firstly, she said, both the Netherlands and Taiwan are vibrant democracies and share respect for human rights as well as the freedom of press and freedom of association. She added that we also take very seriously the issues of sustainable economic development and climate change. The second example she mentioned is our shared values, saying that both Taiwan and the Netherlands are aiming at improving working standards and working environments for our workers. The third example, she said, is in the bilateral economic domain. She pointed out that Taiwan is the second largest export market for the Netherlands in Asia, even before Japan and Korea. The Netherlands is one of the largest European investors in Taiwan, she said, with a total stock of over $35 billion euro of investments. She also noted that over 200 Taiwanese companies are using the Netherlands as a gateway to Europe.
    Noting that their Committee on Foreign Trade and Development monitors foreign trade and development policies, Chair de Vries said that many of the themes they have discussed this week will be very useful for their work back home, since these policies include trade and investment, climate policy, corporate social responsibility, human rights, and international cooperation in the fields of science and innovation. She added that what they have learned throughout the week will also allow them to execute a monitoring role regarding Dutch policies towards Taiwan and the region as a whole, including cross-strait relations.
    In that regard, Chair de Vries emphasized, the recent increase in tensions is very much a matter of their concern. She added that the consensus in the Dutch House of Representatives is that any unilateral change in the cross-strait situation must be avoided, and that any dispute must be solved through peaceful means, not by force or coercion. The series of motions adopted over the past few years, she said, reflects the level of support that Taiwan enjoys in the Dutch House of Representatives.
    In closing, Chair de Vries thanked President Lai for the warm welcome. She remarked that it has been a visit they will never forget and that it has given them confidence that Taiwan and the Netherlands do not only share a rich common past and a fruitful and productive common present, but that we also have a bright and promising future ahead, with ever closer cooperation.
    The delegation also included Members of Parliament Daniëlle Hirsch, Roelien Kamminga, Isa Kahraman, Jan Paternotte, Derk Boswijk, Dennis Ram, Tom van der Lee, Femke Zeedijk, and Eric van der Burg. The delegation was accompanied to the Presidential Office by Netherlands Office Taipei Representative Guido Tielman.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “E&M GO!” orientation ceremony 2024 held today (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    “E&M GO!” orientation ceremony 2024 held today (with photos)
    “E&M GO!” orientation ceremony 2024 held today (with photos)
    **********************************************************************

         The Hong Kong Electrical and Mechanical (E&M) Trade Promotion Working Group (Working Group), formed by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) and the E&M trade, held the “E&M GO!” orientation ceremony 2024 today (November 1) to welcome young people joining the E&M industry.      Speaking at the ceremony, the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak, said that the Government has long attached great importance to youth development, and is committed to fostering the growth and development of young people by providing all-round support in education, careers, entrepreneurship and home ownership. She was pleased that the EMSD and the Working Group have actively pulled together the efforts of the Government, the business sector and the community to support young people and provide diversified development opportunities to those who aspire to join the E&M industry. Miss Mak encouraged new members of the E&M industry to actively participate in the industry’s activities, continuously upgrade their professional knowledge, and achieve a bright future in the E&M industry.      The Director of Electrical and Mechanical Services, Mr Poon Kwok-ying, said that through school activities, social media, large-scale exhibitions and job fairs, the EMSD and the Working Group have been promoting the professional image of the E&M industry, and encouraging young people to join the industry to foster the development of the city. He encouraged young people to give full play to their strengths and overcome challenges proactively, so as to open a new chapter for the industry.      Established in 2012, the Hong Kong Electrical and Mechanical Trade Promotion Working Group comprises 19 E&M-related organisations, including government departments, public organisations, education institutes, public utilities, trade associations and unions. It aims to promote and enhance the professional image of the E&M industry and attract more young people to join the industry.

     
    Ends/Friday, November 1, 2024Issued at HKT 18:59

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: Bitfarms Provides October 2024 Production and Operations Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    – Earned 236 BTC in October 2024 & Increased Bitcoin Treasury to 1,188 BTC –

    This news release constitutes a “designated news release” for the purposes of the Company’s amended and restated prospectus supplement dated October 4, 2024, to its short form base shelf prospectus dated November 10, 2023.

    TORONTO, Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitfarms Ltd. (NASDAQ/TSX: BITF), a global leader in vertically integrated Bitcoin data center operations, today announced its latest monthly production report. All financial references are in U.S. dollars.

    In October, Bitfarms announced a second hosting agreement with Stronghold Digital Mining, Inc. (“Stronghold”) that will deploy 10,000 miners, originally scheduled for Yguazu, Paraguay, to Stronghold’s Scrubgrass site. This follows an initial hosting agreement for 10,000 miners signed in September for a total of 20,000 miners to be deployed at Stronghold’s two sites in Pennsylvania. The two hosting agreements support approximately 4 EH/s with energization expected in several tranches over the coming months.

    CEO Ben Gagnon stated, “While we are pleased to have reached our year-end efficiency goal of 21 w/TH three months ahead of schedule, we recognize that we are behind schedule on delivering our mid-year 12 EH/s target. Despite improvements in recent miner shipments, continued miner warranty servicing has impeded the achievement of our hash rate target. We have a strong partnership with Bitmain and appreciate their diligence in rapidly servicing the underperforming miners as deliveries are scheduled to accelerate in the last two months of the year.”

    Mining Review
    October mining operations generated 236 BTC compared to 217 BTC in September reflecting a 3% increase in average operating EH and an 8% increase in Bitcoin difficulty during the month.

    Key Performance Indicators October 2024 September 2024 October 2023
    Total BTC earned 236 217 398
    Month End Operating EH/s 11.5 11.3 6.3
    BTC/Avg. EH/s 22 21 67
    Average Operating EH/s 10.6 10.3 5.9
    Operating Capacity (MW) 310 310 240
    Hydropower (MW) 256 256 186
    Watts/Terahash Efficiency (w/TH) 21 21 35
    BTC Sold 194 173 341


    October 2024 Select Operating Highlights

    • 11.5 EH/s operational at October 31, 2024, up 83% Y/Y.
    • 10.6 EH/s average operational, up 80% Y/Y and up 3% M/M.
    • 22.2 BTC/average EH/s, up 5% M/M and 67% lower Y/Y.
    • 236 BTC earned, up 9% M/M and 41% lower Y/Y.
    • 7.6 BTC earned daily on average, equal to ~$540,000 per day based on a BTC price of $71,000 at October 31, 2024.

    Bitfarms’ BTC Monthly Production

    Month BTC Earned 2024 BTC Earned 2023
    January 357 486
    February 300 387
    March 286 424
    April 269 379
    May 156 459
    June 189 385
    July 253 378
    August 233 383
    September 217 411
    October 236 398
    YTD Totals 2,496 4,090


    October 2024 Financial Update

    • Sold 194 of the 236 BTC earned as part of the Company’s regular treasury management practice for total proceeds of $13.0 million.
    • Added 42 BTC, bringing Treasury to 1,188 BTC, up from 1,147 BTC last month and representing $84.3 million based on a BTC price of $71,000 at October 31, 2024. 
    • Synthetic HODL™ of 802 long-dated BTC call options at October 31, 2024, up from 602 at the end of the prior month.

    Upcoming Conferences and Events

    • November 13-14: Cantor Crypto, Digital Assets & AI Infrastructure Conference (Miami)
    • November 19-20: ROTH Technology Conference (NYC)
    • November 20: Special Meeting of Bitfarms Shareholders (Virtual)
    • December 4: B. Riley Crypto & Energy Infrastructure Conference (NYC)
    • December 12: Northland Growth Conference (Virtual)
    • January 14-15, 2025: Needham Growth Conference (NYC)

    About Bitfarms Ltd.

    Founded in 2017, Bitfarms is a global vertically integrated Bitcoin data center company that contributes its computational power to one or more mining pools from which it receives payment in Bitcoin. Bitfarms develops, owns, and operates vertically integrated mining facilities with in-house management and company-owned electrical engineering, installation service, and multiple onsite technical repair centers. The Company’s proprietary data analytics system delivers best-in-class operational performance and uptime.

    Bitfarms currently has 12 operating Bitcoin data centers and two under development, as well as hosting agreements with two data centers, in four countries: Canada, the United States, Paraguay, and Argentina. Powered predominantly by environmentally friendly hydro-electric and long-term power contracts, Bitfarms is committed to using sustainable and often underutilized energy infrastructure.

    To learn more about Bitfarms’ events, developments, and online communities:

    www.bitfarms.com
    https://www.facebook.com/bitfarms/
    https://twitter.com/Bitfarms_io
    https://www.instagram.com/bitfarms/
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/bitfarms/

    Glossary of Terms

    • Y/Y or M/M= year over year or month over month
    • BTC or BTC/day = Bitcoin or Bitcoin per day
    • EH or EH/s = Exahash or exahash per second
    • MW or MWh = Megawatts or megawatt hour
    • w/TH = Watts/Terahash efficiency (includes cost of powering supplementary equipment)
    • Synthetic HODL™ = the use of instruments that create BTC equivalent exposure

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains certain “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) that are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release and are covered by safe harbors under Canadian and United States securities laws. The statements and information in this release regarding the impact of the Stronghold hosting agreements, projected growth, target hashrate, opportunities relating to the Company’s geographical diversification and expansion, deployment of miners as well as the timing therefor, closing of the Stronghold acquisition on a timely basis and on the terms as announced, , the ability to gain access to additional electrical power and grow hashrate of the Stronghold business, performance of the plants and equipment upgrades and the impact on operating capacity including the target hashrate and multi-year expansion capacity, the opportunities to leverage Bitfarms’ proven expertise to successfully enhance energy efficiency and hashrate, and other statements regarding future growth, plans and objectives of the Company are forward-looking information.

    Any statements that involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as “expects”, or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, “plans”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “forecasts”, “estimates”, “prospects”, “believes” or “intends” or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results “may” or “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information.

    This forward-looking information is based on assumptions and estimates of management of Bitfarms at the time they were made, and involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of Bitfarms to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors, risks and uncertainties include, among others: receipt of the approval of the shareholders of Stronghold and the Toronto Stock Exchange for the Stronghold acquisition as well as other applicable regulatory approvals; that the Stronghold acquisition may not close within the timeframe anticipated or at all or may not close on the terms and conditions currently anticipated by the parties for a number of reasons including, without limitation, as a result of a failure to satisfy the conditions to closing of the Stronghold acquisition; the construction and operation of new facilities may not occur as currently planned, or at all; expansion of existing facilities may not materialize as currently anticipated, or at all; new miners may not perform up to expectations; revenue may not increase as currently anticipated, or at all; the ongoing ability to successfully mine digital currency is not assured; failure of the equipment upgrades to be installed and operated as planned; the availability of additional power may not occur as currently planned, or at all; expansion may not materialize as currently anticipated, or at all; the power purchase agreements and economics thereof may not be as advantageous as expected; potential environmental cost and regulatory penalties due to the operation of the Stronghold plants which entail environmental risk and certain additional risk factors particular to the business of Stronghold including, land reclamation requirements may be burdensome and expensive, changes in tax credits related to coal refuse power generation could have a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition, results of operations and future development efforts, competition in power markets may have a material adverse effect on the results of operations, cash flows and the market value of the assets, the business is subject to substantial energy regulation and may be adversely affected by legislative or regulatory changes, as well as liability under, or any future inability to comply with, existing or future energy regulations or requirements, the operations are subject to a number of risks arising out of the threat of climate change, and environmental laws, energy transitions policies and initiatives and regulations relating to emissions and coal residue management, which could result in increased operating and capital costs and reduce the extent of business activities, operation of power generation facilities involves significant risks and hazards customary to the power industry that could have a material adverse effect on our revenues and results of operations, and there may not have adequate insurance to cover these risks and hazards, employees, contractors, customers and the general public may be exposed to a risk of injury due to the nature of the operations, limited experience with carbon capture programs and initiatives and dependence on third-parties, including consultants, contractors and suppliers to develop and advance carbon capture programs and initiatives, and failure to properly manage these relationships, or the failure of these consultants, contractors and suppliers to perform as expected, could have a material adverse effect on the business, prospects or operations; the digital currency market; the ability to successfully mine digital currency; it may not be possible to profitably liquidate the current digital currency inventory, or at all; a decline in digital currency prices may have a significant negative impact on operations; an increase in network difficulty may have a significant negative impact on operations; the volatility of digital currency prices; the anticipated growth and sustainability of hydroelectricity for the purposes of cryptocurrency mining in the applicable jurisdictions; the inability to maintain reliable and economical sources of power to operate cryptocurrency mining assets; the risks of an increase in electricity costs, cost of natural gas, changes in currency exchange rates, energy curtailment or regulatory changes in the energy regimes in the jurisdictions in which Bitfarms and Stronghold operate and the potential adverse impact on profitability; future capital needs and the ability to complete current and future financings, including Bitfarms’ ability to utilize an at-the-market offering program ( “ATM Program”) and the prices at which securities may be sold in such ATM Program, as well as capital market conditions in general; share dilution resulting from an ATM Program and from other equity issuances; volatile securities markets impacting security pricing unrelated to operating performance; the risk that a material weakness in internal control over financial reporting could result in a misstatement of financial position that may lead to a material misstatement of the annual or interim consolidated financial statements if not prevented or detected on a timely basis; historical prices of digital currencies and the ability to mine digital currencies that will be consistent with historical prices; and the adoption or expansion of any regulation or law that will prevent Bitfarms from operating its business, or make it more costly to do so. For further information concerning these and other risks and uncertainties, refer to Bitfarms’ filings on www.sedarplus.ca (which are also available on the website of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) at www.sec.gov), including the MD&A for the year-ended December 31, 2023, filed on March 7, 2024 and the MD&A for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 filed on August 8, 2024, and its registration statement on Form F-4 (File No. 333-282657) filed by Bitfarms with the SEC (the “registration statement”), which includes a proxy statement of Stronghold that also constitutes a prospectus of Bitfarms (the “proxy statement/prospectus”). Although Bitfarms has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended, including factors that are currently unknown to or deemed immaterial by Bitfarms. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate as actual results, and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Bitfarms does not undertake any obligation to revise or update any forward-looking information other than as required by law. Trading in the securities of the Company should be considered highly speculative. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein. Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange, Nasdaq, or any other securities exchange or regulatory authority accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Additional Information about the Merger and Where to Find It

    This communication relates to a proposed merger between Stronghold and Bitfarms. In connection with the proposed merger, Bitfarms intends to file with the SEC a registration statement on Form F-4, which will include a proxy statement of Stronghold that also constitutes a prospectus of Bitfarms. After the registration statement is declared effective, Stronghold will mail the proxy statement/prospectus to its shareholders. This communication is not a substitute for the registration statement, the proxy statement/prospectus or any other relevant documents Bitfarms and Stronghold has filed or will file with the SEC. Investors are urged to read the proxy statement/prospectus (including all amendments and supplements thereto) and other relevant documents filed with the SEC carefully and in their entirety if and when they become available because they will contain important information about the proposed merger and related matters.

    Investors may obtain free copies of the registration statement, the proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant documents filed by Bitfarms and Stronghold with the SEC, when they become available, through the website maintained by the SEC at www sec.gov. Copies of the documents may also be obtained for free from Bitfarms by contacting Bitfarms’ Investor Relations Department at investors@bitfarms.com and from Stronghold by contacting Stronghold’s Investor Relations Department at SDIG@gateway-grp.com.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This communication is not intended to and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, sell or solicit any securities or any proxy, vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be deemed to be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

    Participants in Solicitation Relating to the Merger

    Bitfarms, Stronghold, their respective directors and certain of their respective executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from Stronghold’s shareholders in respect of the proposed merger. Information regarding Bitfarms’ directors and executive officers can be found in Bitfarms’ annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed on March 7, 2024, as well as its other filings with the SEC. Information regarding Stronghold’s directors and executive officers can be found in Stronghold’s proxy statement for its 2024 annual meeting of stockholders, filed with the SEC on April 29, 2024, and supplemented on June 7, 2024, and in its Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the SEC on March 8, 2024. This communication may be deemed to be solicitation material in respect of the proposed merger. Additional information regarding the interests of such potential participants, including their respective interests by security holdings or otherwise, will be set forth in the proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant documents filed with the SEC in connection with the proposed merger if and when they become available. These documents are available free of charge on the SEC’s website and from Bitfarms and Stronghold using the sources indicated above.

    Investor Relations Contacts:

    Bitfarms
    Tracy Krumme
    SVP, Head of IR & Corp. Comms.
    +1 786-671-5638
    tkrumme@bitfarms.com

    Media Contacts:

    Québec: Tact
    Louis-Martin Leclerc
    +1 418-693-2425
    lmleclerc@tactconseil.ca

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh assumes the office of Defence Secretary

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 NOV 2024 11:25AM by PIB Delhi

    Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh took over as Defence Secretary at South Block in New Delhi on November 01, 2024. He is a 1989-batch IAS officer from Kerala cadre, who had assumed the charge of the Officer on Special Duty (Defence Secretary-designate) on August 20, 2024.

     

     

    Before taking charge, Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh laid a wreath and paid homage to the fallen heroes at the National War Memorial, New Delhi. “The nation will remain forever indebted to our brave soldiers who make the supreme sacrifice in the service of the motherland. Their extraordinary bravery and sacrifice is a source of strength & inspiration for us to make India a safe and prosperous nation,” he said.

     

     

    Earlier, Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh was holding the charge of Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry from April 24, 2023 to August 20, 2024. Prior to that, he held the post of Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.

     

    The officer has held many other important positions in the Union Government as Director, Works and Urban Transport in the Ministry of Urban Development, Commissioner (Lands) – DDA, Joint Secretary – Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Joint Secretary – Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare and Chief Vigilance Officer – Food Corporation of India. He has also held important positions in the State Government as Secretary, Urban Development and lately as Finance Secretary, Government of Kerala.

     

    Shri RK Singh succeeds Shri Giridhar Aramane, a 1988-batch IAS officer of Andhra Pradesh cadre, who superannuated from service on October 31, 2024.

    *****

    SR/Savvy

    (Release ID: 2069996) Visitor Counter : 76

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: Envoy Medical Receives FDA Approval To Initiate Pivotal Clinical Study for Breakthrough Hearing Device

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The Acclaim® Fully Implanted Cochlear Implant is differentiated from existing cochlear implants and may offer new option for hearing loss patients

    WHITE BEAR LAKE, Minnesota, Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Envoy Medical®, Inc. (“Envoy Medical”) (NASDAQ: “COCH”), a hearing health company focused on fully implanted hearing systems, today announces that its Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) application for its pivotal study of the Acclaim® Fully Implanted Cochlear Implant has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The Acclaim® technology includes an implanted sensor designed to leverage the natural anatomy of the ear to capture sound, making it different from existing cochlear implants on the market.

    “Receiving FDA approval to initiate this pivotal study marks a significant milestone in our efforts to bring this breakthrough hearing device to more people with severe to profound hearing loss,” said Brent Lucas CEO of Envoy Medical. “Currently, it is estimated that roughly 95% of patients with significant hearing loss who could benefit from a cochlear implant have not received one. We believe the differences in our device’s design provide an opportunity to pursue this important therapy in a more discrete manner and offer candidates a welcomed new option that may get more patients to embrace the potential benefits of a cochlear implant.”

    The Company plans to select some of the top cochlear implant institutions in the U.S. as investigational sites for the study. As IRB approvals are obtained, the Company will share information on the investigational sites for interested patients.

    “The excitement around the Acclaim® device is palpable, and we have been extremely humbled by the number of top-tier cochlear implant programs that want to participate in this study,” said Lucas. “While we are not able to select every site for this study, we believe that this excitement and significant interest across the country is a strong signal of our potential ability to penetrate the market should we be successful in gaining commercial approval.”

    The FDA approved the IDE application as a staged clinical study. This allows preliminary clinical data to be gathered on a subset of patients prior to expanding enrollment to the full subject cohort. As with any investigational device, approval of an IDE application does not ensure that the results of the investigation will provide a reasonable assurance of the safety and effectiveness or assure a determination of approval for a premarket submission.

    Lucas continued, “The last two weeks demonstrate our passionate commitment to innovation, competition, and change in the hearing industry. Last week marked the American Medical Association’s approval of new CPT codes for totally implantable active middle ear implants, which opens new opportunities for our already FDA-approved Esteem® device. This week, we are celebrating IDE approval to start a pivotal study for our investigational Acclaim® device. Two devices serving two patient populations, both moving the hearing industry forward. We are building a company that is positioning itself to be a market segment leader in the hearing industry. We are excited about what the future holds for Envoy Medical.”

    About the Fully Implanted Acclaim® Cochlear Implant

    We believe the fully implanted Acclaim Cochlear Implant (“Acclaim CI”) is a first-of-its-kind hearing device. Envoy Medical’s fully implanted technology includes a sensor designed to leverage the natural anatomy of the ear instead of a microphone to capture sound.

    The Acclaim CI is designed to address severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss that is not adequately addressed by hearing aids. The Acclaim CI is expected to be indicated for adults who have been deemed adequate candidates by a qualified physician.

    The Acclaim Cochlear Implant received the Breakthrough Device Designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2019.

    CAUTION The fully implanted Acclaim Cochlear Implant is an investigational device. Limited by Federal (or United States) law to investigational use.

    About the Esteem® Fully Implanted Active Middle Ear Implant (FI-AMEI)

    The Esteem fully implanted active middle ear implant (FI-AMEI) is the only FDA-approved, fully implanted* hearing device for adults diagnosed with moderate to severe sensorineural hearing loss allowing for 24/7 hearing capability using the ear’s natural anatomy. The Esteem FI-AMEI hearing implant is invisible and requires no externally worn components and nothing is placed in the ear canal for it to function. Unlike hearing aids, you never put it on or take it off. You can’t lose it. You don’t clean it. The Esteem FI-AMEI hearing implant offers true 24/7 hearing.

    *Once activated, the external Esteem FI-AMEI Personal Programmer is not required for daily use.

    Important safety information for the Esteem FI-AMEI can be found at: https://www.envoymedical.com/safety-information.

    Additional Information and Where to Find It

    Copies of the documents filed by Envoy Medical with the SEC may be obtained free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-Looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “estimate,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “intend,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “seek,” “target” or other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Such statements may include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the expectations of Envoy Medical concerning the outlook for its business, productivity, plans and goals for future operational improvements and capital investments; the Acclaim CI being the first to market fully implanted cochlear implant, the timing of IRB approvals, site activations, enrollment, and beginning of Envoy Medical’s clinical trial, the timing of and FDA’s position related to expanding the clinical trial to full cohort, the result of the clinical trial, the timing and results of clinical trials of the Acclaim CI, and the participation of any institution in such trials; the safety, performance, and market acceptance of the Acclaim CI; and any information concerning possible or assumed future operations of Envoy Medical. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release reflect Envoy Medical’s current views about future events and are subject to numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and changes in circumstances that may cause its actual results to differ significantly from those expressed in any forward-looking statement. Envoy Medical does not guarantee that the events described will happen as described (or that they will happen at all). These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to changes in the market price of shares of Envoy Medical’s Class A Common Stock; changes in or removal of Envoy Medical’s shares inclusion in any index; Envoy Medical’s success in retaining or recruiting, or changes required in, its officers, key employees or directors; unpredictability in the medical device industry, the regulatory process to approve medical devices, and the clinical development process of Envoy Medical products; competition in the medical device industry, and the failure to introduce new products and services in a timely manner or at competitive prices to compete successfully against competitors; disruptions in relationships with Envoy Medical’s suppliers, or disruptions in Envoy Medical’s own production capabilities for some of the key components and materials of its products; changes in the need for capital and the availability of financing and capital to fund these needs; changes in interest rates or rates of inflation; legal, regulatory and other proceedings could be costly and time-consuming to defend; changes in applicable laws or regulations, or the application thereof on Envoy Medical; a loss of any of Envoy Medical’s key intellectual property rights or failure to adequately protect intellectual property rights; the effects of catastrophic events, including war, terrorism and other international conflicts; and other risks and uncertainties set forth in the section entitled “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements” in the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed by Envoy Medical on April 1, 2024, and in other reports Envoy Medical files, with the SEC. If any of these risks materialize or Envoy Medical’s assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. While forward-looking statements reflect Envoy Medical’s good faith beliefs, they are not guarantees of future performance. Envoy Medical disclaims any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect changes in underlying assumptions or factors, new information, data or methods, future events or other changes after the date of this press release, except as required by applicable law. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which are based only on information currently available to Envoy Medical. 

    ###

    Investor Contact:
    CORE IR
    516-222-2560
    investorrelations@envoymedical.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Blackford Capital Appoints John Snowden as CEO of Its Expanding Outdoor Living and Recreation Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Blackford Capital (“Blackford”), a leading lower middle market private equity firm, is excited to announce the appointment of John Snowden as Chief Executive Officer of its rapidly growing Patio Consolidation Platform (“Platform”), which serves as a leader in the Outdoor Living and Recreation space. Mr. Snowden’s appointment will take effect on November 4. With an extensive background in driving operational excellence, strategic acquisitions, and digital transformation, Mr. Snowden will spearhead Blackford’s vision to “Own the Backyard” by building a comprehensive, omni-channel platform that capitalizes on the booming outdoor living market.

    Blackford’s Patio Platform currently includes notable brands like Starfire Direct, Artificial Turf Supply, Patio Productions, Harmonia Living, and the recent addition, Empire Distributing, a leader in hearth and outdoor living products. Together, these businesses serve a diverse customer base across digital and traditional retail channels, strengthening Blackford’s market reach in the growing home and outdoor lifestyle sector.

    Mr. Snowden brings to Blackford over three decades of leadership experience, including roles as Chief Operating Officer at Recom and Chief Executive Officer of Trademark Global LLC. His proven track record includes transforming mid-market companies into powerhouse brands through data-driven insights, supply chain optimization, and successful integrations of multiple acquisitions. Under his leadership, Blackford’s Patio Platform will focus on expanding its product portfolio and leveraging digital and traditional distribution channels to create a one-stop solution for outdoor living needs.

    “We’re thrilled to welcome John Snowden as the CEO of our Patio Consolidation Platform. A man of great character, his vision and commitment to operational rigor align perfectly with our strategic goals for the Platform,” said Martin Stein, Founder and Managing Partner of Blackford Capital. “With John’s leadership, we are poised to consolidate our current companies, maximize the incredible product lineup and channel expertise across the portfolio and ultimately expand our presence and deliver unparalleled value to our customers.”

    Snowden’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment as Blackford continues to execute its consolidation strategy, designed to capitalize on demographic trends favoring outdoor home improvements, with the potential to capture even greater market share through strategic acquisitions, cross-selling synergies, and a streamlined, customer-centric approach. The consolidated companies will provide a full spectrum of high-end outdoor products, including patio furniture, firepits, artificial turf, and more, through an omni-channel presence spanning e-commerce and dealer networks.

    About Blackford Capital
    Founded in 2010, Blackford Capital is a private equity investment firm headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Blackford acquires, manages, and builds founder and family-owned, lower middle-market companies, with a focus on the manufacturing, industrial and distribution industries. Blackford has a track record of exceptional returns, a disciplined and relentless approach to value creation, and a focus on operational excellence and a compelling culture. In 2023, Blackford Capital was named to Inc’s list of Founder-Friendly Investors, was recognized by ACG Detroit with the 2023 M&A Dealmaker of the Year Award and awarded the 2023 Small Markets Deal of the Year award by both Buyouts Magazine and the Global M&A Network Atlas Awards. For more information, visit www.blackfordcapital.com.

    Media Contact:
    Jackson Lin
    Lambert
    (646) 717-4593
    jlin@lambert.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5c03f69f-76d4-46d2-9b07-81ff8ea60d65

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Revolutionizes Crypto Trading: 100% Deposit Bonus, $50 Welcome Bonus, 100x Leverage and No KYC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Jan. 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With Bitcoin prices stabilizing around $100,000, analysts predict a high-volatility phase in the market. To help traders seize this opportunity, BexBack Exchange introduces an exceptional promotional package: a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and 100x leverage on cryptocurrency trading. Plus, with a No KYC policy, BexBack ensures a private and seamless trading experience.

    Key Features of BexBack

    1. 100% Deposit Bonus
      Double your trading capital. For example, deposit 1 BTC and get an additional 1 BTC to enhance your trading potential.
    2. $50 Welcome Bonus
      New users can earn a $50 bonus after their first trade—making your entry into the market even more rewarding.
    3. 100x Leverage
      Amplify your trading power with minimal capital. For instance, a $100,000 trade requires just 1 BTC.
    4. No KYC Required
      Trade instantly with just an email. No complex identity verification processes.
    5. Transparent Fees
      Zero spreads, no slippage, and simple fee structures make trading cost-effective.
    6. Accessible Platforms
      Trade anywhere, anytime with feature-rich Web and mobile platforms.
    7. Global Support
      Trusted by over 200,000 traders worldwide, BexBack accepts users from the US, Canada, and Europe, and operates under a US MSB license.

    About BexBack

    Headquartered in Singapore with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the US, the UK, and Argentina, BexBack is a top-tier cryptocurrency derivatives platform. It offers perpetual contracts for BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, and XRP with up to 100x leverage. The platform provides seamless trading, multilingual 24/7 customer support, and a commitment to user privacy and convenience.

    Don’t Wait—Join BexBack Today!

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users (complete one trade within one week of registration), you can be a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign up today on BexBack to claim your bonuses and start trading with the tools you need to succeed in the new era of cryptocurrency trading.

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. 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. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a20de775-a945-4527-8e89-273ea439fc8e
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ff51fee0-b60d-474b-a46b-36ee53da42be
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0be5df38-7510-49be-9f2b-bfda37568bef
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/37f99679-8657-4f65-a4d9-c1cae3b7603b

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Statement on Trump Reinstating Expanded Global Gag Rule, Targeting Reproductive Health Care

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington, D.C. — Tonight, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former Chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, issued the following statement on President Donald Trump reinstating the expanded Global Gag Rule or “Mexico City Policy,” from his first term—which had detrimental effects on women, providers, and public health partners around the world. The Global Gag Rule prevents foreign organizations receiving U.S. global health assistance from providing information, referrals, or services for legal abortion or advocating for access to abortion services in their country—even with their own money.

    Trump also issued a second executive order tonight that rescinds President Biden’s Executive Orders 14076 and 14079, which were issued to protect reproductive health in the U.S. following the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Executive Order 14076 directed the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and Department of Justice (DOJ) to take and consider steps to protect reproductive health care services and access, including expanding access to contraceptives. Executive Order 14079, which took further steps to protect access to reproductive health care, including providing technical assistance for providers and directing the Secretary of HHS to advance access through Medicaid for patients traveling across state lines for care.  

    “It is unsurprising, but extremely telling, that some of the very first moves of Donald Trump’s second administration prioritize attacking reproductive health care and targeting vulnerable women and girls around the world.

    When we invest in a safer and healthier world, that pays dividends for America. Make no mistake: this dangerous policy prevents NGOs from using their own resources to provide lifesaving reproductive health services, and it forces organizations to make impossible choices that restrict access to care for some of the most desperate people across the globe.

    “There is nothing ‘pro-life’ about reinstating a policy that, during Trump’s first term, undermined lifesaving public health work, caused widespread fear and confusion among health workers, and led to worse health outcomes and more unsafe abortions. And in the wake of the Dobbs decision here at home, the Trump administration is also pulling back important executive orders that directed agencies to protect access to reproductive health services.”

    “These are just some of the first of many attacks on reproductive health care we can expect to see from the Trump administration—Democrats will fight back every way we can, but we need everyone to raise their voices to prevent these blatant attacks from going unnoticed, or worse, becoming normalized.”

    Senator Murray has long pushed to repeal the Global Gag Rule, and is a longtime cosponsor of the bipartisan Global Health, Empowerment and Rights (HER) Act, which would permanently repeal the rule, put an end to the back-and-forth between administrations, and provide stability for global health NGOs and the women around the world who rely on them for critical health services. As the top Democrat on the HELP Committee from 2015-2022, Senator Murray spoke out forcefully against the expanded Global Gag Rule Trump issued at the beginning of his first administration.  

    MIL OSI USA News