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Multiconsult third quarter result 2024 – very strong quarter

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OSLO, Norway, Nov. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Multiconsult ASA (OSE: MULTI)
Multiconsult delivered a very strong quarter, continuing the positive momentum. EBITA came in at NOK 102.9 million (29.2), equal to an EBITA margin of 9.0 per cent. The performance was influenced by high activity, with a billing ratio of 71.2 per cent, 3.4 percentage points higher than the comparable quarter last year. Net operating revenues grew by 17.5 per cent to NOK 1 148.4 million, the organic revenue growth was 15.9 per cent adjusted for the calendar effect. There was an impact of one more working day compared to the same period last year, with an estimated negative effect of NOK 6.1 million on net operating revenues and EBITA. The order intake was NOK 1 277 million resulting in an order backlog of NOK 4 838 million. During the quarter, Multiconsult resolved a contractual dispute with a client, resulting in a settlement payment of NOK 31.2 million, which is reflected in the group results.

THIRD QUARTER 2024

Very strong quarter, driven by robust operational performance and high activityNet operating revenues increased by 17.5 per cent to NOK 1 148.4 million (977.0)The organic revenue growth adjusted for the calendar effect was 15.9 per centEBITA of NOK 102.9 million (29.2), equal to an EBITA margin of 9.0 per cent (3.0)       Net operating revenues and EBITA impacted negatively by NOK 6.1 million from the calendar effect compared with third quarter 2023EBITA adjusted for one-offs was NOK 71.7 million (29.2), equal to an EBITA margin of 6.4 per cent (3.0)Net operating revenues and EBITA impacted by a one-time settlement payment from client of NOK 31.2 million related to a contractual disputeSignificantly improved billing ratio of 71.2 per cent (67.8), up 3.4ppOrder intake of NOK 1 277 million (1 349)Order backlog of NOK 4 838 million (5 094)Full-time equivalents (FTE) increased by 2.1 per cent, to 3 541 (3 469)Net profit of NOK 80.2 million (9.6)Earnings per share NOK 2.95 (0.40)The overall market outlook remains good and stable

YEAR TO DATE 2024

Net operating revenues of NOK 3 940.3 million (3 441.0), a y-o-y growth of 14.5 per centThe organic revenue growth adjusted for the calendar effect was 12.2 per centEBITA of NOK 425.4 million (301.1), equal to an EBITA margin of 10.8 per cent (8.8)   Net operating revenues and EBITA impacted negatively by NOK 27.2 million from the calendar effect compared with same period 2023EBITA adjusted for one-offs was NOK 394.1 million (301.1), equal to an EBITA margin of 10.1 per cent (8.8)Net operating revenues and EBITA impacted by a one-time settlement payment from client of NOK 31.2 million related to a contractual disputeOrder intake of NOK 4 655 million (5 495)Net profit of NOK 323.7 million (203.7)Earnings per share 11.83 (7.46)Full-time equivalents (FTE) increased by 6.0 per cent, to 3 540 (3 340)

EXTRACT OF COMMENTS FROM CEO, GRETHE BERGLY: 

“Multiconsult delivered a very strong quarter, continuing the positive momentum. A continued high billing ratio throughout this quarter attests to the elevated activity levels across the organisation and in all business areas. We continue to achieve impressive results driven by robust operational performance and high activity levels in many of our large projects. I would like to express my gratitude to all our employees for their contributions to these results. 

Three years into the strategy period, we have seen significant changes in our surroundings and macro-economic situation, which have also impacted our client base. In light of this, we have updated our strategy, and this will be presented in the Capital Markets Day presentation following the presentation of the third quarter results. 

We continue to experience strong demand for our services, there are however variations in the market situation across geographical locations and business areas. With the ongoing geopolitical challenges, our strong references related to the defence sector is creating new business opportunities and we are well positioned for the increase in activities, both within the sector and to all services related to this market. It is a significant achievement that Multiconsult, at the start of November, was awarded a NOK 450 million framework agreement with the Norwegian Defence Estates Agency (NDEA) (Forsvarsbygg). 

Looking ahead, Multiconsult is in a strong position to handle a changing market and support our clients’ needs. Our solid order backlog, focus on sustainability, and growth in key areas position us well for future opportunities. With our dedicated teams and strong foundation, I am confident we will continue to build on our success.”

For a full review of comments from CEO, please refer third quarter 2024 interim report.

FINANCIAL REVIEW, THIRD QUARTER 2024:

Net operating revenues amounted to NOK 1 148.4 million (977.0), an increase of 17.5 per cent compared to the same quarter last year. The organic revenue growth amounted to 15.9 per cent, adjusted for calendar effect and acquisition. The increase in net operating revenues was driven by increased capacity, higher billing rates, higher billing ratio and a one-time settlement payment from client of NOK 31.2 million. The billing ratio exceeded last year’s comparable quarter by 3.4 percentage points, reaching 71.2 per cent (67.8). Higher capacity, reflected by an increase in full-time equivalents (FTE) of 2.1 per cent contributed positively.

Operating expenses consist of employee benefit expenses and other operating expenses. Operating expenses increased by 10.7 per cent to NOK 984.7 million (889.8) compared to the same quarter in 2023. Employee benefit expenses increased by 10.4 per cent in line with ordinary salary adjustment, increased staffing level from acquisitions, and increase in net recruitment. Other operating expenses increased by 12.0 per cent to NOK 154.0 million (137.4), primarily due to higher IT-cost and cost increase in general.

EBITDA was NOK 163.8 million (87.2), an increase of 87.8 per cent compared to the same period last year, reflecting an EBITDA margin of 14.3 per cent (8.9) in the quarter. 

EBITA was NOK 102.9 million (29.2), an increase of 252.3 per cent year-over-year, reflecting an EBITA margin of 9.0 per cent (3.0) in the quarter. 

EBITA adjusted for one-offs was NOK 71.7 million, reflecting an EBITA margin of 6.4 per cent (3.0) in the quarter. One-off related to settlement payment of contractual dispute of NOK 31.2 million. 

Calendar effect: In the third quarter there was one more working day compared to the third quarter of 2023, two additional days in July and one fewer day in August 2024. This had an estimated negative impact of NOK 6.1 million on net operating revenues and operating results. In connection with number of working days in comparable periods Multiconsult uses alternative performance measures to provide a better understanding of the group’s underlying financial performance, see last section of this report.

FINANCIAL REVIEW, YEAR TO DATE 2024:

Net operating revenues increased by 14.5 per cent to NOK 3 940.3 million (3 441.0). The organic revenue growth amounted to 12.2 per cent, adjusted for calendar effect and acquisition. The increase in net operating revenues was driven by increased capacity, reflected by an increase in full-time equivalents (FTE) of 6.0 per cent, higher billing ratio, and higher billing rates. The billing ratio increased to 72.9 per cent (70.4), an increase of 2.5 percentage points.

Operating expenses consist of employee benefit expenses and other operating expenses. Reported operating expenses increased by 12.1 per cent to NOK 3 334.5 million (2 973.3) compared to the same period last year. Employee benefit expenses increased by 12.7 per cent and came in at NOK 2 869.5 million (2 545.3), an increase driven by net recruitment, regular salary adjustment and employee benefit expenses arising from acquisitions. Other operating expenses increased by 8.6 per cent to NOK 465.0 million (428.0), partly an effect of operating expenses included from prior acquisitions and from cost increase in general.

EBITDA was NOK 605.8 million (467.7), an increase of 29.5 per cent compared to the same period last year, reflecting an EBITDA margin of 15.4 per cent (13.6).

EBITA was NOK 425.4 million (301.1), an increase of 41.3 per cent y-o-y, reflecting an EBITA margin of 10.8 per cent (8.8).

EBITA adjusted for one-offs was NOK 394.1 million, reflecting an EBITA margin of 10.1 per cent (8.8) year to date. One-off related to settlement payment of contractual dispute of NOK 31.2 million in the third quarter.

Calendar effect: As of year to date 2024, the average number of working days was the same as in the corresponding period in 2023. However, due to variations in working days within the months between the two years, there was an estimated negative impact of NOK 27.2 million on net operating revenues and operating results. 

OUTLOOK
The overall market outlook remains good and stable, although there are notable variations across sectors. Key markets are foreseen to maintain a positive trend, despite signs of a slowdown in specific areas. Uncertainty surrounding investment levels and political factors persists, but demand for key services – particularly related to defence, infrastructure and sustainability projects remains strong. The competitive landscape continues to evolve, with pricing and margins for architectural and engineering services remaining sensitive and variable. New opportunities are emerging, contributing to a generally favourable pipeline. The outlook supports continued stability and consistent performance.

For a full review, please refer to third quarter and year to date 2024 report.

Presentations today 6 November 2024: 
Participants are invited to attend the Norwegian presentation that will be held at Hotel Continental, Stortingsgata 24/26, Oslo, Norway at 08:30 (CEST). The results will also be presented through a live webcast. Participants will have the opportunity to submit questions online throughout the webcast sessions.

Third quarter result 2024: 6. November 08:30 CET
Live Webcast: https://channel.royalcast.com/landingpage/hegnarmedia/20241106_8/

Live webcast, complete report, presentation and a recording of the webcast will also be available on https://www.multiconsult-ir.com and https://newsweb.oslobors.no/

For further information, please contact:

Investor relations:
Ove B. Haupberg, CFO
Phone: +47 401 00 900
E-mail: oveb.haupberg@multiconsult.no

Media:
Gaute Christensen, VP Communications
Phone: +47 911 70 188
E-mail: gaute.christensen@multiconsult.no

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/multiconsult/r/multiconsult-third-quarter-result-2024—very-strong-quarter,c4061738

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Axon Announces Body 5: Next-Generation Camera Built for the AI Era

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Axon Body 5 delivers 25x the AI processing power of earlier-generation cameras, with upgraded connectivity, audio and battery life to support real-time situational awareness in the field

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Axon (Nasdaq: AXON), the global leader in public safety technology, today announced Axon Body 5, its newest body-worn camera designed to bring more powerful intelligence, connectivity and real-time support directly to officers in the field.

For years, Axon body cameras have helped agencies capture critical evidence and create greater transparency. Body 5 is built to help officers during the call, with information, assistance and backup on the spot.

“Officers shouldn’t have to choose between getting information and watching the scene. With Axon Body 5, they don’t,” said Rick Smith, Axon Founder and CEO. “They capture a license or document with the camera, keep their hands free and eyes up, and get information faster than writing it down and calling it in by radio. An officer fully engaged with the person in front of them, not down at a notepad, is a safer officer and a better-served community.”

Axon Body 5: Built for the AI Era

Built from the ground up for the AI era, Axon Body 5 delivers 25x the AI processing power than earlier generation Axon body cameras, alongside advancements in connectivity, audio, video and battery life. Together, these upgrades give the camera the physical power to run smarter AI features — both today and as new AI tools are developed in the future — while also making it more dependable for officers to use every day. 

For the first time, Axon is also introducing two versions of its latest flagship camera: Axon Body 5 and Axon Body 5 Pro.

Both models feature several key advancements, including:

25x more processing power for AI: A powerful new computing architecture creates the capacity to support current and future AI features directly on the body camera.Enhanced video: Improved video captures clearer evidence across challenging environments, including better low-light performance.Improved connectivity: Seamless connectivity in urban and remote environments – and more precise location capability – helps officers, cameras and remote support teams stay connected when timely information matters most.Longer battery life: 20% more battery life than the previous generation helps keep the camera ready and connected throughout an officer’s shift.

The Axon Body 5 Pro will continue to gain new AI capabilities as they become available, growing along with the AI Era Plan. Additionally, new hardware features include:

A near-focus camera: An additional dedicated camera lens lets officers scan driver’s licenses to check status and search for wants or warrants in seconds, without returning to the patrol vehicle, with relevant information sent to Axon Fusus to support real-time operations.Front-facing speakers: Four additional speakers project even more powerful audio toward the person an officer is speaking with, helping real-time translations from Axon Assistant carry more clearly over heavy traffic or crowd noise. Additional memory: Extra space lets the camera run several AI tools at once, helping officers stay better informed and work faster.

Bringing More of Axon’s AI Era Into the Field

Axon Body 5 helps officers get more out of the Axon AI Era Plan by bringing smart tools right to the scene. Axon’s portfolio already supports public safety professionals across a growing range of tasks. For example, Draft One helps officers turn body-camera audio into high-quality report drafts and Axon Assistant provides voice-based information access and real-time translation.

Increasingly, Axon is also bringing AI into real-time operations.

Axon Guardian is a new category of AI features within the AI Era Plan that was specifically created to work with an officer’s field-based devices – starting with body cameras and in-car cameras – to improve safety. Guardian is designed to flag potential risks as situations unfold and create alerts when additional attention may be needed. Two of the first features include:

Escalation Detection: When an Axon Body 4 or Axon Body 5 camera is activated and recording, Guardian has the ability to detect potential conflicts in real time and create an alert in Axon Fusus. A human reviews the livestream and decides if additional support or action is needed.Approach Alert: When active on Axon Fleet 3, Guardian can detect if the door of a stopped vehicle opens and alert the officer through the in-car display and their body-worn camera.

Combined, Axon Body 5 and the expanding AI Era portfolio demonstrate the importance of AI as a critical resource to assist public safety professionals before, during and after an incident — reducing administrative burden, improving situational awareness and helping protect more lives.

Innovating Responsibly

Axon’s Responsible Innovation framework guides the development of all of its products. Designed with this in mind, Axon Body 5 and Guardian prioritize human oversight and maintain agency control over data. As a key part of the responsible innovation process, Axon’s independent Ethics and Equity Advisory Council was created to help responsibly develop and deploy new technologies with transparency, while aligning with community expectations.

General availability dates for Axon Body 5 and Axon Guardian will be announced soon. Product features and capabilities vary by configuration. For more information on Axon’s current products and services: Axon Product Catalog – Axon.com.

About Axon
Axon (Nasdaq: AXON) is the global leader in public safety technology supporting state, local, federal and international public safety agencies with technology designed to Protect Life. Complementing its mission, Axon’s growing Enterprise market focuses on protecting critical infrastructure and frontline workers across multiple industries including corporate security, hospitality, retail and healthcare. Founder-led since 1993, Axon builds products with transparency and responsibility. From TASER energy devices to today’s connected network of hardware – including cameras, drones, and robotics – cloud software, sensors, and AI-tools, the Axon ecosystem helps seamlessly protect people and places when it matters most. To ensure these technologies align with community expectations, Axon’s independent Ethics & Equity Advisory Council guides the ethical, inclusive, and accountable design of its products and services. Learn more about the EEAC and Axon’s Responsible Innovation framework at Axon Responsibility. 

Non-Axon trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Axon, TASER and the Delta Logo are trademarks of Axon Enterprise, Inc., some of which are registered in the US and other countries. For more information, visit www.axon.com/legal. All rights reserved.

Please visit https://investor.axon.com and https://www.axon.com/newsroom for more information.

Media Contact:
Kate MacKinnon
Vice President, Communications
press@axon.com

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In HelloNation, Custom Fabrication Expert Mark Coyle Explains a Common Mistake in Custom Aluminum Design

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The article explains why smart geometry, not thicker walls, creates stronger, more efficient aluminum components.

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — What early design choice causes many custom aluminum projects to become heavier, costlier, or harder to manufacture? That question is addressed in a HelloNation article featuring insights from Custom Fabrication Expert Mark Coyle of American Custom Metals, Inc. in Rochester, New York, that outlines how misunderstanding aluminum behavior leads designers to rely on thick walls instead of stronger geometry.

The article begins by explaining that many people assume thicker walls automatically make aluminum parts stronger. It notes that aluminum does not respond to wall thickness the way steel does. Instead, its performance is shaped by how the metal flows through the extrusion die. The article states that custom aluminum design is more effective when profiles use ribs, chambers, and flanges to create stiffness without adding unnecessary weight. This guidance helps readers understand why adding material often increases cost without improving strength.

The article also highlights that thicker walls change how aluminum moves during extrusion. When heavy areas fill more slowly, the metal cools unevenly and can develop stress that only appears later. The HelloNation piece explains that well-balanced geometry keeps extrusion smooth and predictable. This consistency makes it easier to maintain dimensional accuracy across long production runs. By focusing on geometry, custom aluminum design avoids the problems that come with slow extrusion speeds and uneven cooling.

Another insight in the article centers on how ribs and internal supports influence stability. It describes how a thin wall supported by a properly placed rib often performs better than a thick wall with no reinforcement. This happens because the rib helps distribute load, improve stiffness, and guide the aluminum as it cools. The article explains that this structural approach makes custom aluminum design more efficient and gives designers more control over how the final part behaves under pressure.

The article also shows why early collaboration between designer and fabricator prevents costly changes. It states that a fabricator familiar with extrusion can catch potential issues before a die is built. Small adjustments to corners or transitions can remove weak points or improve metal flow. The article notes that this teamwork keeps the design aligned with real-world production. By working together early, both sides reduce the risk of redesigning the die after the first test run.

Machining is another area where the article explains how wall thickness affects performance. Features such as deep pockets or sharp internal angles may require slow feed rates or special tooling. When walls are thicker than needed, those areas can become difficult to machine cleanly. The article states that thoughtful custom aluminum design makes machining more predictable. Small changes, such as adding radiused edges or sizing features to match standard tools, help shorten cycle times and prevent tool wear.

Thermal behavior receives detailed attention as well. The article explains that aluminum retains heat differently depending on the mass of each section. Thicker walls hold heat longer, which increases the chance of distortion during extrusion, machining, or finishing. When a design uses geometry to create strength, the material cools more evenly. This reduces warping and helps long profiles stay aligned. The article notes that stable cooling is important for components that require a precise fit and consistent shape throughout an entire production run.

Cost is also a key topic in the article. It states that heavier profiles increase material use, extrusion time, and tooling needs. A custom aluminum design that relies on geometry instead of mass lowers material consumption and keeps the fabrication process efficient. The article explains that lighter parts are easier to handle, ship, and assemble. This saves money across multiple stages of production and supports long-term manufacturing efficiency.

The article also notes that smart custom aluminum design creates profiles that behave predictably during extrusion and machining. Smooth transitions, balanced wall dimensions, and structural features help reduce the chance of distortion or dimensional drift. These elements also lower scrap rates and support reliable performance. By using geometry instead of excess material, designers build parts that maintain strength without compromising manufacturability.

As the article concludes, it emphasizes that avoiding thick walls is one of the best ways to improve performance and lower cost. It states that the most dependable custom aluminum components come from designs that use structural features to strengthen the profile. When designers understand how aluminum behaves at each stage of extrusion and machining, they create parts that are strong, efficient, and consistent from batch to batch. This approach turns custom aluminum design into a predictable process rather than a series of uncertain adjustments.

A Common Mistake in Custom Aluminum Design features insights from Mark Coyle, Custom Fabrication Expert of Rochester, NY, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation
HelloNation is America’s Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused publications and innovative “edvertising” approach, HelloNation delivers content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

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World Young Scientist Summit 2026 Opens in Wenzhou, Zhejiang

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WENZHOU, China, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — This is a report by China Daily:

On October 24, the World Young Scientist Summit 2026 opened in Wenzhou, Zhejiang. The event is hosted by the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), the Zhejiang Provincial People’s Government, and the World Association of Young Scientists. Nearly 800 representatives, including scientists, educators, and entrepreneurs from more than 60 countries and regions, are attending the summit.

He Junke, Vice President of CAST in charge of daily work and First Secretary of its Secretariat; Lian Yimin, Chairman and Party Group Secretary of the Zhejiang Provincial Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference; Marcelo Knobel, Executive Director of The World Academy of Sciences; and Zhang Zhenfeng, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Zhejiang Provincial Committee and Secretary of the CPC Wenzhou Municipal Committee, attended the summit and delivered remarks. Yao Gaoyuan, Vice Governor of the Zhejiang Provincial People’s Government, presided over the first segment of the plenary session.

With the theme “Gathering Talents Worldwide to Create a Better Future,” the summit’s annual agenda is “Global Youth Action in the AI Era: Building a Sustainable Future.” It aims to draw on the insights of young people around the world, deepen international sci-tech cooperation, and jointly address questions about young people, science, the world and the future.

Efim Zelmanov, Fields Medalist and Foreign Member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences; Chen Yunji, Deputy Director of the Institute of Computing Technology, CAS, and Director of the National Key Laboratory of Processor Chips; Mary Garson, President of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry; and Lu Chaoyang, Member of the Standing Committee of CAST, Executive Dean of the Shanghai Institute of Advanced Study, University of Science and Technology of China, and Chairman of the Council of the World Association of Young Scientists, delivered keynote speeches respectively on education reform in the AI era, AI and processor chips, young women scientists’ participation in science, and quantum computing. They explored new opportunities for scientific research, talent cultivation, and international cooperation in the AI era.

This year’s summit placed greater emphasis on the growth needs of young scientists, with young talents under the age of 45 accounting for 88 percent of participants. It aimed to build a cluster of international journals, bring together young scientific talent, facilitate a batch of international collaborative projects and advance the application and commercialization of scientific and technological achievements. The summit released the Report on the Distribution and Mobility of Young Scientists in the Field of Embodied Intelligence, launched the World Young Scientist Summit Partner Journal Program and the 2026 World Young Scientist Innovation and Entrepreneurship Growth Support Program. It also published the “Young Scientist Pioneers 2035” list and announced the 2026 Sustainable Development Young Scientist Award. The awards were presented to four Chinese and foreign scientists.

Chen Tianrun, Founder of Hangzhou Moxin Technology Co., Ltd.; Yuan Yang, Assistant to the Dean of the Institute for Interdisciplinary Information Sciences at Tsinghua University; and two of the 2026 Sustainable Development Young Scientist Award winners, César de la Fuente and Nicola Segata, among other Chinese and foreign young scientist representatives, spoke at the flash-talk session to share their research practices and reflections.

In addition, the conference focused on fields such as future manufacturing, quantum information, embodied intelligence, brain-computer intelligence, environmental science, deep-sea resources, and life and health, and held 12 parallel forums. It also included the “Gravitation π” Future Technology and Concept Products Exhibition and Exchange, local thematic side events, and sci-tech and humanities study visits, further building an interdisciplinary, cross-regional and cross-sector platform for youth sci-tech exchange and cooperation.

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