Category: Trade

MIL-OSI: BW Energy: Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar

BW Energy is today presenting at the Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar in Madrid, Spain. Please see the attached presentation.

For further information, please contact:

Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy
+33.7.81.11.41.16
ir@bwenergy.no

ABOUT BW ENERGY:

BW Energy is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil, a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. In addition, BW Energy holds approximately 6.6% of the common shares in Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. and a 20% non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”) in Namibia. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 599 million barrels of oil equivalent at the start of 2025.

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act 

Attachment
- BWE Africa E and P Seminar Madrid June 2025
The MIL Network –
June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI: BW Energy: Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Company presentation Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar

BW Energy is today presenting at the Fearnley Securities Africa Focused E&P seminar in Madrid, Spain. Please see the attached presentation.

For further information, please contact:

Brice Morlot, CFO BW Energy
+33.7.81.11.41.16
ir@bwenergy.no

ABOUT BW ENERGY:

BW Energy is a growth E&P company with a differentiated strategy targeting proven offshore oil and gas reservoirs through low risk phased developments. The Company has access to existing production facilities to reduce time to first oil and cashflow with lower investments than traditional offshore developments. The Company’s assets are 73.5% of the producing Dussafu Marine licence offshore Gabon, 100% interest in the Golfinho and Camarupim fields, a 76.5% interest in the BM-ES-23 block, a 95% interest in the Maromba field in Brazil, a 95% interest in the Kudu field in Namibia, all operated by BW Energy. In addition, BW Energy holds approximately 6.6% of the common shares in Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. and a 20% non-operating interest in the onshore Petroleum Exploration License 73 (“PEL 73”) in Namibia. Total net 2P+2C reserves and resources were 599 million barrels of oil equivalent at the start of 2025.

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act 

Attachment
- BWE Africa E and P Seminar Madrid June 2025
The MIL Network –
June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Certification scheme unlocks $200M market for Kiwi cosmetics in China
Source: New Zealand Government

Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay and Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson have welcomed a new certification scheme, announced by the Prime Minister in Shanghai today, that unlocks access to China’s $200 million cosmetics and skincare market — a move that will drive stronger returns for New Zealand exporters and boost the economy.

“This is a smart, practical step that removes a long-standing trade barrier and opens up valuable new channels for our exporters,” McClay says.

“It means more high-quality, innovative New Zealand products on shelves in China – not just online, but in stores across one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets.”

The scheme, developed with International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ) and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), provides exporters with a Government-issued Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certificate that meets Chinese regulatory requirements.

“This certification allows Kiwi-made cosmetics to be sold through traditional retail channels in China, significantly expanding market reach beyond cross-border e-commerce and supporting our goal of doubling exports by value in 10 years,” Mr McClay says.

Minister Simpson says the scheme is a strong example of the Government’s commitment to backing New Zealand businesses and removing barriers to growth.

“With global demand for health and beauty products rising, this gives our exporters the confidence to grow and compete in China; quickly, credibly, and at scale,” Mr Simpson says.

“It’s another example of how we’re cutting red tape and aligning our standards with key trading partners to give Kiwi firms the certainty they need to succeed.”

How it works:
- Exporters complete an independent GMP assessment with IANZ.
- If successful, MBIE confirms compliance with a certificate signed on behalf of the Government.
New Zealand’s ban on animal testing for cosmetics remains in place, giving Chinese consumers assurance that Kiwi products are high-quality, safe, sustainable, and ethically produced.

More information and application details will be available online soon.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –
June 18, 2025
India-Croatia ties set to deepen as PM Modi heads to Zagreb

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday departed for Croatia after concluding his visit to Canada, where he participated in the 51st Group of Seven (G7) Summit in Kananaskis.

This marks the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Croatia, a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between the two countries.

India and Croatia share a cordial and steadily growing relationship underpinned by shared values, democratic institutions, and a common commitment to international cooperation. Since Croatia’s independence in the early 1990s, India has consistently supported the European nation’s sovereignty and development, with diplomatic relations evolving into a multi-dimensional partnership encompassing political dialogue, trade, culture, education, and people-to-people exchanges.

Croatia, which joined the European Union in 2013, has in recent years emerged as an important partner for India in the Central European region. Its accession to the Schengen Area and adoption of the Euro in January 2023 have further aligned the country with key European institutions, creating fresh avenues for collaboration.

Trade and investment trajectory

Economic engagement between the two countries, while modest in scale, has shown incremental progress. In 2024, India’s exports to Croatia stood at USD 251.6 million, comprising a diverse basket of goods including ceramic and pharmaceutical products, engineering items, chemicals, and agricultural commodities such as oilseeds and tobacco. Croatia’s exports to India totalled USD 54.4 million, largely in the form of machinery, wood and paper products, rubber, and refined vegetable oils, including soybean oil.

Between 2001 and 2023, Indian investments in Croatia reached €44.5 million, whereas Croatian investments in India stood at approximately €5.5 million over the same period.

People-to-people connect

An important pillar of the bilateral relationship is the growing Indian diaspora in Croatia. As of March 2025, over 17,000 Indian nationals were residing in the country, including a small number of permanent residents and Overseas Citizens of India. Bilateral mobility has been aided by reciprocal arrangements such as visa-free travel for diplomatic and official passport holders for up to 30 days, facilitating greater high-level exchanges and official visits.

Educational and cultural cooperation has also grown in recent years, with increased academic mobility, interest in Indian languages and traditions among Croatians, and rising Indian student enrolments in Croatian institutions.

PM Modi’s visit is expected to lend new momentum to bilateral ties and provide an opportunity for both sides to chart a course for deeper engagement across political, economic, and cultural domains.

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Animal Welfare – WORLD’S BIGGEST INVESTIGATION INTO EGG FACTORY FARMING. NEW ZEALAND CAGES SCRUTINISED

Source: Animals Aotearoa

In the largest global investigation ever, The Open Wing Alliance reveals never-before-seen footage of systemic animal abuse and public health risks in cage egg factory farming. Alongside footage from 36 other countries, the exposé includes footage from a colony cage factory farm in New Zealand.

New Zealand – June 17 2025 – “The sound of thousands of trapped chickens, the industrial fans cranking and the stench of waste is beyond words”, says a volunteer investigator from Grassroots Campaigns NZ. “It’s hell inside.”

This is the description animal welfare investigators gave about what they captured at an Auckland colony cage factory farm. Their footage was given to the Open Wing Alliance, a global coalition of nearly 100 organisations established by The Humane League, in collaboration with We Animals and Reporters for Animals International. Together with Animals Aotearoa, the united group has just released the largest ever investigation into industrialised egg farms in 37 countries. In never-before-seen footage, including from New Zealand, supported by an open letter backed by 100 celebrities.

“The shocking footage exposes widespread abuse of egg-laying hens trapped in filthy, overcrowded cages, with evidence of injured birds, rotting carcasses, disease-ridden conditions, and more. This investigation comes as bird flu sweeps across every continent, jumping from farmed birds to wild animals and even humans”, says Jennifer Dutton, Corporate Relations Specialist at Animals Aotearoa.

Footage from 37 countries, including:

Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United States, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.

Key findings from the global exposé include:

Hens confined in battery and enriched/colony cages, giving each chicken only the space of an iPad, or less, to live their entire life;

Automated systems leave dead bird carcasses trapped in cages with living hens;

Live hens abandoned in manure and waste pits, and eggs found in manure before sent to shelves;

Birds unable to stand upright or spread their wings;

Unsanitary conditions that promote disease spread, like avian influenza.

This massive coordinated worldwide campaign is focused on spotlighting multinational brands dragging their heels on fulfilling corporate policy to transition away from cage eggs in their supply chains. The vast majority of food corporations around the world publicly committed, a decade ago, to remove cages from their egg supply chains, with global companies like The Hershey Company, Hormel Foods, Famous Brands, and Barilla already fully cage-free. However, food companies like Walmart, Zensho Holdings and Inspire Brands (parent company of Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins) continue to profit from sourcing eggs from hens raised in outdated, cruel cages. In New Zealand, hospitality giant Best Western Hotel chain was recently targeted by protestors highlighting the multinational’s lack of transparent reporting on its global cage-free progress, supported by a petition.

Since 2023, when battery cages were outlawed in Aotearoa, there has been a disinformation campaign by the factory farm lobby to mislead caring New Zealanders about the continued domestic production of cage eggs. While battery cages are no longer in use, colony cages are. Eggs sold at retail level from these colony cage systems don’t contain the word ‘cage’ anywhere on the packaging. Following a number of complaints, the Commerce Commission is currently conducting a compliance project to assess whether colony eggs are a breach of the Fair Trading Act.

In addition to cage eggs being sold under misleading labelling, the import of liquid eggs from battery cages is a significant problem. Over 80% of New Zealand’s liquid eggs, used largely in food manufacture, are imported from China and Australia where egg-laying hens are kept in battery cages. Produced using methods illegal here, they are added into Kiwi foods and quietly sold to the caring public who are unaware.

Consumers around the world are increasingly demanding transparency and ethical treatment of animals in food production, and they won’t stand for further risks to our global public health. Over 100 celebrity figures signed an open letter urging food corporations to end the use of cages in their global supply chains. This investigation s

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI: GAM Holding AG appoints Albert Saporta as Group Chief Executive Officer and Tim Rainsford as Group Chief Distribution Officer

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Zurich: 18 June 2025

PRESS RELEASE

Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 Listing Rules:

GAM Holding AG appoints Albert Saporta as Group Chief Executive Officer and Tim Rainsford as Group Chief Distribution Officer

GAM Holding AG (SWX: GAM) today announces senior leadership changes as the Group moves into the next phase of sustainable growth. Albert Saporta has been appointed Group Chief Executive Officer (Group CEO) effective from 1 July 2025, succeeding Elmar Zumbuehl who will remain with GAM until 31 December 2025 to support the transition. Additionally, Tim Rainsford will return to GAM to lead its distribution efforts as Group Chief Distribution Officer on 1 October 2025.

These leadership changes reflect that GAM has successfully transformed and is now well positioned for growth. Under Elmar Zumbuehl’s leadership, GAM has undergone a comprehensive repositioning over the last 21 months; divesting non-core businesses, and rebuilding a lean, scalable platform designed to attract and empower top investment talent and better connect them to clients worldwide through a strengthened global distribution and client servicing network.

Albert Saporta has over 40 years of experience in the investment management industry and served as Global Head of Investments & Products at GAM since October 2023. He will take over as Group CEO with a clear focus on accelerating growth through building on our existing and new product offerings and external opportunities. His passion for innovative investment strategies, drive for positive client outcomes, and energy is key for GAM’s next phase of growth.

Drawing on GAM’s pioneering heritage, combining internal and external investment talent, Albert Saporta has been instrumental in strengthening GAM’s investment team line-up and entering into multiple new partnerships with best-in-class investment managers. GAM is strongly positioned to provide clients with access to differentiated investment strategies across asset classes.

Tim Rainsford will return to GAM as Group Chief Distribution Officer and a Group Management Board member. He brings extensive experience in leading global distribution functions focused on growth and delivering for clients. Tim Rainsford was CEO of Generali Investments Partners, and latterly, Chief Product and Distribution Officer for Generali Asset Management.

Rossen Djounov, Global Head of Client Solutions, will remain a senior member of the distribution leadership team, reporting to Tim, with a focus on driving growth initiatives and deepening strategic client relationships.

Chairman of the Board, Antoine Spillmann, said: “On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to Elmar for his dedicated service and the significant achievements he has accomplished during his many years at GAM. His leadership has been pivotal in steering the company through transformative changes and setting a solid foundation for future sustainable growth. The Board is looking forward to working with Albert and Tim as GAM enters its next phase as a highly agile and scalable platform with a renewed focus on growth, innovation, and client outcomes.

Albert Saporta said: “I am honoured to take on the role of GAM’s Group CEO. We have transformed GAM, and it is now well positioned with unique investment talent to deliver differentiated strategies to our clients. I am excited to be leading GAM into this next phase of sustainable growth.”

Elmar Zumbuehl commented: “I am proud of what we’ve accomplished over the last 21 months, and I want to thank the Board and our anchor shareholder NJJ Holding for their support during this transformational phase. I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to every member of the firm for their unwavering commitment and efforts in successfully transforming GAM.”

Tim Rainsford commented: “I’m thrilled to be returning to GAM with the firm’s focus on innovative strategies and commitment to client outcomes. I look forward to working closely with Albert and the broader team to drive growth and strengthen our global presence.”

Biographies

Albert Saporta:

Albert has 40 years’ experience in financial markets, with over 30 years in the hedge fund industry. Albert started his career at Paribas in Paris, where he managed the Japan/Asia mutual funds from 1984-85. He joined Merrill Lynch in London as Vice President of Japanese equity sales from 1985-88. In 1988, he joined UBS Securities in London where he headed quantitative research and hedge fund sales for Japanese equities. In 1991, he joined IFM, a hedge fund owned by Jacob Rothschild’s St James’s Place and AIG, where he managed relative value global equity arbitrage strategies. In 1995, he left to set up Geneva-based AIM&R, a hedge fund advisory and research firm, managing the SOG and SOGAsia funds. In March 2006, Albert sold AIM&R ‘s research and hedge fund businesses to ABN Amro Bank (London). As part of the transaction, he set-up the Special Opportunities Group (SOG) at ABN, managing a balance sheet of >USD1bn in global arbitrage strategies and special situations. AIM&R was relaunched in 2011 as a research and trading advisory firm, advising global hedge funds, pension funds, prop trading firms and family offices.

Albert has a master’s in International Affairs from Columbia University (1984), an MBA (1983) and BSc in economics (1982) from New York University, and a Math/Physics degree from the University of Nice (1980). He is fluent in French, English, Spanish and Portuguese. Albert holds French, Israeli and Spanish citizenships.

Tim Rainsford:

Tim Rainsford joins GAM Investments from Generali Investments Partners, where since September 2020 he was the Global Head of Product and Distribution. In this capacity, he led the global team of sales professionals based in Europe, focusing on defining the commercial development plans and strategies aimed at strengthening Generali Investments’ positioning in key markets and expanding its international footprint.

He was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Generali Investments Partners S.p.A. Società di gestione del risparmio (GIP) in April 2021, a key entity within the Generali Group’s Asset & Wealth Management business unit. In this role, he was responsible for steering the regulated entity and focusing on the investment management, product development and global sales efforts of the business unit, maximising the Group’s multi-boutique approach.

Before his tenure at Generali, he held significant positions in other major financial institutions. He served as Group Head of Distribution and Marketing at GAM Investments, where he was responsible for the company’s marketing and sales strategic direction. Earlier in his career, he spent thirteen years at Man Investments Ltd, holding various senior roles including Senior Managing Director – Head of European Sales, and Global Co-Head of Sales and Marketing.

For further information please contact:

Colin Bennett | GAM Media Relations
T +44 (0) 20 73 938 544
colin.bennett@gam.com

Visit us: www.gam.com
Follow us: X and LinkedIn

About GAM

GAM Investments is a highly scalable global investment platform with strong global distribution capabilities focusing on three core areas, Specialist Active Investing, Alternative Investing and Wealth Management, that is listed in Switzerland. It delivers distinctive and differentiated investment solutions across its Investment and Wealth Management businesses. Its purpose is to protect and enhance clients’ financial future. It attracts and empowers brightest minds to provide investment leadership, innovation and a positive impact on society and the environment. Total assets under management were CHF 16.3 billion as of 31 December 2024. GAM Investments has global distribution with offices in 14 countries and is geographically diverse with clients in almost every continent. Headquartered in Zurich, GAM Investments was founded in 1983, and its registered office is at Hardstrasse 201 Zurich, 8005 Switzerland. For more information about GAM Investments, please visit www.gam.com.

Other Important Information

This release contains or may contain statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “estimate”, “aim”, “project”, “forecast”, “risk”, “likely”, “intend”, “outlook”, “should”, “could”, “would”, “may”, “might”, “will”, “continue”, “plan”, “probability”, “indicative”, “seek”, “target”, “plan” and other similar expressions are intended to or may identify forward-looking statements.

Any such statements in this release speak only as of the date hereof and are based on assumptions and contingencies subject to change without notice, as are statements about market and industry trends, projections, guidance, and estimates. Any forward-looking statements in this release are not indications, guarantees, assurances or predictions of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the person making such statements, its affiliates and its and their directors, officers, employees, agents and advisors and may involve significant elements of subjective judgement and assumptions as to future events which may or may not be correct and may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any such statements. You are strongly cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and no person accepts or assumes any liability in connection therewith.

This release is not a financial product or investment advice, a recommendation to acquire, exchange or dispose of securities or accounting, legal or tax advice. It has been prepared without taking into account the objectives, legal, financial or tax situation and needs of individuals. Before making an investment decision, individuals should consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to their own objectives, legal, financial and tax situation and needs and seek legal, tax and other advice as appropriate for their individual needs and jurisdiction.

Attachments

The MIL Network –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI: GAM Holding AG appoints Albert Saporta as Group Chief Executive Officer and Tim Rainsford as Group Chief Distribution Officer

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Zurich: 18 June 2025

PRESS RELEASE

Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 Listing Rules:

GAM Holding AG appoints Albert Saporta as Group Chief Executive Officer and Tim Rainsford as Group Chief Distribution Officer

GAM Holding AG (SWX: GAM) today announces senior leadership changes as the Group moves into the next phase of sustainable growth. Albert Saporta has been appointed Group Chief Executive Officer (Group CEO) effective from 1 July 2025, succeeding Elmar Zumbuehl who will remain with GAM until 31 December 2025 to support the transition. Additionally, Tim Rainsford will return to GAM to lead its distribution efforts as Group Chief Distribution Officer on 1 October 2025.

These leadership changes reflect that GAM has successfully transformed and is now well positioned for growth. Under Elmar Zumbuehl’s leadership, GAM has undergone a comprehensive repositioning over the last 21 months; divesting non-core businesses, and rebuilding a lean, scalable platform designed to attract and empower top investment talent and better connect them to clients worldwide through a strengthened global distribution and client servicing network.

Albert Saporta has over 40 years of experience in the investment management industry and served as Global Head of Investments & Products at GAM since October 2023. He will take over as Group CEO with a clear focus on accelerating growth through building on our existing and new product offerings and external opportunities. His passion for innovative investment strategies, drive for positive client outcomes, and energy is key for GAM’s next phase of growth.

Drawing on GAM’s pioneering heritage, combining internal and external investment talent, Albert Saporta has been instrumental in strengthening GAM’s investment team line-up and entering into multiple new partnerships with best-in-class investment managers. GAM is strongly positioned to provide clients with access to differentiated investment strategies across asset classes.

Tim Rainsford will return to GAM as Group Chief Distribution Officer and a Group Management Board member. He brings extensive experience in leading global distribution functions focused on growth and delivering for clients. Tim Rainsford was CEO of Generali Investments Partners, and latterly, Chief Product and Distribution Officer for Generali Asset Management.

Rossen Djounov, Global Head of Client Solutions, will remain a senior member of the distribution leadership team, reporting to Tim, with a focus on driving growth initiatives and deepening strategic client relationships.

Chairman of the Board, Antoine Spillmann, said: “On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to Elmar for his dedicated service and the significant achievements he has accomplished during his many years at GAM. His leadership has been pivotal in steering the company through transformative changes and setting a solid foundation for future sustainable growth. The Board is looking forward to working with Albert and Tim as GAM enters its next phase as a highly agile and scalable platform with a renewed focus on growth, innovation, and client outcomes.

Albert Saporta said: “I am honoured to take on the role of GAM’s Group CEO. We have transformed GAM, and it is now well positioned with unique investment talent to deliver differentiated strategies to our clients. I am excited to be leading GAM into this next phase of sustainable growth.”

Elmar Zumbuehl commented: “I am proud of what we’ve accomplished over the last 21 months, and I want to thank the Board and our anchor shareholder NJJ Holding for their support during this transformational phase. I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to every member of the firm for their unwavering commitment and efforts in successfully transforming GAM.”

Tim Rainsford commented: “I’m thrilled to be returning to GAM with the firm’s focus on innovative strategies and commitment to client outcomes. I look forward to working closely with Albert and the broader team to drive growth and strengthen our global presence.”

Biographies

Albert Saporta:

Albert has 40 years’ experience in financial markets, with over 30 years in the hedge fund industry. Albert started his career at Paribas in Paris, where he managed the Japan/Asia mutual funds from 1984-85. He joined Merrill Lynch in London as Vice President of Japanese equity sales from 1985-88. In 1988, he joined UBS Securities in London where he headed quantitative research and hedge fund sales for Japanese equities. In 1991, he joined IFM, a hedge fund owned by Jacob Rothschild’s St James’s Place and AIG, where he managed relative value global equity arbitrage strategies. In 1995, he left to set up Geneva-based AIM&R, a hedge fund advisory and research firm, managing the SOG and SOGAsia funds. In March 2006, Albert sold AIM&R ‘s research and hedge fund businesses to ABN Amro Bank (London). As part of the transaction, he set-up the Special Opportunities Group (SOG) at ABN, managing a balance sheet of >USD1bn in global arbitrage strategies and special situations. AIM&R was relaunched in 2011 as a research and trading advisory firm, advising global hedge funds, pension funds, prop trading firms and family offices.

Albert has a master’s in International Affairs from Columbia University (1984), an MBA (1983) and BSc in economics (1982) from New York University, and a Math/Physics degree from the University of Nice (1980). He is fluent in French, English, Spanish and Portuguese. Albert holds French, Israeli and Spanish citizenships.

Tim Rainsford:

Tim Rainsford joins GAM Investments from Generali Investments Partners, where since September 2020 he was the Global Head of Product and Distribution. In this capacity, he led the global team of sales professionals based in Europe, focusing on defining the commercial development plans and strategies aimed at strengthening Generali Investments’ positioning in key markets and expanding its international footprint.

He was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Generali Investments Partners S.p.A. Società di gestione del risparmio (GIP) in April 2021, a key entity within the Generali Group’s Asset & Wealth Management business unit. In this role, he was responsible for steering the regulated entity and focusing on the investment management, product development and global sales efforts of the business unit, maximising the Group’s multi-boutique approach.

Before his tenure at Generali, he held significant positions in other major financial institutions. He served as Group Head of Distribution and Marketing at GAM Investments, where he was responsible for the company’s marketing and sales strategic direction. Earlier in his career, he spent thirteen years at Man Investments Ltd, holding various senior roles including Senior Managing Director – Head of European Sales, and Global Co-Head of Sales and Marketing.

For further information please contact:

Colin Bennett | GAM Media Relations
T +44 (0) 20 73 938 544
colin.bennett@gam.com

Visit us: www.gam.com
Follow us: X and LinkedIn

About GAM

GAM Investments is a highly scalable global investment platform with strong global distribution capabilities focusing on three core areas, Specialist Active Investing, Alternative Investing and Wealth Management, that is listed in Switzerland. It delivers distinctive and differentiated investment solutions across its Investment and Wealth Management businesses. Its purpose is to protect and enhance clients’ financial future. It attracts and empowers brightest minds to provide investment leadership, innovation and a positive impact on society and the environment. Total assets under management were CHF 16.3 billion as of 31 December 2024. GAM Investments has global distribution with offices in 14 countries and is geographically diverse with clients in almost every continent. Headquartered in Zurich, GAM Investments was founded in 1983, and its registered office is at Hardstrasse 201 Zurich, 8005 Switzerland. For more information about GAM Investments, please visit www.gam.com.

Other Important Information

This release contains or may contain statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “expect”, “estimate”, “aim”, “project”, “forecast”, “risk”, “likely”, “intend”, “outlook”, “should”, “could”, “would”, “may”, “might”, “will”, “continue”, “plan”, “probability”, “indicative”, “seek”, “target”, “plan” and other similar expressions are intended to or may identify forward-looking statements.

Any such statements in this release speak only as of the date hereof and are based on assumptions and contingencies subject to change without notice, as are statements about market and industry trends, projections, guidance, and estimates. Any forward-looking statements in this release are not indications, guarantees, assurances or predictions of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the person making such statements, its affiliates and its and their directors, officers, employees, agents and advisors and may involve significant elements of subjective judgement and assumptions as to future events which may or may not be correct and may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any such statements. You are strongly cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and no person accepts or assumes any liability in connection therewith.

This release is not a financial product or investment advice, a recommendation to acquire, exchange or dispose of securities or accounting, legal or tax advice. It has been prepared without taking into account the objectives, legal, financial or tax situation and needs of individuals. Before making an investment decision, individuals should consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to their own objectives, legal, financial and tax situation and needs and seek legal, tax and other advice as appropriate for their individual needs and jurisdiction.

Attachments

The MIL Network –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: MITP – Moldova’s Digital Engine Accelerates: Record Results In 2024 And Projections Of 1 Billion Euros In Revenues For 2025

Source: Moldova Innovation Technology Park

Chisinau, Moldova — The IT sector contributes 6% to the national GDP – a result that reflects the efficiency and impact of the ecosystem created by the Moldova Innovation Technology Park (MITP). The data were presented by Marina Bzovîi, Administrator of MITP, at the Moldova Digital Summit 2025, confirming the essential role of the Park in the digital transformation of the Republic of Moldova. With 2024 marked by record performance, MITP expects a clear upward trajectory for 2025, supported by the accelerated expansion of the resident base and the increase in revenues generated by the IT sector.

Unprecedented growth: 533 resident companies in a single year

Currently, Moldova Innovation Technology Park brings together over 2,370 resident companies, of which 533 joined in 2024 alone – the largest annual advance since the park’s launch. This record growth reflects Moldova’s growing attractiveness for international investors and technology companies looking for a stable, competitive and future-oriented environment.

The MITP model offers a unique framework in the region: an ultra-competitive tax regime with a flat tax of only 7%, VAT exemptions and simplified contributions, which allows companies to focus on growth and innovation. These conditions are guaranteed by law until 2035, providing investors not only with incentives, but also with long-term predictability.

MITP is 100% virtual, allowing remote operation without the obligation of a physical presence in the Republic of Moldova — a key advantage in an era where remote work is becoming the global norm. In addition, initiatives such as the Visa IT program facilitate the attraction of international talent, ensuring quick and legal access to the global workforce.

In this modern and well-connected ecosystem, residents benefit from quality digital infrastructure, constant dialogue with the authorities and specialized support for international expansion. It is no coincidence that more and more companies from Romania and Ukraine are choosing to relocate to Moldova, in search of a more efficient, flexible and innovation-friendly space.

MITP is no longer just a tax-advantaged framework — it’s a complete platform for accelerated growth, global connection, and sustainable digital transformation.

The park hosts companies with capital from 43 countries, most of them from Ukraine and Romania.

“The regional geopolitical context has had a major impact. If in 2021 only three Ukrainian companies were registered in the MITP, in 2024 their number increased 14 times, reaching 42, amid strategic relocations caused by the war. In the same period, the presence of companies with Romanian capital has almost doubled, boosted by the recent tax changes in Romania applied to the IT sector. Today, there are 41 companies in Romania in MITP”,

said Marina Bzovîi, MITP Administrator.

IT sector – a force in the economy: 6.3% of GDP

The contribution of the IT sector to the national economy has increased significantly, reaching 6.3% of GDP in 2024, according to preliminary estimates, compared to 1.8% in 2015. This remarkable evolution is a direct result of the expansion of tech companies, favorable fiscal policies and the sustained attraction of foreign investment.

“For 2025, we estimate that the revenues generated by MITP resident companies will reach 1 billion euros, with an increase of approximately 30% compared to 2024, when they totaled 785 million euros. It is a clear confirmation of the potential for sustainable growth and the value that the IT sector brings to the Moldovan economy”,

said Nadejda Hodus, Financial Manager MITP.

IT exports – Moldova, regional leader in growth rate

Exports of IT services increased spectacularly, reaching 523 million euros in 2023, 10 times more than in 2015 (53 million euros). Although the absolute volume is lower than that reported by countries such as Romania (7.5 billion euros) or Ukraine (6 billion euros), Moldova’s growth rate is the fastest in the region.

“This performance is all the more impressive as Moldova is a small country, both in terms of territory and population. MITP’s development model proves to be an efficient and sustainable one, transforming Moldova into a regional digital hub with strategic potential”,

added Nadejda Hodus.

Record contributions to the state budget

The economic impact of the MITP is also directly felt in the revenues of the National Public Budget. In 2024, resident companies contributed €78 million – four times more than in 2017. About 50% of these amounts come from newly established businesses after the launch of the park.

According to a recent analysis conducted by MITP, the contributions paid by resident companies could cover up to 16% of the national expenditure on health care and about 90% of the financing of vocational higher education – an eloquent illustration of the real economic impact generated by the IT sector in the Republic of Moldova.

“Through these results, MITP imposes itself not only as a successful model in the region, but also as an example of effective public policy, which creates jobs, attracts investments and amplifies the country’s digital competitiveness. With clear objectives and a sustained pace of development, Moldova is getting closer to becoming a regional pole of innovation and technology”,

concluded the Administrator of Moldova Innovation Technology Park, Marina Bzovîi.

About Moldova Innovation Technology Park (MITP)

Launched in 2016, MITP is Moldova’s national platform dedicated to the tech industry, offering a unique 7% tax regime and 100% virtual operation. With more than 2,300 resident companies in 43 countries, MITP contributes significantly to the national GDP and attracts global investment. Supported by legislative guarantees until 2035, the park promotes innovation, IT exports and Moldova’s integration into the European digital economy.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

June 18, 2025
PM Modi, Mark Carney agree on calibrated steps to restore India-Canada ties: Foreign Secretary Misri

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

In a key bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Canadian counterpart, Mark Carney, agreed to take “calibrated steps” to stabilise and rebuild the strained ties between India and Canada.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri described the meeting as “very positive and constructive,” adding that both leaders underlined the importance of the relationship, grounded in “shared values, democracy, the rule of law, and people-to-people contact.”

“The Prime Ministers agreed to take calibrated steps to restore stability to this very important relationship,” Misri told reporters in Kananaskis, Alberta, where the G7 Summit is underway. “The first of these steps will be the early restoration of High Commissioners to each other’s capitals.”

Further, the foreign secretary said that the discussions explored a wide array of potential areas for collaboration, including clean energy, digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, food security, critical minerals, LNG, higher education, mobility, and supply chain resilience. The two leaders reaffirmed their shared interest in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Trade negotiations, which had stalled amid diplomatic tensions, were another major agenda item. The leaders agreed on the importance of restarting negotiations on the Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), with a view to paving the way for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

“The leaders have agreed to remain in touch and meet again at the earliest opportunity,” Misri said.

Carney, attending his first G7 Summit as prime minister, described India’s participation as a reflection of its rising global stature. “India’s presence here underscores its importance on the world stage and Prime Minister Modi’s leadership,” he said, also acknowledging New Delhi’s contributions to global counter-terrorism efforts.

PM Modi thanked Carney for the G7 invitation and recalled his last visit to Canada in 2015. He noted that India’s G20 presidency had laid a strong foundation for initiatives now gaining traction at the G7.

“It is my honour to visit Canada once again. The strong foundation India laid during the G20 Summit has taken a new shape and given new direction at the G7,” the Prime Minister said.

The meeting marked the first in-person interaction between the two leaders since Carney assumed office following Canada’s recent general elections. It came amid efforts to restore stability and momentum to bilateral ties, which had been strained in recent times.

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Entrepreneur hands over humanitarian aid to SVO fighters

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

The owner of a furniture shopping center located in the North-West Administrative District of Moscow has sent humanitarian parcels to the special military operation (SVO) zone more than once. Together with his employees, he managed to collect comprehensive aid — from instant drinks to blankets.

“My friends communicate directly with the special operation fighters, and through them I learned what is needed at the front now. My friends gave me a list, and my colleagues and I bought everything our guys asked for directly from it,” Oleg shared.

The valuable cargo was divided into clothing and food. The first included seasonal clothing, including regular and thermal underwear, as well as footwear, sleeping bags, comfortable pillows and warm blankets. All of these items are in great demand on the front lines.

The entrepreneur also sent long-life food products and a large number of packages of tea and coffee. Food products for the military must have a long shelf life and be in sufficiently strong packaging to be guaranteed to withstand transportation in difficult conditions. Then the soldiers will receive everything safe and sound.

The entrepreneur noted that he will help our heroes as long as it is necessary. You need to ask your friends what exactly to buy – this way the soldier will get warm comfortable boots that will serve him for a long time.

Since the first days of the SVO, owners of Moscow stores, shopping centers, car dealerships and other service establishments, as well as Moscow restaurateurs, have regularly sent humanitarian aid to the combat zone. The parcels contain products that have a long shelf life: canned meat, fish and vegetables, tons of different cereals – from rice and buckwheat to pearl barley, pasta and sweets: cookies, candies, chocolate and much more. Entrepreneurs donate personal hygiene products and seasonal clothing, among which you can find jackets, boots and thermal underwear, as well as essential medicines, building materials and even military equipment, including quadcopters and entire columns of cars.

More information about the activities of the capital Department of Trade and Services you can find out inofficial telegram channel departments.

Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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

Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/155362073/

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 18, 2025
Prime Minister meets Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, on Tuesday.

This was the first in-person interaction between the two leaders since Prime Minister Carney assumed office following Canada’s recent general elections. The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to hold frank and forward-looking discussions on the state of India-Canada relations and the way ahead.

The leaders reaffirmed the importance of India-Canada ties, based on shared democratic values, respect for the rule of law. and commitment to upholding the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. They underlined the need to pursue a constructive and balanced partnership grounded in mutual respect for concerns and sensitivities, strong people-to-people ties, and growing economic complementarities. In this regard, both sides agreed to take calibrated and constructive steps to restore stability in the relationship, beginning with the early return of High Commissioners to each other’s capitals.

They also emphasized the importance of restarting senior ministerial and working-level engagements across various domains to rebuild trust and inject momentum into the bilateral relationship.

During their talks, the leaders discussed potential areas of future collaboration, including clean energy, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, liquefied natural gas (LNG), food security, critical minerals, higher education, mobility, and supply chain resilience. They reiterated their shared interest in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The two leaders also stressed the importance of restarting negotiations on the stalled Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), with a view to eventually concluding a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). To that end, they agreed to instruct their respective officials to intensify engagement.

Both sides acknowledged the significant progress made at the G7 Summit and expressed their shared commitment to working together constructively on global priorities such as climate action, inclusive growth, and sustainable development.

They further underlined the strength of the deep-rooted people-to-people ties between India and Canada, agreeing to leverage this living bridge for the benefit of both nations.

The leaders concluded their meeting with a commitment to remain in touch and expressed hope to meet again at the earliest opportunity.

June 18, 2025
Prime Minister meets Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, on Tuesday.

This was the first in-person interaction between the two leaders since Prime Minister Carney assumed office following Canada’s recent general elections. The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to hold frank and forward-looking discussions on the state of India-Canada relations and the way ahead.

The leaders reaffirmed the importance of India-Canada ties, based on shared democratic values, respect for the rule of law. and commitment to upholding the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. They underlined the need to pursue a constructive and balanced partnership grounded in mutual respect for concerns and sensitivities, strong people-to-people ties, and growing economic complementarities. In this regard, both sides agreed to take calibrated and constructive steps to restore stability in the relationship, beginning with the early return of High Commissioners to each other’s capitals.

They also emphasized the importance of restarting senior ministerial and working-level engagements across various domains to rebuild trust and inject momentum into the bilateral relationship.

During their talks, the leaders discussed potential areas of future collaboration, including clean energy, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, liquefied natural gas (LNG), food security, critical minerals, higher education, mobility, and supply chain resilience. They reiterated their shared interest in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The two leaders also stressed the importance of restarting negotiations on the stalled Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), with a view to eventually concluding a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). To that end, they agreed to instruct their respective officials to intensify engagement.

Both sides acknowledged the significant progress made at the G7 Summit and expressed their shared commitment to working together constructively on global priorities such as climate action, inclusive growth, and sustainable development.

They further underlined the strength of the deep-rooted people-to-people ties between India and Canada, agreeing to leverage this living bridge for the benefit of both nations.

The leaders concluded their meeting with a commitment to remain in touch and expressed hope to meet again at the earliest opportunity.

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI Analysis: Australia could become the world’s first net-zero exporter of fossil fuels – here’s how

Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Frank Jotzo, Professor, Crawford School of Public Policy and Director, Centre for Climate and Energy Policy, Australian National University

Photo by Jie Zhao/Corbis via Getty Images

Australia is among the world’s top three exporters of LNG and second-largest exporter of coal. When burned overseas, these exports result in 1.1 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions a year – almost three times Australia’s domestic emissions.

Emissions embedded in Australia’s exports do not count towards our national emissions targets. But they contribute to climate change – and they’re the reason for Australia’s international reputation as a fossil-fuel economy.

On the bright side, Australia boasts huge potential for low-cost renewable energy and a knack for resource industries.

We can, and should, become a “renewable energy superpower”. This term refers to the potential for Australia to use its bountiful renewable energy resources to make commodities such as iron, ammonia and other products and fuels in “green” or low-emissions ways.

So how does Australia give salience to this idea on the global stage, while our fossil fuel exports continue? The solution could be a new net-zero target for Australia, in which emissions from green exports are tallied up against those from fossil fuel exports.

Australia can become a renewable energy superpower.
Brook Mitchell/Getty Images

Reinvigorating Australia’s climate policy

If the clean energy transition eventuates, green exports from Australia will rise over time. This will help reduce the use of coal, gas and oil elsewhere in the world.

Meanwhile, coal exports – and later, gas exports – will fall. This will happen irrespective of Australia’s policies, as the world economy decarbonises and demand for fossil fuels slows.

At some point, we can expect emissions avoided by our green commodity exports to surpass those from remaining coal and gas exports. Australia would then reach what could be termed “net-zero export emissions”.

Adopting this net-zero target as a national policy would give a concrete yardstick to Australia’s green-export ambitions. It could also invigorate Australia’s climate policy and boost investor confidence.

A different approach would be to set targets only for green exports, and this could be how we get started. Ultimately, a net-zero target wrapping up both green and fossil-fuel exports would speak most directly to the goal of tackling climate change, and is likely to have more impact on the international stage.

A net-zero export target would give a concrete yardstick to Australia’s ambition to develop green export industries.
Brook Mitchell/Getty Images

Getting to net-zero exports

The below chart shows an illustrative decline in emissions embedded in Australia’s coal and LNG (liquified natural gas) exports, out to 2050.*

Authors’ calculations based on Australian Energy Update 2024, Australian National Greenhouse Accounts Factors 2024, IEA World Energy Outlook 2024

It’s hard to pin down when Australia might reach net-zero exports. It depends on several factors. How quickly will the cost of clean energy and green-commodity technologies fall? How competitively can Australia produce green goods compared to other nations? What policies will be adopted in Australia and overseas – and will they work?

The magnitudes are sobering. Take iron, for example. Australia currently exports 900 million tonnes of iron ore a year. This is processed overseas to about 560 million tonnes of iron.

To fully compensate for emissions currently embedded in Australia’s coal and gas exports, Australia would need to process about the same amount of green iron – around 550 million tonnes – on home soil every year.

To reach this figure, we assume 0.1 tonnes of CO₂-equivalent is created per tonne of green iron, compared to about 2.1 tonnes of CO₂-equivalent per tonne of iron resulting from conventional blast furnace production.

Achieving this would require keeping iron ore production at current levels and processing it all in Australia, which is unlikely to be realistic.

Thankfully, the task of reaching net-zero export emissions will be smaller in future, as global coal and gas demand falls. But exactly how this will translate to Australian exports is highly uncertain.

Let’s suppose Australia’s exports evolved on the same trajectory as they might under current climate policies and pledges for the global coal and gas trade.

In this case, embedded emissions from Australia’s coal and gas exports would be about 360 million tonnes in 2050. This includes about 120 million tonnes from LNG exports – much of it locked in by the extension to Woodside’s North West Shelf project off Western Australia.

Hypothetically, the 360 million tonnes of emissions could be negated by a mix of green exports. They include 102 million tonnes of green iron (saving 204 million tonnes of CO₂), and 11 million tonnes of green ammonia (saving about 23 million tonnes of CO₂), and the remainder covered by a combination of green aluminium, silicon, methanol and transport fuels.

Judgement calls would be needed about which commodities to include in the target. The composition of green exports suggested above is akin to assumptions about Australia’s potential global market share outlined by The Superpower Institute.

Importantly, it’s hard to predict with certainty the greenhouse gas emissions displaced elsewhere in the world by Australia’s green exports. So, the estimates should be understood as broad illustrations, and not as exact as the accounting used to calculate countries’ domestic emissions.

The precise year chosen for reaching a net-zero target for export emissions may well be less important than the commitment that, at some point, Australia’s green energy exports will exceed fossil fuel exports. This would establish the notion that Australia has the capacity and willingness to help the world decarbonise.

At some point, Australia’s green energy exports will exceed fossil fuel exports.
David Gray/Getty Images

A positive agenda for change

The export target could be part of Australia’s updated emissions pledge due to be submitted to the United Nations by September this year. The pledge, known as a Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), is required by signatories to the Paris Agreement.

Each nation is expected to detail its national emissions target for 2035. But nations can make additional pledges towards the world’s climate change effort. You could call it an “NDC+”.

So Australia could outline an indicative goal for net-zero exports – perhaps alongside other pledges such as leveraging climate change finance for developing countries, or helping our Pacific neighbours adapt to climate change impacts.

As a large fossil fuels exporter, Australia would earn kudos for showing it has a positive agenda for change.

And if Australia wins the bid to host the COP31 climate conference next year, a plan to reduce export emissions could be a major rallying point.

* Underlying data for the chart showing an expected decline in future emissions embedded in Australia’s coal and LNG exports:

Exports in 2022–23: coal, 9.6 exajoules (EJ); LNG, 4.5 EJ, from Australian Energy Update. This was multiplied by an emissions factor 90.2 for coal (MtCO₂-e/EJ) and 51.5 for LNG (MtCO₂-e/EJ), as drawn from the Australian National Greenhouse Accounts Factors

Exports for 2035 and 2050: this assumes a trend aligned with the IEA’s Announced Pledges Scenario, as outlined in the World Energy Outlook 2024. Note the percentage changes from 2023 to 2035 and 2050 for coal (-45% and -73% respectively) and for LNG (+9% and -47% respectively.) These figures do not distinguish between steam coal for power and metallurgical coal.

Frank Jotzo leads research projects on climate, energy and industry policy. He is a commissioner with the NSW Net Zero Commission and chairs the Queensland Clean Economy Expert Panel.

Annette Zou works on research projects on climate policy and decarbonisation and has previously worked with The Superpower Institute

– ref. Australia could become the world’s first net-zero exporter of fossil fuels – here’s how – https://theconversation.com/australia-could-become-the-worlds-first-net-zero-exporter-of-fossil-fuels-heres-how-259037

MIL OSI Analysis –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Tillis, Coons Announce New Bipartisan Support for Legislation to Restore American Innovation

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for North Carolina Thom Tillis
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Chris Coons (D-DE) announced that Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) have joined the Patent Eligibility Restoration Act (PERA) as cosponsors. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation will restore patent eligibility to important inventions across many fields while also resolving legitimate concerns over the patenting of mere ideas, the mere discovery of what already exists in nature, and social and cultural content that everyone agrees is beyond the scope of the patent system. It also affirms the basic principle that the patent system is central to promoting technology-based innovation.
“In recent years the Supreme Court has expanded judicial exceptions to such a degree that patent eligibility has gone from being a coarse filter to a fine one – resulting in U.S. inventors being unable to obtain patents in areas where our economic peers offer protections, such as for diagnostic medicine and for artificial intelligence,” said Senator Tillis. “Patent eligibility is but one of four criteria that determines whether a patent application can be issued as a patent. PERA will expand the aperture of patent eligibility – it does not automatically render something patentable – and will ensure that the U.S. does not shut the door to innovations that is welcomed by the patent systems of our economic peers. We cannot allow the U.S. to fall behind on the global stage and I’m glad to see more of my Senate colleagues recognize this pressing need.”
“When American innovators know their ideas are eligible for patent protection, they take the risks that push us into the future – whether that’s the next groundbreaking medical test or the latest AI technology,” said Senator Coons. “PERA restores clarity to the law on what can be patented and what cannot – guidance that federal courts have been requesting for years and that the Supreme Court has refused to provide. I’m excited to welcome my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to this bill. This is another step toward providing America’s inventors with the stable legal foundation they need to produce the cutting-edge technologies that power our economy.”
“Our patent system must fuel innovation and secure America’s competitive edge over adversaries like Communist China,” said Senator Blackburn. “The bipartisan Patent Eligibility Restoration Act would restore patent eligibility for important inventions across many critical fields to ensure America remains ahead of the curve when it comes to technological innovation.”
“A series of Supreme Court decisions restricting patent eligibility have constricted American innovation,” said Senator Hirono. “The Patent Eligibility Restoration Act will help clarify patent eligibility law, encouraging technological innovation to help ensure that our country does not fall behind on innovation. Importantly, this legislation only affects patent eligibility, it does nothing to affect the many other requirements for patentability.”
Background:
Unfortunately, due to a series of Supreme Court decisions, patent eligibility law in the United States has become confused, constricted, and unclear in recent years. This has resulted in a wide range of well-documented negative impacts – inconsistent case decisions, uncertainty in innovation and investment communities, and unpredictable business outcomes.
As of 2021, all 12 then-sitting judges of the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit lamented the state of the law. Witnesses and stakeholders from a wide array of industries, fields, interest groups, and academia have testified and submitted comments confirming the uncertainty and detailing the detrimental effects of patent eligibility confusion in the United States. There is now widespread bipartisan agreement in Congress and across all recent Administrations that reforms are necessary to restore the United States to a position of global strength and leadership in key areas of technology and innovation, such as medical diagnostics, biotechnology, personalized medicine, artificial intelligence, 5G, and blockchain.
The Patent Eligibility Restoration Act achieves this critical goal by restoring patent eligibility to important inventions across many fields, while also resolving legitimate concerns over patenting of mere ideas, the mere discovery of what already exists in nature, and social and cultural content that everyone agrees is beyond the scope of the patent system, which is a system aimed at promoting technology-based innovation. As a general approach, the Patent Eligibility Restoration Act maintains the existing statutory categories of eligible subject matter, which have worked well for over two centuries, but eliminates the overly malleable set of current judicial exceptions – replacing them with five specific, defined statutory exclusions. By eliminating and replacing the current judicial exceptions, the Patent Eligibility Restoration Act provides predictable patent eligibility for important computer-implemented technological developments and medical advances, creating a solid bedrock for America’s innovation future.
Full text of the bill is available HERE.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI China: More US exhibitors to take part in 3rd supply chain expo

Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

An increasing number of exhibitors from the United States will participate in the third China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) this July, signaling their confidence in the Chinese economy despite anti-globalization headwinds, the event organizer said Tuesday.

The number of U.S. exhibitors is expected to increase by 15 percent compared with the previous edition, and 60 percent of them are Global Fortune 500 companies, said Yu Jianlong, vice president of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), at a press conference.

U.S. tech giant Nvidia is expected to make its debut at the expo. During his visit to Beijing in April, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang met with CCPIT chairman Ren Hongbin and emphasized that China is a very important market for Nvidia, expressing the company’s willingness to continue cooperation with China.

Overseas participants at the upcoming expo are estimated to account for 35 percent of the total of 650 exhibitors from 75 countries, regions and international organizations, with half of the overseas participants coming from Europe and the United States, according to Yu.

“Against the backdrop of a complex international situation and anti-globalization headwinds, the gathering of so many friends from all over the world, especially those from the global business community, is a vote of confidence in the expo and also in China’s economic development,” Yu said.

The third CISCE will take place in Beijing from July 16 to 20, with Thailand as the guest country of honor.

As the world’s first national-level exhibition focusing on supply chains, the expo is an internationally shared public product. First held in 2023, the expo has contributed to building more secure, stable, open and inclusive global industrial and supply chains, according to the CCPIT.

Last year, U.S. companies made a strong presence at the second edition of the expo in Beijing, with well-known American firms such as Apple and Tesla seeking to further tap into China’s vast market.

The upcoming expo will feature a new exhibition area dedicated to the innovation chain, aimed at promoting the commercialization of lab-developed technologies and fostering seamless integration between the innovation and industrial chains, the CCPIT said.

MIL OSI China News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI: Portman Ridge Finance Corporation Announces Corporate Rebranding, New Monthly Base Distribution, and Value Creation Initiatives

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Company to be Renamed “BCP Investment Corporation” and Trade Under New Ticker “BCIC”

Transition to Paying the Quarterly Base Distribution Monthly in 2026

Company, Management, Adviser and Other Affiliates Intend to Acquire up to 20% of Common Shares Over Next 24 Months to the Extent the Stock Trades Below 80% of NAV

NEW YORK, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Portman Ridge Finance Corporation (NASDAQ: PTMN) (“Portman Ridge” or “PTMN”), today announced several updates and initiatives, aimed at enhancing shareholder value. These initiatives include a corporate name change, the transition to paying a monthly distribution, and an enhanced stock purchase program. These changes will go into effect following the successful closing of the merger with Logan Ridge Finance Corporation (“LRFC”).

Upon closing, Portman Ridge will rebrand and begin operating under the name BCP Investment Corporation (the “Company” or “BCIC”). In connection with the rebranding, the Company will continue to trade on the Nasdaq under the new ticker symbol “BCIC”. This change better reflects the fact that the Company is fully integrated into the broader BC Partners Credit Platform and the credit platform’s commitment to the Company, which is a leading global alternative asset manager with almost $9.0 billion in assets under management across its credit platforms.

Additionally, beginning in 2026, the Company will transition to paying its currently quarterly base distribution on a monthly basis, while retaining the potential for quarterly supplemental distributions. The quarterly supplemental distributions will continue to approximate 50% of the incremental net investment income earned in excess of the base monthly distributions. We believe that the transition to a monthly base distribution will be valued by investors and has the potential to increase liquidity in the Company’s stock.

To further align our interests with shareholders and drive additional value creation, the Company, along with its management, its adviser and their affiliates intend to acquire up to 20% of the Company’s outstanding common stock over the next 24 months to the extent the Company’s shares continue to trade below 80% of net asset value (“NAV”), which implies a share price of $15.08 based Portman Ridge’s March 31, 2025 NAV per share, or a 31% premium to PTMN’s June 16, 2025 closing market price. These purchases will begin no earlier than 60 calendar days following the date of the closing of the LRFC merger and may occur through various methods, including open market purchases and privately negotiated transactions, and may be conducted pursuant to Rule 10b5-1 and Rule 10b-18 trading plans. In this regard and as previously announced, PTMN’s Board of Directors has authorized an open market stock repurchase program of up to $10 million for the period from March 12, 2025 to March 31, 2026. The Company, its management and its adviser also reserve the right to conduct tender offers as part of the Company’s broader value creation initiatives.

Management Commentary

Ted Goldthorpe, President and Chief Executive Officer of PTMN and Head of the BC Partners Credit Platform, stated, “The corporate rebranding of Portman Ridge to BCP Investment Corporation reflects the Company’s affiliation with the broader BC Partners Credit Platform and underscores the significance of the Company to the platform as well as the credit platform’s commitment to its success.

Finally, we remain committed to addressing the discount to NAV at which our shares currently trade as well as increasing our ownership in the Company for better alignment with shareholders. We believe these value creation initiatives represent a thoughtful and constructive framework that supports long-term value creation for our shareholders.”

Special Meeting of Shareholders

The PTMN special meeting is scheduled for June 20, 2025, at 10:00 am ET. PTMN urges its shareholders to cast their votes by following the instructions outlined in the joint proxy statement. Shareholders of PTMN can also access the virtual meeting and vote by going to the following website: http://www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/PTMN2025SM, or by calling 1-833-218-3911 and providing the control number which is listed in the proxy card received.

Shareholders can access the joint proxy statement and prospectus by clicking HERE. Shareholders who have questions about the joint proxy statement or about voting their shares should contact the companies’ proxy solicitor, Broadridge, at 1-833-218-3911.

About Portman Ridge Finance Corporation

PTMN is a publicly traded, externally managed closed-end investment company that has elected to be regulated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940. PTMN’s middle market investment business originates, structures, finances and manages a portfolio of term loans, mezzanine investments and selected equity securities in middle market companies. PTMN’s investment activities are managed by its investment adviser, Sierra Crest Investment Management LLC, an affiliate of BC Partners Advisors L.P. PTMN’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), earnings releases, press releases and other financial, operational and governance information are available on Portman Ridge’s website at www.portmanridge.com.

About BC Partners Advisors L.P. and BC Partners Credit
BC Partners is a leading international investment firm in private equity, private credit and real estate strategies. Established in 1986, BC Partners has played an active role in developing the European buyout market for three decades.

Today, BC Partners executives operate across markets as an integrated team through the firm’s offices in North America and Europe. For more information, please visit https://www.bcpartners.com/.

BC Partners Credit was launched in February 2017 and has pursued a strategy focused on identifying attractive credit opportunities in any market environment and across sectors, leveraging the deal sourcing and infrastructure made available from BC Partners.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Some of the statements in this communication constitute forward-looking statements because they relate to future events, future performance or financial condition. The forward-looking statements may include statements as to future operating results and distribution projections of the Company; business prospects of the Company, and future share repurchase/purchase activity. In addition, words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “expect,” “seek,” “plan,” “should,” “estimate,” “project” and “intend” indicate forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements include these words. The forward-looking statements contained in this communication involve risks and uncertainties. More information on the risks and other potential factors that could affect these forward-looking statements is included in Registration Statement and Joint Proxy Statement (in each case, as defined below). Although PTMN and LRFC undertake no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, you are advised to consult any additional disclosures that they may make directly to you or through reports that PTMN and LRFC in the future may file with the SEC, including the Registration Statement and Joint Proxy Statement, annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K.

No Offer or Solicitation

This document is not, and under no circumstances is it to be construed as, a prospectus or an advertisement and the communication of this document is not, and under no circumstances is it to be construed as, an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any securities in PTMN, LRFC or in any fund or other investment vehicle managed by BC Partners or any of its affiliates.

Additional Information and Where to Find It

This document relates to the proposed merger of PTMN and LRFC and certain related matters (the “Proposals”). In connection with the Proposals, PTMN has filed a registration statement (Registration No. 333-285230) with the SEC (the “Registration Statement”) that contains a combined joint proxy statement for PTMN and LRFC and a prospectus of PTMN (the “Joint Proxy Statement”) and has mailed the Joint Proxy Statement to its and LRFC’s respective shareholders. The Registration Statement and Joint Proxy Statement will contain important information about PTMN, LRFC and the Proposals. This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a solicitation of any vote or approval. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. SHAREHOLDERS OF PTMN AND LRFC ARE URGED TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT, JOINT PROXY STATEMENT AND OTHER DOCUMENTS THAT ARE FILED OR WILL BE FILED WITH THE SEC, AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THESE DOCUMENTS, CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT PTMN, LRFC AND THE PROPOSALS. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain the documents filed with the SEC free of charge at the SEC’s website, http://www.sec.gov or, for documents filed by PTMN, from PTMN’s website at https://www.portmanridge.com, and, for documents filed by LRFC, from LRFC’s website at https://www.loganridgefinance.com.

Participants in the Solicitation

PTMN, its directors, certain of its executive officers and certain employees and officers of PTMN’s investment adviser and its affiliates may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies in connection with the Proposals. Information about the directors and executive officers of PTMN is set forth in its proxy statement for its 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on April 29, 2025. LRFC, its directors, certain of its executive officers and certain employees and officers of LRFC’s investment adviser, and its affiliates may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies in connection with the Proposals. Information about the directors and executive officers of LRFC is set forth in the Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, which was filed with the SEC on April 29, 2025. Information regarding the persons who may, under the rules of the SEC, be considered participants in the solicitation of the PTMN and LRFC shareholders in connection with the Proposals will be contained in the Registration Statement, including the Joint Proxy Statement included therein, and other relevant materials when such documents become available. These documents may be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above.

Contacts:
Portman Ridge Finance Corporation
650 Madison Avenue, 3rd floor
New York, NY 10022

Brandon Satoren
Chief Financial Officer
Brandon.Satoren@bcpartners.com
(212) 891-2880

The Equity Group Inc.
Lena Cati
lcati@equityny.com
(212) 836-9611

Val Ferraro
vferraro@equityny.com
(212) 836-9633

The MIL Network –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New York ETO promotes biotechnology and academic ties with Boston (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

New York ETO promotes biotechnology and academic ties with Boston
At the June 15 (Boston time) welcome dinner for the Hong Kong delegation at BIO 2025, Ms Ho highlighted Hong Kong’s status as a global hub for biotech innovation and fundraising. She also noted Hong Kong’s strong presence at BIO 2025, showcasing the depth and diversity of the city’s biotechnology sector, including pharmaceuticals, immunotherapies, gene editing, diagnostics and stem cell technologies.

The Hong Kong delegation included representatives from the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation and its delegation of 16 leading biotech portfolio companies, the medical faculties of the University of Hong Kong and the Chinese University of Hong Kong, as well as representatives from the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises, Invest Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council. At the Hong Kong Pavilion, they showcased the city’s life and health sciences capabilities, aiming to attract global enterprises, talent, and investment, and reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as a global biotech hub.

At the “Hong Kong x Boston Biotech Disrupt Night” on June 16 (Boston time) hosted by Invest Hong Kong, Ms Ho spoke on Hong Kong’s strategic advantages in biotechnology, citing world-class infrastructure, strong intellectual property protection, top-tier universities, and a vibrant start-up ecosystem. She also emphasised government support, funding and initiatives such as InnoLife Healthtech Hub and the New Industrialisation Acceleration Scheme. The event, attended by over 140 biotech industry representatives and investors, also featured a panel discussion featuring Hong Kong and Boston’s biotech leaders where they had an insightful exchange on the potential of Boston biotech companies in leveraging Hong Kong for their Asian market expansion.

“Hong Kong offers a nurturing environment for life sciences—combining policy support, research excellence, and regulatory certainty. As the world’s second-largest fundraising hub for biotech IPOs, we also offer deep access to capital and a highly international talent pool. With our world-class infrastructure, common law system, robust IP protections, and proximity to Mainland China and Asia, we serve as a gateway and global launchpad for biotech companies aiming to scale and internationalise”, she said.

While in Boston, Ms Ho also met with representatives of the academia to explore areas of mutual interests and promoted Hong Kong’s various talent admission schemes and the city’s commitment to become an international education and research hub. Her meetings included discussions with Visiting Fellow of Practice at Harvard University’s Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies Mr Mitchell Presnick; and representatives from the University of Massachusetts Boston, including the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Mr Joseph B. Berger; the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, Ms Karen Ferrer-Muñiz; and the Vice Provost of Research and Strategic Initiatives, Mr Bala Sundaram. She also attended a reception hosted by the Mayor of Boston Ms Michelle Wu for key international biotech leaders and stakeholders.
Issued at HKT 7:40

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CategoriesMIL-OSI

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Innovative Welsh exporter puts Britain at the forefront of global immunisation efforts
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Innovative Welsh exporter puts Britain at the forefront of global immunisation efforts

UK Export Finance supports renewable energy tech company Dulas to deliver life-saving vaccine refrigerators to over 80 countries worldwide.
Government backing helps secure British manufacturing jobs and strengthen UK’s position in global health innovation

A Welsh renewable energy company is helping to protect millions of people against preventable diseases in developing countries with backing from UK Export Finance (UKEF) – the government’s export credit agency – and HSBC UK.

The Machynlleth-based company developed the world’s first mass-produced solar-powered vaccine refrigerator in 1982. Since then, its pioneering technology has supported vital immunisation efforts for some of the hardest-to-reach communities in over 80 countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America.

In 2022, following the challenges of the Covid pandemic, Dulas approached Stephen Wilson, UKEF’s Export Finance Manager for Wales. Through Wilson’s assistance, HSBC UK provided a £600,000 finance package backed by UKEF’s General Export Facility (GEF). This finance enabled the Welsh company to future-proof its operations and maintain consistent production capabilities.

Since that first financial package, the successful partnership between Dulas, UKEF and HSBC UK has been reviewed and renewed annually, with new facilities for £600,000 in 2023 and £800,000 in 2024. This has enabled the company to provide critical equipment to even more immunisation programmes across the world.

The company has grown to employ around 100 staff at its headquarters in Mid Wales, its branch office in Inverness (Scotland) and its manufacturing facility in Bognor Regis (West Sussex).

Gareth Thomas, Minister for Exports, said:

We’re committed to removing barriers to trade and helping more businesses of all sizes across the country reach new overseas markets.

I’m delighted to see Dulas expanding production of their world-leading technology thanks to government support.

Jo Stephens, Secretary of State for Wales, said:

Dulas is a fantastic success story and demonstrates how Welsh expertise can lead to a brilliant UK-wide and global operation.

I’m delighted to see UK Export Finance supporting a Welsh business that is not only driving our economy forward but also contributing to international goals in health and renewable energy.

As the only UK manufacturer of vaccine fridges certified with the World Health Organisation’s Performance, Quality and Safety standard (PQS), Dulas’s cold chain products can be confidently deployed by UN agencies and other humanitarian organisations across programmes worldwide. Research and development support from the Welsh Government has helped Dulas to enhance its product portfolio and meet the stringent PQS accreditation.

Tim Reid, CEO at UK Export Finance, said:

Dulas exemplifies the best of British innovation – combining renewable energy expertise with life-saving healthcare technology.

Their story provides a fantastic example how UK Export Finance can help our businesses supply vital equipment across the globe, while supporting quality manufacturing jobs at home.

Ruth Chapman, Executive Managing Director at Dulas, said:

The GEF facility has been an invaluable tool for our export business, supporting us to manage our business in a challenging, but very rewarding, sector.

We are very proud to manufacture our products within the UK and to contribute towards global efforts to eradicate common childhood illnesses, and international humanitarian efforts.

Orders for Dulas’s vaccine fridges often follow unpredictable situations such as conflict or natural disasters. Although buyers may request a high number of units – ranging last year between 100 to 300 per order – the frequency of orders can fluctuate significantly. UKEF’s support has enabled Dulas to smooth out the peaks and troughs between production and demand, ensuring cash flow and consistent factory operations.

Lyndsey Connor, Relationship Director, Corporate Banking at HSBC UK, said:

At HSBC UK, we’re committed to supporting innovative businesses as they expand into global markets. Dulas exemplifies the type of forward-thinking company that drives sustainable economic growth and creates skilled jobs in Wales and elsewhere in the UK.

Working alongside UKEF, we’ve been able to provide a financing solution that addresses Dulas’ unique business cycle challenges.

Contact

Media enquiries:

Email newsdesk@ukexportfinance.gov.uk

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Published 18 June 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tougher sentences ahead as Three Strikes returns
Source: New Zealand Government

Repeat violent and sexual offenders are officially on notice Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee says.

“Tougher penalties are now in place as the Three Strikes law comes into force today and the message is clear. If you commit serious violent or sexual offences, expect to face increasingly severe consequences. New Zealanders have had enough – they want safer streets, safer homes, and a justice system that puts victims first,” Mrs McKee says.

The Sentencing (Reinstating Three Strikes) Amendment Act 2024 restores the regime scrapped under the previous government and is a central pillar in the Coalition’s drive to restore law and order and protect the public.

Under the Act:
- Offenders convicted of any of 42 serious violent or sexual offences – including new crimes like strangulation and suffocation – will face escalating penalties with each conviction.
- First strike: A formal warning.
- Second strike: No parole.
- Third strike: Maximum sentence without parole.
For example, someone convicted of murder at second or third strike will face a minimum of 17 or 20 years behind bars with no early release.

The Act provides for some judicial discretion to prevent manifestly unjust outcomes. It also sets out principles and guidance to help the courts apply the law and allows a limited benefit for guilty pleas to spare victims further trauma and reduce court delays.

“Importantly, previous strike warnings still count if they meet the new sentencing threshold – ensuring serious repeat offenders can’t escape accountability. The Ministry of Justice has published guidance to help affected individuals, and their lawyers check for active strikes,” Mrs McKee says.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –
June 18, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Australia could become the world’s first net-zero exporter of fossil fuels – here’s how

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Frank Jotzo, Professor, Crawford School of Public Policy and Director, Centre for Climate and Energy Policy, Australian National University

Photo by Jie Zhao/Corbis via Getty Images

Australia is the world’s third largest exporter of gas and second largest exporter of coal. When burned overseas, these exports result in 1.1 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions a year – almost three times Australia’s domestic emissions.

Emissions embedded in Australia’s exports do not count towards our national emissions targets. But they contribute to climate change – and they’re the reason for Australia’s international reputation as a fossil-fuel economy.

On the bright side, Australia boasts huge potential for low-cost renewable energy and a knack for resource industries.

We can, and should, become a “renewable energy superpower”. This term refers to the potential for Australia to use its bountiful renewable energy resources to make commodities such as iron, ammonia and other products and fuels in “green” or low-emissions ways.

So how does Australia give salience to this idea on the global stage, while our fossil fuel exports continue? The solution could be a new net-zero target for Australia, in which emissions from green exports are tallied up against those from fossil fuel exports.

Australia can become a renewable energy superpower.
Brook Mitchell/Getty Images

Reinvigorating Australia’s climate policy

If the clean energy transition eventuates, green exports from Australia will rise over time. This will help reduce the use of coal, gas and oil elsewhere in the world.

Meanwhile, coal exports – and later, gas exports – will fall. This will happen irrespective of Australia’s policies, as the world economy decarbonises and demand for fossil fuels slows.

At some point, we can expect emissions avoided by our green commodity exports to surpass those from remaining coal and gas exports. Australia would then reach what could be termed “net-zero export emissions”.

Adopting this net-zero target as a national policy would give a concrete yardstick to Australia’s green-export ambitions. It could also invigorate Australia’s climate policy and boost investor confidence.

A different approach would be to set targets only for green exports, and this could be how we get started. Ultimately, a net-zero target wrapping up both green and fossil-fuel exports would speak most directly to the goal of tackling climate change, and is likely to have more impact on the international stage.

A net-zero export target would give a concrete yardstick to Australia’s ambition to develop green export industries.
Brook Mitchell/Getty Images

Getting to net-zero exports

The below chart shows an illustrative decline in emissions embedded in Australia’s coal and LNG (liquified natural gas) exports, out to 2050.*

Authors’ calculations based on Australian Energy Update 2024, Australian National Greenhouse Accounts Factors 2024, IEA World Energy Outlook 2024

It’s hard to pin down when Australia might reach net-zero exports. It depends on several factors. How quickly will the cost of clean energy and green-commodity technologies fall? How competitively can Australia produce green goods compared to other nations? What policies will be adopted in Australia and overseas – and will they work?

The magnitudes are sobering. Take iron, for example. Australia currently exports 900 million tonnes of iron ore a year. This is processed overseas to about 560 million tonnes of iron.

To fully compensate for emissions currently embedded in Australia’s coal and gas exports, Australia would need to process about the same amount of green iron – around 550 million tonnes – on home soil every year.

To reach this figure, we assume 0.1 tonnes of CO₂-equivalent is created per tonne of green iron, compared to about 2.1 tonnes of CO₂-equivalent per tonne of iron resulting from conventional blast furnace production.

Achieving this would require keeping iron ore production at current levels and processing it all in Australia, which is unlikely to be realistic.

Thankfully, the task of reaching net-zero export emissions will be smaller in future, as global coal and gas demand falls. But exactly how this will translate to Australian exports is highly uncertain.

Let’s suppose Australia’s exports evolved on the same trajectory as they might under current climate policies and pledges for the global coal and gas trade.

In this case, embedded emissions from Australia’s coal and gas exports would be about 360 million tonnes in 2050. This includes about 120 million tonnes from LNG exports – much of it locked in by the extension to Woodside’s North West Shelf project off Western Australia.

Hypothetically, the 360 million tonnes of emissions could be negated by a mix of green exports. They include 102 million tonnes of green iron (saving 204 million tonnes of CO₂), and 11 million tonnes of green ammonia (saving about 23 million tonnes of CO₂), and the remainder covered by a combination of green aluminium, silicon, methanol and transport fuels.

Judgement calls would be needed about which commodities to include in the target. The composition of green exports suggested above is akin to assumptions about Australia’s potential global market share outlined by The Superpower Institute.

Importantly, it’s hard to predict with certainty the greenhouse gas emissions displaced elsewhere in the world by Australia’s green exports. So, the estimates should be understood as broad illustrations, and not as exact as the accounting used to calculate countries’ domestic emissions.

The precise year chosen for reaching a net-zero target for export emissions may well be less important than the commitment that, at some point, Australia’s green energy exports will exceed fossil fuel exports. This would establish the notion that Australia has the capacity and willingness to help the world decarbonise.

At some point, Australia’s green energy exports will exceed fossil fuel exports.
David Gray/Getty Images

A positive agenda for change

The export target could be part of Australia’s updated emissions pledge due to be submitted to the United Nations by September this year. The pledge, known as a Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), is required by signatories to the Paris Agreement.

Each nation is expected to detail its national emissions target for 2035. But nations can make additional pledges towards the world’s climate change effort. You could call it an “NDC+”.

So Australia could outline an indicative goal for net-zero exports – perhaps alongside other pledges such as leveraging climate change finance for developing countries, or helping our Pacific neighbours adapt to climate change impacts.

As a large fossil fuels exporter, Australia would earn kudos for showing it has a positive agenda for change.

And if Australia wins the bid to host the COP31 climate conference next year, a plan to reduce export emissions could be a major rallying point.

* Underlying data for the chart showing an expected decline in future emissions embedded in Australia’s coal and LNG exports:

Exports in 2022–23: coal, 9.6 exajoules (EJ); LNG, 4.5 EJ, from Australian Energy Update. This was multiplied by an emissions factor 90.2 for coal (MtCO₂-e/EJ) and 51.5 for LNG (MtCO₂-e/EJ), as drawn from the Australian National Greenhouse Accounts Factors

Exports for 2035 and 2050: this assumes a trend aligned with the IEA’s Announced Pledges Scenario, as outlined in the World Energy Outlook 2024. Note the percentage changes from 2023 to 2035 and 2050 for coal (-45% and -73% respectively) and for LNG (+9% and -47% respectively.) These figures do not distinguish between steam coal for power and metallurgical coal.

Frank Jotzo leads research projects on climate, energy and industry policy. He is a commissioner with the NSW Net Zero Commission and chairs the Queensland Clean Economy Expert Panel.

Annette Zou works on research projects on climate policy and decarbonisation and has previously worked with The Superpower Institute

– ref. Australia could become the world’s first net-zero exporter of fossil fuels – here’s how – https://theconversation.com/australia-could-become-the-worlds-first-net-zero-exporter-of-fossil-fuels-heres-how-259037

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

June 18, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: We tracked Aussie teens’ mental health. The news isn’t good – and problems are worse for girls
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Scarlett Smout, Postdoctoral Research Fellow at The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use and Australia’s Mental Health Think Tank, University of Sydney

skynesher/Getty Images

We know young people in Australia and worldwide are experiencing growing mental health challenges.

The most recent national survey from the Australian Bureau of Statistics found nearly two in five (38.8%) 16- to 24-year-olds experienced symptoms of a mental disorder in the previous 12 months.

This was substantially higher than the last time the survey was run in 2007, when the figure was 26%.

We’ve published a new study today looking at the rates of mental health problems among Australian high school students specifically. We found almost one in four high school students report mental health problems by Year 10 – and things are worse for girls and gender-diverse teens.

Tracking teens’ mental health

In our study, published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, we looked at mental health symptoms in more than 6,500 Australian teens, and how these symptoms changed over time.

We surveyed high school students from 71 schools annually from Year 7 (age 12/13) to Year 10 (age 15/16). Our sample, while not nationally representative, includes a large cross-section of schools in New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia.

We found symptoms of mental health problems increased steadily over time:
- in Year 7, 17% of students we surveyed reported symptoms which met the criteria for probable depression, increasing to 28% by Year 10
- some 14% of students reported high psychological distress in Year 7, rising to 24% in Year 10
- the proportion reporting moderate-to-severe anxiety grew from 16% in Year 7 to 24% by Year 10.
Which teens were hardest hit?

We looked at how mental health symptoms over time were linked to different social factors, such as gender, cultural background and family affluence. We also looked at school factors, such as how advantaged a student’s school is.

We found clear differences in mental health by gender, affluence, and school advantage. Girls and gender diverse teens had higher symptoms in Year 7 and a steeper rise in symptoms over the four years, when compared to their male peers.

By Year 10, compared to males, females had average symptom scores that were 88% higher for depression, 34% higher for anxiety, and 55% higher for psychological distress (in models that adjusted for other factors).

Again compared to males and in adjusted models, gender diverse teens had symptom scores at Year 10 that were 121% higher for depression, 55% higher for anxiety, and 89% higher for psychological distress.

Teens from the least affluent families had 7% higher depressive symptoms than those from the most affluent families in adjusted models, while teens attending the least advantaged schools had 9% higher anxiety symptoms than teens attending the most advantaged schools.

We then examined how gender and affluence interacted to influence mental health. Girls in the lowest affluence group experienced heightened anxiety and depressive symptoms over and above the effects of affluence or gender alone.

This shows how multiple factors can stack up, creating greater risk of poor mental health for certain young people.

Gender-diverse teens were more likely to have poor mental health in our study.
SeventyFour/Shutterstock

While we were able to explore a wide range of factors, a limitation of our study was that we could not examine all social factors that may impact mental health. For example, we couldn’t ascertain the potential differences experienced by Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander teens or those living in remote and very remote areas.

How does this data compare to other studies?

Recent Australian data from similar-aged adolescents is scarce. However, the 2015 Young Minds Matter study found 14.4% of 12- to 17-year-olds experienced a mental disorder in the prior 12 months.

The higher rates of mental health challenges we observed in our study are likely consistent with recent evidence suggesting “cohort effects” – where each generation has worse mental health than the one before it. Research is still investigating the reasons behind these trends, with avenues of inquiry spanning everything from social media to climate change. But it appears no single factor is to blame.

The COVID pandemic has also played a role, with young people seeming to be hit particularly hard by mental health impacts of the pandemic.

Notably, the gender differences between girls and boys are supported by data from global studies, showing this is not a uniquely Australian phenomenon.

What can we do about the gender divide in mental health?

With a mental health-care system stretched beyond capacity, it’s crucial we prevent and address mental health problems early. While this requires a multilayered approach, aiming to reduce these gender inequities in mental health is an important place to start.

While outside the scope of this study, a growing field of research is interrogating why there are gender differences in mental health. Factors identified include:
- experiences of gender-based violence
- gender differences in lifestyle behaviours (for example, diet, physical activity and screen time)
- gendered norms that place pressure on girls to meet unrealistic gender standards
- gender differences in family and social relationships
- biological differences related to hormones and menstruation.
These areas indicate avenues for potential solutions, but addressing these factors requires wraparound investment.

Promisingly, many of these factors are mentioned in the National Women’s Health Strategy. With women’s health a central platform for the Albanese government’s election campaign, hopefully we will see more investment in research and policy to address these issues.

Importantly, our study found gender inequities in mental health were even more stark for gender diverse teens, so focus should not solely be on girls and women.

We must design solutions with young people

Adolescent mental health isn’t something we can tackle with a one-size-fits-all approach. We need strategies that are meaningfully co-designed with young people themselves. Initiatives can then be tailored to meet their unique needs and reflect their diverse experiences.

When we work directly with priority groups, such as girls, gender diverse teens and those experiencing socio-economic disadvantage, we can offer safe, culturally appropriate and affirming solutions. This helps teens feel seen, heard and supported – all key ingredients for better mental health.

If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.

Scarlett Smout receives funding from the BHP Foundation and provides academic support for Australia’s Mental Health Think Tank.

Katrina Champion receives funding from the Medical Research Future Fund and via University of Sydney Horizon Fellowship.

– ref. We tracked Aussie teens’ mental health. The news isn’t good – and problems are worse for girls – https://theconversation.com/we-tracked-aussie-teens-mental-health-the-news-isnt-good-and-problems-are-worse-for-girls-259044
MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –
June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: China, Central Asian Countries Committed to Strengthening Multilateral Trading System – Declaration

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

ASTANA, June 17 (Xinhua) — China and Central Asian countries on Tuesday expressed their commitment to strengthening the multilateral trading system based on the rules of the World Trade Organization.

Six countries – China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan – expressed their commitment to this in the Astana Declaration issued following the 2nd China-Central Asia Summit.

The parties agreed to maintain the conformity of international trade rules with the requirements of the times and to promote the liberalization and simplification of trade and investment procedures.

The parties stressed the need to support open, inclusive, sustainable, resilient, diversified and reliable global supply chains.

They also identified six priority areas for cooperation: unimpeded trade, industrial investment, connectivity, green resources, agricultural modernization and facilitating people-to-people exchanges. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI: Plains All American Executes Definitive Agreements for $3.75 Billion Sale of NGL Business to Keyera
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

HOUSTON, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Plains All American Pipeline, L.P. (Nasdaq: PAA) and Plains GP Holdings (Nasdaq: PAGP) (collectively, “Plains”) announced today that it has executed definitive agreements with Keyera Corp. (TSX: KEY) (“Keyera”) pursuant to which Plains will sell substantially all of its NGL business to Keyera for a total cash consideration of approximately $5.15 Billion CAD ($3.75 Billion USD).

The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, and is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. As a result of the transaction, Plains will divest its Canadian NGL business but will retain substantially all NGL assets in the United States and will also retain all crude oil assets in Canada.

Transaction Benefits
- Results in premier midstream crude oil “pure play”: Positioned to drive efficient growth and streamlining opportunities
- More durable cash flow stream: Reduces commodity related EBITDA contribution, seasonality and working capital requirements
- Attractive valuation: Purchase price represents approximately 13x expected 2025 Distributable Cash Flow (DCF)
- Enhances free cash flow profile: Pro-forma business expected to generate higher percentage of “excess cash flow” with disproportionately lower capital investments and taxes
- Provides significant financial flexibility: Creates optionality to redeploy capital and execute existing capital allocation framework in a disciplined manner
Capital Allocation
Proceeds from the transaction are expected to be approximately $3.0 Billion USD net after: 1) taxes 2) transaction expenses and 3) a potential one-time special distribution. The estimated ~$0.35/unit special distribution is intended to offset potential individual tax liabilities associated with the transaction and is subject to Board approval, ultimate tax implications, and successful closing of the transaction.

Plains expects to continue executing on its long-term capital allocation framework. Proceeds from the transaction will be prioritized toward:
- Disciplined bolt-on M&A to extend and expand the crude oil focused portfolio
- Capital structure optimization including potential repurchases of Series A & Series B Preferred units
- Opportunistic common unit repurchases
“Today’s announcement is a win-win transaction for both Plains and Keyera. Plains is exiting the Canadian NGL business at an attractive valuation while Keyera is receiving highly complementary and critical infrastructure in a strategic market,” said Willie Chiang, Chairman and CEO. “Successful completion of this transformative transaction advances our efficient growth strategy and establishes Plains as the premier pure play crude oil midstream entity with highly strategic assets linking North American supply to key demand centers. Importantly, the transaction enhances our free cash flow profile and reduces both commodity exposure and working capital requirements into the future. Post-closing our financial framework should be enhanced, with leverage at or below the low-end of our target range, providing significant financial flexibility and allowing us to continue optimizing our crude oil focused asset base in a disciplined manner while increasing return of capital to our unitholders.”

Tax Considerations
Closing of this transaction is a taxable event that is expected to result in a flow through of taxable income to the holders of PAA common units and impact the taxability of distributions to the holders of PAGP Class A shares.

The tax impact on each holder of PAA common units will vary based on their specific tax circumstances, including their individual ownership, previous passive loss limitations where applicable, tax basis and their holding period.

We currently estimate that PAA will incur approximately $360 million USD of entity-level taxes payable in Canada associated with the sale of the NGL business and the restructuring of our remaining Canadian crude assets. This is expected to generate a foreign tax credit for PAA common unitholders at close of the transaction that, along with utilization of passive activity loss carry forwards, if any, will offset a significant portion of (and in some cases all of) the taxable gain passed through to individual unitholders.

The transaction is anticipated to generate current year earnings and profits for PAGP Class A shareholders and thus PAGP distributions in the tax year in which the transaction closes are expected to be taxed as a dividend versus a return of capital, but the transaction is not estimated to result in a material change in the previous forecast for when routine PAGP distributions shift from being a return of capital to being taxed as dividends or when PAGP will become a taxpaying entity.

The tax impacts associated with closing this transaction may be reduced by unrelated acquisitions or investments that also occur in the same tax period this transaction closes, subject to the tax laws in effect at such time.

In an effort to offset a significant portion of the anticipated tax impacts associated with the transaction, on or after closing, management intends to recommend to the Plains Board that it approve a one-time special distribution currently estimated to be approximately $0.35 per unit to holders of PAA common units and PAGP Class A shares (Note: the ultimate estimated tax obligation of unitholders may alter the special distribution payment, if any).

Holders of PAA common units and/or PAGP Class A shares should consult with their own tax advisors to evaluate the tax implications to them for any units or shares owned as of the closing date.

Additionally, as a result of the restructuring of our Canadian crude assets, we do not anticipate that Plains will be required to pay any meaningful Canadian corporate taxes for the next several years following the closing of the transaction.

Other Transaction Details
As of June 30, 2025, Plains will re-classify the NGL assets associated with the transaction as discontinued operations.

Additional information regarding the transaction can be found in a presentation posted to the Plains Investor Relations website at ir.plains.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters discussed in this release consist of forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, statements regarding the proposed transaction with Keyera and the terms, timing and anticipated operational, financial and strategic benefits thereof. There are a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from results or outcomes anticipated in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things: changes in or disruptions to economic, market or business conditions; substantial declines in commodity prices or demand for crude oil and NGL; third-party constraints; legal constraints (including the impact of governmental regulations, orders or policies); fluctuations in the currency exchange rate of the Canadian dollar to the United States dollar; unforeseen delays with respect to the receipt of regulatory approvals and completion of other closing conditions; and other factors and uncertainties inherent in transactions of the type discussed herein or in our business as discussed in PAA’s and PAGP’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

About Plains
PAA is a publicly traded master limited partnership that owns and operates midstream energy infrastructure and provides logistics services for crude oil and natural gas liquids (NGL). PAA owns an extensive network of pipeline gathering and transportation systems, in addition to terminalling, storage, processing, fractionation and other infrastructure assets serving key producing basins, transportation corridors and major market hubs and export outlets in the United States and Canada. On average, PAA handles approximately eight million barrels per day of crude oil and NGL.

PAGP is a publicly traded entity that owns an indirect, non-economic controlling general partner interest in PAA and an indirect limited partner interest in PAA, one of the largest energy infrastructure and logistics companies in North America.

PAA and PAGP are headquartered in Houston, Texas. More information is available at www.plains.com.

Investor Relations Contacts:
Blake Fernandez
Michael Gladstein
PlainsIR@plains.com
(866) 809-1291

The MIL Network –
June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI: Plains All American Executes Definitive Agreements for $3.75 Billion Sale of NGL Business to Keyera
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

HOUSTON, June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Plains All American Pipeline, L.P. (Nasdaq: PAA) and Plains GP Holdings (Nasdaq: PAGP) (collectively, “Plains”) announced today that it has executed definitive agreements with Keyera Corp. (TSX: KEY) (“Keyera”) pursuant to which Plains will sell substantially all of its NGL business to Keyera for a total cash consideration of approximately $5.15 Billion CAD ($3.75 Billion USD).

The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026, and is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. As a result of the transaction, Plains will divest its Canadian NGL business but will retain substantially all NGL assets in the United States and will also retain all crude oil assets in Canada.

Transaction Benefits
- Results in premier midstream crude oil “pure play”: Positioned to drive efficient growth and streamlining opportunities
- More durable cash flow stream: Reduces commodity related EBITDA contribution, seasonality and working capital requirements
- Attractive valuation: Purchase price represents approximately 13x expected 2025 Distributable Cash Flow (DCF)
- Enhances free cash flow profile: Pro-forma business expected to generate higher percentage of “excess cash flow” with disproportionately lower capital investments and taxes
- Provides significant financial flexibility: Creates optionality to redeploy capital and execute existing capital allocation framework in a disciplined manner
Capital Allocation
Proceeds from the transaction are expected to be approximately $3.0 Billion USD net after: 1) taxes 2) transaction expenses and 3) a potential one-time special distribution. The estimated ~$0.35/unit special distribution is intended to offset potential individual tax liabilities associated with the transaction and is subject to Board approval, ultimate tax implications, and successful closing of the transaction.

Plains expects to continue executing on its long-term capital allocation framework. Proceeds from the transaction will be prioritized toward:
- Disciplined bolt-on M&A to extend and expand the crude oil focused portfolio
- Capital structure optimization including potential repurchases of Series A & Series B Preferred units
- Opportunistic common unit repurchases
“Today’s announcement is a win-win transaction for both Plains and Keyera. Plains is exiting the Canadian NGL business at an attractive valuation while Keyera is receiving highly complementary and critical infrastructure in a strategic market,” said Willie Chiang, Chairman and CEO. “Successful completion of this transformative transaction advances our efficient growth strategy and establishes Plains as the premier pure play crude oil midstream entity with highly strategic assets linking North American supply to key demand centers. Importantly, the transaction enhances our free cash flow profile and reduces both commodity exposure and working capital requirements into the future. Post-closing our financial framework should be enhanced, with leverage at or below the low-end of our target range, providing significant financial flexibility and allowing us to continue optimizing our crude oil focused asset base in a disciplined manner while increasing return of capital to our unitholders.”

Tax Considerations
Closing of this transaction is a taxable event that is expected to result in a flow through of taxable income to the holders of PAA common units and impact the taxability of distributions to the holders of PAGP Class A shares.

The tax impact on each holder of PAA common units will vary based on their specific tax circumstances, including their individual ownership, previous passive loss limitations where applicable, tax basis and their holding period.

We currently estimate that PAA will incur approximately $360 million USD of entity-level taxes payable in Canada associated with the sale of the NGL business and the restructuring of our remaining Canadian crude assets. This is expected to generate a foreign tax credit for PAA common unitholders at close of the transaction that, along with utilization of passive activity loss carry forwards, if any, will offset a significant portion of (and in some cases all of) the taxable gain passed through to individual unitholders.

The transaction is anticipated to generate current year earnings and profits for PAGP Class A shareholders and thus PAGP distributions in the tax year in which the transaction closes are expected to be taxed as a dividend versus a return of capital, but the transaction is not estimated to result in a material change in the previous forecast for when routine PAGP distributions shift from being a return of capital to being taxed as dividends or when PAGP will become a taxpaying entity.

The tax impacts associated with closing this transaction may be reduced by unrelated acquisitions or investments that also occur in the same tax period this transaction closes, subject to the tax laws in effect at such time.

In an effort to offset a significant portion of the anticipated tax impacts associated with the transaction, on or after closing, management intends to recommend to the Plains Board that it approve a one-time special distribution currently estimated to be approximately $0.35 per unit to holders of PAA common units and PAGP Class A shares (Note: the ultimate estimated tax obligation of unitholders may alter the special distribution payment, if any).

Holders of PAA common units and/or PAGP Class A shares should consult with their own tax advisors to evaluate the tax implications to them for any units or shares owned as of the closing date.

Additionally, as a result of the restructuring of our Canadian crude assets, we do not anticipate that Plains will be required to pay any meaningful Canadian corporate taxes for the next several years following the closing of the transaction.

Other Transaction Details
As of June 30, 2025, Plains will re-classify the NGL assets associated with the transaction as discontinued operations.

Additional information regarding the transaction can be found in a presentation posted to the Plains Investor Relations website at ir.plains.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters discussed in this release consist of forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, statements regarding the proposed transaction with Keyera and the terms, timing and anticipated operational, financial and strategic benefits thereof. There are a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from results or outcomes anticipated in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things: changes in or disruptions to economic, market or business conditions; substantial declines in commodity prices or demand for crude oil and NGL; third-party constraints; legal constraints (including the impact of governmental regulations, orders or policies); fluctuations in the currency exchange rate of the Canadian dollar to the United States dollar; unforeseen delays with respect to the receipt of regulatory approvals and completion of other closing conditions; and other factors and uncertainties inherent in transactions of the type discussed herein or in our business as discussed in PAA’s and PAGP’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

About Plains
PAA is a publicly traded master limited partnership that owns and operates midstream energy infrastructure and provides logistics services for crude oil and natural gas liquids (NGL). PAA owns an extensive network of pipeline gathering and transportation systems, in addition to terminalling, storage, processing, fractionation and other infrastructure assets serving key producing basins, transportation corridors and major market hubs and export outlets in the United States and Canada. On average, PAA handles approximately eight million barrels per day of crude oil and NGL.

PAGP is a publicly traded entity that owns an indirect, non-economic controlling general partner interest in PAA and an indirect limited partner interest in PAA, one of the largest energy infrastructure and logistics companies in North America.

PAA and PAGP are headquartered in Houston, Texas. More information is available at www.plains.com.

Investor Relations Contacts:
Blake Fernandez
Michael Gladstein
PlainsIR@plains.com
(866) 809-1291

The MIL Network –
June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: A new mission: helping heroes find civilian success
[. Whether protecting the country abroad or ensuring the safety of communities at home, these individuals have made immense sacrifices in the name of duty. As their time in uniform comes to a close, Alberta’s government is committed to standing behind them – just as they have stood for us.

Transitioning to civilian life can present unique challenges, especially when it comes to finding meaningful employment that reflects the skills and leadership developed through service. To help ease this transition, Alberta’s government is investing $1.2 million in Prospect Human Services’ Forces@WORK program, which provides specialized supports to help former military and public service personnel rejoin the workforce.

“Our government is committed to ensuring that veterans and public safety personnel have the support they need to build meaningful careers beyond their service. Through this partnership, we’re honouring Alberta’s heroes by helping them transition into rewarding careers in the civilian workforce.”

Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services

“Every Albertan deserves an opportunity to pursue meaningful employment, especially those who have served our country as public safety personnel or in the Canadian Armed Forces. This funding will make it possible for more veterans and former public safety personnel to connect with jobs that fit within their needs and contribute their success.”

Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration

“As military liaison, I know the immense value of former military and public safety personnel’s unique skill sets. The strength, determination, and discipline developed in their line of work are valuable assets to any industry. This investment helps ensure those strengths are recognized and supported as they transition into meaningful civilian careers.”

Justin Wright, Alberta government’s Military Liaison to the Canadian Armed Forces

The transition from military and public safety careers to civilian employment often involves addressing both personal and professional factors, such as physical, psychological, or emotional barriers, as well as the need to adapt highly specialized skills to new work environments. The Forces@WORK program is specifically designed to address these challenges and help participants move forward with confidence as they enter the next chapter of their careers.

Participants receive individualized assessments and customized supports tailored to their unique experiences and goals. The program offers a range of services, including peer support, career planning, job search assistance, resume and interview preparation, on-the-job training opportunities, as well as ongoing support to help maintain long-term employment. By addressing both the practical and personal aspects of career transition, Forces@WORK helps ensure participants are able to find fulfilling work and are well-equipped for success in the civilian workforce.

“The Forces@WORK program is life-changing, helping veterans and public safety personnel overcome physical and psychological challenges during career transitions. Forces@WORK changed my life after I medically retired following 25 years in the Canadian Army, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help others through the program now. Prospect is pleased to partner with the provincial government, so that more Albertans are able to benefit from the same support I have.”

Major (retired) David Blackburn, senior manager of program operations and director of military employment services, Prospect Human Services

“Within OSI-CAN Alberta, a common belief amongst new participants is that their skills are not relevant for the civilian workforce. Being able to connect them to the Forces@WORK program provides them hope and reassurance. Before long, they’ve found meaning and purpose through a follow-on career, thanks to the work done by this important program.”

Sergeant (retired) Jason Trenholm, provincial services coordinator, OSI-CAN

Quick facts
- The Forces@WORK: Public Safety Personnel Program helps former military and public safety personnel including corrections workers, dispatchers, firefighters, paramedics, police officers, and RCMP members.
- Founded in 1980, Prospect Human Services Society helps Albertans overcome barriers to employment through skill development, job search support and career services.
Related information
- Supports for employees and job seekers
Related news
- Boosting job support for parents (May 29, 2025)
- Helping young Albertans get jobs (May 26, 2025)
- Investing to help Albertans get hired (April 30, 2025)
Multimedia
- Watch the new conference
MIL OSI Canada News –
June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: U.S. Reps. Lynch, Courtney and Golden Join IAM Union, Boston Ship Repair to Call for Urgent Investments in U.S. Shipbuilding, Repair

Source: US GOIAM Union

BOSTON, June 17, 2025 – U.S. Reps. Stephen F. Lynch (D-Mass.), Joe Courtney (D-Conn.) and Jared Golden (D-Maine) joined the IAM Union and Boston Ship Repair leadership to call for urgent investments to save the U.S. shipbuilding and repair industries.

Joined by IAM Union-represented workers at Boston Ship Repair, the coalition of elected officials, union leaders and shipyard management highlighted the national and economic security risk posed by a dwindling U.S. shipbuilding and repair industry. Currently, about 80 U.S.-flagged ships are engaged in international commerce compared to over 5,500 China-flagged vessels. China recently overtook the U.S. in Navy fleet size.

The group has backed U.S. Trade Representative penalties on Chinese ships and steps to incentivize the production and purchase of U.S.-built vessels. They are also championing the bipartisan SHIPS for America Act, which would rebuild the U.S. shipyard base and invest in recruitment and training of shipyard workers and mariners. The coalition is highlighting the need to efficiently utilize and grow domestic shipbuilding and repair capacity to increase the workforce at Boston Ship Repair and across the country.

“Revitalizing American shipbuilding is critical to our national and economic security. It’s a bipartisan goal in Washington, and we need to use all of our available shipyard capacity to get the job done if we’re going to deliver on it,” said Rep. Courtney. “We must provide American shipyards and shipbuilders, like Boston Ship Repair, with the demand they need to make investments in their future and the future of our domestic shipbuilding industry.”

“America needs strong shipyards. On the defense front, we are lagging in the production of American warships necessary to meet current and future force needs. We also lack the commercial vessels we need to compete in the global economy,” Rep. Golden said. “The reality is simple: If we aren’t giving work to the men and women who power America’s shipyards, they will find new jobs and we will fall further behind. Congress needs to keep up demand for warships to sustain the world’s greatest Navy and we need to pass the SHIPS Act to strengthen our shipyards, our commercial fleet and our supply chains. Our future demands it.”

“American national and economic security depends on urgent and long overdue investments in our shipbuilding and repair industry,” said IAM Union Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “That’s why the IAM Union has led the way toward tougher trade rules on China, much-needed investments in U.S. shipyard workers, and a strong call for the efficient use of our existing shipyards, like Boston Ship Repair. We’re incredibly grateful for our champions in this fight, including Congressmen Lynch, Courtney and Golden.”

“We’ve invested in Boston Ship Repair because we believe in its potential—not just as a business, but as a critical national asset,” said Boston Ship Repair Owner Jon Cronin. “With a highly skilled union workforce, proven infrastructure, and the experience to deliver, BSR stands ready to be part of the solution to America’s shipyard capacity crisis. But we can’t do it alone. Without consistent work and federal investment, this vital facility—and the hundreds of jobs it sustains—are at risk. We’re calling on Congress and the Navy to recognize BSR not just as a shipyard, but as a strategic pillar of the defense industrial base. With immediate support, we can expand our capacity, modernize our infrastructure, and begin reducing the Navy’s repair backlog today—while preserving American maritime strength for generations to come.”

“Our IAM Union members at Boston Ship Repair are skilled, dedicated workers who are proud to support our maritime missions,” said IAM Union Local S25 President Andre Lavertue, a 30-year IAM Union member and crane operator at Boston Ship Repair. “But over the years, we’ve seen these jobs become less reliable and too often result in layoffs when work goes away. American shipyard workers are ready to reinvigorate this industry and win the future of global shipbuilding and repair.”

The IAM Union, which represents workers at Boston Ship Repair and shipbuilding and repair workers across the country, is leading the charge to restore U.S. shipbuilding by investing in American workers, as well as taking on predatory Chinese trade practices through a U.S. Trade Representative’s Office investigation and supporting the bipartisan SHIPS for America Act.

Boston Ship Repair has provided personalized services for domestic, international and government customers since 1995. It is one of the largest docks on the Eastern and Gulf Coasts and can handle vessels up to 1,000 feet with a 105 foot beam. Boston Ship Repair is committed to provide vessel maintenance, repair, overhaul and conversion services that are unsurpassed in the industry.

The post U.S. Reps. Lynch, Courtney and Golden Join IAM Union, Boston Ship Repair to Call for Urgent Investments in U.S. Shipbuilding, Repair appeared first on IAM Union.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Spanish National Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Export U.S. Military-Grade Radios to Russian Government End Users

Source: US State of North Dakota

Bence Horvath, 47, a Spanish national living in the United Arab Emirates, pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in connection with conspiring to illegally export U.S.-origin radio communications technology to Russian end users without a license.

Horvath pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to unlawfully export goods to Russia. U.S. District Court Judge John D. Bates scheduled sentencing for Sept. 30.

According to court documents, beginning at least around January 2023, Horvath and others initiated discussions with a small U.S. radio distribution company about procuring and exporting to Russia U.S.-manufactured military-grade radios and related accessories. Over the next several months, Horvath continued his efforts to secure those items, which he intended to transship to Russia via a freight forwarder in Latvia.

As part of the conspiracy, Horvath purchased 200 of the military-grade radios and intended to export them to Russia. But he was not successful, as U.S. Customs and Border Protection detained the shipment, preventing the radios from falling into the hands of prohibited Russian end users.

Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg of the Justice Department’s National Security Division and U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro for the District of Columbia made the announcement.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations New Orleans, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service Southeast Field Office, and the Department of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California provided valuable assistance.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Tortorice and Maeghan Mikorski for the District of Columbia and Trial Attorney Sean Heiden of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

MIL OSI USA News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Highlights – 24 June: Hearing on the EU-Mercosur Trade Agreement – Committee on International Trade

Source: European Parliament

INTA will hold a public hearing on “The EU-Mercosur Trade Agreement”. Committee aims to provide a comprehensive platform for discussion, reflection, and stakeholder engagement on this topical issue.

The hearing will consist of two panels. The first panel will bring together economic stakeholders, featuring representatives from key industrial and agricultural sectors focusing on how the agreement affects business and agriculture. The second panel will involve civil society and academia and will explore social, environmental, and academic perspectives. Both panels will include interactive Q&A sessions to facilitate a dynamic dialogue.

The event will be an opportunity to address the complexities of the EU-Mercosur Trade Agreement, balancing economic interests with social and environmental concerns, thereby ensuring a transparent and inclusive approach to the ongoing discussion.

More information on the Hearings website.

MIL OSI Europe News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Hearings – The EU-Mercosur Trade Agreement – 24-06-2025 – Committee on International Trade

Source: European Parliament

Amid ongoing debates surrounding the EU-Mercosur Partnership, on 24 June 2025 the International Trade Committee of the European Parliament will hold a public hearing on “The EU-Mercosur Trade Agreement” from 15.00-17.20 in Brussels. Committee aims to provide a comprehensive platform for discussion, reflection, and stakeholder engagement on this topical issue.

The hearing will consist of two panels. The first panel will bring together economic stakeholders, featuring representatives from key industrial and agricultural sectors focusing on how the agreement affects business and agriculture. The second panel will involve civil society and academia and will explore social, environmental, and academic perspectives. Both panels will include interactive Q&A sessions to facilitate a dynamic dialogue.

The event will be an opportunity to address the complexities of the EU-Mercosur Trade Agreement, balancing economic interests with social and environmental concerns, thereby ensuring a transparent and inclusive approach to the ongoing discussion.

MIL OSI Europe News –

June 18, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Spanish National Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Export U.S. Military-Grade Radios to Russian Government End Users

Source: United States Attorneys General 13

Bence Horvath, 47, a Spanish national living in the United Arab Emirates, pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in connection with conspiring to illegally export U.S.-origin radio communications technology to Russian end users without a license.

Horvath pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to unlawfully export goods to Russia. U.S. District Court Judge John D. Bates scheduled sentencing for Sept. 30.

According to court documents, beginning at least around January 2023, Horvath and others initiated discussions with a small U.S. radio distribution company about procuring and exporting to Russia U.S.-manufactured military-grade radios and related accessories. Over the next several months, Horvath continued his efforts to secure those items, which he intended to transship to Russia via a freight forwarder in Latvia.

As part of the conspiracy, Horvath purchased 200 of the military-grade radios and intended to export them to Russia. But he was not successful, as U.S. Customs and Border Protection detained the shipment, preventing the radios from falling into the hands of prohibited Russian end users.

Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg of the Justice Department’s National Security Division and U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro for the District of Columbia made the announcement.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations New Orleans, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service Southeast Field Office, and the Department of Commerce’s Office of Export Enforcement. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California provided valuable assistance.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Tortorice and Maeghan Mikorski for the District of Columbia and Trial Attorney Sean Heiden of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

MIL Security OSI –

June 18, 2025