NewzIntel.com

    • Checkout Page
    • Contact Us
    • Default Redirect Page
    • Frontpage
    • Home-2
    • Home-3
    • Lost Password
    • Member Login
    • Member LogOut
    • Member TOS Page
    • My Account
    • NewzIntel Alert Control-Panel
    • NewzIntel Latest Reports
    • Post Views Counter
    • Privacy Policy
    • Public Individual Page
    • Register
    • Subscription Plan
    • Thank You Page

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: GBA data flow measure extended

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The extension of the facilitation measure on the Standard Contract for the Cross-boundary Flow of Personal Information Within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (Mainland, Hong Kong) to all sectors started today.

    The Digital Policy Office (DPO) made the announcement and explained that the move, announced in the 2024 Policy Address, is aimed at promoting more cross-boundary services to benefit the public and businesses while facilitating data flow throughout the Greater Bay Area (GBA).

    According to the agreement framework of Memorandum of Understanding on Facilitating Cross-boundary Data Flow Within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the GBA Standard Contract facilitation measure was launched at the end of last year.

    The measure allows individuals and organisations of the nine Mainland cities in the bay area and Hong Kong to enter into a standard contract by adopting a standardised template on a voluntary basis, with a view to facilitating and streamlining the cross-boundary flow of personal information within the GBA in a safe and orderly manner.

    In addition to being well received, the early and pilot implementation arrangement of the facilitation measure on GBA Standard Contract for the banking, credit referencing and healthcare sectors has been operating smoothly.

    The DPO also made it known that starting from today, industries of all sectors in the nine Mainland cities of the bay area and Hong Kong can take part in the facilitation measure and voluntarily adopt the GBA Standard Contract.

    Meanwhile, the DPO optimises the filing arrangements and rationalises several operational details to further facilitate the compliance of the cross-boundary flow of personal information by enterprises.

    Commissioner for Digital Policy Tony Wong said facilitating the Mainland’s data flow in the GBA is an important initiative to promote the development of cross-boundary services, digital economy and smart cities.

    He pointed out that it not only brings benefits to citizens and enterprises but also accelerates the integration of economic development in the bay area.

    Mr Wong added that the GBA Standard Contract is an administrative measure that does not affect the supervisory and regulatory roles of the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data in ensuring compliance with the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance (PDPO).

    The processing and cross-boundary transfer of personal information in Hong Kong will continue to be on a voluntary basis and regulated in accordance with the PDPO of Hong Kong.

    Click here for more details about the measure.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: 1 November 2024 Offsite EEF events: new opportunities for Sakhalin economy Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation Anton Kobyakov met with Sakhalin Governor Valery Limarenko in Moscow to discuss long-term cooperation between the Roscongress Foundation and Sakhalin Region on the development of forum and exhibition activities until 2035.

    Source: Eastern Economic Forum

    1 November 2024

    Offsite EEF events: new opportunities for Sakhalin economy

    Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation Anton Kobyakov met with Sakhalin Governor Valery Limarenko in Moscow to discuss long-term cooperation between the Roscongress Foundation and Sakhalin Region on the development of forum and exhibition activities until 2035.

    The strategic partnership will require mechanisms for promoting Sakhalin’s investment potential and environmental, climate, energy, and technology projects in the region. Joint efforts will focus on organizing national and international forums and exhibitions in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk at Sakhalin-Tech Technopark and Pushisty Drone Port to be managed by the Roscongress Foundation. Plans to sign a Long-Term Cooperation Agreement are in the works.

    “Russia places strategic importance in developing and strengthening the Far East. As the world order changes and the centre of global business activity shifts to the Asia-Pacific region, the Far East gains in importance for the Russian economy and solidifies its global position. There is enormous potential for new projects and new industries in the region and no limit to possibilities for international cooperation. New approaches and combined efforts are required to realize this potential. I believe the Roscongress Foundation has the expertise and Sakhalin Region the potential to create opportunities for investment that will attract partners to contribute to its development,” Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation Anton Kobyakov said.

    Meeting discussions focused first on the programme of offsite events for the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), indeed, an agreement to cooperate was first reached between the Roscongress Foundation and Sakhalin on the sidelines of the EEF in September 2024.

    Sakhalin Region is important to the Far East, has great potential, and must transition from an overdependence on resources to a model of increased self-development. The transition will depend on programmes to improve investment attractiveness and quality of life. One such ambitious project is the New City, dedicated to sustainable development, digitalization, and environmental responsibility, with a master plan calling for the creation of cultural, business, research, and production spaces, including buildings for congress and exhibition events.

    “The construction of a modern 20,000-square-meter EXPO centre and cooperation with the Roscongress Foundation will equip us to hold top-notch international events, and the city’s unique infrastructure is already creating opportunities for programmes related to the development of unmanned aviation and energy. I have no doubt that our work together will create a professional platform that attracts investment to the region and shows to the world the full potential of Sakhalin Region to develop advanced technologies and skillfully balance nature preservation and human activity,” Sakhalin Governor Valery Limarenko said.

    Discussion also focused on the ‘BRICS Sustainable Development: Environment and Climate’ International Forum slated to take place in May 2025 with the participation of representatives of BRICS and its partners. The event will focus on environmental and climate issues and how to achieve carbon neutrality. The Forum will be a place to come and discuss environmental issues, share experience, and develop joint projects to combat climate change. The choice of region to host the Forum was no accident with its proximity to the Asia-Pacific region and ambitious carbon neutral goals for the end of 2025 creating unique conditions for programmes balancing the environment and energy industry.

    The Far Eastern Energy Forum, also scheduled for next year, is a platform for discussing issues of regional development and establishing a Russian energy security outpost. Sakhalin is an essential Russian producer and processer of hydrocarbons and is actively introducing new forms of energy.

    The Far East is becoming a centre for the development of unmanned systems and technologies. Unmanned systems are an efficient, cost-effective solution for logistics and monitoring vast expanses, complex infrastructure, and the development of extractive industries. As meeting participants noted, the necessary prerequisites are all there for international cooperation and an exchange of experience at the International ‘Unmanned Systems’ Forum and Exhibition. Sakhalin’s Pushisty Drone Port has been earmarked as a place for experts to meet with the authorities and representatives of business.

    Meeting participants decided the best way to coordinate cooperation under the agreements would be to establish an Organizing Committee under the leadership of Sakhalin Governor Valery Limarenko and a permanent joint Sakhalin Government and Roscongress Foundation working group under the leadership of Sakhalin Region Government Chairman Alexey Belik and First Deputy CEO of the Roscongress Foundation and EEF Director Igor Pavlov.

    An important component of cooperation will include a briefing by Sakhalin Governor Valery Limarenko on infrastructure projects for territorial development on the sidelines of EEF 2025, where the results of work accomplished can be considered with a place for further discussion. The Governor’s participation in the Governors’ Club and Lounge at Roscongress Foundation events throughout the year will strengthen cooperation with other regions and create additional opportunities to share experience solving urgent problems.

     

     

    Read more

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major improvement work at Stoke-on-Trent Railway Station enters next phase

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Friday, 1st November 2024

    Work is progressing to improve bus, pedestrian and cycle access to and from Stoke-on-Trent Railway Station.

    Major upgrades are being carried out along Station Road in Stoke as part of the £29 million Transforming Cities Fund (TCF) programme which aims to enhance the connection between the station and the city centre and improve the environment in and around the station.

    The work will include the construction of new carriageways and footpaths, the installation of cycle lanes, upgraded bus stops and public realm improvements to create an attractive gateway for visitors going to and from the city.

    During phase one, work to redesign and install a new drainage system has been completed to help prevent future flooding outside the station and the Josiah Wedgwood statue has been removed and securely placed into storage ready for restoration and relocation.

    Paving work has also started as part of wider public realm works to enhance the city’s grade II* listed station building.

    Now, as the project enters phase two, work to upgrade the area around Winton Square will begin.

    While this work is being carried out, car park one, which is next to the Royal Mail sorting office and opposite Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College, will be closed from Monday 4 November until the end of June 2025.

    During this period:

    • Long-stay parking will be available at car park 2, which is located at the north end of platform one, and car park 3, at the rear of the station;
    • Drop-off will be available at car park 3 (20 minutes free)
    • Disabled parking facilities will be available at both car parks;
    • Parking bay at Winton Square will be suspended;
    • The pedestrian crossing at Winton Square will be kept in use;
    • Taxi rank temporarily located outside Winton Square.

    The bus stop outside Federation House will be temporarily relocated to the Station side of the carriageway and access to businesses along Station Road will be maintained.

    Anyone travelling to Stoke-on-Trent Railway Station during this time is strongly advised to allow extra time for their journey.  

    Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration, said: “I am delighted to see that progress is being made on this important project to enhance the city’s main railway station and improve the connection between Station Road and the city centre.

    “We are making it our priority to improve our city’s transport links and enhance our infrastructure. We want to make it as easy as possible for people to get around the city and make Stoke-on-Trent a healthier and greener place to live and visit.”

    Councillor Gordon-McCusker added: “While this work is going on there will be some disruption and we understand that this can be frustrating for motorists but I want to reassure everyone that it will be worth it in the end.

    “This project is going to create more room for pedestrians and cyclists, it will help to reduce traffic flow around the station, improve the look of the station itself and more importantly provide us with a better connection the city centre.

    “So please bear with us and remember to leave a bit of extra time for your journey. Thank you for your co-operation.”

    As part of the TCF programme, work is also progressing along College Road.

    For more information about the scheme, visit www.stoke.gov.uk/tcf

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mansion House to undergo restoration works

    Source: City of York

    To help protect and maintain an important cultural asset for the city, York Mansion House will undergo £1.2 million maintenance, accessibility and safety improvements.

    It will reopen in 2025, 300 years after its original construction began.

    One of the earliest civic buildings to be built in the classical style in England, the Mansion House is the official seat of The Rt Hon The Lord Mayor of York, and holds an important collection of items connected to the history of the city over the past 800 years.

    Work to build the house began in 1725 and was completed in 1732. The last major restoration was completed in 2015 to 2017, and the upcoming works will be a significant investment in the House.

    This refurbishment aims to address essential maintenance tasks which include repairing wear and tear to the building and to prevent any further deterioration in the historic roof, walls and windows. It will also include important upgrades to the lift to improve the accessibility and environmental performance of the historic building, and decoration works will also refresh the interior where structural work is required.

    The Mansion House will close temporarily on Sunday 10 November, when the contents will be safely stored. This will be done with the help of students who will gain valuable practical experience of working in a historical building. Staff will oversee the work, continue with outreach education work and carry out research on the House and its contents.

    Starting in early 2025, the works will be overseen by Buttress Architects which will provide specialist heritage consultancy and conservation architecture. During the project they will lead a team of experts including conservation architects and mechanical, electrical and structural engineers.

    The Rt Hon, The Lord Mayor of York, Councillor Margaret Wells, said:

    Investing in this beautiful historic building ensures it will continue to serve the city and its residents.

    “It’s temporary closure will allow other historic venues to take part in the civic life of the city, such as holding citizenship ceremonies in the elegant Register Office on Bootham, and using Medieval Barley Hall to host the Sheriff’s Ridings.”

    Pauline Stuchfield, Director of Housing and Communities, said:

    The Mansion House has been an essential part of the York landscape for almost 300 years, and it’s important it continues to be available for future generations of residents and visitors.

    “We’re able to carry out these essential works to weather another 300 years of being key to the civic life of the city, a base for our civic party and ready to welcome royalty as it has for centuries.

    “For hundreds of years the Mansion House has hosted some of the most important and significant events in the city and, once these improvements are made, the House will continue to play that role for decades to come.”

    The last major works were carried out in 2015 when £1.2 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund helped deliver the most significant upgrades since the building first opened. The works included restoring the original kitchens, improving displays, developing an integrated environmental and conservation plan and preparing a detailed oral history project.

    Hannah Bellerby, the project architect from Buttress Architects, said:

    As we approach the Mansion House’s 300th anniversary, it is a privilege for Buttress to lead the efforts in safeguarding this vital piece of York’s civic heritage.

    “Our work focuses on not only preserving the building’s historical integrity but also working to ensure it remains accessible, sustainable, and fit for future generations. Through these planned restorations, we are ensuring that this significant landmark continues to enrich York’s cultural landscape for years to come.”

    The project is due to be completed part way through next year, when it will reopen in time for Yorkshire Day on Friday 1 August 2025 and a season of great events including the popular Georgian Festival. Meanwhile more of the city’s treasures can be admired at the Castle Museum, Yorkshire Museum and York Art Gallery.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Data from over 28,000 students processed to create a unique digital portfolio

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

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

    More than 28 thousand Polytechnic students have access to a portfolio on the PoliKapital platform. The digital platform created at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University allows young people to present their educational, scientific and extracurricular experience in one place. The platform helps analyze data and build a potential development trajectory. PoliKapital connects students and employers in one place and ensures a seamless transition to the labor market straight from the student bench. The work was carried out with the support of the strategic academic leadership program “Priority-2030” of the Ministry of Education and Science and the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs.

    According to official data from Rosstat, the average unemployment rate in Russia for June-August 2024 was 2.4%, which is a historical minimum for the entire observation period of the indicator since 1991. More and more often, HR specialists talk about the labor market, implying a shortage of employees. HR specialists must make a lot of effort to find the right specialists. To simplify communication between students and employers, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University has developed the PolyCapital platform. The digital platform, created to visualize students’ portfolios, allows them to demonstrate their achievements and skills to employers.

    The PolyCapital platform is a software product that allows you to evaluate the accumulated experience of a student (their input data): educational, scientific and extracurricular achievements, as well as build a potential trajectory of his development, taking into account the individual educational and career trajectory at the university and calculating the capitalization of the graduate based on his investment attractiveness. Students can visualize all their experience, evaluate skills and competencies, create a digital portfolio and find vacancies and contact a potential employer directly on the platform. Data from more than 28 thousand students has already been processed.

    The uniqueness of our platform is that it brings together in one place both hard skills — the educational and scientific achievements of students, and supra-professional competencies — the ability to work in a team, adaptability, learning ability, etc. And feedback from employers allows us to more accurately understand the requirements for students from the industry and take them into account in the educational process. The mission of PolyCapital is to support students in their career development, providing access to tools that help them realize their potential and successfully enter the professional world, — notes the project manager, director of the Center for the Formation of the Contingent of Students of SPbPU Varvara Sotova.

    The team created the platform from scratch. The logic and structure of the platform are developed by a business analyst. Based on these ideas, designers create a UI KIT (a set of platform elements) and draw layouts for various screen resolutions. A Polytechnic Master’s student is responsible for the backend development. After writing the server and client parts, the team of testers analyzes the result. They develop user scenarios for each role and, after adding new functionality, study the performance over and over again.

    Other platforms that provide digital portfolios for adult professionals can be considered analogs of PoliKapital. However, its uniqueness lies in its deep integration with the university ecosystem and the systematization of student data: when compiling an online resume, the platform takes into account absolutely all of the student’s experience throughout their studies. In the future, the team plans to introduce the program to other universities in the country. This will create a large-scale network connecting students and employers, which will significantly simplify the employment process for young professionals.

    The work was carried out with the support of the strategic academic leadership program “Priority-2030” of the Ministry of Education and Science and the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs.

    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 –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: The financial fallout from a warming world

    Source: European Central Bank (video statements)

    Climate change and nature loss are affecting all aspects of our lives, including our economies . What is the latest research telling us, and what is the cost to the economy? Stefania Secola talks to Executive Board member Frank Elderson and Deputy Director General and researcher Livio Stracca about how rising physical risks will affect our economies.

    The views expressed are those of the speakers and not necessarily those of the European Central Bank.

    This episode was recorded before the tragic floods in Spain.

    Published on 1 November.

    In this episode:
    01:42 Floods, wildfires and droughts
    How do climate change and nature degradation affect our economies? And how high was the economic loss caused by recent extreme weather events ?
    05:52 Catastrophe insurance
    What is it? How many people have it? And what does it mean for our preparedness if disaster were to strike?
    06:57 Adapting to a changing economy
    It’s clear that our environment is changing. How can we adapt our activities in the face of these changes?
    10:05 The Network for Greening the Financial System
    What is it, and what does it do? And what does it have to do with central banks and supervisors?
    12:32 How do climate change and nature loss affect our economies?
    How much higher are the expected losses than we previously thought? What’s the latest scientific research telling us?
    14:58 Climate messages during the Conference of the Parties (COP) meetings
    Which topics need more attention? And what can we do about it?
    19:19 Our guests’ hot tips

    Further reading:

    The impact of climate change and policies on productivity
    https://www.ecb.europa.eu/pub/pdf/scpops/ecb.op340~0173592e52.en.pdf

    Policy options to reduce the climate insurance protection gap
    https://www.ecb.europa.eu/pub/pdf/other/ecb.policyoptions_EIOPA~c0adae58b7.en.pdf

    Managing climate-related risks
    https://www.ecb.europa.eu/ecb/climate/managing_mitigating_climatel_risk/html/index.en.html

    Living in a world of disappearing nature: physical risk and the implications for financial stability
    https://www.ecb.europa.eu/pub/pdf/scpops/ecb.op333~1b97e436be.en.pdf

    What to do about Europe’s climate insurance gap
    https://www.ecb.europa.eu/press/blog/date/2023/html/ecb.blog.230424~4cdc3a38ba.en.html

    Failing to plan is planning to fail – why transition planning is essential for banks
    https://www.bankingsupervision.europa.eu/press/blog/2024/html/ssm.blog240123~5471c5f63e.en.html

    The climate insurance protection gap
    https://www.ecb.europa.eu/ecb/climate/climate/html/index.en.html

    The Network for Greening the Financial System
    https://www.ngfs.net/en

    Measuring economic losses caused by climate change
    https://cepr.org/voxeu/columns/measuring-economic-losses-caused-climate-change

    “Know thyself” – avoiding policy mistakes in light of the prevailing climate science
    https://www.bankingsupervision.europa.eu/press/speeches/date/2024/html/ssm.sp240412~c256dc168c.en.html

    Hothouse Earth by Gill McGuire
    https://www.google.com/search?safe=active&sca_esv=0d2d5197637c41d9&rlz=1C1GCEA_enDE1060DE1060&q=hothouse+earth+bill+mcguire&udm=3&fbs=AEQNm0Aa4sjWe7Rqy32pFwRj0UkWd8nbOJfsBGGB5IQQO6L3J_86uWOeqwdnV0yaSF-x2jqw-AzvpDFRWNmLZKilfTrfO0pl9dtT9e2t2elzSdzPviJlaPtdkm_zev73LcACj_Zt3WoLu1loKbhUBQ0BvD6_OC9OERnpW26hAPVqw_fTJrjRkQgEJf5SXlzvVj2JhcxyIvER&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi2yfiVobGJAxX6_7sIHZckMjAQs6gLegQIExAB&biw=1280&bih=665&dpr=1.5

    Climate Change 2023 Synthesis Report
    https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/syr/downloads/report/IPCC_AR6_SYR_LongerReport.pdf

    Headline statements of the Synthesis Report https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/syr/resources/spm-headline-statements

    Climate Change 2023: Synthesis Trailer

    European Central Bank
    https://www.ecb.europa.eu

    European Banking Supervision
    https://www.bankingsupervision.europa.eu/home/html/index.en.html

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tFK4nywepA

    MIL OSI Video –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Europe: The First Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children

    Source: Government of Sweden

    The First Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children – Government.se

    Please enable javascript in your browser

    Article from Ministry of Health and Social Affairs

    Published 01 November 2024

    Every year, half of the world’s children are subjected to various forms of violence. On 7–8 November, the first global ministerial conference on this topic will be held in Colombia’s capital, Bogotá. The Swedish Government is co-hosting the conference, together with the Government of Colombia, the World Health Organization, UNICEF and the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children.

    Eradicating violence against children is one of the interim Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda. It is now six years to the target deadline. The aim of the Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence against Children is to highlight the issue on the global agenda and accelerate efforts to end violence against children. Ministers from all over the world will convene at the conference to discuss how countries can take joint action, share best practices and formulate new and ambitious goals to end violence against children.

    “All children have the right to a life free from all forms of violence. Unfortunately for many children and young people, the reality is different. I hope that this conference will be a catalyst for addressing violence against children and raising the issue higher up on the global political agenda. Furthermore, I look forward to sharing Swedish experiences as well as learning and get inspired by concrete success factors, from both the conference and planned study visits in Colombia. For example, how to protect children from online violence, strengthen child and youth care and combat the recruitment of children and young people into criminal gangs,” says Minister for Social Services Camilla Waltersson Grönvall.

    Sweden has long been a role model regarding children’s rights. As a country, Sweden has made considerable progress in areas such as child protection, education, and social care, and was the first country in the world to introduce a ban on corporal punishment of children in 1979. Sweden also has a strong civil society and research environments that help to promote the rights of the child, and has been prominent in implementing legislation which puts the best interest of the child at the centre. By sharing experiences with other countries and spreading knowledge about Sweden’s strong tradition of protecting children’s rights, Sweden can drive international change, so that every child, no matter where they live, can live in safety and with their rights respected and protected. 

    Conference discussion topics will include corporal punishment, online violence, health, education, parental support, recruitment to criminal gangs, and sexual violence.

    Read more about the conference

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Virtune AB (Publ) (“Virtune”) has completed the monthly rebalancing for October 2024 of its Virtune Crypto Top 10 Index ETP, the first crypto index ETP in the Nordics

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Stockholm, 1st of November 2024 – Today Virtune announces that it has finalized its monthly rebalancing for Virtune Crypto Top 10 Index ETP, listed on Nasdaq Stockholm for both the SEK-denominated (ISIN code SE0020052207, ticker name VIR10SEK) and the EUR-denominated (ISIN code SE0020052215, ticker name VIR10EUR) ETP.

    In addition to the Virtune Crypto Top 10 Index ETP, Virtune’s product portfolio includes:

    Virtune Bitcoin ETP
    Virtune Staked Ethereum ETP
    Virtune Staked Solana
    Virtune Staked Polkadot ETP
    Virtune XRP ETP
    Virtune Avalanche ETP
    Virtune Chainlink ETP
    Virtune Arbitrum ETP
    Virtune Staked Polygon ETP
    Virtune Staked Cardano ETP

    Index allocation as of 31st of October (before rebalancing):

    Bitcoin: 42.98%
    Ethereum: 38.03%
    Solana: 9.87%
    XRP: 3.60%
    Cardano: 1.59%
    Avalanche: 1.33%
    Chainlink: 0.93%
    Polygon: 0.44%
    Uniswap: 0.55%

    Index allocation as of 31st of October (after rebalancing):

    Bitcoin: 40.00%
    Ethereum: 39.57%
    Solana: 10.80%
    XRP: 3.91%
    Cardano: 1.57%
    Avalanche: 1.42%
    Chainlink: 0.94%
    Litecoin: 0.69%
    Uniswap: 0.62%
    Polygon: 0.48%

    In connection with this month’s rebalancing, there is no change in the crypto assets included in the index. Virtune Crypto Top 10 Index ETP SEK outcome for October was +4.92%.

    The rebalancing is carried out according to the index that the ETP tracks, the Virtune Vinter Crypto Top 10 Index, and this is the 18th rebalancing since the product was listed on 15th of May 2023. The purpose of the monthly rebalancing is to ensure that the ETP always reflects the current market conditions and to effectively absorb volatility in the crypto market.

    In October, the crypto market saw strong momentum, with Bitcoin achieving a notable gain of +11.2%, outperforming most other major crypto assets. While Ethereum declined by -3.16%, Solana stood out, posting an impressive increase of +10.2%.

    The performance of the crypto assets included in Virtune Crypto Top 10 Index ETP in October:

    Bitcoin: +11.2%
    Solana: +10.6%
    Litecoin: +3.59%
    Ethereum: -3.16%
    Chainlink: -3.32%
    Cardano: -8.29%
    Avalanche: -9.64%
    Polkadot: -10.6%
    Polygon: -13.3%
    XRP: -16.7%

    Virtune’s crypto index ETP is the first of its kind in the Nordic region. The ETP includes up to 10 leading crypto assets that are part of the Nasdaq Crypto Index, based on their total market value, with a maximum weight of 40% per crypto asset to promote diversification. This allows investors to benefit from broad exposure to the crypto market without being heavily concentrated in any single crypto asset.

    If you, as an (institutional) investor, are interested in meeting Virtune to discuss the possibilities with our ETPs for your asset management/discretionary asset management offering, to learn more about Virtune and/or the company’s ETPs, please do not hesitate to contact us at hello@virtune.com. You can also read more about Virtune and our ETPs on www.virtune.com and register your email address on our website to subscribe to our newsletters that covers updates on Virtune’s upcoming ETP launches and other news related to digital assets.

    Press contact

    Christopher Kock, CEO Virtune AB (Publ)
    Christopher@virtune.com
    +46 70 073 45 64

    Virtune with its headquarters in Stockholm is a fully regulated Swedish digital asset manager and issuer of crypto exchange traded products on regulated European exchanges. With regulatory compliance, strategic collaborations with industry leaders and our proficient team, we empower investors on a global level to access innovative and sophisticated investment products that are aligned with the evolving landscape of the global crypto market.

    Cryptocurrency investments are associated with high risk. Virtune does not provide investment advice. Investments are made at your own risk. Securities may increase or decrease in value, and there is no guarantee that you will recover your invested capital. Please read the prospectus, KID, terms at www.virtune.com.

    The MIL Network –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Become a social media star: The new season of the TopBLOG project starts

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    Registration is open for participation in the fourth season of the all-Russian project “TopBLOG” of the presidential platform “Russia – the Land of Opportunities” for authors of useful content. Participants will be able to complete a relevant educational program, get a unique chance to conclude advertising and partnership contracts on cooperation, compete for valuable prizes, become part of a closed blogging community and declare themselves to the whole country.

    Applications can be submitted by residents of all countries of the world without age restrictions on the website topblog.rsv.ru.

    The All-Russian educational project “TopBLOG” helps to build a career in the media industry and learn how to effectively work with an audience on social networks. This is the first free educational project for bloggers in Russia. “TopBLOG” has already united more than 150 thousand people of different ages from all regions of our vast country and foreign countries.

    In the new fourth season, you will find a unique track “Media Laboratory”. Among the experts: Head of the Social Media Department of the Presidential Academy Ruzanna Ayrapetyan; Channel One and NTV presenter Ekaterina Shugaeva; blogger, TV presenter, singer, actor and producer Roman Kagramanov; blogger, singer, actress and TV presenter MIA BOYKA; bloggers, artists, music producers NANSI

    What exactly will you learn in the Media Lab? This is a track that will primarily help you master the key knowledge and skills needed for those who strive for professional development and reaching new heights in the media industry. Together with the project experts, bloggers will go through an educational block, complete practical tasks and analyze their blogs, and attend useful webinars. Participants will master a full range of competencies needed to create and promote content on social networks. Hurry! Registration will last until December 15.

    News about the TopBLOG project can be found on the official website.

    The All-Russian educational project “TopBLOG” has been implemented since 2020 within the framework of the program “Social lifts for everyone” of the national project “Education”.

    Subscribe to the tg channel “Our State University” Announcement date: 11/1/2024

    «ТопБЛОГ» президентской платформы «Россия – страна возможностей» для авторов полезного контента….” data-yashareImage=”https://guu.ru/wp-content/uploads/ТопБлог.webp” data-yashareLink=”https://guu.ru/%d1%81%d1%82%d0%b0%d0%bd%d1%8c-%d0%b7%d0%b2%d0%b5%d0%b7%d0%b4%d0%be%d0%b9-%d1%81%d0%be%d1%86%d1%81%d0%b5%d1%82%d0%b5%d0%b9-%d1%81%d1%82%d0%b0%d1%80%d1%82%d1%83%d0%b5%d1%82-%d0%bd%d0%be%d0%b2%d1%8b/”>

    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 –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Man Group PLC : Form 8.3 – Britvic plc

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 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: Man 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
    Britvic 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
    31/10/2024
    (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”
    YES / NO / N/A

    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: 20p ordinary
      Interests  
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:        
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives: 2,739,027 1.10 6,326 0.00
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    2,739,027 1.10 6,326 0.00

    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

    (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
    20p ordinary Equity Swap Increasing a long position 11,367 12.800 GBP
    20p ordinary Equity Swap Increasing a long position 5,668 12.800 GBP
    20p ordinary Equity Swap Increasing a long position 1,598 12.800 GBP
    20p ordinary Equity Swap Increasing a long position 126,509 12.800 GBP
    20p ordinary Equity Swap Increasing a long position 70,758 12.800 GBP
    20p ordinary Equity Swap Increasing a long position 11,308 12.800 GBP
    20p ordinary Equity Swap Increasing a long position 5,873 12.800 GBP
    20p ordinary Equity Swap Increasing a long position 1,673 12.800 GBP
    20p ordinary Equity Swap Increasing a long position 883 12.800 GBP
    20p ordinary Equity Swap Increasing a long position 49,076 12.800 GBP
    20p ordinary Equity Swap Increasing a long position 25,455 12.800 GBP
    20p ordinary Equity Swap Increasing a long position 7,828 12.800 GBP
    20p ordinary Equity Swap Increasing a long position 14,634 12.800 GBP

    (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: 01/11/2024
    Contact name: Mackenzie Terry
    Telephone number: +442071441555

    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 www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “E&M GO!” orientation ceremony 2024 held today (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

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

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

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

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Bitfarms Provides October 2024 Production and Operations Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


    October 2024 Select Operating Highlights

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

    Bitfarms’ BTC Monthly Production

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


    October 2024 Financial Update

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

    Upcoming Conferences and Events

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

    About Bitfarms Ltd.

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

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

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

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

    Glossary of Terms

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

    Forward-Looking Statements

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

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

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

    Additional Information about the Merger and Where to Find It

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

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

    No Offer or Solicitation

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

    Participants in Solicitation Relating to the Merger

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

    Investor Relations Contacts:

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

    Media Contacts:

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

    The MIL Network –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Blinken hosts and delivers remarks at a Diwali reception – 4:30 PM

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

    Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken hosts and delivers remarks at a Diwali reception at the Department of State, on November 1, 2024.
    ———-
    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
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/StateDept
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/statedept
    Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/statephotos/

    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/
    Careers website: https://careers.state.gov/
    White House website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/
    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4mwrAs2M5Y

    MIL OSI Video –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Logistics deal could raise prices for business customers in the UK

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    CMA’s Phase 1 investigation has found GXO’s purchase of Wincanton could reduce competition in the mainstream contract logistics services market.

    iStock

    Following a Phase 1 investigation, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has found that GXO Logistics’ (GXO) completed purchase of Wincanton PLC could reduce competition in the supply of mainstream contract logistics services (CLS) in the UK.

    Contract logistics services include distribution, transport, warehousing and other supply chain services. GXO is the world’s largest contract logistics services company, and Wincanton is a British supplier of these services. Both companies supply mainstream contract logistics services to business customers in both retail (such as groceries, fashion and apparel) and non-retail (such as manufacturing and construction) sectors.

    The CMA’s investigation found that GXO and Wincanton compete closely, particularly for contracts with large retail customers. Although GXO will continue to face competition from other contract logistics providers, many of these are significantly smaller, or focus on specific industries or types of logistics services (such as transport). Although some businesses have the option to bring services in-house if contract logistics suppliers do not offer good value, the ability to do this varies by customer.

    The CMA is therefore concerned that the deal could raise costs for businesses that rely on contract logistics suppliers to move goods around the UK and for other supply chain activities.

    GXO has 5 working days to submit proposals to address the CMA’s concerns. If suitable proposals are not submitted, the CMA will progress to an in-depth Phase 2 investigation.

    Naomi Burgoyne, Senior Director of Mergers at the CMA, said:

    Contract logistics services are critical for the flow of goods around the country, reducing delays, and ensuring that products reach their destinations efficiently and reliably. These services are essential for millions of people who rely on timely deliveries or being able to buy products off the shelf.

    This market is worth £16 billion in the UK, and we’re concerned that this merger could reduce competition, resulting in higher costs being passed down to consumers. We consider that these competition concerns warrant an in-depth Phase 2 investigation, unless GXO offers solutions which address them.

    More information on this case is available on the GXO / Wincanton case page.

    Notes to Editors:

    1. GXO announced their deal to acquire Wincanton in February 2024. The deal was then completed in April 2024, although an interim enforcement order (IEO) is in place to prevent the two organisations integrating while the CMA conducts its merger review.
    2. CLS encompass a range of B2B and B2C supply chain-related services, which enable businesses to supply goods to customers and consumers. These services include transport and distribution, warehousing and additional value-added services.
    3. CLS in the retail market includes the provision of services to customers whose products are consumer-facing such as groceries or fashion and apparel. This includes products that are ordered online, products that sell quickly and have a short shelf life due to high consumer demand or perishability (known as Fast Moving Consumer Goods), and products that require temperature-controlled logistic services (including certain food and drink products). CLS in the non-retail market involves the provision of services to customers whose products or services are not consumer-facing, such as automotive, construction, energy and manufacturing businesses.
    4. The CMA found that customers often prioritise reputation, reliability and track record when choosing CLS providers. Despite there being other alternatives in the CLS market, GXO and Wincanton (alongside DHL) are regarded as leading suppliers of mainstream CLS services, particularly for grocery retail customers.
    5. Guidance on the CMA’s mergers jurisdiction and procedure can be read here.
    6. All media enquiries should be directed to the CMA press office by email on press@cma.gov.uk or by phone on 020 3738 6460.

    Share this page

    The following links open in a new tab

    • Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)
    • Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

    Updates to this page

    Published 1 November 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City Art Centre presents POP LIFE: A vibrant fusion of pop culture and contemporary figurative drawing featuring works by 13 Scottish and international artists

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    This November, art enthusiasts and pop culture aficionados are invited to immerse themselves in POP LIFE, an exhibition that explores the intersection of popular culture and contemporary figurative drawing, challenging traditional distinctions between high and low art.

    Opening on Saturday, 2 November, POP LIFE features works by 13 Scottish and international artists, many of whom will be exhibiting in Scotland for the first time. Each artist uniquely engages with popular culture, referencing diverse influences such as music, film, fashion, literature, social media, and celebrities. The exhibition highlights this interplay, using familiar language to delve into themes that expand traditional drawing practices.

    Co-curated by artists Euan Gray and Witte Wartena, POP LIFE is a travelling exhibition previously showcased in Sweden (2022-23) and the Netherlands (2023). This iteration has been tailored to include Scottish artists and underscores the enduring allure of the human form as a reflection of identity and societal norms, drawing inspiration from art history, socio-political movements, and cultural shifts over the past six decades.

    Visitors can look forward to works by renowned and early-career artists including Marcel van Eeden, Euan Gray, Paul McDevitt, Charlotte Schleiffert, Sandra Vásquez de la Horra, Witte Wartena, David Shrigley, Andrew Cranston, Laura Bruce, Marc Brandenburg, Donald Urquhart, Jamie Fitzpatrick, and Fiona Michie—all of whom draw inspiration from the imagery and messages of pop culture.

    Over 80 works will be presented, with several new pieces created specifically for this exhibition.

    Marc Brandenburg has transformed a room of the gallery with UV light, to explore unseen sides of Tiergarten Park in Berlin, whilst Laura Bruce accompanies her drawn tributes to country music icons with vocal renditions of their biggest hits. Edinburgh-based artist Jamie Fitzpatrick is showing his large-scale drawings alongside a new monumental sculpture, looking critically and who in society is publicly memorialised. Internationally renowned artist David Shrigley will present 16 brand new drawings, showcasing his absurd and humorous work.

    Culture and Communities Convener, Val Walker said:

    I’m delighted that the City Art Centre can showcase this fantastic iteration of the POP LIFE exhibition featuring the works of 13 exciting artists. I’m especially proud that it will mark the first time some of these artists have displayed in Scotland, and that we will be presenting works created especially for the exhibition.

    I’m sure visitors will be captivated by these pieces and engage with the ever-changing dynamics of art within society.

    Curator Euan Gray, said:

    In an era dominated by computer generated images, AI and 3D printing, this exhibition offers us a wonderful opportunity to champion the enduring appeal of traditional drawing, wholeheartedly embrace the language of pop culture and promote a remarkable group of Scottish and international artists for whom the human form remains an essential motif.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canadians encouraged to talk money as FCAC launches Financial Literacy Month 2024

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Canadians encouraged to talk money as FCAC launches Financial Literacy Month 2024

    November 1, 2024
    Ottawa, Ontario

    November is Financial Literacy Month. This year, the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC) is launching a Canada-wide campaign to destigmatize conversations about money.

    Many Canadians find it difficult to discuss money and finances with family and friends for fear of being judged. To overcome this taboo, FCAC is encouraging Canadians to share their financial experiences with family and friends, ask questions, and consult with trusted financial professionals.

    Research shows that having conversations about money builds financial confidence, and that can lead to better financial outcomes. This is especially true for girls and women. For example, FCAC’s research with Carleton University (to be released later this month) shows that providing space for women to talk about finances was enough to help them feel more financially empowered. Conversations about money can also help people learn about resources that can help them improve their financial situation and achieve their financial goals.

    This November, FCAC is asking Canadians to do one thing to boost their financial knowledge – such as checking their credit score, talking to a friend about budgeting or using FCAC’s free tools and resources – then share their experience and encourage others to do the same. FCAC reminds people to protect their personal financial information such as their bank account number and credit card details.  

    Canadians can visit the Financial Literacy Month campaign page for more information and for free financial tools and resources. FCAC also has a promotional toolkit to help stakeholders get involved in this year’s campaign. 

    Financial Literacy Month is an important opportunity to advance FCAC’s National Financial Literacy Strategy, a 5-year plan to create a more accessible, inclusive and effective financial ecosystem for Canadians. This year’s campaign supports the priorities of the National Strategy by helping Canadians build financial confidence and navigate the financial marketplace, as well as enhancing access to trustworthy and affordable financial help.

    On November 4, FCAC will host a virtual event to launch Financial Literacy Month. The event will feature Olympic gold medallist Bruny Surin, Sara Weller, Chair of the U.K.’s Money and Pension Service, and other special guests. Registration is now open.

    “This year, FCAC and its Financial Literacy Month partners across the country are harnessing the transformative power of conversations. Talking helps us connect and learn from each other, and is an important way to share information. This Financial Literacy Month, let’s break the taboo against talking about money. Having conversations about money with people you trust can build financial confidence and open the door to positive financial outcomes. This November, we hope that Canadians from coast-to-coast-to-coast will join us in talking about money and take steps to build their financial knowledge and confidence.” 

    Werner Liedtke, Interim Commissioner, Financial Consumer Agency of Canada

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Novel experiment to explore the limits of quantum theory for arbitrarily massive objects

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 NOV 2024 3:43PM by PIB Delhi

    Scientists have devised an experiment for testing the domain of validity of quantum theory for objects much more massive than the usual microphysical objects (atoms, molecules etc), beyond which the classical theory has to be necessarily used. This study can also help in developing high precision quantum sensors which are important tools in the cutting- edge quantum technologies.

    The principles of Quantum Mechanics replacing that of Newtonian classical mechanics were developed nearly 100 years back. Yet, a number of quantum foundational issues remain problematic. For example, the boundary between the quantum mechanical microworld and the large scale macroscopic classical world of everyday objects obeying Newtonian Laws remains unspecified. The question–up to what level the quantum mechanical principles be valid for macroscopic objects– continues to be one of the most fundamental open questions in contemporary physics.

    This question is also intimately related to another hotly pursued fundamental issue– testing whether gravity is quantum mechanical or not.

    All the proposed laboratory-based schemes seeking to demonstrate the quantum mechanical nature of gravity crucially rest on assuming applicability of fundamental quantum principles for sufficiently massive objects.

    However, the state –of- the- art demonstrations of quantum features have so far reached only up to macromolecules of masses ten thousand times the hydrogen atom. Hence, breakthrough ideas, feasible to be implemented experimentally in the near future, are the need of the hour in order to scale up the tests of macroscopic quantumness to ever more massive objects.

    Prof. Dipankar Home from Bose Institute, Kolkata, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), in collaboration with D. Das, S. Bose (University College London) and H. Ulbricht (University of Southampton, UK) have addressed this challenge by formulating a novel procedure for demonstrating an observable signature of quantum behaviour for an oscillating object like pendulum having any large mass.

    These scientists have found a novel way for detecting measurement induced disturbance for an arbitrarily massive quantum mechanical pendulum. They have formulated an implementable scheme based on using lasers to suspend a single nanocrystal of silica (a microscopic glass bead) as it oscillates around the focal point of a small parabolic mirror carved out of a block of aluminum housed in a vacuum chamber.

    In a typical classical pendulum, the bead would move regularly from point A to point B and back again, unaffected by any observation. However, a quantum pendulum should behave very differently. Its position will change depending on whether or not someone is watching. If we were to detect at any instant where the pendulum bob was, there would be an immediate change of its future behavior. Such a disturbance is an unavoidable consequence of any measurement process involving quantum mechanical system. The scheme proposed by these scientists would enable detecting such measurement induced quantum disturbance for objects much more massive than usual microphysical objects.

    Given the present state- of- the -art technology, this envisaged experiment could be realizable in the coming years for systems ranging from oscillating nano-objects (like that of a grain of dust, about trillion times heavier than hydrogen atom) to oscillating mirrors having effective mass of about 10 kg used for gravitational wave detection.

    An experimental study has already been launched by one of the co-authors of this paper, Prof. H.Ulbricht and his group at University of Southampton, UK using optically levitated nano-diamonds about billion times heavier than hydrogen atom.

    Thus, this work would pave the way for experiments providing the most emphatic demonstration of large scale quantumness and would open up the possibility for leveraging such macroscopic quantumness for practical applications, such as by developing high precision quantum sensors which are key ingredients in the emerging quantum technologies.

    ***

    NKR/KS/AG

    (Release ID: 2070133) Visitor Counter : 38

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Science and Technology (DST) successfully completes Special Campaign 4.0 on Swachhata and minimizes pendency

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 NOV 2024 3:39PM by PIB Delhi

    Drawing inspiration from Honorable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi’s vision and mission to institutionalize Swachahta and minimize pendency in Government, Department of Science and Technology launched the Special Campaign 4.0 (implementation phase) from 2nd October to 31st October 2024. The Special Campaign aimed at improving overall cleanliness of Government offices and enhancing public experience of the common public with Government offices. Therefore, special attention was given to field / outstation offices (attached / subordinate offices).

    The glimpses of the cleaning activities carried out by Organisations of the DST are as follows: –

    Before

    After

     

    The Department of Science and Technology has successfully completed Special Campaign 4.0 underlining Swachhata, which was conducted within the Department and across various Autonomous Bodies/Subordinate Offices located in different parts of the country.

    During the campaign, special focus was given to space management and enhancement of workplace experience in offices. Since the beginning of the Preparatory Phase of the Special Campaign, the Department along with its Autonomous Bodies/Subordinate Offices identified various sites to be cleaned across the country. Around 257 sites were identified for cleaning, more than 26,000 physical files and around 383 e-files were identified for review. Daily progress was monitored by a dedicated team and information was uploaded regularly on the SCPDM portal hosted by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG).

    Nodal Officer of Special Campaign 4.0 & Joint Secretary (Admin), Smt. A. Dhanalakshmi regularly reviewed the campaign progress and visited many sites inside the office premises as a part of ongoing Special Campaign 4.0. She appreciated the efforts of the officials and encouraged them to channel their best efforts to maintain cleanliness at the workplace.

    The Implementation phase ended with achievements surpassing the targets on many fronts. The Department along with its Sections/Divisions/Autonomous Bodies/Subordinate Offices enthusiastically participated in the Special Campaign 4.0 and celebrated it as a cleanliness festival at more than 894 sites. This year a remarkable area of 4 lakhs 76 thousand sq. ft. has been freed and revenue of Rs. 4.84 lakhs have been generated by disposing scraps identified during the campaign. Further, as part of record management exercise, 30731 physical files have been reviewed and out of which 14090 files have been weeded out. Moreover, 575 e-files have been reviewed and out of which 321 e-files have been closed.

    ***

    NKR/KS/AG

    (Release ID: 2070132) Visitor Counter : 44

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Sports: Successful Completion of Special Campaign 4.0

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Posted On: 01 NOV 2024 3:11PM by PIB Delhi

    The Department of Sports, in collaboration with organizations under it – including the Sports Authority of India (SAI), Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education (LNIPE), National Sports University (NSU), National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), and the National Dope Testing Laboratory (NDTL)—made a significant contribution to Special Campaign 4.0 organized by Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances (DARPG). This campaign, was conducted during October 2024 and was aimed at embedding Swachhata (cleanliness) principles within the Department’s ethos and addressing long-standing pendencies. The Department of Sports commenced this effort with the spirited launch of the Fit India Swachhata Freedom Run 5.0 on October 2, 2024, at Major Dhyanchand Stadium, intertwining the themes of fitness and cleanliness.

    Over the course of the campaign, the Department replied 15 pending Member of Parliament references, resolved 30 public grievances, and fulfilled 2 Parliamentary Assurances under active supervision of senior officers of Department. This dedicated oversight ensured that objectives were met with both efficiency and impact.

    The campaign also focused on physical and digital file management. Accordingly, 210 physical files were thoroughly reviewed and subsequently 120 were weeded out. Moreover, the campaign saw the completion of the review of 220 e-files, marking a substantial stride in digital records management. On the ground, cleanliness drives were carried out across 44 identified sites spanning field offices and headquarters of the organizations under this Department. This concerted effort resulted in the reclamation of 12,000 square feet of space, with many newly available areas repurposed into valuable utility spaces. In addition, scrap disposal during the campaign generated Rs.1,76,000 in revenue, underscoring a commitment to sustainability and resourcefulness in the pursuit of cleanliness. 24 Tweets were made by this Department and organizations under it across various social media platforms, leveraging hashtags #SpecialCampaign4.0 and #SwachhBharat to amplify the campaign’s reach and visibility.

    Through above initiatives, the Department of Sports has not only reinforced the values of Swachhata but also set an example of practical, efficient governance. Some of the pictures of cleaning of office premises/ campus at organizations under this Department are shown below.

    ****

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2070114) Visitor Counter : 40

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare has released the Operational Guidelines of Central Sector Scheme “NAMO DRONE DIDI”

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare has released the Operational Guidelines of Central Sector Scheme “NAMO DRONE DIDI”

    Government has approved the Central Sector Scheme ‘Namo Drone Didi’ for providing Drones to the Women Self Help Groups under DAY-NRLM, with an outlay of Rs. 1261 Crores

    The scheme aims to provide drones to 14500 selected Women SHGs during the period from 2024-25 to 2025-2026 for providing rental services to farmers for agriculture purpose

    Posted On: 01 NOV 2024 12:04PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government has approved the Central Sector Scheme ‘Namo Drone Didi’ for providing Drones to the Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) under DAY-NRLM, with an outlay of Rs. 1261 Crores. The scheme aims to provide drones to 14500 selected Women SHGs during the period from 2024-25 to 2025-2026 for providing rental services to farmers for agriculture purpose (application of liquid fertilizers and pesticides for the present). The Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare has released the Operational Guidelines this scheme and all the stakeholders have been requested to make meaningful use of these operational guidelines to ensure prompt roll out and implementation of the ‘Namo Drone Didi’ Scheme. The major components of the operational guidelines are as under:

    The Scheme will be governed at the Central level by the Empowered Committee of the Secretaries of Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Department of Rural Development, Department of Fertilizers, Ministry of Civil Aviation and Ministry of Women and Child Development.

    The Implementation and Monitoring Committee headed by the Additional Secretary, Department of Rural Development and having representation from all other stakeholders will be  responsible for effective planning, implementation and monitoring of the scheme and it will provide overall advice and guidance to all technical matters related to the implementation of the scheme.

    Under the scheme, a Central Financial Assistance @ 80% of the cost of drone and accessories/ancillary charges up to a maximum of ₹ 8.0 lakhs will be provided to the women SHGs for purchase of drones as a package.

    The Cluster Level Federations (CLFs) of SHGs/SHGs may raise the balance amount (total cost of procurement minus subsidy) as loan under National Agriculture Infra Financing Facility (AIF). Interest subvention @ 3% on the AIF loan will be provided to the CLFs/SHGs.

    The CLFs/SHGs shall also have the option to access loans from other sources/programmes/schemes of Ministry of Rural Development. 

    Under the scheme, not only the drones but, drones as a package will be supplied.  The package will consists of basic drone with spray assembly for spraying liquid fertilizers and pesticides, Drone carrying box, standard battery set, downward facing camera, dualchannel fast battery charger, battery charger hub, anemometer, pH meter and 1 year onsite warranty on all items.

    The package also includes 04 spare battery sets, one spare propeller set (each set contains 6 propellers), nozzle set, dual channel fast battery charger, battery charger hub, 15 days training for drone pilot and drone assistant, one year comprehensive insurance, 2 years annual maintenance contract and applicable GST. The additional sets of batteries will ensure continuous drone flying which can easily cover 20 acres in a day.

    One of the members of the women SHGs will be selected for 15 day training comprising of mandatory drone pilot training and additional training for agriculture purpose for nutrient and pesticide application. The other member/ family member of the SHG with inclination to take up repairs of electrical goods, fitting and mechanical works will be trained as drone assistant. The drone manufacturers shall provide these trainings as a package along with the supply of drones as per the training schedule indicated in the Operational Guidelines.

    The Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) responsible for the States will be the implementing agencies of the scheme at the State level and they will establish necessary coordination with the State Departments, Drone manufacturers, Cluster Level Federations of SHGs/SHGs  and the farmers/beneficiaries etc. The drones will be procured by the LFCs through a fair and transparent process and the ownership of drones will be placed with the CLF of SHGs or SHGs.

    Implementation of the scheme hinges on rightful selection of the area/cluster and SHG group where there is demand for drone to provide agriculture services. As the introduction of drones in agriculture is at nascent stage, the States will closely monitor the interventions, provide handholding support to the women SHGs and help them in getting the business to cover an area of at least 2000 to 2500 acres in a year. The State Departments of Agriculture & State Mission Directors of DAYNRLM will have a very strong convergence and they will take the ownership of the scheme for its successful implementation at the ground level with the help of State Level Committee.

    Effective monitoring of the scheme will be through an IT based Management Information System (MIS) i.e. Drone Portal which will act as endto-end software for service delivery and monitoring, funds flow and disbursement of funds. The portal will also track operations of each drone and provide live information on drone usage.

    It is envisaged that the initiatives under the scheme will provide sustainable business and livelihood support to SHGs and they would be able to earn additional income for them. The scheme will help in infusing advance technology in agriculture for improved efficiency, enhanced crop yield and reduced cost of operation for the benefit of farmers.

    *****

    SS

    (Release ID: 2070029) Visitor Counter : 5

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sep retail sales drop 6.9%

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The value of total retail sales in September, provisionally estimated at $29.6 billion, decreased 6.9% compared with the same month in 2023, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.

    After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, the provisional estimate of the volume of total retail sales for the month was 8.7% lower year-on-year.

    Of the total retail sales value in September, online sales accounted for 10.4%. Provisionally estimated at $3.1 billion, the value of online retail sales decreased 11.8% compared with a year earlier.

    The value of sales of commodities in supermarkets dropped 1.1% in September year-on-year.

    There were also declines in sales in the following categories: electrical goods and other consumer durable goods not elsewhere classified (-7.6%); jewellery, watches and clocks, and valuable gifts (-17.9%); food, alcoholic drinks and tobacco (-3.2%); wearing apparel (-8.7%); medicines and cosmetics (-2.5%); commodities in department stores (-11.4%); motor vehicles and parts (-26.7%); fuels (-8.6%); furniture and fixtures (-14.4%); footwear, allied products and other clothing accessories (-3.8%); Chinese drugs and herbs (-17.7%); and optical shops (-10.6%).

    By contrast, the value of other consumer goods not elsewhere classified increased by 2.9% in September over a year earlier. Sales of books, newspapers, stationery and gifts rose 20.3%.

    The Government said that the near-term performance of the retail sector will still be affected by the change in consumption patterns of residents and visitors.

    Nevertheless, an improved outlook for the Mainland economy following the recent introduction of a wide range of stimulus measures, and a possible easing of the Hong Kong dollar alongside the US dollar with the commencement of the US interest rate cut, will be conducive to boosting sentiment and supporting spending.

    In addition, the central government’s various measures benefitting Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government’s various initiatives to boost market sentiment and increasing employment earnings will also benefit the retail sector.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa and Expeditionary Medical Facility Bravo are Rendering Assistance

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    Camp Foster, Expeditionary Medical Facility (EMF) Bravo Okinawa, Japan, 29 October 2024. In November 2021, BUMED adopted the “Charlie Mike” signal flags to convey our posture of “Rendering Assistance” to our warfighters. These flags convey that we are keeping our warfighters in the fight and ensuring they are operationally ready for that next mission. In Semaphore, Rendering Assistance is communicated by an Answer Pennant and two Flags — “Charlie” and “Mike.” These signal flags will help guide us forward as we continue to deliver operational medical capabilities to our Sailors and Marines. – Navy Medicine

    Navy Medicine was one of the critical lines of effort for the Keen Sword 25 Exercise. Keen Sword is the latest in a series of joint-bilateral field training exercises designed to increase combat readiness and interoperability of JSDF and U.S. forces. The U.S.-Japan alliance is built on shared interests and values and a commitment to freedom and human rights. Both countries are focused on ensuring regional peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region, including building new partnerships, and strengthening multilateral cooperation. Service members from the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Army, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard will conduct training with their JSDF counterparts alongside Australian and Canadian partners throughout mainland Japan, Okinawa prefecture, and its surrounding waters. U.S. Pacific Fleet

    An EMF is designed to be a mobile medical facility that can conduct medical operations like an actual hospital. They have operating rooms, lab capabilities, radiology, and ICUs. The EMF Bravo Triad is made up of the Commanding Officer, Capt. Ian Fowler, Executive Officer Capt. Shannan Rotruck, and Command Master Chief Shannon Bia. EMF Bravo’s deployment for Keen Sword 2025 reinforces the commitment to operational readiness and the enduring U.S.-Japan alliance, which is crucial to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. EMF Bravo provides medical support to the warfighter. EMF Bravo ensures that U.S. forces are medically ready and can provide care in any environment, from combat casualty care to humanitarian assistance. EMF Bravos’ role enhances interoperability with Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) and other allied forces, ensuring seamless medical support in joint operations.

    EMF Bravo is a Combat-Ready Medical Force. The unit is a critical asset, ready to support military operations by providing medical support anytime, anywhere, ensuring the health and readiness of our forces. EMF Bravo provides support for Joint and Multinational Exercises. The team’s participation in Keen Sword 2025 demonstrates the ability to operate alongside Japanese and other allied medical teams, showcasing the ability to provide seamless care in joint operations. EMF Bravo is prepared for a wide range of contingencies, including combat medical support, disaster response, and humanitarian assistance.

    The exercise generated a lot of media interest. Local Japanese news outlets were eager to be involved in a media event that gave both Japanese and U.S. reporters and broadcasters unfettered access to the EMF leadership and subject matter experts responsible for coordinating the efforts. The press asked many questions, and everyone who witnessed the seamless integration of the JSDF and U.S. health services knew that in the event of an emergency, natural disaster, or other contingencies, the Japanese and U.S. military and civilian population would receive the most advanced and capable military healthcare delivery in the world!

    The continuum of care brought the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa into the exercise, which simulated a mass casualty scenario incorporating planning to move injured personnel from Role 2 to Role 3. A prolonged mass casualty scenario then opens up third—and fourth-order effects that lead to a bed expansion plan that transforms the Multi-Service Ward. The constant demand for blood products triggers a blood request, activating a walking blood bank.

    These combined exercises allow multiple organizations to come together, and each apply practice to purpose pointing out areas that work well and teams excel, as well as finding areas of concern that can then be targeted for training and reassessment long before the real-world need occurs. The Japanese Self-Defense Force (JSDF) did just that throughout the Keen Sword event. When you walked through the controlled chaos of EMF Bravo you quickly noticed that there were more than one group working together in complete unison. The JSDF and U.S. personnel were working together elbow to elbow to save lives. It did not matter what force or nationality they came from once Navy Medicine received them at EMF Bravo the patient would then begin to transition through the patient triage and diagnostic process. EMF Bravos’ deployment for Keen Sword 2025 reinforces the commitment to operational readiness and the enduring U.S.-Japan alliance, which is crucial to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

    The U.S. Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Okinawa (USNMRTCO) supports the Defense Health Agency’s U.S. Naval Hospital, Okinawa (USNHO) as the largest OCONUS Navy Medicine medical treatment facility and stands at the ready to respond to contingency operations to support the INDOPACOM region. It is a critical regional asset for direct care delivery, regional referrals, and medical contingency operations. The staff of USNHO understands their vital role as pre-positioned, forward-deployed naval forces within the first island chain, aligned and in support of the joint military commands and operations.

    Trey Savitz, Public Affairs Officer
    U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa, Japan
    Comm: 011-81-971-7024
    DSN: (315) 646-7024
    isaac.s.savitz.civ@health.mil

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: Russia/Ukraine: Both continued to receive arms, ammunition & military assistance | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Briefing by Adedeji Ebo, Director and Deputy to the High representative for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), on threats to international peace and security.

    —————————–

    The Director of the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), Adedeji Ebo, today (31 Oct) told the Security Council both Russia and Ukraine have continued to receive arms, ammunition and other forms of military assistance, and urged all concerned “to refrain from any steps that may lead to further spill over and intensification of the war.”

    Ebo said the armed forces of Ukraine have reportedly received “heavy conventional weapons such as battle tanks, armoured combat vehicles, combat aircraft, helicopters, light calibre artillery systems, missile systems and uncrewed combat aerial vehicles, as well as remotely operated munitions and small arms and light weapons and their ammunition.”

    While Russia has also reportedly received weapons such as uncrewed aerial vehicles, ballistic missiles and ammunition, Ebo highlighted recent reports that refer to “the presence of third party military personnel in the Russian Federation to assist in military operations against Ukrainian forces.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUIi6cqYQWU

    MIL OSI Video –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU and SibNIA create a joint laboratory “Intelligent systems for testing aircraft structures”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Novosibirsk State University and the Siberian Aviation Research Institute named after S. A. Chaplygin continue their cooperation in the educational and research spheres. At the scientific and production forum “Golden Valley”, which was held from October 31 to November 1 and the main organizer of which was NSU, an agreement was signed to create a joint laboratory “Intelligent systems for testing aircraft structures”. At the first stage, it will be engaged in bench tests of equipment in order to predict possible deformations and breakdowns, in the future, the range of work performed will be expanded – it will also include video analytics, a vibration damping system.

    The laboratory will include students and postgraduates of the Faculty of Information Technology and the Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics of NSU, as well as employees of partner companies – FAU “SibNIA named after S.A. Chaplygin” FAU (part of the FGBU “Research Center “Institute named after N.E. Zhukovsky”) and JSC TsNIAP “AVIASPETSTEST”, who will act as mentors – a total of 13 people. The head of the laboratory will be Vladimir Berikov, Doctor of Technical Sciences, Senior Researcher at the Institute of Mathematics named after S.L. Sobolev and a lecturer at the Faculty of Information Technology of NSU.

    The laboratory is fully focused on solving applied problems arising during bench tests of aircraft equipment, including the development and creation of modules of the Intelligent Bench Test System for Aircraft Equipment (ISIA) with elements of artificial intelligence; an intelligent operator workstation with connected archives and libraries; intelligent simulators, as well as vibration isolation systems for high-precision instruments and systems.

    — During bench tests of equipment, we will use sensors to collect data streams in our system, use archives and libraries, and analyze all the information received using artificial intelligence systems. Thanks to this, we will be able to predict for what time and what deformations and breakdowns are possible. In this way, we will preserve individual aircraft structures intact, solving the main problem of ground tests, when expensive structures become unusable, — noted Alexander Sychev, Deputy Director of the Center for Interaction with Government Authorities and Industrial Partners of NSU.

    — The organization of a joint laboratory will give a new impetus to the development of methods for testing aircraft structures. I am confident that cooperation with NSU will allow us to significantly advance in the study of the strength of aircraft structures and the subsequent improvement of the test bench base, — commented Alexander Laznenko, head of the research department for fatigue and static strength of aircraft structures at SibNIA.

    At the first stage, the task is to test the capabilities of the intelligent system when testing the main load-bearing parts, and then gradually move on to all parts and units of aircraft structures. What is important is that the integrity of the stand itself will also be monitored, which is also subject to significant loads during testing and may fail.

    The use of artificial intelligence systems and neural networks will not only significantly optimize testing costs, but also reduce the testing time of individual aircraft parts, which can now reach thousands of hours.

    The new laboratory will start operating at NSU this year, and in 2025, a specially equipped site will appear at SibNIA, which will allow NSU students and postgraduates to carry out work directly at the enterprise.

    Another promising area for cooperation between the two organizations is unmanned aircraft systems. Given the developments in this area at NSU and SibNIA, it is planned to create a joint Laboratory of Autonomous and Unmanned Aircraft Systems in the future. In the future, the two laboratories will be combined into the Center for Intelligent Aircraft Systems.

    The Siberian Aviation Research Institute named after S. A. Chaplygin and Novosibirsk State University have been cooperating since 2022, when they began holding a joint seminar on Industrial Mathematics on a regular basis. In 2023, SibNIA and NSU signed an agreement, according to which practical training for students in the field of Computer Systems and Complexes will be organized at the research institute. In August 2024, the two organizations announced plans to create a digital platform for bench testing of aircraft equipment with elements of artificial intelligence within the next two years.

    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 –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Asia+ Festival: Asian Ethnic Cultural Performances to showcase diverse cultures of Asian and Belt and Road countries and regions (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Asia+ Festival: Asian Ethnic Cultural Performances to showcase diverse cultures of Asian and Belt and Road countries and regions (with photos)
    Asia+ Festival: Asian Ethnic Cultural Performances to showcase diverse cultures of Asian and Belt and Road countries and regions (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         To develop Hong Kong into an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange, this year’s Asia+ Festival, presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), continues to collaborate with consulates general and overseas cultural organisations in Hong Kong to stage the Asian Ethnic Cultural Performances. The event will take place on November 10 (Sunday), from 2pm to 6pm at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza and Foyer, where the cultural essence and artistic talent from over 20 Asian and Belt and Road countries and regions will be featured. Admission is free. Members of the public are welcome to join.      The theme for this year’s edition is “Celebration in Splendour”. Through folk music, dance, costume display, handicrafts and special delicacies, the event enables visitors to learn about how people of different nations celebrate milestones and important moments in their lives. Highlights include ethnic dances from Cambodia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Laos, Nepal, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Türkiye and Vietnam; as well as traditional musical instrument performances from Kazakhstan, Korea and Kuwait. Of particular note is a 20-plus-member Kuwaiti group who will for the first time fly in to perform a sword dance and Middle East instruments, namely Daf and Mirwas. ​     Members of the public can also enjoy handicraft displays from Bangladesh, Pakistan and other places, and participate in a vast range of workshops such as traditional dance, headgear making, spoon painting, Christmas decoration drawing, paper umbrella painting, and fragrant sachet making. Japanese sake and snacks from Türkiye and Vietnam will also be available at the food stalls on-site for the enjoyment of visitors of all ages. ​     Additionally, an exhibition entitled “Sartorial Splendour – National Costume Exhibition” will be held from November 10 to 17 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Foyer. The eight-day exhibition showcases beautiful costumes and accessories that Asian people wear during festive events and celebratory performances. These include wedding attire and ethnic costumes from multiple countries and regions; Kuwait’s wedding attire and headdress; Laos’ Sinh skirts; Bidayuh, Orang Ulu and Dayak attire from the aboriginals in Malaysia; wedding attire from Myanmar; T’boli ethnic costumes from the Philippines; and Ao Dai gowns from Vietnam. There will also be a trial session of traditional Chinese costumes for visitors to deepen their understanding of Chinese culture. ​     Along with the aforesaid live performances and exhibition, the Asian Ethnic Cultural Performances will also offer an online programme recapturing the event highlights, to be broadcast on November 24 on the LCSD’s Community Programmes Office (CPO) website (www.cpo.gov.hk/activity/en-aecp-2024-carnival/). ​     Twenty-three countries and regions will participate in the event, including Hong Kong, China; Macao, China; Bangladesh; Cambodia; Indonesia; Japan; Kazakhstan; Korea; Kuwait; Laos; Malaysia; Mongolia; Myanmar; Nepal; Pakistan; the Philippines; Russia; Saudi Arabia; Singapore; Sri Lanka; Thailand; Türkiye and Vietnam. For more details of the event, please visit the CPO website or call 2591 1340.      The second Asia+ Festival is running from September to November, highlighting the arts and cultures of nearly 30 Asian and Belt and Road countries and regions. Apart from stage programmes, there are also thematic exhibitions, an outdoor carnival, film screenings, outreach activities and more, numbering over 100 in total. For programme enquiries and concessionary schemes, please call 2370 1044 or visit asiaplus.gov.hk/2024/en/.

     
    Ends/Friday, November 1, 2024Issued at HKT 19:35

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Energy Systems Group Receives 2024 HIRE Vets Platinum Medallion Award for Excellence in Veteran Hiring and Retention

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEWBURGH, Ind., Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Energy Systems Group (ESG), a leading provider of sustainable infrastructure and energy services, is proud to announce it has received the Platinum Medallion Award in the 2024 HIRE Vets Medallion Program, awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor and U.S. Acting Secretary of Labor Julie A. Su. This prestigious recognition honors ESG’s ongoing commitment to recruiting, hiring, and developing veterans and transitioning service members. ESG has now achieved Medallion recognition for the second consecutive year.

    The HIRE Vets Medallion Program is the only federal program that recognizes employers who successfully recruit, hire, and retain veterans. ESG was among an elite group of companies across the country awarded Platinum status, representing a strong commitment to building a workforce enriched by the skills and experiences of former military personnel.

    “We are honored to receive the prestigious 2024 HIRE Vets Platinum Medallion Award,” said Steve Craig, President of Energy Systems Group. “We are committed to engaging and employing veterans and service members across ESG. Their skills, leadership, and resilience are invaluable to our team, and together, we’re building a dedicated workforce that reflects the values of service to our country.”

    Supporting Veterans Beyond Recruitment

    Since its founding in 1994, ESG has welcomed many veterans and active-duty reservists to its team, including new hires from the Navy, Air Force, and Army. ESG’s support for veterans goes beyond hiring: initiatives include the formation of an employee-led Veteran & Military Resource Group (VMRG), which provides veterans and military members with leadership training and development resources. Through VMRG, ESG offers a forum for veterans to connect, grow, and contribute their unique strengths to ESG’s mission.

    Joe Simonelli, Colonel, U.S. Army (Ret.), ESG’s Department of Defense Engagement Executive and a 2024 finalist for the National Veterans Council’s Distinguished Service Awards, emphasized the impact of ESG’s support for veterans: “Joining ESG has been a seamless transition from military service to a career where my values align with the company’s mission. ESG’s commitment to veterans isn’t just about recruitment; it’s about creating pathways for professional growth and leadership that allow us to continue serving in meaningful ways.”

    ESG’s commitment to veterans is integral to its identity as an employer of choice for veterans entering civilian careers. The range of perspectives, technical expertise, and resilience veterans bring strengthens ESG’s team and deepens its commitment to providing top-tier energy solutions across the nation.

    About Energy Systems Group

    Energy Systems Group (ESG) is a leading sustainable energy solutions provider specializing in energy efficiency, sustainability, resiliency, and infrastructure improvement solutions in the government, education, healthcare, commercial, and industrial sectors. Energy Systems Group also offers a full range of sustainable infrastructure solutions, including waste-to-energy, distributed generation, and renewable energy.

    For information about ESG careers and how veterans can bring their unique backgrounds to a mission-driven organization, visit EnergySystemsGroup.com/careers.

    About the HIRE Vets Medallion Program:

    The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is earned by businesses that demonstrate unparalleled commitment to attracting, hiring and retaining veterans. The 2025 HIRE Vets Medallion Award application period will open to employers on January 31, 2025. For more information about the program and the application process, visit HIREVets.gov.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1165caf4-b9ec-457c-b164-01237cdf3f32

    The MIL Network –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Credicorp Ltd.: Credicorp Ltd. to acquire remaining 50% stake in joint venture with Empresas Banmédica

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Lima, Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lima, PERU, November 1st, 2024 – Credicorp Ltd. (“Credicorp”) (NYSE: BAP | BVL: BAP), the leading financial services holding company in Peru with a presence in Chile, Colombia, Bolivia, and Panama, announced today that it has reached an agreement to acquire Empresas Banmédica (“Banmedica”)’s 50% interest in the joint venture executed in December 2014 between Pacífico Compañía de Seguros y Reaseguros S.A. (“Pacifico Seguros”) and Banmedica. Closing is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

    In December 2014, Pacifico Seguros and Banmedica established a joint venture to participate as equal partners in the private medical insurance (referred to as Medical Assistance in Credicorp’s quarterly earnings releases), corporate health insurance for employees and medical services businesses in Peru.

    By virtue of this acquisition, Banmedica will transfer its 50% interest in the private medical insurance business in Peru to Pacifico Seguros. In addition, Banmedica will transfer its 50% interest in Pacífico S.A. Entidad Prestadora de Salud (“Pacifico EPS”), which runs the corporate health insurance for employees and medical services businesses in Peru, to Credicorp’s subsidiary Grupo Crédito S.A.

    Upon completion of the transaction, the partnership will be terminated and Credicorp, through its subsidiaries Grupo Crédito S.A. and Pacifico Seguros, will become the sole owner of both the private medical insurance business and Pacifico EPS. 

    The acquisition strengthens Credicorp’s ability to fulfill its aspiration of creating a more sustainable and inclusive economy by improving insurance and healthcare access, while advancing financial inclusion in Peru. Credicorp is committed to continue investing in technology, expanding its footprint, and improving service delivery standards to ensure Pacifico Seguros and Pacifico EPS remain trusted partners for Peruvian families.

    Following the transaction, customers, policyholders, agents, and other stakeholders will experience seamless continuity, with no disruptions. No changes in terms, service, or policy administration are expected.

    About Credicorp:

    Credicorp (NYSE: BAP) is the leading financial services holding company in Peru with presence in Chile, Colombia, Bolivia, and Panama. Credicorp has a diversified business portfolio organized into four lines of business: Universal Banking, through Banco de Crédito del Peru (“BCP”) and Banco de Crédito de Bolivia; Microfinance, through Mibanco in Peru and Colombia; Insurance & Pension Funds, through Grupo Pacifico and Prima AFP; and Investment Management & Advisory, through Credicorp Capital, Wealth Management at BCP and ASB Bank Corp.

    About Pacifico EPS

    Pacifico EPS is one of the largest corporate health insurance for employees and medical services providers in Peru, with over one million clients. The company reported a net income of S/ 205 million for 2023, highlighting its robust financial performance.  

    About Pacifico Seguros

    Pacifico Seguros is one of the leading insurance companies in Peru and is part of Credicorp. In 2023 the company reported a net income of S/ 810 million. The company offers a wide range of insurance products, including life, private health, automobile, and property insurance.

    For further information please contact the IR team:
    Investorrelations@credicorpperu.com

    Investor Relations

    Credicorp Ltd.

    The MIL Network –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Stardust Power Announces Third Quarter 2024 Earnings Release Date, Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GREENWICH, Conn., Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Stardust Power Inc. (NASDAQ: SDST) (“Stardust Power” or the “Company”), an American developer of battery-grade lithium products, today announced that that it plans to release its third quarter 2024 financial results after market close on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. Roshan Pujari, Founder and Chief Executive Officer and Uday Devasper, Chief Financial Officer will host a conference call at 5:30 pm ET on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 to discuss the Company’s performance.

    Participants may access the call by clicking the participant call link and ask questions: https://register.vevent.com/register/BI636e5a7167ac45fe86b733d151aba0af. Upon registering at the link, you will receive the dial-in info and a unique PIN to join the call as well as an email confirmation with the details. You can also access the call via live audio webcast using the website link to listen in: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/vd7zimt8.

    Participants should log in at least 15 minutes early to receive instructions.

    About Stardust Power Inc.

    Stardust Power is a developer of battery-grade lithium products designed to supply the electric vehicle (EV) industry and bolster America’s energy leadership by building resilient supply chains. Stardust Power is developing a strategically central lithium refinery in Muskogee, Oklahoma with the anticipated capacity of producing up to 50,000 metric tons per annum of battery-grade lithium. The company is committed to sustainability at each point in the process. Stardust Power trades on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “SDST.” For more information, visit www.stardust-power.com

    Stardust Power Contacts

    For Investors:
    Johanna Gonzalez
    investor.relations@stardust-power.com

    For Media:
    Michael Thompson
    media@stardust-power.com

    The MIL Network –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: Ukraine: Independent International Commission of Inquiry – Press Conference | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Press conference by Erik Mose, Pablo de Greiff and Vrinda Gover, of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine.

    ——-

    According to the United Nations’ Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, the “Russian authorities acted pursuant to a coordinated state policy of torturing Ukrainian civilians and prisoners of war. Therefore, in addition to torture as a war crime, they also committed torture as a crime against humanity,” said Erik Mose, a member of the commission, during a press briefing in New York.

    The report highlights violent practices reportedly transported from Russian Federation detention facilities to occupied areas in Ukraine. These included the recurrent use of sexual violence and a division of labor among Russian security forces deployed in Ukrainian territories.

    “This report contains evidence of further common elements, including, first, the transposition of violent practices common in Russian Federation detention facilities to similar facilities in occupied areas of Ukraine,” Mose added. “Second, the recurrent use of sexual violence. Third, the deployment of specific services and security forces from the Russian Federation to the occupied areas they controlled in Ukraine, who acted in a coordinated manner and according to a specific division of labor, and fourth, orders of superiors, as well as an apparent sense of impunity among perpetrators.”

    Vrinda Grover, another commission member, described a pattern of consistent torture methods used in detention facilities, detailing what she called a “replication of practices” aimed at controlling and punishing detainees.
    “Detainees consistently described the use of the same harsh practices in the same sequence, demonstrating the replication of practices of torture,” Grover said. “Testimonies described a brutal so-called admission procedure, harsh practices designed to scare, break, humiliate, coerce, and punish detainees were used routinely. Personnel monitored compliance with their rules through surveillance cameras and imposed severe collective punishment for any breach. Interrogations were accompanied by some of the most violent treatment documented.”

    The Commission of Inquiry, established by the Human Rights Council in March 2022, has been investigating alleged human rights violations in Ukraine amid Russia’s ongoing invasion. Tuesday’s report to the General Assembly marks the Commission’s latest findings to date.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQa6fjp1YvA

    MIL OSI Video –

    January 26, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Walking Together in Healthy Bay Area – “Celebrating the 75th National Day 10 000 Steps a Day Walking Challenge 2024” Kick-off Ceremony (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Walking Together in Healthy Bay Area – “Celebrating the 75th National Day 10 000 Steps a Day Walking Challenge 2024” Kick-off Ceremony (with photos)
    Walking Together in Healthy Bay Area – “Celebrating the 75th National Day 10 000 Steps a Day Walking Challenge 2024” Kick-off Ceremony (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Health Bureau (HHB) and the Department of Health (DH) today (November 1) held the “Celebrating the 75th National Day 10 000 Steps a Day Walking Challenge 2024” Kick-off Ceremony to promote the health benefits of walking. On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), Hong Kong will for the first time partner with the Greater Bay Area (GBA) Mainland cities to jointly promote walking under the theme of “Walking Together in Healthy Bay Area” to mark the celebration. Shenzhen and Zhuhai also held the Kick-off Ceremony of their walking activities today. The Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, and the Director of Health, Dr Ronald Lam, officiated at the Kick-off Ceremony, while other officiating guests included Legislative Council Member Mr Tommy Cheung; the Under Secretary for Health, Dr Libby Lee; the Controller of the Centre for Health Protection of the DH, Dr Edwin Tsui; the Chairperson of the Task Group on Promotion of Physical Activities, Dr Lui Siu-fai; the Vice-chairperson of the Task Group on Promotion of Physical Activities, Dr Lobo Louie, and Ms Shelley Lee.     Addressing the ceremony, Professor Lo said, “I sincerely thank the GBA Mainland Cities for their support in promoting walking together on the same day for the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the National Day, as well as promoting a healthy lifestyle among the GBA residents. I would also like to express gratitude for the enthusiastic participation and support in this event from various sectors of community, and I am particularly pleased to meet the ‘people of the same age as our motherland’ here today (that is, being born in 1949), including the Legislative Council Member Mr Tommy Cheung and Ms Lee Lai-kuen, Shelley.”           He emphasised, “Like many other regions and countries, Hong Kong is confronted with the threats arising from an ageing population and non-communicable diseases, and insufficient physical activity is one of the key risk factors of non-communicable diseases, but yet this risk is modifiable. According to the DH’s Student Health Service Annual Health Report for 2022-23 school year, around 90 per cent of students had an insufficient level of physical activity, i.e. not meeting the World Health Organization (WHO)’s recommendation of doing at least 60 minutes of daily moderate to vigorous-intensity physical activity. As for members of the public aged 18 or above, according to the Population Health Survey 2020-22 conducted by the DH, 24.8 per cent performed an insufficient level of physical activity, i.e. not meeting the WHO’s recommendation of doing at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity; or at least 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity; or an equivalent amount of physical activity throughout the week. Therefore, I call on everyone, whether school children or adults, to perform more physical activities. School children could participate in the ‘e+ Go to Park’ launched by the HHB in collaboration with the Education Bureau, the DH and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD); members of the public aged 18 or above could seize this opportunity to participate in the ’10 000 Steps a Day’ Walking Challenge.”           He added, “Walking is simple form of physical activity and brings plenty of health benefits including maintaining a healthy body weight, improving cardiopulmonary function, strengthening muscles and bones, relieving symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as reducing the risk of chronic diseases.”             To encourage members of the public to increase their physical activities, the DH launched the “10 000 Steps a Day” Campaign in 2022. For the second Walking Challenge in 2023, a total of 16 000 people participated, with the total number of steps accumulated exceeding 5 billion.           The Walking Challenge commences today and lasts for one month. In addition to individual Walking Challenge, it also includes a Workplace Organisation Walking Challenge, aiming to raise public awareness of the physical and mental health benefits of walking, encourage friends and colleagues to support each other and walk 10 000 steps daily. Adults are recommended to gradually increase their daily step goal to 10 000 based on an individual’s own physical conditions, abilities, pace and circumstances. Any amount of walking is better than sitting, even if the goal cannot be reached yet.           Participants enrol in the Walking Challenge and record their step count during the challenge period through “e+Life”, the health challenge platform launched under the eHealth app. Participants reaching a daily average of 10 000 steps during the challenge period can be awarded an electronic certificate of achievement from the “e+Life” platform. For more details about the Walking Challenge in Hong Kong, please visit the event website of the Walking Challenge (www.10000stepsaday.hk/?lang=en) and the website of “e+Life” (app.ehealth.gov.hk/elife-overview). 

     
    Ends/Friday, November 1, 2024Issued at HKT 20:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 26, 2025
←Previous Page
1 … 2,234 2,235 2,236 2,237 2,238 … 2,663
Next Page→
NewzIntel.com

NewzIntel.com

MIL Open Source Intelligence

  • Blog
  • About
  • FAQs
  • Authors
  • Events
  • Shop
  • Patterns
  • Themes

Twenty Twenty-Five

Designed with WordPress