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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI: Applied Systems and Applied Client Network Announce Applied Net 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Chicago, IL., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Applied Systems and Applied Client Network today announced the opening of registration for Applied Net 2025. Applied Net will take place October 6 – 9 at the Aria Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, NV. Building on its recognition from the Best in Biz 2024 Awards and IMCA 2024 Showcase Awards, plus the success and record-breaking attendance at last year’s event, Applied Net 2025 is set to provide even more educational sessions, inspiring keynotes and networking opportunities that will explore the Intelligent Insurance Era.

    “Each year, our members benefit from our partnership with Applied to drive greater collaboration and connectivity at all stages of the product development lifecycle – and that comes to life no better than at our annual user conference each year,” said Brian Langerman, chief executive officer, Applied Client Network. “We look forward to providing more opportunities to learn and explore the latest trends and technology at this year’s Applied Net for the whole insurance ecosystem.”

    This year’s conference will feature inspiring keynotes, more than 250 education sessions, and new product innovation across Applied’s portfolio, including EZLynx, Tarmika, Ivans and Planck, to bring stakeholders into the Intelligent Insurance Era. Applied Net 2025 will also offer the opportunity to build connections with colleagues and participate in hands-on workshops, as well as gain knowledge about the latest trends influencing the insurance industry.

    “Applied Net continues to be the leading forum for insurance innovation, bringing agents, brokers, carriers and MGAs from around the world together to connect and learn from each other,” said Taylor Rhodes, chief executive officer, Applied Systems. “We are excited to raise the bar this year with world-class content and networking opportunities that will explore trends and technology innovations in this Intelligent Insurance Era, like data and AI, that are empowering our industry to make smarter decisions that can grow their book and optimize staff productivity more than ever.”  

    Register today!

    # # #

    The Applied products and logos are trademarks of Applied Systems, Inc., registered in the U.S.

    About Applied Systems
    Applied Systems is the leading global provider of cloud-based software that powers the business of insurance. Recognized as a pioneer in insurance automation and the innovation leader, Applied is the world’s largest provider of agency and brokerage management systems, serving customers throughout the United States, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, and the United Kingdom. By automating the insurance lifecycle, Applied’s people and products enable millions of people around the world to safeguard and protect what matters most.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Brightpick Launches Giraffe, an Autonomous Mobile Picking System that Triples Warehouse Storage Density

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Giraffe raises the Brightpick solution to new heights, reaching 20 feet (6 meters) to maximize warehouse density

    Ecommerce leader The Feed and medical wholesaler McGuff to be first customers to deploy Brightpick Giraffe in 2025

    ERLANGER, Ky., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brightpick, a leading provider of warehouse automation solutions for order fulfillment, has unveiled Brightpick Giraffe, an innovative robot capable of reaching heights up to 20 feet (6 m). With this advancement, Brightpick users can now achieve up to three times the warehouse storage density of manual operations and double the density compared to the previous Brightpick solution.

    Brightpick Giraffe is designed to work alongside Brightpick Autopicker robots for automated order picking. It retrieves storage totes from upper-level shelf locations and delivers them to lower levels, where an Autopicker can access them for picking (up to a height of 11 feet / 3.4 m). After the pick is completed, Giraffe efficiently returns the product tote to its original upper-level storage location.

    This innovative system maximizes both density and throughput by storing slower-moving items on upper levels (accessible to Giraffes) and fast-moving products within easy reach of Autopickers on lower levels. In a typical setup, the solution will include one Giraffe for five Autopickers, creating an optimal balance between cost, density, and performance. Beyond their primary tote retrieval function, Giraffes can also handle inventory replenishment and order picking using Goods-to-Person stations.

    “Brightpick has always excelled at providing high throughput and maximum labor savings at a competitive price,” said Jan Zizka, CEO of Brightpick. “Now, with Giraffe, we deliver these same benefits as well as improved warehouse space utilization through expanded storage density.”

    The Brightpick Giraffe features a telescopic lift that retracts during travel, reducing its height to a compact 8.5 feet (2.6 m). This design ensures easy deployment in warehouses, as each robot arrives pre-assembled, enabling customers to seamlessly add Giraffes to their fleet with minimal installation time and effort.

    Multiple U.S. installations planned for 2025
    Two U.S. companies are set to install Brightpick Giraffe in 2025. Leading e-commerce retailer The Feed is an existing Brightpick customer currently operating 48 Autopickers at its Colorado fulfillment center. The Feed will expand its system with an additional 25 Autopickers and 6 Giraffes, boosting throughput by 50% to 75,000 picks per day – and doubling storage capacity.

    The second customer, McGuff Company Inc., a family- and veteran-owned business established in 1972, is a leading medical wholesaler. McGuff offers a comprehensive catalog of quality medical products, including injectable medications, as well as services that support a diverse range of healthcare customers worldwide. McGuff will deploy 12 Autopickers and 4 Giraffes at its California warehouse. This integrated system will enable a throughput of more than 850 picks per hour, ensuring precise handling and faster fulfillment of critical medical products.

    Brightpick will be demonstrating a prototype of Giraffe at LogiMAT, booth 8B53 in Hall 8 (March 11-13, 2025, in Stuttgart, Germany).

    About Brightpick
    Brightpick offers AI robots for warehouses to easily automate every step of their order fulfillment. The company’s innovative robots enable warehouses of any size to fully automate order picking, consolidation, dispatch, and stock replenishment. The award-winning Brightpick solution takes just weeks to deploy and allows companies to keep their fulfillment labor to a minimum. Headquartered near Cincinnati, Ohio, Brightpick has more than 200 employees and hundreds of AI robots deployed with customers across the U.S. and Europe. For more information, visit www.brightpick.ai.

    Media inquiries
    Sinead Carthy
    Trevi Communications for Brightpick
    Email: brightpick@trevicomm.com
    Mobile: +1 914 217 9912

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8460bfa7-4dba-4959-9844-1cc8bd7303ea
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2853008f-4d59-4345-a37c-e3bf19248383

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Paytronix Elevates Online Ordering Platform, Launches Catering Capabilities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEWTON, Mass., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Paytronix, the leader in guest engagement for restaurants and convenience stores, today announced Paytronix Catering, a new offering within its Online Ordering service that enables both large and small restaurants brands to grow and manage this important ordering channel with a catering offering that is fully integrated with Paytronix loyalty. Balancing first- and third-party ordering, Paytronix Catering gives brands the opportunity to turn third-party customers into first-party customers and, in so doing, optimize the significant revenue stream coming from catering orders.

    Paytronix Catering will enable restaurant brands to dramatically cut back on operational burdens by providing the tools necessary to accurately plan for catering orders, including order acceptance processes, partial payments, and calendar views of all orders. Restaurants can seamlessly manage the increased order volume and keep their kitchens functioning smoothly with additive lead timings, which help keep the pace and inflow of orders manageable for teams so they can meet guest expectations.

    Find out how to improve your catering with the Paytronix Catering Guidebook.

    “Most customers these days don’t consider you for catering until they see it themselves. For us, we put a lot of energy into making sure our customers knew that we had the capabilities, to see if it translated into new opportunities. And wow – it has been so profitable for us financially and operationally,” said Reed Daniels, CEO of Red’s Savoy Pizza.

    “Big catering orders obviously bring in sizable checks and bring on a lot of pressure because you really have to get them right. Since we’re taking them digitally, way ahead of time, we can make sure we’re on point operationally to give them everything they asked for in a timely, efficient manner that isn’t stressful for us or the customer. No pen, no paper – it’s all within the Paytronix platform like any other order. It’s proven to be incredibly valuable.”

    Paytronix Catering offers nearly 20 unique features designed to curate a clear and effective user experience, whether you’re a guest placing an order or the operator reviewing it. Such features include but are not limited to:

    • The Feed-o-meter, which is a unique visual designed to show ordering parties how close their order is to feeding the amount of people they are ordering for;
    • Catering Item Feed count, which eliminates the guesswork needed for guests to determine how many people each item is estimated to feed;
    • White Glove Service, available through our partnerships with EZCater and Doordash Large Order Fulfillment;
    • Order Approvals, which flag new catering orders in the system until they are reviewed by the appropriate manager. This is to confirm the restaurant has seen and reviewed the order and will appropriately plan ahead for the orders – limiting the potential for errors or staffing shortages.

    “Catering orders are placed ahead of time and are larger than typical online orders. Due to this, they add a layer of complexity into the preparation process for restaurants,” said Ray Gibson, online ordering product manager, Paytronix. “Paytronix Catering provides for the unique administrative and operational processes and complexities, including the need to hold an order above the POS until it is time to prep the order, and the need to take deposits for orders and for keeping on-prem orders and online ordering process seamless and accurate.”

    You can find out more information about Paytronix Catering here.

    About Paytronix
    Paytronix, an Access Group company, is a cloud-based digital guest engagement platform for the hospitality industry. Our innovative, unified platform provides loyalty programs, online ordering, gift cards, branded mobile applications, and strategic insights to more than 1,800 leading restaurant and convenience store brands. Our valued clients leverage the power of Paytronix across 50,000 sites globally to create seamless, personalized, and brand-authentic experiences that foster lasting relationships with their customers. For more than 20 years, Paytronix has been a trusted partner helping brands maximize the lifetime value of their guests and grow more profitable businesses. For more information, visit www.paytronix.com.

    Media Contact:
    Calen McGee
    Paytronix Systems, Inc.
    Calen.McGee@theaccessgroup.com
    646-957-7758

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s trade war is forcing Canada to revive a decades-old plan to reduce U.S. dependence

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Blayne Haggart, Associate Professor of Political Science, Brock University

    After threatening Canada and Mexico with illegal tariffs, and Canada with annexation, United States President Donald Trump has agreed to hold off on imposing tariffs on Canada for at least 30 days. This decision came after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with Trump and committed to strengthening border security.

    While this temporary reprieve provides some breathing room, the long-run question of how Canada should handle Trump and the American descent into authoritarianism remains.

    Early responses seem to have coalesced around two policies: for Canada to trade less with the U.S. and more with other countries and to strengthen the internal Canadian economy.

    Reducing Canada’s dependence on the U.S. economy is necessary in our current moment, as I’ve previously argued. But it will impose significant costs on Canadians and require a fundamental readjustment in how we think about our economy and society.

    The Third Option, revived

    This current crisis isn’t taking place in a historical vacuum. More than 50 years ago, similar concerns about Canada’s dependence on the U.S. led to a policy discussion centred on what became known as the “Third Option.”

    In 1972, then-Secretary of State for External Affairs Mitchell Sharp wrote a paper called “Canada-US Relations: Options for the Future.” At the time, international politics were in a moment of transition, and the U.S. was recalibrating its understanding of its national interest.

    Sharp proposed reconsidering the Canada-U.S. relationship. He observed that while Canadians recognized the benefits of ties with the U.S., they were increasingly wary of the direction of the relationship and in support of measures to “assure greater Canadian independence.”

    Echoing today’s concerns, Sharp argued that the central question for Canada was whether its interdependence with the U.S. would “impose an unmanageable strain on the concept of a separate Canadian identity, if not on the elements of Canadian independence.”

    The options that Sharp proposed are the same ones on offer today:

    1. The First Option: Maintain Canada’s current relationship with the U.S. with minimal policy adjustments
    2. The Second Option: Move toward closer integration with the U.S.
    3. The Third Option: Pursue a long-term strategy to strengthen the Canadian economy and reduce vulnerability

    From three options to one

    Sharp’s analysis is clear on the costs and benefits of free trade. In terms of benefits, economic prosperity would be easier to attain. In fact, this proved decisive in 1988, when Canada embraced the Second Option — closer integration through the 1988 Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement.

    But, as Sharp warned presciently, a free-trade agreement would be a “well-nigh irreversible option for Canada” because it would tie the country so closely to the U.S., raising the cost of disentanglement.

    Meanwhile, the U.S. would always be free to redefine the relationship for any reason. This is what happened in 2001 when the U.S. prioritized security over prosperity in response to the 9/11 attacks. It’s what’s happening now.

    As in 2001, deeper integration remains a tempting response to the U.S. But the risks from integration are even greater now, given that Trump is dismantling U.S. democracy at home and trying to bully its neighbours in unprecedented ways.



    Read more:
    How constitutional guardrails have always contained presidential ambitions

    Already, Canada is struggling to recruit American allies to fight against the tariffs because U.S. businesses and politicians are afraid to stand up to Trump. Choosing to more deeply integrate would only worsen Canada’s position, making it a part of the U.S. economy while losing even more political influence.

    And that’s without addressing the morality of collaborating with a country that is currently setting up a concentration camp for migrants in Guantanamo Bay.

    Autocratic governments, as Trump’s administration is demonstrating with his ultimatums against Canada and Mexico, are bullies who will always push the advantage. Taking their demands at face value is a surefire way to surrender Canadian autonomy one piece at a time. So, the First Option — maintaining the status quo — is also off the table.

    Which leaves the Third Option.

    The mortal peril facing Canada

    The Third Option has become more appealing across the political spectrum mainly because the U.S. is forcing Canada’s hand. The uncertainty Trump has injected into the relationship, even in the presence of a trade agreement, has made it more costly for businesses to engage in cross-border trade.

    If Trump’s tariff threat remains, and his attack on the rule of law continues, the U.S. market will become even more unattractive, not least because of the toxic uncertainty Trump has injected into the relationship.

    But his actions also underscore the new, extreme danger Canada now faces.

    As Sharp recognized in 1972, shared social values were the bedrock of successful Canada-U.S. relations. He understood that, for the Third Option to work, the relationship needed to be “harmonious.” Even as he considered ways to reduce Canada’s dependence, he never doubted Canada and the U.S. were “broadly compatible societies.”

    That shared foundation — “based on a broad array of shared interests, perceptions and goals” — made it possible for Canada to chart its own path while maintaining a productive relationship with the U.S.

    Today, that assumption no longer holds. The U.S., under Trump, is acting as an expansionist imperial power with little regard for international law.

    This is the needle Canadian politicians have to thread. By geography alone, Canada must continue to have a relationship with the U.S. But the absence of shared values makes it incredibly difficult to have any kind of healthy, productive relationship.

    The cost of democracy

    As Sharp recognized, there is a cost to following the Third Option. It will require a “deliberate, comprehensive and long-term strategy” on a scale not seen since the 1960s — meaning higher taxes, more government intervention and a level of global engagement Canada hasn’t undertaken in quite a while.

    This must all be done in a landscape where Canada and the U.S. no longer share values — a shift even ardent Canadian nationalists recognized was necessary for Canadian independence — while pursuing policies that do not antagonize the U.S.

    For the Third Option to be viable today, Canadians must embrace an independent Canadian identity based on respect for democracy, pluralism, the rule of law and human rights. It likely requires consensus that U.S. authoritarianism is wholly unacceptable to Canada.

    Canada is being pushed toward the Third Option as the least worst approach. But, as was true in Sharp’s time, the Third Option come at a cost. Independence and democracy don’t come for free.

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

    – ref. Trump’s trade war is forcing Canada to revive a decades-old plan to reduce U.S. dependence – https://theconversation.com/trumps-trade-war-is-forcing-canada-to-revive-a-decades-old-plan-to-reduce-u-s-dependence-248433

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The impact of Donald Trump’s anti-climate measures on our heating planet

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Bruce Campbell, Adjunct Professor, Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change, York University, Canada

    Before assessing the impact of United States President Donald Trump’s climate and energy policies, some context about the current state of the planet is in order. United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres recently called the world’s fossil fuel addiction “a Frankenstein’s monster sparing nothing and no one.”

    The year 2024 was the first in which the average temperature exceeded the Paris Agreement threshold of 1.5°C. Under a status quo scenario, Earth is on track to reach an approximate 2.7°C increase in planetary warming by 2100.

    The 2024 Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change report found that climate-related global health threats are reaching new records, including heat-related deaths, food insecurity and the spread of infectious diseases.

    Despite six reports by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), 29 COP conferences and thousands of scientific papers, the world has made only minor headway on climate action.

    Main carbon polluters and their victims

    The 10 largest oil-producing and consuming countries account for 73 per cent of total oil production and consumption globally.

    The U.S. is the largest oil producer and oil consumer, accounting for almost one-quarter of global production and more than 20 per cent of consumption in 2022. Canada is the fourth-largest oil producer and the ninth-largest consumer, and also has the highest per-capita CO2 emission levels of any country.

    The world’s 60 largest banks, meanwhile, earmarked US$6.9 trillion over the last eight years to enable the fossil fuel industry.

    According to an Oxfam International report, the richest one per cent of the world’s population, most of whom live in developed countries, are responsible for more than twice as much carbon pollution each year as the poorest 50 per cent of humanity. Low-income countries that make up nearly 60 per cent of the world’s population, on the other hand, account for less than 15 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

    At COP 29 in Azerbaijan last year, developed countries, including Canada, pledged to triple their financial support for poor climate-vulnerable countries to $300 billion a year by 2035 to help them mitigate emissions, adapt to climate threats and help pay for loss and damage.

    But this is far from the $1.3 trillion demanded by Global South countries. Their pledges bear little resemblance to global fossil fuel subsidies that totalled an estimated $7 trillion in 2022.

    Trump’s climate-related actions

    Ahead of Trump’s recent inauguration, and under sustained pressure by Republicans, major American and Canadian banks withdrew from the Net-Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA) originally led by Canada’s Mark Carney as the United Nations’ Special Envoy for Climate Action.



    Read more:
    Mark Carney might have the edge as potential Liberal leader, but still faces major obstacles

    The oil and gas industry donated more than $75 million to Trump’s campaign, though donations provided by those with links to fossil fuels were estimated to be five times greater than that.

    Trump’s more than 200 executive orders included a so-called National Energy Emergency Declaration, in which he:

    · Withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement, which he called one-sided, joining only three other petro-states — Iran, Libya and Yemen — that are not signatories to the Agreement.

    · Signed an order aimed at “unleashing American energy.”

    · Signed a declaration that would allow his administration to fast-track permits for new fossil fuel infrastructure.

    · Blocked all new offshore wind power development.

    · Revoked former president Joe Biden’s order that half of vehicles sold by 2030 be electric

    · Enabled new oil and gas development on federal lands, including reversing restrictions on petroleum extraction in Alaska and the Arctic Wildlife Reserve.

    Elon Musk, among Trump’s closest billionaire allies, has been silent on the president’s 2025 exit from the Paris Climate Accord.

    This is noteworthy because after Trump’s first withdrawal from the accord in 2017, Musk announced he was leaving presidential advisory councils, stating: “Climate change is real, leaving Paris is not good for America or the world.”

    What’s ahead

    Notwithstanding the Trump fossil fuels embrace, there are some silver linings.

    Although the Trump snub of the COP climate conferences is generally seen as a setback, stronger climate action may now be possible without the U.S. at the table. Furthermore, many American states and municipalities will continue to push forward with aggressive emissions reduction measures. And thousands of climate lawsuits against U.S. governments and corporations are underway.



    Read more:
    Trump voters are not the obstacle to climate action many think they are

    Trump’s actions may also spur the migration of the U.S. renewables industry to Canada. Regardless, renewables will continue to replace fossil fuels worldwide.

    A global movement of governments, elected officials, organizations and individuals has endorsed the Canadian-founded Fossil Fuels Non-Proliferation treaty initiative. Modelled on the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, it sets clear deadlines for the global phaseout of fossil fuels.

    At the 2025 World Economic Forum, Fortescue, a global metal mining giant, endorsed the treaty, the first major industrial company to do so.

    In his famous 2015 Lloyd’s of London speech, Carney, now the Liberal leadership frontrunner, called climate change “the tragedy of the horizon.”

    He warned that climate change will lead to financial crises and falling living standards unless the world’s biggest economies do more to ensure their companies come clean about their current and future carbon emissions.

    Payam Akhavan, an Iranian-born Canadian human rights lawyer, served as legal counsel to the Commission of Small Island States at the recent International Court of Justice climate hearings where these nations presented evidence about the devastating impact of climate change on their citizens.

    In an interview with CBC Ideas, Akhavan said: “What’s happening to the small island states today is going to happen to all of us tomorrow.”

    Ultimately, the writing is on the wall for fossil fuels. It’s not a matter of if the world moves away from them dramatically, but when.


    Bruce Campbell was awarded a Community Leadership in Justice fellowship from the Ontario Law Foundation in 2016. He is a voluntary member of the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, the Rideau Institute for International Affairs, and the Group of 78.

    – ref. The impact of Donald Trump’s anti-climate measures on our heating planet – https://theconversation.com/the-impact-of-donald-trumps-anti-climate-measures-on-our-heating-planet-247887

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Rubio holds a joint press availability with Costa Rican President Chaves – 11:50 AM

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Secretary of State Marco A. Rubio holds a joint press availability with Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves in San Jose, Costa Rica, on February 4, 2025.

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    X: https://x.com/StateDept
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    Subscribe to the State Department Blog: https://www.state.gov/blogs
    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: http://ow.ly/diiN30ro7Cw

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
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    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7fNrxsKMyM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Surviving Cancer: Two powerful stories of Hope / EU Beating Cancer

    Source: European Commission (video statements)

    Every minute, five people learn they have cancer, and more than two lose their lives to the disease. In 2021, cancer was the second-leading cause of mortality, with 1.15 million lives lost. In 2022, over 2.7 million new cancer cases were expected to be diagnosed.

    Four years after its adoption, Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan is making a real difference. By boosting collaboration and advancing efforts in prevention, early detection, treatment, and care, it’s improving the quality of life for cancer patients and survivors. Together, we can continue to make progress in the fight against cancer, providing hope for a brighter, healthier future.

    If you want to have more info: https://europa.eu/!Wf3v6r
    Factsheet Country Cancer Profiles: https://europa.eu/!C8fhXr
    Factsheet on the EU Cancer Plan: https://europa.eu/!jgP67q

    Watch on the Audiovisual Portal of the European Commission:
    Follow us on:
    -X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
    -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
    -Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
    -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
    -Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

    Check our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUiMw3dIA7Q

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Sobyanin presented awards to young researchers ahead of Russian Science Day

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    On the eve of Russian Science Day Sergei Sobyanin presented to young scientists Moscow Government Prizes for 2024.

    “We never had so many competitive applications – more than 1300 works have been announced. And choosing you for us was also not an easy business. So these are really deserved awards that you deserve with your talent, skill, commitment to science. And of course, I hope that these awards in your life are not the last, but only the beginning of your large scientific career. In recent years, our country has been in difficult conditions of international sanctions, a special military operation. And more than ever, issues related to the technological sovereignty of our country in almost all key areas, starting from space to medicine. In recent years, we had to solve very difficult issues related to domestic industry, and high technology supply. And of course, the demand for own scientific research, for domestic science, for technologies related to both the military-industrial complex and with civilian technologies, more than ever. And what you do in your areas, inventing important, necessary technologies, opening new technologies for medicine, astronautics, aircraft building, new materials, creating a huge layer of inventions in the field of medical technologies, of course, is also very cool. Without this, we do not have to talk about any sovereignty. So you do a very important work, of course, for yourself as scientists, for the city, one of the most advanced technological centers not only of our country, but also the world, well, for Russia – for sovereignty, for security, for the future of our great power “, – said Sergey Sobyanin.

    The Moscow mayor thanked the scientists for their work on his own behalf and on behalf of Muscovites and congratulated them on their well-deserved awards. According to him, a decision was made to double the size of the bonus, which has not been indexed since 2019. The bonuses received by young specialists today are also planned to be recalculated taking into account the increase.

    The Moscow Government Prize Competition for Young Scientists has been held since 2013. Awards are given annually for achieving outstanding results in fundamental and applied scientific research in the field of natural, technical and humanitarian sciences, as well as for the development and implementation of new technologies, equipment, devices, equipment, materials and substances that contribute to improving the efficiency of activities in the real sector of the economy and the social sphere of the capital.

    Young Moscow scientists under the age of 35 (doctors of sciences under the age of 40) may apply for the award. We are talking about scientific and scientific-pedagogical workers, postgraduate students, doctoral students, and other specialists engaged in scientific and scientific-technical activities in scientific and higher education organizations located in the city, as well as employees of enterprises and organizations conducting experimental developments.

    In 2019, at the suggestion of the Mayor of Moscow, the size of one award was increased from 1.5 million to two million rubles. If the award is given to a research team, it is divided equally between its members, and diplomas are awarded to each of them.

    The number of awards has also increased from 33 to 50. At the same time, the number of nominations remains unchanged (22), including 11 nominations in the field of research and the same number in the field of development.

    During the competition for the awards in 2013–2024, more than eight thousand applications were submitted. The awards were given to 758 young scientists.

    In 2024, 1,332 applications were received from employees of 310 organizations.

    “

    The prize is awarded since 2013 for outstanding results in fundamental and applied research. Moscow scientists under 35 years of age, and doctors of science under 40 years of age can apply for it. Compared to the previous year, the size of the prize has been doubled – from two to four million rubles,” the Mayor of Moscow wrote in his telegram channel.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @Mos_Sobyanin

    The awards were won by 78 researchers whose developments and research have already proven themselves in practice.

    Photodetectors, biostimulators and vacuum tubes

    Thus, the award was presented to Sofia Morozova from the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (National Research University). She developed methods for obtaining nanostructured polymeric materials, which are important for the creation of environmentally friendly transport based on hydrogen-air fuel cells and for preserving public health.

    “We were all lucky to become laureates of the Moscow Government Prize in a special period, the Decade of Science and Technology. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to you, Sergey Semenovich, for the development of the city, which is happening through the development of Moscow universities, Moscow schools, colleges, and city infrastructure. Special thanks for the Fiztekh metro station and the Novodachnaya station of the first Moscow Central Diameter, which help us get to work, and also for the inspiration for us, young scientists. I congratulate everyone on receiving this significant award and wish to see how the developments will be put into practice,” said Sofia Morozova.

    Natalia Semenchenko, Vladislav Burlakov and Renat Davletshin from the Orion Scientific and Production Association have created photoreceiving devices for space-based optical-electronic systems that allow surveying the Earth’s surface and obtaining images of the thermal field of the entire Earth’s disk. The devices are used in the Electro-L and Arktika-M series of space weather satellites.

    Kristina Skuratovskaya, Anton Budaev and Maxim Makarov from the N.V. Sklifosovsky Research Institute of Emergency Care have come up with new types of medical preparations and materials that allow for the effective treatment of patients with intra-articular pathology of the musculoskeletal system. The developments are used in the surgery department of City Clinical Hospital No. 13 and the emergency traumatology department of the musculoskeletal system of the N.V. Sklifosovsky Research Institute of Emergency Care to replace traumatic defects in intra-articular fractures, which allows for the axial load on the operated limb to be reduced immediately after surgery.

    Seda Kurbanova from the Morozov Children’s City Clinical Hospital has developed a diagnostic program for verifying cardiovascular damage in Kawasaki disease. The program has already been implemented in the practice of the capital’s healthcare system.

    Andrey Briko and Vladislava Kapravchuk, representing the Bauman Moscow State Technical University, conducted a series of studies aimed at creating technologies for mapping neuromuscular activity. The results of the research and the technologies developed can be used to create exoskeletons for medical and industrial purposes, bionic prostheses, and rehabilitation robotic complexes for patients with impaired motor functions.

    Tatyana Bezbabicheva and Ramin Malik oglu Afandiev from the National Medical Research Center of Neurosurgery named after Academician N.N. Burdenko have developed a comprehensive method for monitoring the state of the visual pathways during neurosurgical operations on the occipital, parietal and temporal lobes of the brain. The solution is already being used in neurosurgical operations at the center to ensure the greatest safety for patients.

    The work of Alexander Pushkarev from the Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education resulted in unique technologies of local exposure to low temperatures, which are used in cryosurgery, cryopreservation and cryotherapy. They are used in the treatment of oncological diseases, as well as for physiotherapy and rehabilitation of patients for the purpose of pain relief, reducing inflammation and swelling in diseases of the musculoskeletal system, sports, mine-explosive and other injuries. The method is used at the Russian University of Medicine, the Russian National Research Medical University named after N.I. Pirogov and CryoEngineering LLC.

    Another laureate of the award, Evgeny Bychkov from the Central Research Institute “Kurs”, is the author of an industrial technology for designing low-temperature refrigeration machines on multicomponent mixtures of refrigerants. The development allows for thermostatting of objects at temperatures from minus 90 to minus 160 degrees, which makes it possible to reduce the time and material costs of design, as well as increase the energy efficiency of machines of this class. The technology has already been implemented in the institution.

    Sergey Surkov and Sergey Sharkov, representing the scientific and production enterprise “Toriy”, received the award for electrovacuum devices for amplification and generation of electromagnetic oscillations of ultra-high frequency. The devices are used at the National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute” to maintain the operability of the “Olivin” station, which is part of the “Siberia” accelerator-storage complex.

    The work of Milana Sharikova and Pavel Nikitin from the Scientific and Technological Center for Unique Instrumentation of the Russian Academy of Sciences is aimed at creating devices and methods for optical information processing in long-wave spectral ranges – infrared and terahertz. Interest in the terahertz range is due to the fact that by 2035 it is planned to create 6G generation information systems. The developments are in demand at domestic industrial enterprises, in institutes of the Russian Academy of Sciences and universities.

    The use of a biostimulant composition created by Inessa Lugova (All-Russian State Center for Quality and Standardization of Animal Medicines and Feed) has made it possible to improve the qualitative and quantitative indicators of poultry farming, including hatching of chickens and preservation of livestock, as well as to save electricity during egg incubation due to the acceleration effect. The drug is in demand at the country’s leading poultry farms.

    Dmitry Korolev and Vladimir Alferov from the Research Institute of Molecular Electronics have developed the software and hardware of the NE501CD microcontroller, implementing a cryptographically protected protocol for contactless electronic travel documents. The microcontroller is currently being actively implemented in the Troika and Strelka transport cards.

    View the full list of winners of the Moscow Government Prizes for Young Scientists for 2013–2024 you can on the website Andfollow the link.

    Moscow Government Prize for Young ScientistsHow young scientists can receive the Moscow Government Prize

    In 2020, a council of laureates of the Moscow Government Prize for Young Scientists was created.

    “In addition, we have created a Council, which includes 70 award winners. They act as consultants

    under the Department of Education and Science of Moscow and are engaged in educational work. We involve them in such projects as “Scientists in Schools” and the All-Russian Festival SCIENCE 0,” said the Mayor of Moscow in his telegram channel.

    Source: Sergei Sobyanin’s Telegram channel @Mos_Sobyanin

    This is a permanent advisory body whose main tasks are the popularization of science, the involvement of students in scientific activities, and the improvement of the quality of education.

    Moscow is the center of Russian science

    By decision of Vladimir Putin, the years 2022–2031 have been declared in Russia Decade of Science and Technology.

    Moscow has one of the most powerful intellectual and technological potentials among the world’s megacities. The capital is home to 840 scientific organizations — 20.3 percent of all organizations conducting research and development in Russia. Among them are academic and research institutes, national research universities and leading universities of the country.

    Moscow employs 33.3 percent of the country’s scientific personnel, including 44.9 percent of doctors of science and 38.5 percent of candidates of science. 22.3 percent of undergraduates and 42.2 percent of postgraduates in Russia study in the capital’s universities.

    The Moscow government attaches great importance to the development of science and the stimulation of scientific work. The largest project of the coming years in the field of scientific development is the creation of the innovative scientific and technological center of the Moscow State University (MSU) named after M.V. Lomonosov “Vorobyovy Gory”. In 2023, the Lomonosov cluster, the flagship of the MSU innovation center, opened. Its residents are 76 companies, employing more than two thousand employees.

    High-tech companies create developments in the fields of medicine, information and biotechnology, unmanned systems, robotic systems and other areas. Every year, the cluster residents invest more than two billion rubles in scientific research.

    In 2024, the creation of a new campus of the Bauman Moscow State Technical University was completed. As part of the project, 14 buildings with a total area of about 170 thousand square meters were built and restored. The campus includes a central cluster, a multifunctional scientific and educational building, a multifunctional complex “Quantum Park”, a center for biomedical systems and technologies, research and engineering centers, the Palace of Technologies and other buildings, which have all the necessary conditions for modern educational and research activities.

    Large-scale scientific and innovative projects include the construction of a national space center, the creation of production clusters for photonics, electric vehicle manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as support for the development of artificial intelligence technologies.

    47 Moscow technology parks have become a huge space for the development of applied science and innovation, where more than 2,200 high-tech companies have located their production, and over 74.5 thousand jobs have been created there. About a third of the residents of technology parks work in the field of scientific research and certification.

    Four technology parks were created on the basis of research institutes. The Kurchatov Institute technology park conducts research in the field of nuclear physics and genetics, and develops new methods of storing and transmitting data. The Research Institute of Computer Complexes (NIIVK) technology park creates new communication and navigation systems, as well as technologies for the space industry. The Innopark VNIRO technology park conducts research in the field of fisheries and biotechnology and is engaged in new methods of processing and storing food products. The Moscow State University Science Park technology park works in the field of biology, chemistry, physics and other sciences.

    Putin: Moscow has fully fulfilled its obligations to create the MSU clusterDigital platforms and useful services: which projects reached the final of the fourth stream of the capital’s “Academy of Innovators”

    The Moscow Innovation Cluster and its affiliates have become the link between science, business and the state. digital platform i.moscow. The platform unites everyone who wants to create a new product or service. More than 200 thousand users have already registered on it. 40 thousand companies from Moscow and other regions of the country have become participants and partners of the cluster. Thanks to i.moscow, every 10th company engaged in scientific research and development in the field of natural and technical sciences received support from the city. Their revenue is three times higher than that of other companies in the industry.

    In addition, much attention is paid to creating conditions for self-realization of young scientists, engineers, software developers and other specialists involved in the technology business.

    In 2024, a youth entrepreneurship hub opened in Moscow — the first center in Russia for engaging young talents in technology business. The project is aimed at creating a single point of attraction for Moscow youth involved in entrepreneurship, increasing entrepreneurial literacy and the level of public trust in young entrepreneurs.

    Over the past year, over 32,000 participants have joined the project, opening over a thousand new technology businesses in Moscow. Young entrepreneurs can take advantage of the hub’s programs, including:

    — The Academy of Innovators is an international continuous program for the intensive development of technology projects and startups. Students have access to training sessions with leading industry experts in the market, and they can also interact with personal business mentors. In addition, as part of the program, participants find their first customers among city structures and large businesses, and attract their first investments. Currently, the Academy’s digital ecosystem has over 28 thousand participants from more than 300 cities in Russia and about 40 countries around the world. They have founded over 800 new technology businesses in Moscow and attracted over 380 million rubles in funding in the form of investments and grants;

    — “Digital Transformation Leaders” is a Moscow Mayor’s competition for young IT specialists. This is the world’s largest competition for the development of digital solutions for city structures and large businesses. Over six years, more than 40 thousand people have taken part in the competition (hackathon), creating over two thousand digital solutions for customers. Vladimir Putin instructed to scale up the successful practice of holding a hackathon in the regions of Russia. In 2023, regional stages of the competition were held in the Sakha Republic (Yakutia) and Krasnodar Krai, and Volgograd Oblast and Kamchatka Krai became task setters at the hackathon last year;

    — “Moscow Innovator” is a Moscow Mayor’s competition that promotes the recognition of talented young inventors and scientists. Participants compete for Moscow Mayor’s awards in six priority areas of urban economy and three nominations for different stages of project development. This allows identifying scientific and technological solutions (from promising ideas to finished products). The competition was first held in 2020. Over 11 thousand inventors took part in it during its existence. 174 innovative projects became winners.

    Along with the annual Moscow Government Prize, young scientists and winners of the Moscow Innovator competition can apply for annual grants in the amount of one billion rubles. The funds are intended for scientific teams of the capital’s medical organizations. This is provided for by the city’s ecosystem for supporting scientific research. The operator is the Moscow Center for Innovative Technologies in Healthcare. Over 170 breakthrough studies have been supported in three years. The projects are being implemented, among other things, jointly with leading Russian universities and research organizations.

    Moscow doctors and scientists are developing high-tech methods of diagnostics, treatment, rehabilitation and implementing them in the city’s healthcare system. Some of the solutions have been created and applied in clinical practice for the first time in Russia and the world.

    The Moscow government provides financial support to the winners of the regional competition of the Russian Science Foundation in the amount of 50 million rubles annually. We are talking about scientific projects in priority areas for the city, implemented on the basis of scientific organizations and universities in the capital. Since 2022, more than 530 applications have been submitted for participation in the regional competition. 84 scientific teams have become winners.

    In addition, the city allocates grants to universities and scientific organizations. In 2024, 1.176 billion rubles were allocated for events with students within the framework of pre-professional, specialized and additional education programs, career guidance and education, as well as for the development and popularization of science. In particular, the following was provided:

    — 400 grants for the development of a system of specialized and pre-professional training;

    — 35 grants for the popularization of science, as well as for the support and implementation of additional education programs for students, including at centers for technological support of education.

    In 2024, the XIX All-Russian Science Festival Nauka 0 took place, which took place at 100 city venues. The festival events in a mixed format (online and offline) were attended by more than 18.5 million participants.

    The largest joint project of the Moscow Government and the scientific community is pre-professional classes of city schools (engineering, psychological and pedagogical, medical, IT, media and entrepreneurship), in which about 44 thousand schoolchildren study. Leading universities and scientific organizations of the city act as partners of pre-professional classes. Scientists and practitioners are actively involved in teaching in pre-professional classes. Schoolchildren are also introduced to scientific activities in academic classes. The curricula describe the practical application of scientific knowledge and the results of scientific research.

    Since 2013, within the framework of the Moscow Pre-University project, specialized classes for teaching high school students have been opened at Moscow universities. Fifteen universities are participating in the project: Lomonosov Moscow State University, Russian University of Transport (MIIT), Russian State University for the Humanities, Moscow Engineering Physics Institute, Kosygin Russian State University, Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moscow State Linguistic University, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, Moscow State Pedagogical University, Moscow Aviation Institute, Moscow Finance and Law University, State University of Management, Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation.

    Touch the world of science. How future scientists are trained in academic classes of Moscow schoolsFruit leather, electronic nurse and printer-builder, or What the capital’s innovators have invented

    Under the guidance of university teachers, more than 7.3 thousand schoolchildren engage in practical work in laboratories, conduct educational research projects, and also participate in scientific student associations.

    In 2024, Moscow schools hosted more than 450 lectures by representatives of the scientific community — young scientists and professors of the Russian Academy of Sciences. They were attended by over 12 thousand students. Scientists told schoolchildren about new developments and advanced technologies, and also helped them make an informed choice of an educational trajectory in the field of science.

    Since 2024, the project “In the Center of Science” has been implemented, aimed at creating a community of young scientists in the capital and popularizing science among schoolchildren and teachers. Within its framework, festivals, clubs, trips and laboratory workshops are held, where students can get acquainted with the modern work of scientists and implement their own projects under the guidance of young researchers and teachers of leading universities in Moscow. The project helps teachers open scientific clubs in schools, and allows scientists to exchange experiences and learn about opportunities for professional growth. In 2024, over 10 thousand scientists, students and teachers of Moscow educational organizations took part in its events.

    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/mayor/tkhemes/12346050/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Nykredit Realkredit A/S has received the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority’s approval of Nykredit’s increase of the qualifying shareholding in Spar Nord Bank A/S – Nykredit Realkredit A/S

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR TO ANY JURISDICTION WHERE DOING SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OR REGULATIONS OF SUCH JURISDICTION

    Nykredit Realkredit A/S has received the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority’s approval of Nykredit’s increase of the qualifying shareholding in Spar Nord Bank A/S.

    4 February 2025

    Nykredit Realkredit A/S has received the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority’s approval of Nykredit’s increase of the qualifying shareholding in Spar Nord Bank A/S.

    In accordance with section 4(1) of the Danish Takeover Order1, Nykredit Realkredit A/S (“Nykredit”) announced on 10 December 2024 that Nykredit intended to submit a voluntary public tender offer (the “Offer”) to acquire all shares in Spar Nord Bank A/S (“Spar Nord Bank”), with the exception of Spar Nord Bank’s treasury shares, for a cash price of DKK 210 per share, valuing the aggregated issued share capital of Spar Nord Bank at DKK 24.7 billion.

    On 8 January 2025, Nykredit published the offer document regarding the Offer (the “Offer Document”), as approved by the Danish FSA in accordance with section 11 of the Danish Takeover Order. The Offer Period ends on 19 February 2025 at 23:59 (CET).

    Nykredit has received the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority’s approval in accordance with section 61 of the Danish Financial Business Act to increase Nykredit’s qualifying shareholding in Spar Nord Bank up to 100 per cent of the share capital.

    In addition to the Danish Financial Supervisory Authority’s approval, the Offer is subject to fulfilment of the conditions set out in section 6.6 of the Offer Document, including approval by the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority and achievement of the 67 per cent acceptance limit.

    It is Nykredit’s view that the shareholders of Spar Nord Bank find the Offer attractive. At the time of this announcement, Nykredit holds 31.1 per cent of the shares in Spar Nord Bank, and Nykredit’s information about acceptances received so far indicates that the 67 per cent acceptance limit stated in the Offer has been reached.

    Nykredit aims to delist Spar Nord Bank from Nasdaq Copenhagen A/S and to compulsorily acquire the remaining shares as soon as possible after completion of the Offer.

    Nykredit expects the Offer to be completed during H1/2025.

    The full terms and conditions of the Offer are contained in the Offer Document. The Offer Document is published in the Danish FSA’s OAM database: https://oam.finanstilsynet.dk/ and can also, with certain restrictions, be accessed at https://www.nykredit.com/en-gb/offer-spar-nord/ and https://www.sparnord.com/investor-relations/takeover-offer.   

    About Spar Nord Bank

    Spar Nord Bank was founded in 1824 and is now a nationwide bank with 58 branches. Spar Nord Bank offers all types of financial services, consultancy and products, focusing its business on retail customers and primarily small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the local areas in which the bank is represented. The bank is also focused on leasing operations and large corporate customers, which are both business areas handled by the head offices.

    Spar Nord Bank has historically been rooted in northern Jutland and continues to be a market leader in this region. However, in the period from 2002 to 2024, Spar Nord Bank has established and acquired branches outside northern Jutland. Over the course of the years, the bank has adjusted its branch network in an ongoing process and now has a nationwide distribution network comprising 58 branches. These 58 branches are distributed on 32 banking areas, each of which is headed by a manager reporting directly to the bank’s executive board.

    The Spar Nord Bank Group consists of two earnings entities: Spar Nord Bank’s branches and the Trading Division. As an entity, the Trading Division serves customers from Spar Nord Bank’s branches as well as large retail customers and institutional clients in the field of equities, bonds, fixed income and forex products, asset management and international transactions. Finally, under the concept Sparxpres, the bank offers consumer loans to personal customers through Sparxpres’ platform as well as debt consolidation loans and consumer financing via retail stores and gift voucher solutions via shopping centres and city associations.

    About Nykredit

    Nykredit Realkredit A/S (“Nykredit”) is a public limited company incorporated under the laws of Denmark, company reg. (CVR) no. 12 71 92 80, having its registered office at Sundkrogsgade 25, 2150 Nordhavn, Denmark. Nykredit is a mortgage credit institution and, together with its wholly-owned subsidiary Totalkredit A/S, is a market leader of the Danish mortgage credit market with a market share of some 45.2 per cent. Nykredit offers mortgage financing for private individuals and businesses.

    Nykredit is part of the Nykredit Group, which historically dates back to 1851. In addition to carrying on mortgage credit business, the Group carries on banking business through Nykredit Bank – including banking and wealth management operations – and has a total of around 4,000 employees in Denmark.

    Nykredit is owned by an association of the Nykredit Group’s customers, Forenet Kredit. Forenet Kredit owns close to 80 per cent of Nykredit’s shares. Other major shareholders are five Danish pension funds: Akademikernes Pension AP Pension, PensionDanmark, PFA and PKA.

    Nykredit is known for the advantages offered through the association. Forenet Kredit makes capital contributions to the Nykredit Group when times are good, and Nykredit has decided to pass these on to its customers.

    Since, 2017, Forenet Kredit has paid over DKK 8 billion in capital contributions to the Nykredit Group, and in the period to 2027, Forenet Kredit has provided a further DKK 7 billion.

    Questions and further information

    Any questions concerning the Offer may be directed to:

    Nykredit Bank A/S

    Company reg. (CVR) no.: 10 51 96 08

    Sundkrogsgade 25

    2150 Nordhavn

    Denmark

    Telephone: +45 7010 9000

    and

    Carnegie Investment Bank

    Filial af Carnegie Investment Bank AB (publ), Sverige

    Company reg. (CVR) no. 35 52 12 67

    Overgaden Neden Vandet 9B

    1414 Copenhagen K

    Denmark

    E-mail: annette.hansen@carnegie.dk

    For further information about the Offer, please see: https://www.nykredit.com/en-gb/offer-spar-nord/.

    This announcement and the Offer Document are not directed at shareholders of Spar Nord Bank A/S whose participation in the Offer would require the issuance of an offer document, registration or activities other than what is required under Danish law (and, in the case of shareholders in the United States of America, Section 14(e) of, and applicable provisions of Regulation 14E promulgated under, the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended). The Offer is not made and will not be made, directly or indirectly, to shareholders resident in any jurisdiction in which the submission of the Offer or acceptance thereof would be in contravention of the laws of such jurisdiction. Any person coming into possession of this announcement, the Offer Document or any other document containing a reference to the Offer is expected and assumed to independently obtain all necessary information about any applicable restrictions and to observe these.

    This announcement does not constitute an offer or an invitation to purchase securities or a solicitation of an offer to purchase securities in accordance with the Offer or otherwise. The Offer will be submitted only in the form of the Offer Document approved by the FSA, which sets out the full terms and conditions of the Offer, including information on how to accept the Offer. The shareholders of Spar Nord Bank are advised to read the Offer Document and any related documents as they contain important information.

    Restricted jurisdictions

    The Offer is not made, and acceptance of the Offer to tender Spar Nord Bank Shares is not accepted, neither directly nor indirectly, in or from any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance of the Offer would not be in compliance with the laws of such jurisdiction or would require any registration, approval or any other measures with any regulatory authority not expressly contemplated by the Offer Document (the “Restricted Jurisdictions”). Neither the United States nor the United Kingdom is a Restricted Jurisdiction.

    Restricted Jurisdictions include, but are not limited to: Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa.

    Persons obtaining documents or information relating to the Offer (including custodians, account holding institutions, nominees, trustees, representatives, fiduciaries or other intermediaries) should not distribute, communicate, transfer or send these in or into a Restricted Jurisdiction or use mail or any other means of communication in or into a Restricted Jurisdiction in connection with the Offer. Persons (including, but not limited to, custodians, custodian banks, nominees, trustees, representatives, fiduciaries or other intermediaries) intending to communicate this Offer Document or any related document to any jurisdiction outside Denmark or the United States should inform themselves about these restrictions before taking any action. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the Laws of such jurisdiction, including securities Laws. It is the responsibility of all Persons obtaining this Offer Document, an acceptance form and/or other documents relating to the Offer Document or to the Offer, or into whose possession such documents otherwise come, to inform themselves about and observe all such restrictions.

    Nykredit is not responsible for ensuring that the distribution, dissemination or communication of this Offer Document outside Denmark, the United States and the United Kingdom is consistent with applicable Law in any jurisdiction other than Denmark, the United States and the United Kingdom.

    Important Information for Shareholders in the United States

    The Offer concerns the shares in Spar Nord Bank, a public limited liability company incorporated and admitted to trading on a regulated market in Denmark, and is subject to the disclosure and procedural requirements of Danish law, including the Danish capital markets act and the Danish takeover order.

    The Offer is being made to shareholders in Spar Nord Bank in the United States in compliance with the applicable US tender offer rules under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the “U.S. Exchange Act”), including Regulation 14E promulgated thereunder, subject to the relief available for a “Tier II” tender offer, and otherwise in accordance with the requirements of Danish law and practice

    Accordingly, US Spar Nord Bank shareholders should be aware that this announcement and any other documents regarding the Offer have been prepared in accordance with, and will be subject to, the disclosure and other procedural requirements, including with respect to withdrawal rights, the Offer timetable, settlement procedures and timing of payments of Danish law and practice, which may differ materially from those applicable under US domestic tender offer law and practice. In addition, the financial information contained in this announcement or the Offer Document has not been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or derived therefrom, and may therefore differ from, or not be comparable with, financial information of US companies.

    In accordance with the laws of, and practice in, Denmark and to the extent permitted by applicable law, including Rule 14e-5 under the U.S. Exchange Act, Nykredit, Nykredit’s affiliates or any nominees or brokers of the foregoing (acting as agents, or in a similar capacity, for Nykredit or any of its affiliates, as applicable) may from time to time, and other than pursuant to the Offer, directly or indirectly, purchase, or arrange to purchase, outside of the United States, shares in Spar Nord Bank or any securities that are convertible into, exchangeable for or exercisable for such shares in Spar Nord Bank before or during the period in which the Offer remains open for acceptance. These purchases may occur either in the open market at prevailing prices or in private transactions at negotiated prices. Any information about such purchases will be announced via Nasdaq Copenhagen and relevant electronic media if, and to the extent, such announcement is required under applicable law. To the extent information about such purchases or arrangements to purchase is made public in Denmark, such information will be disclosed by means of a press release or other means reasonably calculated to inform US shareholders of Spar Nord Bank of such information.

    In addition, subject to the applicable laws of Denmark and US securities laws, including Rule 14e-5 under the U.S. Exchange Act, the financial advisers to Nykredit or their respective affiliates may also engage in ordinary course trading activities in securities of Spar Nord Bank, which may include purchases or arrangements to purchase such securities.

    It may not be possible for US shareholders to effect service of process within the United States upon Spar Nord Bank, Nykredit or any of their respective affiliates, or their respective officers or directors, some or all of which may reside outside the United States, or to enforce against any of them judgments of the United States courts predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the federal securities laws of the United States or other US law. It may not be possible to bring an action against Nykredit, Spar Nord Bank and/or their respective officers or directors (as applicable) in a non-US court for violations of US laws. Further, it may not be possible to compel Nykredit and Spar Nord Bank or their respective affiliates, as applicable, to subject themselves to the judgment of a US court. In addition, it may be difficult to enforce in Denmark original actions, or actions for the enforcement of judgments of US courts, based on the civil liability provisions of the US federal securities laws.

    The Offer, if completed, may have consequences under US federal income tax and under applicable US state and local, as well as non-US, tax laws. Each shareholder of Spar Nord Bank is urged to consult its independent professional adviser immediately regarding the tax consequences of the Offer.

    NEITHER THE U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY SECURITIES COMMISSION OR OTHER REGULATORY AUTHORITY IN ANY STATE OF THE U.S. HAS APPROVED OR DECLINED TO APPROVE THE OFFER OR THIS ANNOUNCEMENT, PASSED UPON THE FAIRNESS OR MERITS OF THE OFFER OR PROVIDED AN OPINION AS TO THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT OR ANY OFFER DOCUMENT. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENCE IN THE UNITED STATES.

    1 Executive Order no. 636 of 15 May 2020

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Volodymyr Nosov: WhiteBIT Group Blockchain Ecosystem Grew to 35+ Million Users

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VILNIUS, Lithuania, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In 2024, the WhiteBIT crypto exchange achieved significant milestones, strengthening its position as a leading player in the crypto industry. The platform became the largest crypto exchange in Europe by traffic, with its annual trading volume reaching a record $2.7 trillion. Additionally, WhiteBIT was the first in the world to receive the highest-level certification under the Cryptocurrency Security Standard (CCSS). Volodymyr Nosov, founder and CEO of WhiteBIT Group, discussed these achievements and prospects in an interview with Finbold.

    According to Nosov, in the fall of 2024, the exchange attracted 33+ million users, the highest figure among European crypto exchanges and the second globally. “This demonstrates customer trust in our platform, as well as recognition of our technological capabilities and security,” said Volodymyr Nosov. He emphasized that security remains a key priority for WhiteBIT. “We became the first crypto exchange in the world to achieve the highest level of CCSS certification. This unique security standard covers all aspects of the exchange’s operations, from protecting user assets to internal procedures and protocols. Trust in a cryptocurrency platform starts with the reliable protection of user data and assets,” stated Nosov. One of the highlights of 2024 was the rapid growth in the value of the WBT Coin, which rose from $10 to $28 within several months. “This growth was organic, driven by market activation and interest from business clients who view WBT as a promising investment,” explained Volodymyr Nosov. Last year, WhiteBIT Group also significantly enhanced its functionality for institutional clients, whose numbers grew to 1,300. “We added 60 new assets to our collateral options, bringing the total to over 80. These include popular coins such as PEPE, SUI, TON, and AAVE, which can also be deposited with interest,” noted Nosov. Regarding plans for 2025, the company is preparing for active expansion in Italy, Croatia, and Kazakhstan, having already secured VASP authorization in these regions. “We are forming partnerships, establishing local infrastructure, and planning to actively develop product offerings in these countries,” Nosov concluded.

    In just a few years, WhiteBIT Group has grown from a crypto exchange into a large-scale ecosystem that integrates advanced solutions in cryptocurrency and blockchain technologies. Today, WhiteBIT Group serves over 35 million users, offering a wide range of products: the centralized WhiteBIT exchange, Whitepay crypto-acquiring, WhiteSwap decentralized exchange, White.market gaming marketplace, gaming projects like Pocket Rocket, WhiteEx card and the Whitechain blockchain with its native WhiteBIT Coin (WBT). The company also develops media projects such as the G.N. News portal and ByHi, the world’s first entertainment and educational YouTube show about cryptocurrency. This breadth of offerings positions WhiteBIT as a true hub of innovation in the crypto sphere.

    About WhiteBIT  
    WhiteBIT is one of the largest European centralized crypto exchanges founded in 2018. The exchange offers 600+ trading pairs, 300+ digital assets, and 9 state currencies. The company is an official partner of FC Barcelona, FC Trabzonspor, ESL Faceit, and VISA. The goal of WhiteBIT is the mass implementation of blockchain technology worldwide.

    Contact

    WhiteBIT
    pr@whitebit.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ddf8dcaa-a9a6-4d05-ad18-aa389f91308e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: The First Step to a Quantum-Safe Future With Samsung Knox

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung Electronics has been working on a new form of cutting-edge mobile security, starting from the Galaxy S25 series. Known as post-quantum cryptography (PQC), the technology uses advanced algorithms to future-proof against the potential risks that quantum computing poses to traditional encryption methods.
     
    Samsung Newsroom explored the future of digital security to understand why Samsung is already taking these protective measures.
     

    Eyes on the Horizon
    Quantum computing represents one of the most transformative fields in modern technology, offering unparalleled problem-solving capabilities. By harnessing the power of quantum computers, complex challenges can be solved exponentially faster than with traditional computing — unlocking breakthroughs in numerous industries from medicine to logistics. For instance, quantum algorithms could streamline supply chains or improve punctuality in transportation systems.
     
    However, this immense computational power comes with risks. Because quantum algorithms have the potential to break certain encryption methods used to safeguard today’s data, addressing this vulnerability is critical to ensuring data protection in the future.
     
    While quantum computing is not expected to reach full-scale implementation immediately, early action is essential to protection against “harvest now, decrypt later” threats — where attackers collect data now to decrypt it with future quantum capabilities.
     

    Redefining Standards of Defense
    Samsung has been working on PQC to ensure encrypted data remains secure in a quantum-powered world.
     
    The company is closely following standards recommended by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)1 to defend against quantum computer attacks. For example, the ML-KEM (Module-Lattice-Based Key-Encapsulation Mechanism) algorithm employs lattice-based mathematics — complex multidimensional structures that make encryption keys exceptionally difficult to solve, even for quantum computers. Ideal for secure communication between connected devices, the algorithm provides robust security while optimizing performance and minimizing data exchange.

     
    NIST’s PQC standards secure a wide range of electronic information from confidential emails to e-commerce transactions. For Samsung, they are a way to future-proof cloud data against quantum threats.
     
     
    Samsung’s Strategic Approach
    Committed to protecting user data as technologies such as quantum computing evolve, Samsung is introducing Post-Quantum Enhanced Data Protection (EDP) to Samsung Knox Matrix — the company’s industry-leading protection for connected device ecosystems.
     
    Samsung’s EDP feature currently provides end-to-end encryption for user data when backing up, restoring or syncing personal information through Samsung Cloud.
     
    With the integration of PQC technology to Knox Matrix, another layer of protection has been added — setting a new standard for cloud security on mobile devices. Knox Matrix’s cross-device compatibility will ensure seamless quantum-safe protection for Samsung Cloud backups and synced data across smartphones, TVs and digital appliances.
     
    This feature is available on the new Galaxy S25 series as the first device operating on One UI 7, giving Galaxy users enhanced protection against quantum computing threats.
     

    Samsung Leading a Secure Future
    In an ever-evolving digital landscape, preparing for potential threats is not an option but a necessity. As quantum computing looms on the horizon, the need to future-proof data protection has become increasingly clear.
     
    The Galaxy S25 series is the first in the industry to support PQC-based cloud data protection, raising the bar for data protection in the upcoming quantum computing era. Moving forward, Samsung will continue to pioneer the mobile security industry and create a future where users can enjoy a connected world with peace of mind.
     
     
    1 NIST has finalized its principal set of encryption algorithms designed to withstand cyberattacks from quantum computers. Built for the future, these new standards are specified in the first completed standards from NIST’s Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) standardization project.
     
     
    Bibliography
    Announcing Issuance of Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) FIPS 203, Module-Lattice-Based Key-Encapsulation Mechanism Standard, FIPS 204, Module-Lattice-Based Digital Signature Standard, and FIPS 205, Stateless Hash-Based Digital Signature Standard. (2024, August 14). Federal Register.
    Retrieved from: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/08/14/2024-17956/announcing-issuance-of-federal-information-processing-standards-fips-fips-203-module-lattice-basedNational Institute of Standards and Technology. (2025, January 2). NIST.
    Retrieved from: https://www.nist.gov/
    NIST Releases First 3 Finalized Post-Quantum Encryption Standards. (2024). NIST.
    Retrieved from: https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2024/08/nist-releases-first-3-finalized-post-quantum-encryption-standards

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Czech Republic: 2024 Article IV Consultation-Press Release; and Staff Report

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    Summary

    The Czech Republic is evolving from a heavily manufacturing-based, export-oriented hub to a more mature and diversified economy. Non-auto manufacturing, energy, and construction, once important Czech engines of growth, have run out of steam, hampered by decelerating productivity growth, higher energy costs, and sluggish demand. The auto industry has shown resilience so far, but the required transition to electric vehicles and exposure to foreign competition are set to exert significant pressures in the coming years. Higher value-added sectors, including ICT services, are constrained by lack of skilled labor and limited access to capital, undermining their ability to compete in global markets.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Urgent action needed to reinforce breast cancer control measures in Africa: World Health Organization (WHO) report

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

    BRAZZAVILLE, Congo (Republic of the), February 4, 2025/APO Group/ —

    An estimated 135 000 women could lose their lives to breast cancer by 2040 in sub-Saharan Africa if urgent actions are not taken to reverse the trends, a new World Health Organization (WHO) report finds.

    The WHO study assessed breast cancer control capacities in 42 of the 47 countries within the African region, focusing on six critical areas: leadership, governance and financing, health workforce, health information systems, and service delivery. The assessment revealed significant gaps and disparities in breast cancer control across the region highlighting critical shortage of healthcare workers essential for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, as well as limited access to specialized cancer centres, hinderingprogress toward the Global Breast Cancer Initiative (GBCI) goals.

    The analysis finds that only 5 out of 47 countries in the region have established organized breast cancer screening programmes with many countries still relying on opportunistic screening programmes. Access to pathology in Africa remains limited, with only two countries meeting the standard of one lab per 100 000 people.

    Breast cancer-related deaths in the region are largely driven by late diagnosis and insufficient prevention and care measures. In 2022 alone, 38 out of every 100 000 women were diagnosis with breast cancer and 19 per 100 000 tragically lost their lives to the disease.

    To enhance breast cancer care in the region, the WHO report underscores the urgent need for investment in leadership, governance and financing as fundamental steps. Strengthening these elements will pave the way for advancements in strategic planning, healthcare infrastructure, workforce training and, most importantly, equitable access to essential services.

    The report calls countries to develop and adequately fund comprehensive National Cancer Control Plans, providing a strategic framework for coordinated national efforts to combat breast cancer effectively.

    To address the severe shortage of cancer care healthcare professionals, WHO advocates for the expanding and enhancement of oncology training programs. Building a well-equipped workforce is essential to ensuring high-quality cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment services. Beyond workforce development, the report highlights the urgent need for organized breast cancer screening and early diagnosis programmes in countries. Ensuring these programs are accessible to all women in the region is crucial, as early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.  

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Awards recognise Derby’s champions of dignity in care

    Source: City of Derby

    Organisations and individuals that work to promote and protect dignity in Derby have been recognised at a special event. The annual Derby Dignity Tea was held by Derby Safeguarding Adults Board as part of Dignity Action Month.

    Taking place during February, Dignity Action Month promotes upholding dignity, respect, kindness, and compassion in care services. It’s a chance to highlight positive work and create memorable experiences for those receiving care, ensuring they are treated as individuals with choice, control, and purpose.

    The Dignity Tea, held at the Council House, saw a range of professionals recognised for always upholding the dignity of the people they work with. Certificates of recognition were presented by Richard Proctor, Independent Chair of Derby Safeguarding Adults Board, and the Mayor of Derby, Councillor Ged Potter.

    Dignity Awards went to Aspen House Care Home in Littleover, New Lodge Nursing Home in Mickleover and One to One Support Services, which provides specialised in-home care. They all demonstrated how they follow the ‘10 Dignity Dos’ – the values and actions of high-quality services that respect people’s dignity.

    Handyside Court in Alvaston received a Community Respect Award, which recognises community and voluntary sector organisations that demonstrate their ongoing commitment to delivering dignified services.

    Ruth Gipson Sanderson, Housing Manager at Handyside Court, said:

    It means a lot of us to receive this award. We work really hard to make sure Handyside Court is our residents’ home – they’re at the centre of everything we do.

    Handyside Court residents Freda Fletcher, aged 85, and Dennis Shillcock, aged 96, accompanied staff to the event. Freda said:

    My family always say they don’t worry about me because they know I’m safe and happy, and if I need help with anything, the staff are there. They do such a wonderful job.

    This year, for the first time, Dignity Champion Awards were presented to individuals for their efforts to actively promote dignity. Awards went to Tracy Potter from the Alzheimer’s Society, Anna Tyson from Citizens’ Advice, Julie Tomlinson from DHU Healthcare, Jo Collins from Derventio Housing and Lisa Wilson from Derby City Council. Despite their different roles, all the winners demonstrated a person-centred approach in their work, ensuring the voices of patients, residents and families are heard.

    A special award was given to Michelle Payne following her retirement from her role as manager of the Council’s short break respite facility. The award recognised Michelle’s tireless work with service users, families and other professionals to making dignity a priority and her contribution to the work of DSAB.

    Councillor Alison Martin, Derby City Council Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Care, said:

    I’m truly inspired by the work of everyone we’ve recognised today. Our award winners are showing us what it means to treat others with kindness and put them at the heart of decision-making. We’re all caring for others in some way, and hopefully receiving care from others too. Dignity is something we can all contribute to. 

    Every single one of us can play a part in making Derby a more compassionate place. We can all make small changes that can make a big difference.

    Derby Safeguarding Adult Board (DSAB) is a multi-agency partnership committed to working together to ensure that adults who have care and support needs in Derby are supported to safeguard themselves from abuse and can report any concerns they may have.

    Together with partner agencies, DSAB would like to invite everyone in Derby to think about dignity and treating each other with respect in all areas of our lives, not only in care. One way to get involved is to become a Dignity Champion. To find our more, visit the Dignity in Care website.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: WFP and Italy partner with the Government of Iraq to boost climate resilience and agricultural livelihoods

    Source: World Food Programme

    BAGHDAD – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) welcomes a generous contribution from the Italian Government, through the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), to help Iraqi communities strengthen their resilience to climate change while creating economic opportunities, especially for women.

    This initiative, in collaboration with Iraq’s Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Environment, will introduce climate-smart farming techniques, irrigation improvements, and financial support to help farmers and entrepreneurs adapt to climate change.  Rising temperatures, worsening water scarcity, and land degradation have put Iraq’s agricultural sector under increasing strain. Asmuch as 40 percent of arable land in the south is feared to have been lost to desertification, with negative consequences for livelihoods and food security. 

    “Iraq’s farmers and rural communities are on the frontlines of the fight against climate change, and WFP is committed to working with the Government of Iraq to support local governments and communities in developing scalable and sustainable climate solutions,” said WFP Representative and Country Director in Iraq Mageed Yahia. “Through this initiative, we are ensuring that smallholder farmers and vulnerable groups have access to better water management, resilient crops, and climate financing. These efforts, alongside early warning systems and disaster risk reduction measures, will help communities withstand environmental shocks and secure long-term food security.” 

    The project will be implemented in Ninewa, Salah al-Din, Thi-Qar, and Basra; facing the harshest effects of climate change and will benefit vulnerable women-led households, crisis-affected people, and smallholder farmers. WFP will introduce efficient irrigation systems, helping farmers cut water use by 40% while boosting productivity as well as training sessions to help farmers transition to drought-resistant crops and better land management practices, ensuring long-term food security and soil preservation. 

    The initiative will also empower women, youth, and persons with disabilities by integrating them into climate adaptation programs, providing technical training, and facilitating access to financial resources to support entrepreneurial ventures. 

    WFP will partner with the Government of Iraq, academia and a number of Italian experts to provide technical solutions, equipment and expertise, to enable more efficient management of ecosystem resources. This can be done through community water ponds, nurseries and afforestation and revegetation initiatives. These approaches contribute to improved agricultural productivity and, subsequently, strengthened food systems. 

    “Climate change poses significant risks to Iraq’s agricultural sector, threatening livelihoods and food security all over the Country, and especially for women-led households” highlighted H.E. Niccolò Fontana, Ambassador of Italy to Iraq. “Various regions across Iraq face the harsh realities of water scarcity, land degradation, and rising temperatures. This project directly addresses these challenges by promoting green skills and expanding the private sector workforce, enhancing agricultural value chains, supporting women’s entrepreneurship in climate-resilient sectors. Italy is proud to commit to fostering a green transition that will benefit not only the environment, but also the population, empowering their communities and nurturing sustainability.” 

    WFP will continue working with the Government of Iraq to support communities affected by climate change by aligning its project implementation with the Government’s priorities, particularly focusing on the addressing unemployment, improving water management in irrigation to drive up production and empower women to seek and maintain sustainable livelihoods.  

     

    #                 #                   # 

     

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

     

     

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media 

     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Feb 03, 2025 Transit Equity Day: Safety on Public Transportation is a Civil Right

    Source: US Amalgamated Transit Union

    Silver Spring, MD – Amalgamated Transit Union International President John Costa released the following statement to mark Transit Equity Day and Rosa Parks’ birthday.

    “Public transportation is not just a service. It is a fundamental right that should be accessible, safe, and equitable for all. The legacy of Rosa Parks, who courageously stood up against racial injustice by refusing to surrender her seat on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama, resonates today more than ever. Her act of defiance in 1955 helped ignite a movement for civil rights that sought to ensure all people could live with dignity, free from discrimination and violence. Rosa Parks, along with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., believed that every person has the right to a good life—one that includes not only access to public transportation but also to safe housing, quality education, the right to vote, fair employment, and freedom from harm. These ideals form the foundation of the ongoing fight for social justice.

    “Today, as we reflect on this vision of equality, we mark Transit Equity Day by focusing on an urgent issue that is swept under the rug too often: the safety of transit workers and passengers alike. Transportation is integral to our daily lives, yet it should never come at the cost of someone’s well-being or safety. Unfortunately, transit workers across the globe continue to face violence while simply doing their jobs. The ATU family has recently experienced profound loss due to violence that tragically ended the lives of two of our brothers on the job.

    “In Seattle, Washington, we lost Brother Shawn Yim, who was tragically stabbed to death while working his shift. Just weeks later, in Atlanta, Georgia, our Brother Leroy Ramos was senselessly shot and killed over a $2.50 fare. These acts of violence are not isolated incidents—they reflect a systemic issue of safety within the transit industry, one that puts both operators and passengers at risk.

    “This Transit Equity Day, we call for action to address the safety of those who ensure our communities are connected. Transit workers, like every worker, deserve to go home safely at the end of their shifts. The right to safe and equitable public transportation should extend beyond just access. It must also ensure that those who provide the service are protected from harm. The struggle for transit equity is incomplete if those who serve us are not treated with the respect and safety they deserve.

    “We honor the memory of Brother Yim and Brother Ramos and stand in solidarity with all workers who risk their lives to keep our transit systems running. We must work together to make transit safe for everyone and guarantee that public transportation remains a civil right for all.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear Energy Establishes Specialized Facility in New York State to Demonstrate Key Components of its Nuclear Microreactor Designs

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, N.Y., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, today announced that it is establishing a purpose-built demonstration facility in Westchester County, New York to be used to demonstrate the operation and viability of several non-nuclear parts and components of NANO Nuclear’s four nuclear microreactors in development: ZEUSTM, ODINTM, LOKI MMRTM and KRONOS MMRTM.

    Figure 1 – Image of Exterior of NANO Nuclear’s New Advanced Demonstration Facility for Key Components of its Nuclear Microreactor Designs in Westchester County, NY

    The facility will also support ongoing work on NANO Nuclear’s SBIR Phase III project for its Annular Linear Induction Pump (ALIP) technology. ALIP addresses challenges in high-efficiency thermal fluid management for clean energy and high-temperature industrial processes and is based on electromagnetic (rather than mecha1nical) pumps. A key enabling technology for NANO Nuclear’s suite of nuclear microreactors, ALIP is being further developed under the SBIR Phase III project to accelerate the transition from research to practical products and services.

    “This advanced facility, will play a major role in our development efforts, providing our technical teams with access to key physical data. We plan to announce timely updates throughout the year on certain key research and developmental milestones,” said Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman of NANO Nuclear Energy. “The facility will also be used to advance commercialization efforts surrounding our ALIP technology, which could have a significant impact on the wider nuclear energy sector in addition to being a key enabling technology for our own, proprietary suite of microreactor technologies.”

    Figure 2 – Image of NANO Nuclear’s Management and Technical teams at the Company’s New Advanced Demonstration Facility for Key Components of its Nuclear Microreactor Designs in Westchester County, New York

    The expansion of NANO Nuclear’s operations in New York State follows its December 17, 2024 response to a New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) Request for Information (RFI) concerning the development of advanced nuclear energy technologies in New York State. The demonstration facility will enhance NANO Nuclear’s ability to support the New York’s pursuit of cost-effective alternatives to heavily polluting carbon-based energy sources and intermittent options such as wind or solar. The facility is in the final stages of retrofitting and is expected to be operational this spring.

    “We are excited to announce this additional significant milestone to our journey as a company and the advancement of our technology,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer and Head of Reactor Development of NANO Nuclear Energy. “Once operational, the facility will provide our technical teams with invaluable opportunities to gather physical data and optimize designs to integrate non-nuclear components effectively. This is a critical step in accelerating our reactor development and ensuring the seamless integration of all components in the final product.”

    Onsite attendance at NANO Nuclear Energy’s specialized facility in New York State:

    • Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman
    • James Walker, CEO & Head of Reactor Development
    • Professor Ian Farnan, Lead of Nuclear Fuel Cycle, Radiation and Materials
    • Professor Massimiliano Fratoni, Senior Director and Head of Reactor Design
    • Professor Peter Hosemann, Head of Nuclear Reactor Design and Materials
    • Carlos O. Maidana, Ph.D., MBA, Head of Thermal Hydraulics and Space Program
    • John G. Vonglis, Executive Director of Global Government Affairs
    • Michael Norato, Ph.D., Director of Nuclear Facilities and Infrastructure
    • David Tiktinsky, Head of Nuclear Regulatory Licensing
    • Eric R. Oesterle, Head of Microreactor Regulatory Licensing
    • Oscar Leandro, MBA, VP of International Business
    • Ross Mitchell, Nuclear Engineer and Project Manager
    • Michael Lim, Manufacturing and Operations Manager
    • Josey Anna Widhalm, Office Director & Marketing Manager

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE:

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

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

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

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Data443 Acquires Breezemail.ai, Accelerating AI-Powered Email Privacy Capabilities for Microsoft Office and Google GMail

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Data443 Risk Mitigation, Inc. (OTCPK: ATDS) (“Data443” or the “Company”), a data security and privacy software company for “All Things Data Security,” today announced the acquisition of intellectual property and operational assets of Breezemail.ai, an innovative provider of AI-powered email management technology. This acquisition marks a significant expansion of Data443’s capabilities in intelligent threat detection and leverages its leadership at the forefront of the rapidly evolving AI security landscape.

    Breezemail.ai leverages proprietary implementations of machine-learning algorithms that manage end-user mailboxes for both Microsoft Office365 and Google GSuite GMail. This capability is the industry’s first implementation, giving end users direct management of their inboxes from outside the service provider – creating private implementations of email organization, detection, and visibility for important information. Managing this privately ensures that the mail provider does not have access to the rulesets that the end user designs, ensuring ongoing privacy of private rulesets for the customer. Email providers do not see the rules that the end user creates.

    “AI privacy continues to be a major issue the industry continues to tackle. End users should be able to keep their mailbox organization rules private, change them at will, and have a simple interface for managing this. Breezemail.ai enables this capability in a few mouse clicks and gives the user ultimate control. Even more importantly, the users’ private rules and decisions are not shared with any service provider,” stated Jason Remillard, CEO and Founder of Data443.

    Integrating this technology into Data443’s award-winning product suites increases the adoption of these capabilities in other segments, such as healthcare, national defense, and government organizations.

    The acquisition coincides with significant market validation of AI-powered email security solutions, evidenced by Abnormal Security’s anticipated IPO and growing enterprise demand for intelligent security platforms. This strategic move positions Data443 to capture an expanding share of the email security market, which is experiencing rapid growth driven by the increasing sophistication of cyber threats.

    The integration of Breezemail.ai’s technology will deliver immediate benefits to Data443’s customers:

    • Seamless integration with existing Cyren by Data443 deployments
    • Enhanced protection against sophisticated social engineering attacks
    • Real-time threat intelligence sharing across the customer base
    • A rich implementation for selective decision-making driven by the end-user without IT assistance
    • Complete privacy on how the users’ internal mindset works with data

    “Combining Breezemail.ai’s innovative AI implementations with our existing security capabilities, we’re building on our compounding advantages with our Cyren by Data443 email and threat intelligence product stack,” added Remillard. “This integration will provide our customers with unprecedented AI privacy enablement protection while significantly simplifying management tools for end users.”

    “This acquisition transcends mere technological expansion, marking a pivotal shift in email privacy protection. As artificial intelligence continues to automate more aspects of our digital lives, safeguarding user privacy has emerged as one of the industry’s most pressing challenges. This enables millions of users to self-manage their data with complete privacy,” concluded Mr.Remillard.

    About Data443 Risk Mitigation, Inc.

    Data443 Risk Mitigation, Inc. (OTCPK: ATDS) provides software and services to enable secure data across devices and databases, at rest and in flight/in transit, locally, on a network or in the cloud. We are All Things Data Security™. With over 10,000 customers in over 100 countries, Data443 provides a modern approach to data governance and security by identifying and protecting all sensitive data regardless of location, platform or format. Data443’s framework helps customers prioritize risk, identify security gaps and implement effective data protection and privacy management strategies.

    Forward-Looking Statements 

    This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by use of terms such as “expect,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “may,” “could,” “will,” “should,” “plan,” “project,” “intend,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “pursuant,” “target,” “continue” or the negative of these words or other comparable terminology. Statements in this press release that are not historical statements, including statements regarding Data443’s plans, objectives, future opportunities for Data443’s services, future financial performance and operating results, and any other statements regarding Data443’s future expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, financial conditions, assumptions or future events or performance, or regarding the anticipated consummation of any transaction, are forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous risks, uncertainties and assumptions, many of which are difficult to predict or are beyond Data443’s control. These risks, uncertainties and assumptions could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied by the statements. They may relate to the outcome of litigation, settlements and investigations; actions by third parties, including governmental agencies; volatility in customer spending; global economic conditions; inability to hire and retain personnel; loss of, or reduction in business with, key customers; difficulty with growth and integration of acquisitions; product liability; cybersecurity risk; anti-takeover measures in the Company’s charter documents; and the uncertainties created by global health issues, such as the ongoing outbreak of COVID, and political unrest and conflict, such as the invasion of Ukraine by Russia. These and other important risk factors are described more fully in the Company’s reports and other documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“the SEC”), including in Part I, Item 1A of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 17, 2024, and subsequent filings with the SEC. Undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements in this press release, which are based on information available to the Company on the date hereof. Except as otherwise required by applicable law, Data443 undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise.

    “DATA443” is a registered trademark of Data443 Risk Mitigation, Inc.

    All product names, trademarks and registered trademarks are property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this press release are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks and brands does not imply endorsement.

    For further information:

    Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/data443-risk-mitigation-inc/
    Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZXDhJcx-XgMBhvE9aFHRdA
    Sign up for our Investor Newsletter: https://data443.com/investor-email-alerts/
    To learn more about Data443, please watch the Company’s video introduction on its YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/1Fp93jOxFSg

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Matthew Abenante
    ir@data443.com
    919.858.6542

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: NEXE Innovations to Present at the Small Cap Growth Virtual Investor Conference on February 6th

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO and NEW YORK, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NEXE Innovations Inc. (“NEXE” or the “Company”) (TSX.V: NEXE) (Frankfurt: NX5) (OTC: NEXNF), a compostable and innovative materials company, today announced that Kam Mangat, Vice President, Investor Relations & Corporate Strategy, will present live at the Small Cap Growth Virtual Investor Conference hosted by VirtualInvestorConferences.com, on February 6th, 2025.

    DATE: February 6th
    TIME: 1:30 pm ET
    LINK: https://bit.ly/40HJNUC
    Available for 1:1 meetings

    This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the Company questions in real-time. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event.

    It is recommended that investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates.  

    Learn more about the event at www.virtualinvestorconferences.com.

    Why NEXE?

    Targeting the multi-billion dollar single-use plastics industry through its:

    • Vertically integrated facility and economies of scale: NEXE utilizes a vertically integrated manufacturing process, including compounding its proprietary resin, extrusion, and injection molding. We believe this end-to-end manufacturing process increases supply chain efficiency, reduces its carbon footprint, and safeguards its intellectual property.
    • Comprehensive IP Portfolio: We developed a pod structure for the compostable coffee pod designed to accommodate higher volumes and still provide a high-quality brewing experience. NEXE accomplished this feat through its innovative technology that increases the filter area (U.S. Pat. No. 12,004,678 issued on June 11, 2024) allowing for more volume per pod and increased coffee extraction, which in our view improves taste and richness. The Company believes that, given these key competitive features, it is well-positioned to offer a compelling “pour-over” coffee experience that appeals to premium coffee brands seeking a sustainable solution. For more details on our IP: NEXE Expands IP Portfolio to Drive Sustainability and Growth Across Different Markets
    • Proprietary Resin: The development of our coffee pod was not without challenges. K-Cup* compatible coffee pods face unique obstacles during the brewing process, including exposure to heat, high pressure, and water flow. Achieving a consistent and satisfying coffee extraction in a K-Cup* compatible machine requires precise engineering to balance these variables. Addressing these complexities demanded significant R&D efforts to create a capsule capable of meeting these rigorous demands while ensuring a premium coffee experience. However, addressing these challenges led to an incredible breakthrough for us in our proprietary resin. We believe this material now forms the foundation of our competitive edge and has positioned NEXE as an innovator that can target low-hanging fruit with higher margins across various industries.
    • Cost Competitive: Compostability often entails higher costs, but at NEXE Innovations, our solution is designed to be environmentally friendly and competitively priced compared to plastics and other alternative material solutions.

    Recent Company Highlights

    Announced three different partnerships:

    • ecoBeans: This West Coast brand is available in retail locations and distributed in the office coffee services (OCS) space.
    • Bridgehead Coffee: An established premium coffee company in Ontario with over 40 years of history, Bridgehead transitioned from another compostable pod to our NEXE pod. Bridgehead works with well-known retail and grocery chains, including Costco, Whole Foods, Sobey’s, and Farm Boy.
    • EKOCUPS: A high-volume online seller and Amazon retailer. This partnership will allow us to expand in the U.S. and build a strong foothold in the largest single-serve market. ~40 million U.S. households own a K-Cup* compatible single-serve brewing system.

    Future Products:

    • NEXE is working with two customers to test compostable pods for the Nespresso** OriginalLine. We expect to launch these pods later in 2025.
    • NEXE continues to invest in R&D and is working on additional sustainable products targeting various industries. Our proprietary resin may be an ideal fit in these industries, and the total addressable market for these industries is larger than that of the coffee pod market.

    Financial Position:

    • NEXE has a strong cash position to execute its strategy, work with large-scale coffee companies, and start building on opportunities outside the coffee space. At the end of fiscal Q2 2025, our total cash position was $14.5 million. 
    • NEXE has minimal debt. The current debt outstanding is $0.5 million, related to an interest-free government loan. NEXE’s commitments at the end of the quarter were $1.3 million, with minimal capex expected over the next two years.

    About NEXE Innovations Inc.
    NEXE Innovations is focused on providing innovative compostable material solutions and packaging to the B2B segment to help businesses achieve their sustainability goals. NEXE Innovations has developed a proprietary and patented compostable material that can withstand heat, pressure, and water. Our flagship product, the NEXE Pod, a BPI-certified compostable coffee pod, showcases our material’s durability and is an ideal substitute for plastic.  The NEXE pod is compatible with major coffee brewing machines and is manufactured at NEXE’s vertically integrated facility based in North America. Discover our innovative approach to sustainability at www.nexeinnovations.com and join our journey on social media @nexeinnovations. #compostablecoffeepods #sustainability #greentech

    About Virtual Investor Conferences®
    Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors.

    Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access.  Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors.

    CONTACTS:

    NEXE Innovations

    On behalf of the Company:
    Ash Guglani
    President & Director

    For investor relations, contact:
    Kam Mangat
    VP, Investor Relations & Corporate Strategy
    invest@nexeinnovations.com
    Office +1-604-359-4725
    Mobile +1-604-359-4742
    For media relations, contact: media@nexeinnovations.com

    Virtual Investor Conferences
    John M. Viglotti
    SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access
    OTC Markets Group
    (212) 220-2221
    johnv@otcmarkets.com

    *NEXE Innovations Inc. is not affiliated with, endorsed, or sponsored by Keurig®. Keurig® is a registered trademark of Keurig Dr Pepper Inc.

    **NEXE Innovations Inc. is not affiliated with, endorsed, or sponsored by Nespresso®. Nespresso® is a registered trademark of Société des Produits Nestlé S.A.

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

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    Certain statements in this release are forward-looking statements or information, which include, but are not limited to, statements in respect of the potential benefits of the Nexe Pod including for premium coffee brands, potential launch of new coffee pods, continued investment in R&D, potential applications of proprietary resin to other industries and benefits of proprietary resin to Nexe’s business overall, the Company’s overall business strategy, increases in production and revenue, and the Company’s long-term growth and development plans. Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Such information can generally be identified by the use of forwarding-looking wording such as “may”, “expect”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “believe” and “continue” or the negative thereof or similar variations. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including but not limited to, the Company’s ability to execute on its business strategy, the adoption of Nexe’s proprietary resin in other industries, and those risks set out in the Company’s management’s discussion and analysis for year ended May 31, 2024 under the headings “Risk and Uncertainties”. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, including the demand for its products, anticipated costs, and the ability to achieve goals. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include receipt of necessary approvals and general economic, market or business conditions. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information.

    The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Just Stop Oil’s protest during The Tempest is an extension of theatre’s radical tradition

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Gemma Cutler-Colclough, Lecturer in Theatre and Performance, University of Reading

    The theatre has long staged and debated society’s most pressing concerns. But when protest moves beyond the script and into the theatre itself, the reaction can shift from applause to confusion, and even outrage.

    Such was the case last week, when a Just Stop Oil demonstration interrupted a performance of The Tempest at The Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. Actor Sigourney Weaver sat aghast as protesters walked on stage and fired a confetti cannon, holding placards and announcing politely: “We’ll have to stop the show, ladies and gentlemen, sorry.”

    Audience-members can be heard both booing and cheering in footage of the moment. But despite the shock of the crowd and actors, protest at the theatre has a long history.

    The moment Just Stop Oil protestors invaded the stage during a performance of The Tempest.

    Rather than interlopers like Just Stop Oil, these protests have often come from theatregoers themselves. In 1809, for example, riots erupted when the new theatre at Covent Garden in London raised its ticket prices, making theatre less accessible to working-class patrons.

    For over two months, theatregoers disrupted performances with whistles, horns and placards, ultimately forcing a reversal of the price hikes. The message was clear: the theatre belonged to the people, not just the elite.

    In more recent history, the feminist play The Vagina Monologues, has been the subject of protest and the vehicle for it in almost equal measure. Various groups have stood against its empowerment of women, and others have used it to fight for the very same thing.

    And in 2004, the play Behzti (Dishonour) was shut down after just two days of performances at Birmingham Rep, following violent protests by members of the Sikh community.

    The play, which depicted sexual abuse and murder inside a Sikh place of worship, sparked fierce opposition, with critics arguing it was deeply offensive to their faith. While the theatre was intended as a space for difficult conversations, protesters saw it as a site that needed to be defended from perceived harm.

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

    Political theatre

    Protest is not only something that happens at the theatre but an integral part of the art-form itself. Performance holds a mirror to society and asks us to look at ourselves.

    As a result, political theatre has long shaped public discourse in England. Agitprop, for example, a highly politicised theatre movement that originated in 1920s Europe and aimed to educate and mobilise audiences.

    More recently in 2018, participatory London theatre company Coney staged an intervention with their youth arm, Young Coneys at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) annual dinner, blurring the line between activism and performance.

    In a production called Codename Violet, young performers took on the role of activist agitators, posing as “very junior doctors”, informing guests of the health impact of diesel emission air pollution. “Is your event more important than a man’s life?” asked an actor calling out the industry’s role in the climate crisis.

    Like the Just Stop Oil’s action at The Tempest, this protest captured attention. Yet, while political theatre is often praised for its boldness, real-world disruptions are usually met with hostility.

    Perhaps the key difference is control. Audiences willingly engage with radical ideas when framed within a performance, but an uninvited protest strips them of choice. This is likely where the bewilderment arises over Just Stop Oil’s recent intervention. While theatre remains a space for political engagement, many still see it as a controlled environment, where the audience decides when and how to confront difficult and complicated truths.

    The tension between theatre as protest and protest at the theatre reveals an ongoing struggle over who gets to dictate the terms of political discourse.

    As long as theatre remains a mirror to society, the stage – and the spaces around it – will continue to be contested. Whether we see protest at the theatre as an intrusion or an extension of its radical tradition may depend on how willing we are to let performance spill into real life.

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

    – ref. Just Stop Oil’s protest during The Tempest is an extension of theatre’s radical tradition – https://theconversation.com/just-stop-oils-protest-during-the-tempest-is-an-extension-of-theatres-radical-tradition-248688

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How the ‘year of the wood snake’ could play out for China’s economy

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Karen Jackson, Reader in Economics, University of Westminster

    Rimma Bondarenko/Shutterstock

    Chinese people around the world have just celebrated lunar new year, which this year has run from January 28 to February 4. It is the biggest festival of the year in China, signalling the start of spring, and this is the year of the wood snake. According to Chinese astrology, the characteristics of the snake – renewal, potential, opportunity and wisdom – will affect the year ahead.

    As we start the new lunar year, it feels like a good time to look ahead to look at the prospects for the Chinese economy through the prism of these characteristics.

    Renewal of traditional economic drivers

    China dominates global manufacturing – its manufacturing production is as large as the next seven largest competitors combined. This has earned China the title of the world’s manufacturing superpower – but it has come at a cost. The latest data shows that China is among the top 20 most polluted countries across the world.

    Therefore, it’s likely that over the next 12 months, there will be a continued drive towards the renewal, or upgrading, of traditional industrial sectors that have historically driven growth in China but are also heavy polluters.

    This is part of a broader push by China to improve its climate footprint and reduce emissions. These are goals outlined in the national climate action plan, referred to by the Paris climate agreement as the nationally determined contributions.

    Potential for a surge into AI

    China has identified the potential for adopting AI, robotics and 3D printing in transforming its manufacturing base. Meanwhile, the country’s next generation AI development plan sets out clear objectives to make AI the main driver of Chinese economic change and industrial development. Expect to see more progress towards this goal in 2025.

    China’s machine-learning sector has experienced considerable growth, and is predicted to grow by an average of 34.8% a year over the next five years. While the US is the major competitor and commands the largest market size, the recent release of the R1 chatbot by DeepSeek has created a stir.

    DeepSeek claims to have developed its latest R1 model at a cost of around US$6 million (£4.8 million), which is considerably less than its US competitors such as Open AI’s ChatGPT-4, which is reported to have cost more than US$100 million. It’s an indication of the strength of innovation which underlines the potential growth of China’s AI sector, and is likely to help narrow the gap with the US.

    Opportunities for foreign investment

    In addition to upgrading traditional industries, we can expect to see opportunities around new areas of growth in advanced technology sectors such as fintech and green tech. China will continue shifting its focus to industries in which its firms can add lots of value, such as in technology-related manufacturing.

    Major investment is needed to fund these industries and two major changes have occurred in recent months, recognising that this cannot come only from domestic sources.

    First, the changes to China’s A-share market, which went into effect in December 2024, will make it easier for a wider range of overseas investors to enter. For example, smaller amounts of capital are required, and foreign capital can now come from unlisted companies.

    Second, in November 2024, China opened up its manufacturing sector to foreign capital by removing all access restrictions.

    Over the next year, we can expect to see these changes increase the amount of foreign capital in China, and help realise these new areas of growth.

    The wisdom of opening up

    China continues to see the wisdom of opening its economy in terms of investment – and therefore that it is critically important to remain well-connected to the rest of the world.

    The geopolitical tensions with the US are a challenge: the US president, Donald Trump, has said he will impose tariffs of 10% on imports from China. But on a more positive note, breaking protocol last month, Chinese vice-president Han Zheng was invited to, and attended, Trump’s inauguration ceremony.

    It’s an indication of the current US administration’s view of the importance of America’s relationship with China.

    The year ahead is also likely to bring opportunities for the UK to continue its efforts to reset its relationship with China. During the recent visit to Beijing by the chancellor of the exchequer, Rachel Reeves, there was a discussion of a “stable and balanced UK-China relationship”.

    Few expect, or desire, a return to the “golden era” rhetoric of the likes of former UK chancellor George Osborne, who in a speech at the Shanghai Stock Exchange in September 2015 called for Britain and China to work together to ensure mutual prosperity: “Let’s stick together to make Britain China’s best partner in the west. Let’s stick together and create a golden decade for both of our countries.”

    However, greater dialogue with China may be possible, while at the same time carefully managing the UK’s relationship with the new US administration.

    China watchers will be keeping their eyes peeled for other economic developments over the year ahead – for example, the progress of Chinese fiscal reforms and their impact on local and regional finances and income distribution. Also, there is the matter of the real estate market. After significant falls in housing sales and investment during 2024, house prices are showing signs of stabilising.

    China’s economy will face challenges in the year ahead. But there are also some clear opportunities for this manufacturing giant, particularly in the tech sector as it starts to narrow the gap with the US.

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

    – ref. How the ‘year of the wood snake’ could play out for China’s economy – https://theconversation.com/how-the-year-of-the-wood-snake-could-play-out-for-chinas-economy-248779

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders, Hawley Introduce Bill Capping Credit Card Interest Rates at 10%

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
    WASHINGTON, Feb. 4 – As millions of working class families struggle to afford the high prices of groceries, gas, rent and other basic necessities, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) introduced bipartisan legislation to cap credit card interest rates at ten percent.
    “During the campaign, President Trump pledged to cap credit card interest rates at ten percent,” Sanders said. “Today, I am proud to be introducing bipartisan legislation with Senator Hawley to do just that. When large financial institutions charge over 25 percent interest on credit cards, they are not engaged in the business of making credit available. They are engaged in extortion and loan sharking. We cannot continue to allow big banks to make huge profits ripping off the American people. This legislation will provide working families struggling to pay their bills with desperately needed financial relief.”
    “Working Americans are drowning in record credit card debt while the biggest credit card issuers get richer and richer by hiking their interest rates to the moon. It’s not just wrong, it’s exploitative. And it needs to end,” said Hawley. “Capping credit card interest rates at 10%, just like President Trump campaigned on, is a simple way to provide meaningful relief to working people. Let’s do it.”
    In September, the Trump campaign said, “President Trump has promised to cap interest rates at 10% to provide temporary and immediate relief for hardworking Americans who are struggling to make ends meet and cannot afford hefty interest payments on top of the skyrocketing costs of mortgages, rent, groceries and gas.”
    The Sanders-Hawley bill would immediately cap credit card interest rates at 10 percent. The legislation would be in effect for five years.
    This bipartisan bill comes after a recent Forbes report found that the average credit card interest rate is 28.6%, even though banks are able to borrow money from the Federal Reserve at less than 4.5%.
    In 2022, credit card companies generated an incredible $130 billion in interest and fees. Today, the American people hold a record-breaking $1.17 trillion in credit card debt. As of 2023, the average household with credit card debt has over $21,000 in credit card debt. The delinquency rate of credit cards issued by commercial banks is around 3.23%, the highest rate since 2011 in the wake of the Global Financial Crisis.
    If a consumer has a $5,000 credit card balance with a 28% interest rate and can only afford to make the minimum payment of $166 a month it would take that person over 24 years to pay off and would cost nearly $11,000 in interest. If credit card interest rates were capped to 10%, that same consumer would save over $7,000 in interest.
    Usurious credit card interest rates and sky-high fees have allowed credit card companies to make enormous profits and pay their executives exorbitant compensation packages. Over the past five years:
    Visa made $67.5 billion in profits and paid its Executive Chair and former CEO, Alfred F. Kelly, Jr., nearly $140 million in total compensation.
    Mastercard made $44.3 billion in profits and paid its CEO Michael Miebach $77.7 million in total compensation.
    American Express made $33.8 billion in profits, and paid its CEO Stephen Squeri $157.2 million in total compensation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Guilty pleas secured from illegal waste site owners

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Environment Agency has attained guilty pleas from two men from Preston, in connection with illegal waste activities.

    Waste at the Skeffington Road site.

    At Blackburn Magistrates’ Court on 29 January, Jamil Hanif, 49 years old of Garstang Road, Preston, pleaded guilty to operating a regulated waste facility without the necessary environmental permit between 1 November 2021 and 6 December 2023.

    Richard Allen, 39 years old of Pope Lane, Preston, also pleaded guilty to illegally depositing controlled waste on the same site between 1 August 2022 and 31 January 2023, in violation of environmental regulations.

    Both defendants received 12-month Community Orders, requiring them to complete 120 hours of unpaid work. 

    • Richard Allen was ordered to pay a £300 contribution to prosecution costs and a £114 government surcharge.  

    • Jamil Hanif was ordered to pay a £1,000 contribution to prosecution costs and a £114 government surcharge.  

    Work continues to tackle waste crime

    A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: 

    This case highlights our commitment to tackling environmental crime. Illegal waste operations pose significant risks to the environment and legitimate businesses.  

    We are pleased that the defendants have accepted responsibility for their actions, and we will continue to work with partners to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. 

    The case concerns a site owned by Preston City Council, which was initially leased to Finney Skeffington Ltd (FSL), a company directed by Hanif.

    Despite the company’s official dormant status, Hanif used the site for waste storage and sorting activities related to house clearances linked to his wife’s property rental business.

    Allen, acting under Hanif’s instructions, was responsible for tipping waste at the site. 

    Illegal waste activities at the site first came to light in November 2021, when a surveyor appointed by Preston City Council documented significant waste accumulation, including household and commercial waste, construction debris, and car parts.

    As a result, the council terminated FSL’s lease; however, Hanif continued to use the site under a temporary agreement with the council. 

    Further reports from local residents, including photographic and video evidence, showed waste being regularly delivered and dumped on the site, with Allen visibly involved in tipping waste.

    This evidence, along with Environment Agency investigations, led to the prosecution. 

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major groyne refurbishment project announced for Lake and Colwell 4 February 2025 Major groyne refurbishment project announced for Lake Cliffs and Colwell Bay

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    Timber groynes at Lake and Colwell Bay are set to be restored as part of a major Isle of Wight Council scheme to strengthen coastal defences.

    Ten groynes at Lake Cliffs, between Small Hope Beach and Littlestairs Steps, and six at Colwell Bay will undergo refurbishment over the coming months.

    Councillor Paul Fuller, Cabinet member for coastal protection, explained: “The refurbished groynes will help build beach material levels, offering better protection and improving safety for nearby properties and businesses.

    “This project will also save money on future repairs and enhance the appeal of our beaches, which is essential for tourism and local businesses.”

    An Island-based contractor will carry out the work, with minor disruptions expected due to plant and vehicle movements and material storage.

    Natasha Dix, service director for waste, environment and planning, said: “This refurbishment project demonstrates the council’s dedication to maintaining and improving the Island’s coastal infrastructure, ensuring lasting benefits for the community and local economy.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – Intelligent Ultrasound Group Plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: Rathbones Group Plc
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Intelligent Ultrasound Group Plc
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 03/02/2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 No

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 1p Ord
      Interests Short positions
      Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 9,427,443 2.84%    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    		 9,427,443 2.84%    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    1p Ordinary Shares Sale 35,000 12.77p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
             

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit
             

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
           

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
    None

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
    None

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? No
    Date of disclosure: 04/02/2025
    Contact name: Chinwe Enyi – Compliance Department
    Telephone number: 0151 243 7053

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leading figures to help build NHS fit for the future

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Baroness Camilla Cavendish, Naomi Eisenstadt CB and Phil Jordan become non-executive directors on the board of the Department of Health and Social Care.

    • Baroness Camilla Cavendish, Naomi Eisenstadt CB and Phil Jordan join the Department of Health and Social Care’s board
    • They bring cross-party and wide ranging experience and will provide strategic guidance to support health and care reforms
    • The appointments come as part of the government’s call for the country’s best talent to join its mission to fix the NHS

    Experts from across the public and private sector have been appointed to the DHSC board to drive forward health and social care reform plans.

    Baroness Camilla Cavendish, Naomi Eisenstadt CB and Phil Jordan’s wealth of experience and expertise across the political divide and both the public and private sector will be vital in supporting the government’s key missions to drive down waiting lists and reform the NHS as part of the 10 Year Health Plan, shifting the focus from hospital to community, from sickness to prevention, and from analogue to digital.

    Baroness Cavendish is best known for her time as head of the No.10 Policy Unit under Prime Minister David Cameron, Ms Eisenstadt was the first Director of Sure Start, widely regarded as one of the most important policy initiatives in recent history, while Mr Jordan has held a long and distinguished career in the private sector, including top roles at Sainsbury’s, Telefonica and Vodafone.

    They will join Lead Non-Executive Director Alan Milburn, former Health Secretary under Tony Blair’s government, on the board of DHSC.

    It comes as part of the Government’s call for the best and brightest to join its mission to fix the broken NHS and reflects DHSC’s commitment to drawing on diverse skills and perspectives to ensure it is fit for the future. 

    Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, said:

    I am drawing on people of different political persuasions, with public and private sector experience, to help us turn around the NHS, make it fit for the future, and reform social care.

    The NHS is one of the biggest organisations in the world, and building a National Care Service is a generational ambition. We should be competing with global businesses to recruit the best and the brightest to our cause.

    I am delighted to welcome Camilla, Naomi and Phil to their new roles. Their combined expertise in social policy and technology, deep understanding of healthcare and commitment to pragmatism over ideology will be invaluable as we fix our broken NHS.

    If there are other people out there with the skills, experience, and drive to transform the treatment and care of millions of people, then we want your help building our 10 Year Health Plan.

    As Non-Executive Directors, Camilla, Naomi, and Phil will provide independent oversight, constructive challenge, and strategic advice to the department. Their expertise will help shape the DHSC’s mission to ensure the best possible health and care outcomes for everyone across England. 

    The NHS is broken and through the Plan for Change, it is the mission of this government to fix it and make the health service fit for the future. As part of this national mission, experts are being brought in to help develop policy, and NHS staff and patients have been invited to share their experience and ideas to change the NHS at change.nhs.gov.uk.

    Baroness Camilla Cavendish 

    Former head of the No.10 Policy Unit under Prime Minister David Cameron, Baroness Cavendish brings a wealth of experience across public policy, healthcare, and journalism and will draw on her expertise in social care while working at DHSC.

    The vocal advocate for health and social care reform has led significant reviews that have shaped social care policy and practice. Notably, the Cavendish Review (2013) examined the training and development of health and social care support workers. 

    The review highlighted the need for improved standards of training, greater recognition for care workers, and more robust safeguards for those in vulnerable situations. Her recommendations continue to influence workforce development across the sector.

    Naomi Eisenstadt CB

    Naomi Eisenstadt CB has a distinguished career in public policy and social welfare, including serving as the first Director of the Sure Start Unit, where she spearheaded transformative early years programs aimed at reducing inequality, and will bring her expertise on health inequalities to DHSC. 

    The scheme is one of the most successful social policy interventions in the past 30 years, demonstrating the importance of early intervention and prevention — one of the three big shifts this Government is committed to in our 10-Year Plan for Health.

    Currently serving as Chair of the NHS Northamptonshire Integrated Care Board, Naomi’s extensive experience and commitment to improving outcomes for vulnerable communities make her an invaluable addition to the department. 

    Phil Jordan

    Phil Jordan will focus on data and digital capability at DHSC, drawing on his impressive background having led major initiatives across both the public and private sector. 

    With a proven track record in strategic leadership, including as Chief Information Officer at Sainsbury’s, Telefonica and Vodafone UK & Ireland, Phil has been instrumental in driving innovation and efficiency in complex organisations. 

    His expertise will support the department’s ongoing efforts to modernise healthcare delivery and enhance digital infrastructure, as part of the vital shift from analogue to digital, equipping the health service with the cutting-edge technology it needs to tackle waiting lists, improve patient experience and speed up diagnosis.

    Background information

    • These appointments are made in accordance with the Cabinet Office Code of Governance for Public Appointments. The regulation of public appointments against the requirements of this Code is carried out by the Commissioner for Public Appointments.
    • In line with the Governance Code on Public Appointments, political activity is not a bar to appointment but political activity during the last 5 years should be declared. Camilla Cavendish and Phil Jordan have not declared any political activity. Naomi Eisenstadt is a member of the Labour Party.
    • Government non-executives provide advice and bring an external perspective to the business of government departments by sitting on departmental boards. They do not have decision-making powers.
    • See DHSC public appointments: 2024 to 2025 for further information.
    • NHSE is currently advertising non-executive vacancies. For further information, please see: Non-executive opportunities in the NHS » Public appointments

    Updates to this page

    Published 4 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mikhail Piotrovsky became an Honorary Doctor of SPbPU

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    A ceremony of presenting the mantle and diploma of Honorary Doctor of SPbPU to the General Director of the State Hermitage Museum Mikhail Piotrovsky took place at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University.

    The decision to award this high title to the head of the country’s main museum was made unanimously by the members of the Academic Council on December 2, 2024.

    It is a great honor and happiness for us that such a legendary person as Mikhail Borisovich Piotrovsky has appeared in the ranks of the Polytechnics, without exaggeration, – SPbPU Rector, Academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Andrei Rudskoy opened the ceremony and asked the Scientific Secretary of the Polytechnic Dmitry Karpov to present the new Honorary Doctor in accordance with protocol.

    It would seem that there is no person not only in St. Petersburg, but also far beyond its borders, who would not know the historian-orientalist, doctor of historical sciences, professor, academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Russian Academy of Arts, Honorary Citizen of St. Petersburg Mikhail Borisovich Piotrovsky. However, Dmitry Karpov found such words and such an unusual presentation for the presentation of Mikhail Piotrovsky that the personality of the Hermitage director was revealed in a new and vivid way. The book “Good Tone. Conversations Without Courage, Recorded by Irina Klenskaya” helped with this. Thus, based on quotes from Mikhail Borisovich himself, Dmitry Anatolyevich composed a lively and figurative essay.

    Quote: Only culture is capable of transforming chaos into strict order, and the chaos of the world into harmony. That is why the Hermitage is becoming an important and powerful player in the public life of not only the country, but the entire world.

    Dmitry Karpov recalled the “Great Hermitage” program, which is based on the idea of making the collections of the country’s main museum accessible through a complex of open storage facilities and satellite museums. Cultural and educational centers have already been built: “Hermitage-Kazan”, “Hermitage-Ural”, “Hermitage-Vyborg”, “Hermitage-Siberia” in Omsk and “Hermitage-Eurasia” in Orenburg. They are being built in Kaluga, Nalchik, Vladivostok.

    Polytechnic students are well aware of the long-term and fruitful joint work of the university and the Hermitage: since 2016, an agreement on cooperation in the development and improvement of engineering systems and security systems for Hermitage facilities, in the field of 3D modeling, has been in force. During the year of the pandemic, Polytechnic students made about 11 thousand protective screens and masks for the museum. At the end of 2023, the agreement was updated and expanded. Within the framework of cooperation, the following are carried out: excursions for students Polytechnic University in the Restoration and Storage Center of the Hermitage “Staraya Derevnya”, thanks to which future specialists become familiar with modern engineering technologies, automation systems and support for the climate parameters of the storage facility, as well as the functioning of alternative energy.

    Dmitry Anatolyevich cited an excerpt from a story about the Atlanteans of the New Hermitage, work on which began in 1845: “Never in Europe has any sculptor produced such figures from granite as the ancient Egyptians and Greeks did. Now this fantastic art, this great skill has become Russian” – this is how contemporaries spoke about the creation of Alexander Ivanovich Terebenev.”

    The St. Petersburg Polytechnic University also has a special feeling for the Hermitage Atlanteans – in 2022, the team of the NTI Center of SPbPU completed laser scanning of the portico of the New Hermitage and the sculptures of the Atlanteans and processing of the obtained data. Based on the results of the work together with the Hermitage art historians, a large two-part article was published: “Information modeling for the preservation of cultural heritage: the portico of the new Hermitage building and the sculptures of the Atlanteans.”

    Laser scanning and data processing of the interior of the New Hermitage building was also carried out to create three-dimensional models as part of the “Virtual Tour of the Hermitage” project, and scanning of the Alexander Column on Palace Square.

    “It is a great honor and responsibility for the university to make a feasible contribution to the preservation of truly priceless symbols of our city, our common cultural heritage,” Dmitry Karpov emphasized, concluding the presentation. “Deeply respected Mikhail Borisovich, we are proud of our country, our culture and our Hermitage. And the fact that together with you we do everything possible so that our country is strong, rich, glorious and respected.”

    After this, the rector of the Polytechnic announced: “Bring in the Honorary Doctorate diploma, the mantle and the medal!”

    According to tradition, the doctoral gown and cap were brought into the hall of the Academic Council by students dressed in the uniform of polytechnics of the early 20th century. The ceremony was accompanied by the Gaudeamus anthem performed by the Polyhymnia choir. Mikhail Borisovich was presented with a book about the Honorary Doctors of the Polytechnic University – his page is in it.

    In his response, Mikhail Piotrovsky thanked for the honor bestowed upon him and noted that the tradition of conferring Honorary Doctors of the Polytechnic University is an important element of St. Petersburg culture. Mikhail Borisovich emphasized that he is connected with the Polytechnic University not only by long-term cooperation, but now by joint work in the St. Petersburg branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, headed by Andrei Rudskoy.

    “We have many different connections,” noted Mikhail Piotrovsky. “My deputy, Alexey Valentinovich Bogdanov, associate professor, teaches at the Polytechnic University, 49 graduates of the university work at the Hermitage, you give us wonderful personnel. What we are doing together is the most important topic today for society: the combination of science and art. We have many opportunities for further joint work, entire programs that are very important both for us and for the development of science. We would like students, under the guidance of teachers, to participate in our digitalization processes, primarily in the field of big data. Together we could make an exhibition of beautiful exhibits of technical progress preserved in the Hermitage – wonderful astrolabes, spheres, globes, clocks. We have them, they all function, but it would be good to tell about them beautifully, developing the experience of the multimedia Hermitage. Today, the “Great Hermitage” was mentioned, our next project is “Heavenly Hermitage”, a cloud-based one, it is a backup copy in which everything that is not done in the earthly Hermitage can take place. And here we would like your intellectual and expert help.”

    Mikhail Piotrovsky said that the Hermitage has many advisory councils, and it would be possible to create a separate student council, under the leadership of teachers. As ideas for cooperation with students, Mikhail Piotrovsky also suggested thinking about forecasting the condition of museum objects and “taming technology.”

    In closing the ceremony, Andrey Rudskoy thanked Mikhail Piotrovsky for his businesslike approach and outlook on the future and promised that all ideas and proposals were accepted, would be discussed and implemented.

    Photo archive

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial News: Few Financial Institutions Take Climate Risks Into Account: Bank of Russia Survey

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    Only a small proportion of financial institutions fully integrate risks associated with reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate change into their corporate governance systems. These include: survey results Bank of Russia, conducted to assess the implementation recommendations regulator.

    Banks are more involved in the climate agenda than NPFs and insurance companies. Some of them already set the relevant conditions in loan agreements.

    Monitoring climate and environmental strategies The Bank of Russia’s survey of the largest non-financial companies showed that companies have begun to better disclose climate information and set more ambitious goals. However, environmental goals are often formal in nature.

    Russia’s trading partners continue their transition to a low-carbon economy and introduce regulations that will affect international trade. Therefore, the Bank of Russia intends to describe in more detail the methodologies for taking into account climate risks and develop recommendations for banks on how to manage them. It also plans to continue climate stress testing and encourage financial institutions to assess these risks independently.

    Preview photo: Sergey Bobylev / TASS

    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. KBR.ru/Press/Event/? ID = 23335

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Fengate expands retirement community portfolio with the acquisition of two new properties in British Columbia

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fengate Asset Management (‘Fengate’) is pleased to announce the successful close of two premier seniors housing properties in Vancouver, British Columbia. The acquisition marks Fengate’s and Seasons Retirement Communities’ (‘Seasons’) first venture into the British Columbia market, further growing its portfolio of retirement communities across Canada.

    The new properties, Seasons Arbutus Walk and Seasons Wesbrook Village, collectively offer 295 rental suites and 88 managed condominium suites located in two of Vancouver’s most sought-after neighbourhoods, offering residents easy access to parks, local amenities, and cultural attractions.

    Fengate and Seasons are managing this investment on behalf of their investors, including the LiUNA Pension Fund of Central and Eastern Canada (‘LPFCEC’).

    “We are proud to build on our legacy of empowering Canada’s seniors through market-leading housing that advances Seasons’ mission of affecting positive change in the lives of this vital and growing community,” said Joseph Mancinelli, International Vice President and Regional Manager for Central and Eastern Canada at LiUNA.

    “This acquisition is transformational for Fengate and Seasons as we build the foundation for our growth in British Columbia. Fengate and Seasons are well positioned to capitalize on the growing seniors’ demographic in this key strategic growth market and across Canada,” said Jaime McKenna, President Fengate Real Estate.

    “Seasons is pleased to continue to work with Fengate to diversify our portfolio of quality retirement communities,” said Michael Lavallée, Chief Executive Officer at Seasons Retirement Communities.

    “Our best-in-class management team is committed to collaborating with our communities to provide residents with a continuum of care within a warm, welcoming, and vibrant atmosphere that embodies the Seasons promise.”

    Established in 2009 by Fengate, Seasons Retirement Communities is a Canadian company that currently owns and operates 25 retirement communities across Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia, with more developments underway. Seasons is dedicated to addressing the needs of Canada’s aging population by offering exceptional seniors housing and services.

    MEDIA CONTACT

    Matthew Ventura
    Director, Communications and Marketing, Real Estate
    Fengate Asset Management
    matthew.ventura@fengate.com
    416-432-6194

    About the LiUNA Pension Fund of Central and Eastern Canada

    Established in 1972, the LiUNA Pension Fund of Central and Eastern Canada (LPFCEC) is one of the fastest growing multi-employer pension funds across Canada, voted top 10 pension funds by Benefits Canada. With a diverse investment portfolio and over $12 billion in assets, LPFCEC has yielded positive returns for the plan, great work opportunities for LiUNA members, and has created many needed institutions across North America through a broad range of investments. Learn more at lpfcec.org.

    About Fengate Asset Management

    Fengate is a leading alternative investment manager, with more than $40 billion of assets under management, focused on infrastructure, private equity, and real estate strategies. With offices and team members in Canada and the United States, Fengate has a proven track record of successful projects and partnerships and an established reputation as one of the most active real asset investors and developers in North America. Fengate Real Estate, a division of Fengate Asset Management, is a fully integrated real estate investment, development and asset management platform with a $20 billion portfolio, including a 25,000+ residential unit pipeline and 5M+ square feet of industrial space in varying stages of development. Learn more at fengate.com.

    About Seasons Retirement Communities

    Established in 2009, Seasons is a Canadian company that operates 15 retirement residences in Ontario, eight residences in Alberta, and two in British Columbia, with more under development. Our management team has extensive experience in the senior housing sector and has developed a culture dedicated to providing residents with superior customer service. At Seasons, we want our residents to feel proud to call us home and to know they are surrounded by people who genuinely care. Connect. Care. Change®.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/83e9e1fe-ce65-4988-aa79-2d431daa80e1
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/09619cb9-0b02-456e-aa3e-aaa24488aa2b

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Tactile Medical Expands Launch of Nimbl™ to Include Patients with Lower Extremity Lymphedema

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MINNEAPOLIS, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tactile Systems Technology, Inc. (“Tactile Medical”; the “Company”) (Nasdaq: TCMD), a medical technology company providing therapies for people with chronic disorders, today announced that Nimbl, its next-generation pneumatic compression platform, is now commercially available throughout the United States (U.S.) for the treatment of both upper and lower extremity lymphedema. Nimbl’s expanded availability to include lower extremity conditions (“phlebolymphedema”) follows its commercial introduction in October 2024, initially focused on treating patients suffering from upper extremity lymphedema.

    “On the heels of Nimbl’s launch for patients with upper extremity swelling, we are pleased to now expand access to the 16 million Americans with chronic swelling in the lower extremities,” said Sheri Dodd, Chief Executive Officer at Tactile Medical. “These patients require effective, convenient therapies to help manage their symptoms. With Nimbl, they now have access to a solution which embodies patient-focused innovation and reflects our commitment to serving patients and improving their care experience.”

    Nimbl is the smallest pneumatic compression device (PCD) of its kind, featuring a compact controller that is 68% lighter and 40% smaller than the Company’s current generation PCD. The lower extremity garment uses 94% less hosing, making the device easy to transport and manage. Nimbl is the only basic PCD with Bluetooth® connectivity, providing patients a way to track their treatments and symptom progress with the Company’s free Kylee™ digital application.

    “Nimbl for lower extremity lymphedema is intentionally designed as a user-friendly, patient-centric treatment option that is comfortable, clinically effective, and optimized for increased adherence,” said Tony Gasparis, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Tactile Medical. “Its physical dimensions and significant reduction in hose length afford patients the ability to more easily transport Nimbl around the home, or take it with them when traveling, providing an improved all around patient experience.”

    About Tactile Systems Technology, Inc. (DBA Tactile Medical)

    Tactile Medical is a leader in developing and marketing at-home therapies for people suffering from underserved, chronic conditions including lymphedema, lipedema, chronic venous insufficiency and chronic pulmonary disease by helping them live better and care for themselves at home. Tactile Medical collaborates with clinicians to expand clinical evidence, raise awareness, increase access to care, reduce overall healthcare costs and improve the quality of life for tens of thousands of patients each year.

    Investor Inquiries:
    Sam Bentzinger
    Gilmartin Group
    investorrelations@tactilemedical.com

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