Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

  • MIL-OSI: Indigo Acquisition Corp. Announces Closing of Full Over-Allotment Option

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Indigo Acquisition Corp. (the “Company”) announced today that it has consummated the sale of the full 1,500,000 units subject to the over-allotment option granted to the underwriters in connection with its initial public offering. The additional units were sold at $10.00 per unit, generating additional gross proceeds to the Company of $15,000,000

    The Company’s units are listed on the Nasdaq Global Market (“Nasdaq”) and trade under the ticker symbol “INACU.” Each unit consists of one ordinary share and one right entitling its holder to receive one tenth of one ordinary share upon the Company’s completion of an initial business combination, subject to adjustment. Once the securities comprising the units begin separate trading, the ordinary shares and rights are expected to be listed on Nasdaq under the symbols “INAC” and “INACR,” respectively.

    The Company is a Cayman exempt company, formed as a blank check company for the purpose of entering into a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, recapitalization, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. The Company intends to focus on opportunities with established, profitable companies with attractive market positions and/or growth potential that can leverage our management team’s experience and expertise. The Company is led by its Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, James S. Cassel, and its Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, Scott Salpeter.

    EarlyBirdCapital, Inc. acted as the book-running manager for the offering and IB Capital acted as co-manager for the offering. The offering was made by means of a prospectus. Copies of the prospectus may be obtained from EarlyBirdCapital, Inc., 366 Madison Avenue, New York, New York 10017, Attention: Syndicate Department, or (212) 661-0200.

    A registration statement relating to these securities was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and was declared effective on June 30, 2025. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” No assurance can be given that the net proceeds of the offering will be used as indicated in the offering prospectus. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of the Company’s registration statement and preliminary prospectus for the offering filed with the SEC. Copies are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

    Contact:

    James S. Cassel, CEO
    jcassel@cs-ib.com
    305-438-7700

    Scott Salpeter, CFO
    ssalpeter@cs-ib.com
    305-438-7700

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Indigo Acquisition Corp. Announces Closing of Full Over-Allotment Option

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Indigo Acquisition Corp. (the “Company”) announced today that it has consummated the sale of the full 1,500,000 units subject to the over-allotment option granted to the underwriters in connection with its initial public offering. The additional units were sold at $10.00 per unit, generating additional gross proceeds to the Company of $15,000,000

    The Company’s units are listed on the Nasdaq Global Market (“Nasdaq”) and trade under the ticker symbol “INACU.” Each unit consists of one ordinary share and one right entitling its holder to receive one tenth of one ordinary share upon the Company’s completion of an initial business combination, subject to adjustment. Once the securities comprising the units begin separate trading, the ordinary shares and rights are expected to be listed on Nasdaq under the symbols “INAC” and “INACR,” respectively.

    The Company is a Cayman exempt company, formed as a blank check company for the purpose of entering into a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, recapitalization, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. The Company intends to focus on opportunities with established, profitable companies with attractive market positions and/or growth potential that can leverage our management team’s experience and expertise. The Company is led by its Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, James S. Cassel, and its Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, Scott Salpeter.

    EarlyBirdCapital, Inc. acted as the book-running manager for the offering and IB Capital acted as co-manager for the offering. The offering was made by means of a prospectus. Copies of the prospectus may be obtained from EarlyBirdCapital, Inc., 366 Madison Avenue, New York, New York 10017, Attention: Syndicate Department, or (212) 661-0200.

    A registration statement relating to these securities was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and was declared effective on June 30, 2025. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements.” No assurance can be given that the net proceeds of the offering will be used as indicated in the offering prospectus. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of the Company’s registration statement and preliminary prospectus for the offering filed with the SEC. Copies are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

    Contact:

    James S. Cassel, CEO
    jcassel@cs-ib.com
    305-438-7700

    Scott Salpeter, CFO
    ssalpeter@cs-ib.com
    305-438-7700

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Anand meets with China’s Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi

    Source: Government of Canada News

    July 11, 2025 – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Global Affairs Canada

    The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today met with Wang Yi,  China’s Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs and Minister of Foreign Affairs at the Association of Southeast Nations Regional Forum in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

    Highlighting the importance of regular communication channels, the ministers reiterated support for the upcoming meeting of the Joint Economic and Trade Commission, the next round of consular consultations and forthcoming counternarcotics discussions.

    The ministers exchanged views on a range of global issues, including the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. The ministers also discussed challenges and opportunities in the bilateral relationship and agreed to remain in touch with each other.

    Related product

    Associated links

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI: Hingham Savings Reports Second Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HINGHAM, Mass., July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HINGHAM INSTITUTION FOR SAVINGS (NASDAQ: HIFS), Hingham, Massachusetts announced results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025.

    Earnings

    Net income for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 was $9,414,000 or $4.32 per share basic and $4.28 per share diluted, as compared to $4,102,000 or $1.88 per share basic and diluted for the same period last year. The Bank’s annualized return on average equity for the second quarter of 2025 was 8.43%, and the annualized return on average assets was 0.85%, as compared to 3.92% and 0.38% for the same period last year. Net income per share (diluted) for the second quarter of 2025 increased by 127.7% compared to the same period in 2024.

    Core net income for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, which represents net income excluding the after-tax net gain on equity securities, both realized and unrealized, was $7,453,000 or $3.42 per share basic and $3.39 per share diluted, as compared to $2,181,000 or $1.00 per share basic and per share diluted for the same period last year. The Bank’s annualized core return on average equity for the second quarter of 2025 was 6.67% and the annualized core return on average assets was 0.67%, as compared to 2.08% and 0.20% for the same period last year. Core net income per share (diluted) for the second quarter of 2025 increased by 239.0% compared to the same period in 2024.

    Net income for the six months ended June 30, 2025 was $16,538,000 or $7.58 per share basic and $7.52 per share diluted, as compared to $10,970,000 or $5.04 per share basic and $5.01 per share diluted for the same period last year. The Bank’s annualized return on average equity for the first six months of 2025 was 7.45%, and the annualized return on average assets was 0.75%, as compared to 5.27% and 0.50% for the same period in 2024. Net income per share (diluted) for the first six months of 2025 increased by 50.1% over the same period in 2024.

    Core net income for the six months ended June 30, 2025, which represents net income excluding the after-tax net gain on equity securities, both realized and unrealized, was $13,578,000 or $6.23 per share basic and $6.17 per share diluted, as compared to $4,395,000 or $2.02 per share basic and $2.01 per share diluted for the same period last year. The Bank’s annualized core return on average equity for the first six months of 2025 was 6.12%, and the annualized core return on average assets was 0.61%, as compared to 2.11% and 0.20% for the same period in 2024. Core net income per share (diluted) for the first six months of 2025 increased by 207.0% over the same period in 2024.

    See Page 10 for a reconciliation between Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) net income and Non-GAAP core net income. GAAP requires that gains and losses on equity securities, net of tax, realized and unrealized, be recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Income. In calculating core net income, the Bank did not make any adjustments other than those relating to the after-tax net gain on equity securities, both realized and unrealized. In the first six months of 2024, both net income and core net income were positively impacted by lower income tax expense driven by excess tax benefit associated with the exercise of stock options and the revision of state income tax estimates.

    Balance Sheet

    Total assets increased to $4.539 billion at June 30, 2025, representing 3.7% annualized growth year-to-date and a 0.4% increase from June 30, 2024.

    Net loans increased to $3.932 billion at June 30, 2025, representing 3.0% annualized growth year-to-date and stable when compared to June 30, 2024. Origination activity was concentrated in the Boston and Washington D.C. markets and remained focused on stabilized multifamily commercial real estate.

    Retail and commercial deposits were $1.998 billion at June 30, 2025, flat year-to-date and representing 4.0% growth from June 30, 2024. Non-interest-bearing deposits, included in retail and commercial deposits, were $437.6 million at June 30, 2025, representing 20.2% annualized growth year-to-date and 27.5% growth from June 30, 2024, while interest-bearing deposits fell, reflecting some specific customer business needs.

    Growth in non-interest bearing deposits in the first six months of 2025 continued to reflect the Bank’s focus on developing and deepening deposit relationships with new and existing commercial and non-profit customers. The Bank continues to invest in its Specialized Deposit Group, actively recruiting for talented relationship managers in Boston, Washington, and San Francisco, particularly as respected competitors exit these markets or merge with larger regional banks.

    The stability of the Bank’s balance sheet, as well as full and unlimited deposit insurance through the Bank’s participation in the Massachusetts Depositors Insurance Fund, continues to appeal to customers in times of uncertainty.

    Wholesale funds, which includes Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) borrowings, brokered deposits, and Internet listing service time deposits, were $2.052 billion at June 30, 2025 representing 6.0% annualized growth year-to-date and a 4.4% decline from June 30, 2024, as the Bank used these funds to replace certain commercial deposits in the second quarter of 2025. In the first six months of 2025, the Bank continued to manage its wholesale funding mix to lower its cost of funds while taking advantage of the inverted yield curve at certain durations by adding lower rate longer term liabilities. Wholesale deposits, which include brokered and Internet listing service time deposits, were $480.1 million at June 30, 2025, representing a 6.0% annualized decline year-to-date and a 3.5% decline from June 30, 2024. Borrowings from the FHLB totaled $1.572 billion at June 30, 2025, representing 10.0% annualized growth from December 31, 2024, and a 4.7% decline from June 30, 2024. As of June 30, 2025, the Bank maintained an additional $802.8 million in immediately available borrowing capacity at the FHLB of Boston and the Federal Reserve Bank, in addition to $360.6 million in cash and cash equivalents.

    Book value per share was $204.36 as of June 30, 2025, representing 6.4% annualized growth year-to-date and 6.8% growth from June 30, 2024. In addition to the increase in book value per share, the Bank declared $2.52 in dividends per share since June 30, 2024.

    On June 25, 2025, the Bank declared a regular cash dividend of $0.63 per share. This dividend will be paid on August 13, 2025 to stockholders of record as of August 4, 2025. This will be the Bank’s 126th consecutive quarterly dividend.

    The Bank has also generally declared special cash dividends in each of the last thirty years, typically in the fourth quarter, but did not declare a special dividend in 2024 and 2023. The Bank sets the level of the special dividend based on the Bank’s capital requirements and the prospective return on other capital allocation options, particularly the incremental return on capital from new loan originations and share repurchases. This may result in special dividends, if any, significantly above or below the regular quarterly dividend. Future regular and special dividends will be considered by the Board of Directors on a quarterly basis.

    Operational Performance Metrics

    The net interest margin for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 increased 16 basis points to 1.66%, as compared to 1.50% in the quarter ended March 31, 2025. This was the fifth consecutive quarter of continued expansion, despite the Federal Reserve’s federal funds rate target range remaining unchanged in 2025. This improvement was the result of a decline in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities, combined with an increase in the yield on interest-earning assets. The cost of interest-bearing liabilities fell 10 basis points in the second quarter of 2025, as the Bank’s retail and commercial deposits continued to reprice at lower rates, and the Bank continued to take advantage of the inverted yield curve by adding lower rate FHLB advances and brokered deposits. The yield on interest-earning assets increased by 5 basis points in the second quarter of 2025, driven primarily by a higher yield on loans, as the Bank continued to originate loans at higher rates and reprice existing loans. The net interest margin in the final month of the second quarter of 2025 was 1.72% annualized.

    Key credit and operational metrics remained acceptable in the second quarter of 2025. At June 30, 2025, non-performing assets totaled 0.70% of total assets, compared to 0.03% at December 31, 2024 and 0.04% at June 30, 2024. Non-performing loans as a percentage of the total loan portfolio totaled 0.81% at June 30, 2025, compared to 0.04% at both December 31, 2024 and June 30, 2024. The Bank did not record any charge-offs in the first six months of 2025 or 2024. In the second quarter of 2025, the Bank placed a commercial real estate loan with an outstanding balance of $30.6 million on nonaccrual, after the borrower failed to make the full payment due at maturity. This loan is secured by an entitled development site for a significant multifamily development in Washington, D.C. and has an associated conditional guarantee from a large national homebuilder and an affordable housing developer. The Bank is working actively to identify a resolution that protects the Bank’s interests. The remaining non-performing assets and loans cited above were and are residential, owner-occupant loans.

    As of June 30, 2025, the Bank only had the single above-mentioned non-performing commercial real estate loan, and no other commercial real estate delinquent loans. The Bank did not have any delinquent or non-performing commercial real estate loans as of December 31, 2024 or June 30, 2024. The Bank did not own any foreclosed property at June 30, 2025, December 31, 2024 or June 30, 2024.

    The efficiency ratio, as defined on page 5 below, decreased to 41.17% for the second quarter of 2025, as compared to 45.82% in the prior quarter and 68.57% for the same period last year. Operating expenses as a percentage of average assets were 0.68% for the second quarter of 2025, as compared to 0.68% for the prior quarter and 0.67% for the same period last year. This reflects, in part, continuing investment in deposit-gathering infrastructure and relatively stable average assets from period to period. As the efficiency ratio can be significantly influenced by the level of net interest income, the Bank utilizes these paired figures together to assess its operational efficiency over time. During periods of significant net interest income volatility, the efficiency ratio in isolation may over or understate the underlying operational efficiency of the Bank. The Bank remains focused on reducing waste through an ongoing process of continuous improvement and standard work that supports operational leverage.

    Chairman Robert H. Gaughen Jr. stated, “Returns on equity and assets in the second quarter of 2025 remained somewhat lower than our long-term performance expectations, although they have recovered significantly. Returns in our core business continue to improve steadily, driven by a continued expansion in the net interest margin through asset repricing, falling funding costs, and growth in non-interest bearing deposits. Our operational leverage remains critical to generating satisfactory returns and we remain focused on rigorous cost control and continuous operational improvement. Although our investment returns are likely to remain volatile in any individual period, they continue to contribute meaningfully to growth in book value per share over time.

    While this period has been extraordinarily challenging, the Bank’s business model has been built to compound shareholder capital over the long-term. We remain focused on careful capital allocation, defensive underwriting and rigorous cost control – the building blocks for compounding shareholder capital through all stages of the economic cycle. These remain constant, regardless of the macroeconomic environment in which we operate.”

    The Bank’s quarterly financial results are summarized in this earnings release, but shareholders are encouraged to read the Bank’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q, which is generally available several weeks after the earnings release. The Bank expects to file Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) on or about August 6, 2025.

    Incorporated in 1834, Hingham Institution for Savings is one of America’s oldest banks. The Bank maintains offices in Boston, Nantucket, Washington, D.C., and San Francisco.

    The Bank’s shares of common stock are listed and traded on The NASDAQ Stock Market under the symbol HIFS.

     
    HINGHAM INSTITUTION FOR SAVINGS
    Selected Financial Ratios
           
      Three Months Ended
    June 30,
      Six Months Ended
    June 30,
      2024   2025   2024   2025
    (Unaudited)                      
                           
    Key Performance Ratios                      
    Return on average assets (1) 0.38 %   0.85 %   0.50 %   0.75 %
    Return on average equity (1) 3.92     8.43     5.27     7.45  
    Core return on average assets (1) (5) 0.20     0.67     0.20     0.61  
    Core return on average equity (1) (5) 2.08     6.67     2.11     6.12  
    Interest rate spread (1) (2) 0.25     0.95     0.19     0.87  
    Net interest margin (1) (3) 0.96     1.66     0.91     1.58  
    Operating expenses to average assets (1) 0.67     0.68     0.67     0.68  
    Efficiency ratio (4) 68.57     41.17     72.63     43.36  
    Average equity to average assets 9.59     10.05     9.56     10.02  
    Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities 119.93     122.94     119.92     122.60  
      June 30,
    2024
      December 31,
    2024
      June 30,
    2025
    (Unaudited)                      
               
    Asset Quality Ratios          
    Allowance for credit losses/total loans   0.68 %   0.69 %     0.70 %
    Allowance for credit losses/non-performing loans   1,577.28     1,775.00       86.97  
                         
    Non-performing loans/total loans   0.04     0.04       0.81  
    Non-performing loans/total assets   0.04     0.03       0.70  
    Non-performing assets/total assets   0.04     0.03       0.70  
                         
    Share Related                    
    Book value per share $ 191.34     $ 198.03     $ 204.36  
    Market value per share $ 178.88     $ 254.14     $ 248.35  
    Shares outstanding at end of period   2,180,250       2,180,250       2,181,250  
    (1)   Annualized.
         
    (2)   Interest rate spread represents the difference between the yield on interest-earning assets and the cost of interest-bearing liabilities.
         
    (3)   Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.
         
    (4)   The efficiency ratio is a non-GAAP measure that represents total operating expenses, divided by the sum of net interest income and total other income, excluding the net gain on equity securities, both realized and unrealized.
         
    (5)   Non-GAAP measurements that represent return on average assets and return on average equity, excluding the after-tax net gain on equity securities, both realized and unrealized.
         
     
    HINGHAM INSTITUTION FOR SAVINGS
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
               
    (In thousands, except share amounts) June 30,
    2024
      December 31,
    2024
      June 30,
    2025
    (Unaudited)                      
    ASSETS  
                           
    Cash and due from banks $ 5,990     $ 4,183     $ 8,470  
    Federal Reserve and other short-term investments   363,151       347,647       352,144  
    Cash and cash equivalents   369,141       351,830       360,614  
                           
    CRA investment   8,722       8,769       8,928  
    Other marketable equity securities   83,860       104,575       113,761  
    Securities, at fair value   92,582       113,344       122,689  
    Securities held to maturity, at amortized cost   6,493       6,493       6,494  
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost   66,189       61,022       64,659  
    Loans, net of allowance for credit losses of $26,940 at June 30, 2024, $26,980 at December 31, 2024 and $27,730 at June 30, 2025   3,933,419       3,873,662       3,931,663  
    Bank-owned life insurance   13,805       13,980       14,143  
    Premises and equipment, net   16,676       16,397       16,180  
    Accrued interest receivable   9,082       8,774       8,962  
    Other assets   13,344       12,269       13,753  
    Total assets $ 4,520,731     $ 4,457,771     $ 4,539,157  
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY                      
                           
    Interest-bearing deposits $ 2,075,002     $ 2,094,626     $ 2,040,271  
    Non-interest-bearing deposits   343,262       397,469       437,608  
    Total deposits   2,418,264       2,492,095       2,477,879  
    Federal Home Loan Bank advances   1,648,675       1,497,000       1,572,000  
    Mortgagors’ escrow accounts   14,577       16,699       18,478  
    Accrued interest payable   12,242       8,244       12,959  
    Deferred income tax liability, net   989       3,787       4,629  
    Other liabilities   8,806       8,191       7,460  
    Total liabilities   4,103,553       4,026,016       4,093,405  
                           
    Stockholders’ equity:                      
    Preferred stock, $1.00 par value, 2,500,000 shares authorized, none issued                
    Common stock, $1.00 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized; 2,180,250 shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2024, and 2,181,250 shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2025   2,180       2,180       2,181  
    Additional paid-in capital   15,467       15,571       15,777  
    Undivided profits   399,531       414,004       427,794  
    Total stockholders’ equity   417,178       431,755       445,752  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 4,520,731     $ 4,457,771     $ 4,539,157  
                           
     
    HINGHAM INSTITUTION FOR SAVINGS
    Consolidated Statements of Income
               
          Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
          June 30,   June 30,
    (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2024
      2025
      2024   2025
    (Unaudited)                      
    Interest and dividend income:                            
      Loans $ 44,665     $ 46,752     $ 87,785     $ 91,973  
      Debt securities   87       97       132       192  
      Equity securities   1,551       1,365       3,001       2,816  
      Federal Reserve and other short-term investments   2,745       3,072       5,572       6,127  
        Total interest and dividend income   49,048       51,286       96,490       101,108  
    Interest expense:                              
      Deposits   22,141       17,841       43,287       36,462  
      Federal Home Loan Bank   16,539       15,406       33,751       30,571  
        Total interest expense   38,680       33,247       77,038       67,033  
        Net interest income   10,368       18,039       19,452       34,075  
    Provision for credit losses   180       450       288       750  
      Net interest income, after provision for credit losses   10,188       17,589       19,164       33,325  
    Other income:                              
      Customer service fees on deposits   138       139       275       274  
      Increase in cash surrender value of bank-owned life insurance   82       79       163       163  
      Gain on equity securities, net   2,464       2,516       8,434       3,797  
      Miscellaneous   49       73       104       122  
        Total other income   2,733       2,807       8,976       4,356  
    Operating expenses:                              
      Salaries and employee benefits   4,234       4,392       8,531       8,859  
      Occupancy and equipment   394       417       825       856  
      Data processing   738       758       1,493       1,482  
      Deposit insurance   819       784       1,629       1,532  
      Foreclosure and related   14       14       46       24  
      Marketing   187       222       276       358  
      Other general and administrative   908       959       1,721       1,905  
        Total operating expenses   7,294       7,546       14,521       15,016  
    Income before income taxes   5,627       12,850       13,619       22,665  
    Income tax provision   1,525       3,436       2,649       6,127  
        Net income $ 4,102     $ 9,414     $ 10,970     $ 16,538  
                                       
    Cash dividends declared per common share $ 0.63     $ 0.63     $ 1.26     $ 1.26  
                                   
    Weighted average shares outstanding:                              
      Basic   2,180       2,181       2,175       2,181  
      Diluted   2,186       2,200       2,189       2,200  
                                       
    Earnings per share:                              
      Basic $ 1.88     $ 4.32     $ 5.04     $ 7.58  
      Diluted $ 1.88     $ 4.28     $ 5.01     $ 7.52  
                                     
     
    HINGHAM INSTITUTION FOR SAVINGS
    Net Interest Income Analysis
       
      Three Months Ended
      June 30, 2024   March 31, 2025   June 30, 2025
      Average
    Balance
    (9)
      Interest   Yield/
    Rate (10)
      Average
    Balance
    (9)
      Interest   Yield/
    Rate (10)
      Average
    Balance
    (9)
      Interest   Yield/
    Rate (10)
       
    (Dollars in thousands)  
    (Unaudited)                                                    
    Assets                                                    
    Loans (1) (2) $ 3,980,111   $ 44,665   4.49 %   $ 3,929,828   $ 45,221   4.67 %   $ 3,952,477   $ 46,752   4.74 %
    Securities (3) (4)   119,477     1,638   5.48       130,674     1,546   4.80       135,541     1,462   4.33  
    Short-term investments (5)   202,379     2,745   5.43       278,722     3,055   4.45       277,146     3,072   4.45  
    Total interest-earning assets   4,301,967     49,048   4.56       4,339,224     49,822   4.66       4,365,164     51,286   4.71  
    Other assets   66,218                 79,209                 78,230            
    Total assets $ 4,368,185               $ 4,418,433               $ 4,443,394            
                                                         
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity:                                                    
    Interest-bearing deposits (6) $ 2,149,753   $ 22,141   4.12 %   $ 2,141,294   $ 18,621   3.53 %   $ 2,102,662   $ 17,841   3.40 %
    Borrowed funds   1,437,335     16,539   4.60       1,407,844     15,165   4.37       1,448,078     15,406   4.27  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   3,587,088     38,680   4.31       3,549,138     33,786   3.86       3,550,740     33,247   3.76  
    Non-interest-bearing deposits   346,663                 413,877                 429,537            
    Other liabilities   15,503                 14,464                 16,378            
    Total liabilities   3,949,254                 3,977,479                 3,996,655            
    Stockholders’ equity   418,931                 440,954                 446,739            
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 4,368,185               $ 4,418,433               $ 4,443,394            
    Net interest income       $ 10,368               $ 16,036               $ 18,039      
                                                         
    Weighted average interest rate spread             0.25 %               0.80 %               0.95 %
                                                         
    Net interest margin (7)             0.96 %               1.50 %               1.66 %
    Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities (8) 119.93 %   122.26 %   122.94 %  
    (1)   Before allowance for credit losses.
    (2)   Includes non-accrual loans.
    (3)   Excludes the impact of the average net unrealized gain or loss on securities.
    (4)   Includes Federal Home Loan Bank stock.
    (5)   Includes cash held at the Federal Reserve Bank.
    (6)   Includes mortgagors’ escrow accounts.
    (7)   Net interest income divided by average total interest-earning assets.
    (8)   Total interest-earning assets divided by total interest-bearing liabilities.
    (9)   Average balances are calculated on a daily basis.
    (10)   Annualized based on the actual number of days in the period.
         
     
    HINGHAM INSTITUTION FOR SAVINGS
    Net Interest Income Analysis
         
      Six Months Ended June 30,  
      2024     2025  
      Average
    Balance (9)
      Interest   Yield/
    Rate (10)
        Average
    Balance (9)
      Interest   Yield/
    Rate (10)
     
    (Dollars in thousands)                                  
    (Unaudited)                                  
                                       
    Loans (1) (2) $ 3,968,123   $ 87,785   4.42 %   $ 3,941,215   $ 91,973   4.71 %
    Securities (3) (4)   117,840     3,133   5.32       133,121     3,008   4.56  
    Short-term investments (5)   205,312     5,572   5.43       277,930     6,127   4.45  
    Total interest-earning assets   4,291,275     96,490   4.50       4,352,266     101,108   4.68  
    Other assets   65,126                 78,717            
    Total assets $ 4,356,401               $ 4,430,983            
                                       
    Interest-bearing deposits (6) $ 2,124,302   $ 43,287   4.08 %   $ 2,121,871   $ 36,462   3.47 %
    Borrowed funds   1,454,181     33,751   4.64       1,428,072     30,571   4.32  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   3,578,483     77,038   4.31       3,549,943     67,033   3.81  
    Non-interest-bearing deposits   346,399                 421,750            
    Other liabilities   14,882                 15,428            
    Total liabilities   3,939,764                 3,987,121            
    Stockholders’ equity   416,637                 443,862            
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 4,356,401               $ 4,430,983            
    Net interest income       $ 19,452               $ 34,075      
                                       
    Weighted average interest rate spread             0.19 %               0.87 %
                                       
    Net interest margin (7)             0.91 %               1.58 %
                                       
    Average interest-earning assets
    to average interest-bearing
    liabilities (8)
      119.92 %               122.60 %          
    (1)   Before allowance for credit losses.
    (2)   Includes non-accrual loans.
    (3)   Excludes the impact of the average net unrealized gain or loss on securities.
    (4)   Includes Federal Home Loan Bank stock.
    (5)   Includes cash held at the Federal Reserve Bank.
    (6)   Includes mortgagors’ escrow accounts.
    (7)   Net interest income divided by average total interest-earning assets.
    (8)   Total interest-earning assets divided by total interest-bearing liabilities.
    (9)   Average balances are calculated on a daily basis.
    (10)   Annualized based on the actual number of days in the period.
         
     
    HINGHAM INSTITUTION FOR SAVINGS
     Non-GAAP Reconciliation
     

    The Bank believes the presentation of the following non-GAAP financial measures provide useful supplemental information that is essential to an investor’s proper understanding of the results of operations and financial condition of the Bank. Management uses these measures in its analysis of the Bank’s performance. These non-GAAP measures should not be viewed as substitutes for the financial measures determined in accordance with GAAP, nor are they necessarily comparable to non-GAAP performance measures that may be presented by other banks.

    The table below presents the reconciliation between net income and core net income, a non-GAAP measurement that represents net income excluding the after-tax net gain on equity securities, both realized and unrealized.

      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
      June 30,   June 30,
    (In thousands, unaudited) 2024   2025   2024   2025
                       
    Non-GAAP reconciliation:                      
    Net income $ 4,102     $ 9,414     $ 10,970     $ 16,538  
    Gain on equity securities, net   (2,464 )     (2,516 )     (8,434 )     (3,797 )
    Income tax expense (1)   543       555       1,859       837  
    Core net income $ 2,181     $ 7,453     $ 4,395     $ 13,578  
    (1)   The equity securities are held in a tax-advantaged subsidiary corporation. The income tax effect of the gain on equity securities, net, was calculated using the effective tax rate applicable to the subsidiary.
         

    The table below presents the calculation of the efficiency ratio, a non-U.S. GAAP performance measure that management uses to assess operational efficiency which represents total operating expenses, divided by the sum of net interest income and total other income, excluding net gain on equity securities, both realized and unrealized.

      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended  
      June 30,
      March 31,
      June 30,
      June 30,  
    (In thousands, unaudited) 2024   2025   2025   2024   2025  
                                         
    Non-U.S. GAAP efficiency ratio calculation:                                    
    Operating expenses $ 7,294       $ 7,470       $ 7,546     $ 14,521       $ 15,016    
                                         
    Net interest income $ 10,368       $ 16,036       $ 18,039     $ 19,452       $ 34,075    
    Other income   2,733         1,549         2,807       8,976         4,356    
    Gain on equity securities, net   (2,464 )       (1,281 )       (2,516 )     (8,434 )       (3,797 )  
    Total revenue $ 10,637       $ 16,304       $ 18,330     $ 19,994       $ 34,634    
                                         
    Efficiency ratio   68.57   %     45.82   %     41.17   %   72.63   %     43.36   %
                                                   

    CONTACT: Patrick R. Gaughen, President and Chief Operating Officer (781) 783-1761

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Hingham Savings Reports Second Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HINGHAM, Mass., July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HINGHAM INSTITUTION FOR SAVINGS (NASDAQ: HIFS), Hingham, Massachusetts announced results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025.

    Earnings

    Net income for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 was $9,414,000 or $4.32 per share basic and $4.28 per share diluted, as compared to $4,102,000 or $1.88 per share basic and diluted for the same period last year. The Bank’s annualized return on average equity for the second quarter of 2025 was 8.43%, and the annualized return on average assets was 0.85%, as compared to 3.92% and 0.38% for the same period last year. Net income per share (diluted) for the second quarter of 2025 increased by 127.7% compared to the same period in 2024.

    Core net income for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, which represents net income excluding the after-tax net gain on equity securities, both realized and unrealized, was $7,453,000 or $3.42 per share basic and $3.39 per share diluted, as compared to $2,181,000 or $1.00 per share basic and per share diluted for the same period last year. The Bank’s annualized core return on average equity for the second quarter of 2025 was 6.67% and the annualized core return on average assets was 0.67%, as compared to 2.08% and 0.20% for the same period last year. Core net income per share (diluted) for the second quarter of 2025 increased by 239.0% compared to the same period in 2024.

    Net income for the six months ended June 30, 2025 was $16,538,000 or $7.58 per share basic and $7.52 per share diluted, as compared to $10,970,000 or $5.04 per share basic and $5.01 per share diluted for the same period last year. The Bank’s annualized return on average equity for the first six months of 2025 was 7.45%, and the annualized return on average assets was 0.75%, as compared to 5.27% and 0.50% for the same period in 2024. Net income per share (diluted) for the first six months of 2025 increased by 50.1% over the same period in 2024.

    Core net income for the six months ended June 30, 2025, which represents net income excluding the after-tax net gain on equity securities, both realized and unrealized, was $13,578,000 or $6.23 per share basic and $6.17 per share diluted, as compared to $4,395,000 or $2.02 per share basic and $2.01 per share diluted for the same period last year. The Bank’s annualized core return on average equity for the first six months of 2025 was 6.12%, and the annualized core return on average assets was 0.61%, as compared to 2.11% and 0.20% for the same period in 2024. Core net income per share (diluted) for the first six months of 2025 increased by 207.0% over the same period in 2024.

    See Page 10 for a reconciliation between Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) net income and Non-GAAP core net income. GAAP requires that gains and losses on equity securities, net of tax, realized and unrealized, be recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Income. In calculating core net income, the Bank did not make any adjustments other than those relating to the after-tax net gain on equity securities, both realized and unrealized. In the first six months of 2024, both net income and core net income were positively impacted by lower income tax expense driven by excess tax benefit associated with the exercise of stock options and the revision of state income tax estimates.

    Balance Sheet

    Total assets increased to $4.539 billion at June 30, 2025, representing 3.7% annualized growth year-to-date and a 0.4% increase from June 30, 2024.

    Net loans increased to $3.932 billion at June 30, 2025, representing 3.0% annualized growth year-to-date and stable when compared to June 30, 2024. Origination activity was concentrated in the Boston and Washington D.C. markets and remained focused on stabilized multifamily commercial real estate.

    Retail and commercial deposits were $1.998 billion at June 30, 2025, flat year-to-date and representing 4.0% growth from June 30, 2024. Non-interest-bearing deposits, included in retail and commercial deposits, were $437.6 million at June 30, 2025, representing 20.2% annualized growth year-to-date and 27.5% growth from June 30, 2024, while interest-bearing deposits fell, reflecting some specific customer business needs.

    Growth in non-interest bearing deposits in the first six months of 2025 continued to reflect the Bank’s focus on developing and deepening deposit relationships with new and existing commercial and non-profit customers. The Bank continues to invest in its Specialized Deposit Group, actively recruiting for talented relationship managers in Boston, Washington, and San Francisco, particularly as respected competitors exit these markets or merge with larger regional banks.

    The stability of the Bank’s balance sheet, as well as full and unlimited deposit insurance through the Bank’s participation in the Massachusetts Depositors Insurance Fund, continues to appeal to customers in times of uncertainty.

    Wholesale funds, which includes Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) borrowings, brokered deposits, and Internet listing service time deposits, were $2.052 billion at June 30, 2025 representing 6.0% annualized growth year-to-date and a 4.4% decline from June 30, 2024, as the Bank used these funds to replace certain commercial deposits in the second quarter of 2025. In the first six months of 2025, the Bank continued to manage its wholesale funding mix to lower its cost of funds while taking advantage of the inverted yield curve at certain durations by adding lower rate longer term liabilities. Wholesale deposits, which include brokered and Internet listing service time deposits, were $480.1 million at June 30, 2025, representing a 6.0% annualized decline year-to-date and a 3.5% decline from June 30, 2024. Borrowings from the FHLB totaled $1.572 billion at June 30, 2025, representing 10.0% annualized growth from December 31, 2024, and a 4.7% decline from June 30, 2024. As of June 30, 2025, the Bank maintained an additional $802.8 million in immediately available borrowing capacity at the FHLB of Boston and the Federal Reserve Bank, in addition to $360.6 million in cash and cash equivalents.

    Book value per share was $204.36 as of June 30, 2025, representing 6.4% annualized growth year-to-date and 6.8% growth from June 30, 2024. In addition to the increase in book value per share, the Bank declared $2.52 in dividends per share since June 30, 2024.

    On June 25, 2025, the Bank declared a regular cash dividend of $0.63 per share. This dividend will be paid on August 13, 2025 to stockholders of record as of August 4, 2025. This will be the Bank’s 126th consecutive quarterly dividend.

    The Bank has also generally declared special cash dividends in each of the last thirty years, typically in the fourth quarter, but did not declare a special dividend in 2024 and 2023. The Bank sets the level of the special dividend based on the Bank’s capital requirements and the prospective return on other capital allocation options, particularly the incremental return on capital from new loan originations and share repurchases. This may result in special dividends, if any, significantly above or below the regular quarterly dividend. Future regular and special dividends will be considered by the Board of Directors on a quarterly basis.

    Operational Performance Metrics

    The net interest margin for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 increased 16 basis points to 1.66%, as compared to 1.50% in the quarter ended March 31, 2025. This was the fifth consecutive quarter of continued expansion, despite the Federal Reserve’s federal funds rate target range remaining unchanged in 2025. This improvement was the result of a decline in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities, combined with an increase in the yield on interest-earning assets. The cost of interest-bearing liabilities fell 10 basis points in the second quarter of 2025, as the Bank’s retail and commercial deposits continued to reprice at lower rates, and the Bank continued to take advantage of the inverted yield curve by adding lower rate FHLB advances and brokered deposits. The yield on interest-earning assets increased by 5 basis points in the second quarter of 2025, driven primarily by a higher yield on loans, as the Bank continued to originate loans at higher rates and reprice existing loans. The net interest margin in the final month of the second quarter of 2025 was 1.72% annualized.

    Key credit and operational metrics remained acceptable in the second quarter of 2025. At June 30, 2025, non-performing assets totaled 0.70% of total assets, compared to 0.03% at December 31, 2024 and 0.04% at June 30, 2024. Non-performing loans as a percentage of the total loan portfolio totaled 0.81% at June 30, 2025, compared to 0.04% at both December 31, 2024 and June 30, 2024. The Bank did not record any charge-offs in the first six months of 2025 or 2024. In the second quarter of 2025, the Bank placed a commercial real estate loan with an outstanding balance of $30.6 million on nonaccrual, after the borrower failed to make the full payment due at maturity. This loan is secured by an entitled development site for a significant multifamily development in Washington, D.C. and has an associated conditional guarantee from a large national homebuilder and an affordable housing developer. The Bank is working actively to identify a resolution that protects the Bank’s interests. The remaining non-performing assets and loans cited above were and are residential, owner-occupant loans.

    As of June 30, 2025, the Bank only had the single above-mentioned non-performing commercial real estate loan, and no other commercial real estate delinquent loans. The Bank did not have any delinquent or non-performing commercial real estate loans as of December 31, 2024 or June 30, 2024. The Bank did not own any foreclosed property at June 30, 2025, December 31, 2024 or June 30, 2024.

    The efficiency ratio, as defined on page 5 below, decreased to 41.17% for the second quarter of 2025, as compared to 45.82% in the prior quarter and 68.57% for the same period last year. Operating expenses as a percentage of average assets were 0.68% for the second quarter of 2025, as compared to 0.68% for the prior quarter and 0.67% for the same period last year. This reflects, in part, continuing investment in deposit-gathering infrastructure and relatively stable average assets from period to period. As the efficiency ratio can be significantly influenced by the level of net interest income, the Bank utilizes these paired figures together to assess its operational efficiency over time. During periods of significant net interest income volatility, the efficiency ratio in isolation may over or understate the underlying operational efficiency of the Bank. The Bank remains focused on reducing waste through an ongoing process of continuous improvement and standard work that supports operational leverage.

    Chairman Robert H. Gaughen Jr. stated, “Returns on equity and assets in the second quarter of 2025 remained somewhat lower than our long-term performance expectations, although they have recovered significantly. Returns in our core business continue to improve steadily, driven by a continued expansion in the net interest margin through asset repricing, falling funding costs, and growth in non-interest bearing deposits. Our operational leverage remains critical to generating satisfactory returns and we remain focused on rigorous cost control and continuous operational improvement. Although our investment returns are likely to remain volatile in any individual period, they continue to contribute meaningfully to growth in book value per share over time.

    While this period has been extraordinarily challenging, the Bank’s business model has been built to compound shareholder capital over the long-term. We remain focused on careful capital allocation, defensive underwriting and rigorous cost control – the building blocks for compounding shareholder capital through all stages of the economic cycle. These remain constant, regardless of the macroeconomic environment in which we operate.”

    The Bank’s quarterly financial results are summarized in this earnings release, but shareholders are encouraged to read the Bank’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q, which is generally available several weeks after the earnings release. The Bank expects to file Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) on or about August 6, 2025.

    Incorporated in 1834, Hingham Institution for Savings is one of America’s oldest banks. The Bank maintains offices in Boston, Nantucket, Washington, D.C., and San Francisco.

    The Bank’s shares of common stock are listed and traded on The NASDAQ Stock Market under the symbol HIFS.

     
    HINGHAM INSTITUTION FOR SAVINGS
    Selected Financial Ratios
           
      Three Months Ended
    June 30,
      Six Months Ended
    June 30,
      2024   2025   2024   2025
    (Unaudited)                      
                           
    Key Performance Ratios                      
    Return on average assets (1) 0.38 %   0.85 %   0.50 %   0.75 %
    Return on average equity (1) 3.92     8.43     5.27     7.45  
    Core return on average assets (1) (5) 0.20     0.67     0.20     0.61  
    Core return on average equity (1) (5) 2.08     6.67     2.11     6.12  
    Interest rate spread (1) (2) 0.25     0.95     0.19     0.87  
    Net interest margin (1) (3) 0.96     1.66     0.91     1.58  
    Operating expenses to average assets (1) 0.67     0.68     0.67     0.68  
    Efficiency ratio (4) 68.57     41.17     72.63     43.36  
    Average equity to average assets 9.59     10.05     9.56     10.02  
    Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities 119.93     122.94     119.92     122.60  
      June 30,
    2024
      December 31,
    2024
      June 30,
    2025
    (Unaudited)                      
               
    Asset Quality Ratios          
    Allowance for credit losses/total loans   0.68 %   0.69 %     0.70 %
    Allowance for credit losses/non-performing loans   1,577.28     1,775.00       86.97  
                         
    Non-performing loans/total loans   0.04     0.04       0.81  
    Non-performing loans/total assets   0.04     0.03       0.70  
    Non-performing assets/total assets   0.04     0.03       0.70  
                         
    Share Related                    
    Book value per share $ 191.34     $ 198.03     $ 204.36  
    Market value per share $ 178.88     $ 254.14     $ 248.35  
    Shares outstanding at end of period   2,180,250       2,180,250       2,181,250  
    (1)   Annualized.
         
    (2)   Interest rate spread represents the difference between the yield on interest-earning assets and the cost of interest-bearing liabilities.
         
    (3)   Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.
         
    (4)   The efficiency ratio is a non-GAAP measure that represents total operating expenses, divided by the sum of net interest income and total other income, excluding the net gain on equity securities, both realized and unrealized.
         
    (5)   Non-GAAP measurements that represent return on average assets and return on average equity, excluding the after-tax net gain on equity securities, both realized and unrealized.
         
     
    HINGHAM INSTITUTION FOR SAVINGS
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
               
    (In thousands, except share amounts) June 30,
    2024
      December 31,
    2024
      June 30,
    2025
    (Unaudited)                      
    ASSETS  
                           
    Cash and due from banks $ 5,990     $ 4,183     $ 8,470  
    Federal Reserve and other short-term investments   363,151       347,647       352,144  
    Cash and cash equivalents   369,141       351,830       360,614  
                           
    CRA investment   8,722       8,769       8,928  
    Other marketable equity securities   83,860       104,575       113,761  
    Securities, at fair value   92,582       113,344       122,689  
    Securities held to maturity, at amortized cost   6,493       6,493       6,494  
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost   66,189       61,022       64,659  
    Loans, net of allowance for credit losses of $26,940 at June 30, 2024, $26,980 at December 31, 2024 and $27,730 at June 30, 2025   3,933,419       3,873,662       3,931,663  
    Bank-owned life insurance   13,805       13,980       14,143  
    Premises and equipment, net   16,676       16,397       16,180  
    Accrued interest receivable   9,082       8,774       8,962  
    Other assets   13,344       12,269       13,753  
    Total assets $ 4,520,731     $ 4,457,771     $ 4,539,157  
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY                      
                           
    Interest-bearing deposits $ 2,075,002     $ 2,094,626     $ 2,040,271  
    Non-interest-bearing deposits   343,262       397,469       437,608  
    Total deposits   2,418,264       2,492,095       2,477,879  
    Federal Home Loan Bank advances   1,648,675       1,497,000       1,572,000  
    Mortgagors’ escrow accounts   14,577       16,699       18,478  
    Accrued interest payable   12,242       8,244       12,959  
    Deferred income tax liability, net   989       3,787       4,629  
    Other liabilities   8,806       8,191       7,460  
    Total liabilities   4,103,553       4,026,016       4,093,405  
                           
    Stockholders’ equity:                      
    Preferred stock, $1.00 par value, 2,500,000 shares authorized, none issued                
    Common stock, $1.00 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized; 2,180,250 shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2024, and 2,181,250 shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2025   2,180       2,180       2,181  
    Additional paid-in capital   15,467       15,571       15,777  
    Undivided profits   399,531       414,004       427,794  
    Total stockholders’ equity   417,178       431,755       445,752  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 4,520,731     $ 4,457,771     $ 4,539,157  
                           
     
    HINGHAM INSTITUTION FOR SAVINGS
    Consolidated Statements of Income
               
          Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
          June 30,   June 30,
    (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2024
      2025
      2024   2025
    (Unaudited)                      
    Interest and dividend income:                            
      Loans $ 44,665     $ 46,752     $ 87,785     $ 91,973  
      Debt securities   87       97       132       192  
      Equity securities   1,551       1,365       3,001       2,816  
      Federal Reserve and other short-term investments   2,745       3,072       5,572       6,127  
        Total interest and dividend income   49,048       51,286       96,490       101,108  
    Interest expense:                              
      Deposits   22,141       17,841       43,287       36,462  
      Federal Home Loan Bank   16,539       15,406       33,751       30,571  
        Total interest expense   38,680       33,247       77,038       67,033  
        Net interest income   10,368       18,039       19,452       34,075  
    Provision for credit losses   180       450       288       750  
      Net interest income, after provision for credit losses   10,188       17,589       19,164       33,325  
    Other income:                              
      Customer service fees on deposits   138       139       275       274  
      Increase in cash surrender value of bank-owned life insurance   82       79       163       163  
      Gain on equity securities, net   2,464       2,516       8,434       3,797  
      Miscellaneous   49       73       104       122  
        Total other income   2,733       2,807       8,976       4,356  
    Operating expenses:                              
      Salaries and employee benefits   4,234       4,392       8,531       8,859  
      Occupancy and equipment   394       417       825       856  
      Data processing   738       758       1,493       1,482  
      Deposit insurance   819       784       1,629       1,532  
      Foreclosure and related   14       14       46       24  
      Marketing   187       222       276       358  
      Other general and administrative   908       959       1,721       1,905  
        Total operating expenses   7,294       7,546       14,521       15,016  
    Income before income taxes   5,627       12,850       13,619       22,665  
    Income tax provision   1,525       3,436       2,649       6,127  
        Net income $ 4,102     $ 9,414     $ 10,970     $ 16,538  
                                       
    Cash dividends declared per common share $ 0.63     $ 0.63     $ 1.26     $ 1.26  
                                   
    Weighted average shares outstanding:                              
      Basic   2,180       2,181       2,175       2,181  
      Diluted   2,186       2,200       2,189       2,200  
                                       
    Earnings per share:                              
      Basic $ 1.88     $ 4.32     $ 5.04     $ 7.58  
      Diluted $ 1.88     $ 4.28     $ 5.01     $ 7.52  
                                     
     
    HINGHAM INSTITUTION FOR SAVINGS
    Net Interest Income Analysis
       
      Three Months Ended
      June 30, 2024   March 31, 2025   June 30, 2025
      Average
    Balance
    (9)
      Interest   Yield/
    Rate (10)
      Average
    Balance
    (9)
      Interest   Yield/
    Rate (10)
      Average
    Balance
    (9)
      Interest   Yield/
    Rate (10)
       
    (Dollars in thousands)  
    (Unaudited)                                                    
    Assets                                                    
    Loans (1) (2) $ 3,980,111   $ 44,665   4.49 %   $ 3,929,828   $ 45,221   4.67 %   $ 3,952,477   $ 46,752   4.74 %
    Securities (3) (4)   119,477     1,638   5.48       130,674     1,546   4.80       135,541     1,462   4.33  
    Short-term investments (5)   202,379     2,745   5.43       278,722     3,055   4.45       277,146     3,072   4.45  
    Total interest-earning assets   4,301,967     49,048   4.56       4,339,224     49,822   4.66       4,365,164     51,286   4.71  
    Other assets   66,218                 79,209                 78,230            
    Total assets $ 4,368,185               $ 4,418,433               $ 4,443,394            
                                                         
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity:                                                    
    Interest-bearing deposits (6) $ 2,149,753   $ 22,141   4.12 %   $ 2,141,294   $ 18,621   3.53 %   $ 2,102,662   $ 17,841   3.40 %
    Borrowed funds   1,437,335     16,539   4.60       1,407,844     15,165   4.37       1,448,078     15,406   4.27  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   3,587,088     38,680   4.31       3,549,138     33,786   3.86       3,550,740     33,247   3.76  
    Non-interest-bearing deposits   346,663                 413,877                 429,537            
    Other liabilities   15,503                 14,464                 16,378            
    Total liabilities   3,949,254                 3,977,479                 3,996,655            
    Stockholders’ equity   418,931                 440,954                 446,739            
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 4,368,185               $ 4,418,433               $ 4,443,394            
    Net interest income       $ 10,368               $ 16,036               $ 18,039      
                                                         
    Weighted average interest rate spread             0.25 %               0.80 %               0.95 %
                                                         
    Net interest margin (7)             0.96 %               1.50 %               1.66 %
    Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities (8) 119.93 %   122.26 %   122.94 %  
    (1)   Before allowance for credit losses.
    (2)   Includes non-accrual loans.
    (3)   Excludes the impact of the average net unrealized gain or loss on securities.
    (4)   Includes Federal Home Loan Bank stock.
    (5)   Includes cash held at the Federal Reserve Bank.
    (6)   Includes mortgagors’ escrow accounts.
    (7)   Net interest income divided by average total interest-earning assets.
    (8)   Total interest-earning assets divided by total interest-bearing liabilities.
    (9)   Average balances are calculated on a daily basis.
    (10)   Annualized based on the actual number of days in the period.
         
     
    HINGHAM INSTITUTION FOR SAVINGS
    Net Interest Income Analysis
         
      Six Months Ended June 30,  
      2024     2025  
      Average
    Balance (9)
      Interest   Yield/
    Rate (10)
        Average
    Balance (9)
      Interest   Yield/
    Rate (10)
     
    (Dollars in thousands)                                  
    (Unaudited)                                  
                                       
    Loans (1) (2) $ 3,968,123   $ 87,785   4.42 %   $ 3,941,215   $ 91,973   4.71 %
    Securities (3) (4)   117,840     3,133   5.32       133,121     3,008   4.56  
    Short-term investments (5)   205,312     5,572   5.43       277,930     6,127   4.45  
    Total interest-earning assets   4,291,275     96,490   4.50       4,352,266     101,108   4.68  
    Other assets   65,126                 78,717            
    Total assets $ 4,356,401               $ 4,430,983            
                                       
    Interest-bearing deposits (6) $ 2,124,302   $ 43,287   4.08 %   $ 2,121,871   $ 36,462   3.47 %
    Borrowed funds   1,454,181     33,751   4.64       1,428,072     30,571   4.32  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   3,578,483     77,038   4.31       3,549,943     67,033   3.81  
    Non-interest-bearing deposits   346,399                 421,750            
    Other liabilities   14,882                 15,428            
    Total liabilities   3,939,764                 3,987,121            
    Stockholders’ equity   416,637                 443,862            
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 4,356,401               $ 4,430,983            
    Net interest income       $ 19,452               $ 34,075      
                                       
    Weighted average interest rate spread             0.19 %               0.87 %
                                       
    Net interest margin (7)             0.91 %               1.58 %
                                       
    Average interest-earning assets
    to average interest-bearing
    liabilities (8)
      119.92 %               122.60 %          
    (1)   Before allowance for credit losses.
    (2)   Includes non-accrual loans.
    (3)   Excludes the impact of the average net unrealized gain or loss on securities.
    (4)   Includes Federal Home Loan Bank stock.
    (5)   Includes cash held at the Federal Reserve Bank.
    (6)   Includes mortgagors’ escrow accounts.
    (7)   Net interest income divided by average total interest-earning assets.
    (8)   Total interest-earning assets divided by total interest-bearing liabilities.
    (9)   Average balances are calculated on a daily basis.
    (10)   Annualized based on the actual number of days in the period.
         
     
    HINGHAM INSTITUTION FOR SAVINGS
     Non-GAAP Reconciliation
     

    The Bank believes the presentation of the following non-GAAP financial measures provide useful supplemental information that is essential to an investor’s proper understanding of the results of operations and financial condition of the Bank. Management uses these measures in its analysis of the Bank’s performance. These non-GAAP measures should not be viewed as substitutes for the financial measures determined in accordance with GAAP, nor are they necessarily comparable to non-GAAP performance measures that may be presented by other banks.

    The table below presents the reconciliation between net income and core net income, a non-GAAP measurement that represents net income excluding the after-tax net gain on equity securities, both realized and unrealized.

      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
      June 30,   June 30,
    (In thousands, unaudited) 2024   2025   2024   2025
                       
    Non-GAAP reconciliation:                      
    Net income $ 4,102     $ 9,414     $ 10,970     $ 16,538  
    Gain on equity securities, net   (2,464 )     (2,516 )     (8,434 )     (3,797 )
    Income tax expense (1)   543       555       1,859       837  
    Core net income $ 2,181     $ 7,453     $ 4,395     $ 13,578  
    (1)   The equity securities are held in a tax-advantaged subsidiary corporation. The income tax effect of the gain on equity securities, net, was calculated using the effective tax rate applicable to the subsidiary.
         

    The table below presents the calculation of the efficiency ratio, a non-U.S. GAAP performance measure that management uses to assess operational efficiency which represents total operating expenses, divided by the sum of net interest income and total other income, excluding net gain on equity securities, both realized and unrealized.

      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended  
      June 30,
      March 31,
      June 30,
      June 30,  
    (In thousands, unaudited) 2024   2025   2025   2024   2025  
                                         
    Non-U.S. GAAP efficiency ratio calculation:                                    
    Operating expenses $ 7,294       $ 7,470       $ 7,546     $ 14,521       $ 15,016    
                                         
    Net interest income $ 10,368       $ 16,036       $ 18,039     $ 19,452       $ 34,075    
    Other income   2,733         1,549         2,807       8,976         4,356    
    Gain on equity securities, net   (2,464 )       (1,281 )       (2,516 )     (8,434 )       (3,797 )  
    Total revenue $ 10,637       $ 16,304       $ 18,330     $ 19,994       $ 34,634    
                                         
    Efficiency ratio   68.57   %     45.82   %     41.17   %   72.63   %     43.36   %
                                                   

    CONTACT: Patrick R. Gaughen, President and Chief Operating Officer (781) 783-1761

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Risch Introduce Bill to Codify Trump EO on Defunding Radical Gender Ideology in Schools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) in introducing the Say No to Indoctrination Act to codify President Trump’s executive order preventing taxpayer dollars from funding radical gender ideology in K-12 schools.
     “Our children go to school to be educated, not indoctrinated,” said Sen. Tuberville. “I’ve always said that education is the key to unlocking opportunity. But under Joe Biden, Democrats turned our children’s classrooms into woke propaganda HQ. Schools should focus on teaching kids to read, write, and do math. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Say No to Indoctrination Act to get woke politics out of the classroom.”
    “Schools should prepare our children for the future, not promote radical gender ideology,” said Sen. Risch.“The Say No to Indoctrination Act puts an end to woke education practices in K-12 schools and makes President Trump’s common-sense policy permanent.”
    Sens. Tuberville and Risch were joined by Sens. Ted Budd (R-NC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Roger Marshall (R-KS), and Eric Schmitt (R-MO) in cosponsoring this legislation. 
    Concerned Women for American and the American Principles Project endorsed this legislation.
    Read full text of the bill here.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Risch Introduce Bill to Codify Trump EO on Defunding Radical Gender Ideology in Schools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) in introducing the Say No to Indoctrination Act to codify President Trump’s executive order preventing taxpayer dollars from funding radical gender ideology in K-12 schools.
     “Our children go to school to be educated, not indoctrinated,” said Sen. Tuberville. “I’ve always said that education is the key to unlocking opportunity. But under Joe Biden, Democrats turned our children’s classrooms into woke propaganda HQ. Schools should focus on teaching kids to read, write, and do math. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Say No to Indoctrination Act to get woke politics out of the classroom.”
    “Schools should prepare our children for the future, not promote radical gender ideology,” said Sen. Risch.“The Say No to Indoctrination Act puts an end to woke education practices in K-12 schools and makes President Trump’s common-sense policy permanent.”
    Sens. Tuberville and Risch were joined by Sens. Ted Budd (R-NC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Roger Marshall (R-KS), and Eric Schmitt (R-MO) in cosponsoring this legislation. 
    Concerned Women for American and the American Principles Project endorsed this legislation.
    Read full text of the bill here.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Risch Introduce Bill to Codify Trump EO on Defunding Radical Gender Ideology in Schools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) in introducing the Say No to Indoctrination Act to codify President Trump’s executive order preventing taxpayer dollars from funding radical gender ideology in K-12 schools.
     “Our children go to school to be educated, not indoctrinated,” said Sen. Tuberville. “I’ve always said that education is the key to unlocking opportunity. But under Joe Biden, Democrats turned our children’s classrooms into woke propaganda HQ. Schools should focus on teaching kids to read, write, and do math. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Say No to Indoctrination Act to get woke politics out of the classroom.”
    “Schools should prepare our children for the future, not promote radical gender ideology,” said Sen. Risch.“The Say No to Indoctrination Act puts an end to woke education practices in K-12 schools and makes President Trump’s common-sense policy permanent.”
    Sens. Tuberville and Risch were joined by Sens. Ted Budd (R-NC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Roger Marshall (R-KS), and Eric Schmitt (R-MO) in cosponsoring this legislation. 
    Concerned Women for American and the American Principles Project endorsed this legislation.
    Read full text of the bill here.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Risch Introduce Bill to Codify Trump EO on Defunding Radical Gender Ideology in Schools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) in introducing the Say No to Indoctrination Act to codify President Trump’s executive order preventing taxpayer dollars from funding radical gender ideology in K-12 schools.
     “Our children go to school to be educated, not indoctrinated,” said Sen. Tuberville. “I’ve always said that education is the key to unlocking opportunity. But under Joe Biden, Democrats turned our children’s classrooms into woke propaganda HQ. Schools should focus on teaching kids to read, write, and do math. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Say No to Indoctrination Act to get woke politics out of the classroom.”
    “Schools should prepare our children for the future, not promote radical gender ideology,” said Sen. Risch.“The Say No to Indoctrination Act puts an end to woke education practices in K-12 schools and makes President Trump’s common-sense policy permanent.”
    Sens. Tuberville and Risch were joined by Sens. Ted Budd (R-NC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Roger Marshall (R-KS), and Eric Schmitt (R-MO) in cosponsoring this legislation. 
    Concerned Women for American and the American Principles Project endorsed this legislation.
    Read full text of the bill here.
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Georgia and Armenia agreed to expand cooperation in education and science

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    Tbilisi, July 11 (Xinhua) — The education ministers of Georgia and Armenia reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in education, science and youth policy during a meeting on Friday, the Georgian Ministry of Education, Science and Youth reported.

    During the meeting of the heads of the relevant departments of the two countries, Givi Mikanadze and Zhanna Andreasyan, which took place in Tbilisi, issues of organizing joint youth camps, strengthening ties between universities in Georgia and Armenia, as well as encouraging cooperation in scientific research activities were discussed.

    The Minister of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia G. Mikanadze acquainted his Armenian colleague with current innovations and planned reforms at all levels of education in Georgia.

    For her part, the Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of the Republic of Armenia Zhanna Andreasyan expressed readiness to implement joint initiatives and deepen friendly relations between the relevant ministries of the two countries.

    The Armenian Minister also invited G. Mikanadze to participate in the Forum on Higher Education in Armenia. The event will take place in October of this year. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons, SFRC Colleagues Demand Answers Regarding State Department Layoffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-DE), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and his Democratic committee colleagues wrote a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressing deep concerns with imminent Reductions in Force (RIFs) at the State Department, and requested answers on the Trump administration’s process for carrying out these layoffs. 

    “RIFs should remain a tool of last resort, and if implemented must be conducted according to long-standing procedures that prioritize transparency and a merit-based process for both career civil service employees and Foreign Service Officers (FSOs). During a time of increasingly complex and wide-spread challenges to U.S. national security, this administration should be strengthening our diplomatic corps—an irreplaceable instrument of U.S. power and leadership—not weakening it. However, RIFs would severely undermine the Department’s ability to achieve U.S. foreign policy interests, putting our nation’s security, strength, and prosperity at risk,” the senators wrote. 

    Since January, the Foreign Service has shrunk by nearly 25 percent and the number of civil service employees has also decreased due to agency closures, early retirement, and buyouts. 

    “While every administration is entitled to set new priorities and engage in reorganization of executive agencies, we are deeply concerned by the breadth of these RIFs and the lack of clarity and transparency of the Department’s RIF process,” the senators continued. 

    The senators requested a response to the following questions by no later than July 18, 2025: 

    RIF Criteria:

    When were RIF lists created, by whom, and against what criteria?
    Is the Department choosing to RIF based on current office assignment rather than globally ranking FSOs and civil servants based on grade and skillsets?  If so, why?
    Are the lists being updated to reflect Permanent Changes in Station (PCS) or curtailments?
    How many veterans and consular coned generalists are included on the list?
    It can take years of training for an FSO or civil servant to master diplomatic and negotiation skills, including obtaining fluency in critical languages. Why are skilled officers, including those with specialized language skills not being reassigned? How will the Department fill these specialized skill and experience gaps?

    Foreign Service Officers:

    Why is the administration preventing FSOs from transferring into critical vacancies?
    Why is the administration preventing candidates who accepted a “handshake” from being paneled to a position they were chosen for based on merit?
    What is the rationale for conducting RIFs before the reorganization takes effect?
    How many vacant FSO positions will there be worldwide after RIFs are processed? How does the Department plan to fill mission critical posts?
    Why is the Department processing RIFs prior to determining the number of vacant positions remaining following your reorganization efforts?
    How is the Department protecting the pipeline of FSOs to ensure no critical skill gaps in the future?

    Civil Service:

    Civil service employees often come to the Department with specialized experience.  How is the Department working to retain critical, hard to replace employees in the civil service?
    How is the Department working to ensure key specialties, knowledge, and personnel are retained and transferred during the reorganization?
    Why is the Department refusing to process any lateral moves by civil service employees who have been offered other civil service positions within the Department?
    If reducing waste, fraud, and abuse is the goal of the reorganization, why is the Department not efficiently allowing these experienced civil service employees to laterally move into vacant positions they were chosen for based on merit?
    If remaining officers are going to be asked to take on additional work, how will they be remunerated for their time and effort? 
    Will the hiring and lateral transition freezes be lifted once RIFs are complete?

    Reassignment Process:

    Will there be a competitive reassignment for high-performing, mission-critical personnel following the RIFs?  If so, what is the timeline and criteria for this reassignment process?  How will the Department communicate these details with its employees?

    The letter is cosigned by Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV).

    To read the full text of the letter, click here. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo, Luján Take Bipartisan Action to Secure Clear Guidance for Claimants Following the Recent Extension and Expansion of RECA

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico) encouraged the Trump Administration to provide detailed guidance for claimants to access the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) program following its expansion and extension by Congress.  In letters to Attorney General Pam Bondi and Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Senators Crapo and Luján highlighted the need to implement guidance quickly and efficiently for the expanded RECA program as the current extension of RECA expires in just over two years.
    “After decades of advocacy, communities harmed by radiation exposure are set to finally receive long-overdue recognition and compensation.  This achievement marks a significant step toward providing some justice to families who have waited far too long,” the Senators wrote to Attorney General Pam Bondi.  “After decades of struggle, we ask that the Department of Justice move swiftly to issue guidance for claimants to access the program.”
    “As you know, the current extension of the program expires in just over two years.  This means time is limited to fulfill the promise of this expansion and ensure every eligible uranium miner and onsite participant receives compensation,” the Senators wrote to Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer.  “We urge the Department of Labor to act swiftly and efficiently in developing and posting guidance to implement the expanded RECA and Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act (EEOICPA) programs.”
    Crapo is a longtime Senate proponent of expanding the RECA program.  In 2022, Crapo was successful in securing an extension of the RECA program for two years, allowing more individuals more time to apply for compensation.  In July 2023, the U.S. Senate passed, by a vote of 61-37, an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to strengthen RECA.  The program would have been expanded to include Idaho victims.  Later, in December, the amendment was stripped from the conference report of the NDAA.  The program expired June 7, 2024.
    The full text of the letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi is available here.
    The full text of the letter to Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Idaho Statesman: Crapo: One Big Beautiful Bill Won’t ‘Explode the National Debt’

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Claiming that the One Big Beautiful Bill will “explode the national debt” is plain wrong.
    According to a more accurate estimate by the Congressional Budget Office, it cuts federal spending by over $1.5 trillion and reduces the deficit by $400 billion. That doesn’t include the bill’s pro-growth elements, which the Council of Economic Advisers estimates will increase federal revenues by more than $4 trillion, adding up to nearly $4.5 trillion in deficit reduction.
    Contrary to the “politics of fear” that Democrats employ, it strengthens and improves spending programs, like Medicaid, by targeting waste, fraud and abuse. And despite false narratives about “tax cuts for billionaires,” the reality is this legislation not only prevents massive across-the-board tax hikes, but provides additional tax relief that overwhelmingly benefits low- and middle-class families and workers. Through policies like a boosted standard deduction, expanded benefits for child care, no taxes on tips or overtime, and tax relief for seniors, working class Americans are the biggest winners under this bill.
    In addition to historic mandatory spending reductions, deficit reduction and tax relief, the bill invests in our border, modernizes our military and restores American energy dominance. I’d call that a win for Idahoans and all Americans.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New habitat-protection measures support caribou in northeastern B.C.

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The B.C. government, Fort Nelson First Nation and the B.C. Energy Regulator (BCER) are working collaboratively to implement new protection measures to support boreal caribou recovery in northeastern B.C.

    “Helping caribou populations recover is a complex challenge requiring multiple approaches to stabilize and reverse the decline of herds in B.C.,” said Randene Neill, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship. “The Boreal Caribou Protection and Recovery Plan and the implementation of the new measures are crucial for caribou-recovery efforts in these four northeast ranges. The Fort Nelson First Nation community continues to be an integral partner in this important work.”

    The new measures are consistent with the Boreal Caribou Protection and Recovery Plan that was endorsed by the B.C. government in 2023. The Boreal Caribou Protection and Recovery Plan was co-developed by the B.C. government and Fort Nelson First Nation, with contributions from the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality. The plan is designed to meet federal and provincial targets for species-at-risk recovery, while supporting opportunities to strengthen the natural-resource economy in the region.

    “Finalizing the Boreal Caribou Protection and Recovery Plan is a vital step in our shared responsibility to steward the land,” said Chief Archie Harrold, Fort Nelson First Nation. “By working together with the provincial government, we are proving that true collaboration, rooted in respect for Indigenous knowledge and western science, leads to real action. This plan reflects our commitment to protecting boreal caribou and ensuring a healthy land for future generations.”

    The new protection measures applied to selected boreal caribou habitat areas include:

    • the establishment of six new Wildlife Habitat Areas (WHA) through a Government Actions Regulation (GAR) order approved by the delegated decision-maker;
    • the establishment of Resource Review Areas (RRA), where new requests to grant the right to explore for and produce petroleum or natural gas have been temporarily suspended; and
    • interim permitting measures for energy-resource activities.  

    The GAR order to establish the new WHAs targets areas of highest habitat value to boreal caribou, while avoiding areas of highest timber value as much as possible. The management measures laid out in the order apply to primary forestry activities, such as timber harvesting and the construction of associated resource roads in specified areas of the Fort Nelson Timber Supply Area.

    The BCER is implementing interim permitting measures in 1.4 million hectares of habitat that is important for boreal caribou protection. These measures prohibit the issuance of new or amended permits for energy-resource activities or authorizations in Boreal Caribou Management Type 1 areas (core areas) in the affected region, except for:

    • activities necessary to protect health and safety;
    • restoration activities; or
    • technical or administrative activities, with appropriate mitigations to protect boreal caribou habitat and support habitat restoration.

    The Ministry of Energy and Climate Solutions is establishing RRAs within Boreal Caribou Management Type 1 areas where new requests for petroleum and natural gas rights (postings) in the affected region are temporarily suspended. These measures align with the BCER’s interim permitting restrictions and are expected to remain in place for at least three years.

    Collectively, these actions target the specific threats to caribou habitat and support caribou-population recovery objectives, while leaving room for sustainable, inclusive economic opportunities and public access and recreational uses that are compatible with shared recovery goals. The conservation measures will not affect recreation or public access to these areas.

    In July 2024, the B.C. government consulted First Nation governments and potentially affected forestry licensees about the establishment of WHAs. These discussions were completed in February 2025.

    The Province has also engaged with and notified other parties who are not legally affected by habitat-protection measures, such as registered trappers, guide outfitters or local governments, but have interests overlapping the WHAs. The consultation and engagement process provided an opportunity to review the socio-economic assessment and refine boundaries or regulatory actions if needed.

    Learn More:

    To learn more about Boreal Caribou Protection and Recovery Plan, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/download/7701D375C38E4E29ACB37046EC9FAF8F

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ute Fish and Wildlife Officer Pleads Guilty in 2022 Shooting on Tribal Land in Uinta Canyon

    Source: US FBI

    SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Waneka Rosebud Cornpeach, age 42, of Fort Duchesne, Utah, pled guilty to felony charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury, both while within Indian Country.

    According to the plea agreement, on July 17, 2022, the defendant admits to firing her weapon at two different victims, resulting in serious bodily injury to both victims.

    The defendant was remanded, and sentencing will be held on November 17, 2025.

    The FBI’s Salt Lake City Field Office conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Brian Dunn from the District of Colorado is handling the prosecution of the case in the United States District Court for the District of Utah.

    Case Number: 2:23-cr-00434-HCN-DAO-1

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ute Fish and Wildlife Officer Pleads Guilty in 2022 Shooting on Tribal Land in Uinta Canyon

    Source: US FBI

    SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Waneka Rosebud Cornpeach, age 42, of Fort Duchesne, Utah, pled guilty to felony charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury, both while within Indian Country.

    According to the plea agreement, on July 17, 2022, the defendant admits to firing her weapon at two different victims, resulting in serious bodily injury to both victims.

    The defendant was remanded, and sentencing will be held on November 17, 2025.

    The FBI’s Salt Lake City Field Office conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Brian Dunn from the District of Colorado is handling the prosecution of the case in the United States District Court for the District of Utah.

    Case Number: 2:23-cr-00434-HCN-DAO-1

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ute Fish and Wildlife Officer Pleads Guilty in 2022 Shooting on Tribal Land in Uinta Canyon

    Source: US FBI

    SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Waneka Rosebud Cornpeach, age 42, of Fort Duchesne, Utah, pled guilty to felony charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury, both while within Indian Country.

    According to the plea agreement, on July 17, 2022, the defendant admits to firing her weapon at two different victims, resulting in serious bodily injury to both victims.

    The defendant was remanded, and sentencing will be held on November 17, 2025.

    The FBI’s Salt Lake City Field Office conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Brian Dunn from the District of Colorado is handling the prosecution of the case in the United States District Court for the District of Utah.

    Case Number: 2:23-cr-00434-HCN-DAO-1

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Business Recovery Center in Kerrville to Help Businesses Impacted by July Storms and Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of an SBA Business Recovery Center (BRC) in Kerr County to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding beginning July 2.

    Beginning Friday, July 11, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Business Recovery Center in Kerrville to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

    The center’s hours of operation are as follows:

    KERR COUNTY

    Business Recovery Center

    The YES Center at First Presbyterian Church

    823 North St.

    Kerrville, TX  78028

    Opens at 11 a.m. Friday, July 11

    Mondays – Fridays, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

    Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

    “SBA’s Business Recovery Centers have consistently proven their value to business owners following a disaster,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “Business owners can visit these centers to meet face‑to‑face with specialists who will guide them through the disaster loan application process and connect them with resources to support their recovery.”

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    SBA representatives will also provide help to business owners and residents at disaster recovery centers when they are opened in the impacted area.

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.813% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Sept. 4, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is April 6, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens Business Recovery Center in Kerrville to Help Businesses Impacted by July Storms and Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced today the opening of an SBA Business Recovery Center (BRC) in Kerr County to assist small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations and residents affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding beginning July 2.

    Beginning Friday, July 11, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the Business Recovery Center in Kerrville to answer questions and assist with the disaster loan application process. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Those who prefer to schedule an in-person appointment in advance can do so at appointment.sba.gov.

    The center’s hours of operation are as follows:

    KERR COUNTY

    Business Recovery Center

    The YES Center at First Presbyterian Church

    823 North St.

    Kerrville, TX  78028

    Opens at 11 a.m. Friday, July 11

    Mondays – Fridays, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

    Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

    “SBA’s Business Recovery Centers have consistently proven their value to business owners following a disaster,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “Business owners can visit these centers to meet face‑to‑face with specialists who will guide them through the disaster loan application process and connect them with resources to support their recovery.”

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to these disasters. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    SBA representatives will also provide help to business owners and residents at disaster recovery centers when they are opened in the impacted area.

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.813% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA determines eligibility and sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Sept. 4, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is April 6, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Boston arrest leads to federal charge for Dominican alien

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BOSTON – An ICE Boston immigration enforcement operation led to a federal charge for an illegally present, 53-year-old Dominican alien, who has previous convictions for weapons and drug crimes. A federal grand jury indicted Antonio Gonzales for unlawfully reentering the United States after deportation.

    Officers with ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations arrested Gonzales May 7.

    “Antonio Gonzales has not only been previously removed from the U.S, he also has convictions for weapons and drug crimes,” said ICE ERO Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “He presented a threat to the residents of our New England communities that we refuse to tolerate. ICE Boston will continue to prioritize public safety by arresting and removing criminal alien threats from our neighborhoods.”

    ICE officers previously removed Gonzales from the U.S to the Dominican Republic on Sept. 15, 2004. Gonzales’ criminal history includes convictions for criminal in possession of a weapon in March 1994 and criminal in possession of a controlled substance in November 2000. He allegedly unlawfully reentered the U.S sometime after his September 2004 removal.

    If found guilty, Gonzales faces a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Furthermore, Gonzales would be subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts is prosecuting this case.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X at @EROBoston and @HSINewEngland.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Labrador Letter: Idaho’s Legal Fight Helps Trump End Nationwide Injunctions

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom Labrador Letter: Idaho’s Legal Fight Helps Trump End Nationwide Injunctions

    Dear Friends,
    I promised when I became Idaho’s 33rd Attorney General that I would be aggressive in defending the laws of our state and the constitutional rights of our citizens. Recently, the United States Supreme Court delivered a landmark victory that proves this approach was correct—and Idaho’s legal work helped make it possible.
    In Trump v. Casa, the Supreme Court cited our case, Labrador v. Poe, six times when establishing new legal precedent that ends the era of a single federal judge blocking policies for the entire country, referred to as “universal injunctions.” When the nation’s highest court uses Idaho’s case as legal precedent to rule on a critically important constitutional question, it proves that principled legal strategy works.
    This victory began right here in Idaho. When we defended our Vulnerable Child Protection Act, which protects children from dangerous and irreversible gender hormones and procedures, activists challenged the law. A federal district judge issued a universal injunction that blocked Idaho from enforcing the entire law anywhere in the state.
    We immediately appealed this judicial overreach to the Ninth Circuit, arguing that the injunction should apply only to the two plaintiffs who sued, not every person in Idaho. When the Ninth Circuit refused to narrow the scope, we took the case directly to the Supreme Court.
    In April 2024, the Supreme Court granted our request in Labrador v. Poe. Justice Gorsuch wrote a powerful concurring opinion explaining why these universal injunctions circumvent normal judicial processes, force judges to make rushed, high-stakes, low-information decisions, and let parties by barring the enforcement of a duly enacted law against anyone through strategic judge shopping.
    That legal reasoning became the foundation for this landmark decision. The Supreme Court used our precedent to rule that federal judges can no longer issue universal injunctions that let one judge in one courthouse block policies for the entire nation.
    This couldn’t come at a better time. Americans watched in frustration during President Trump’s first term as single federal judges issued sweeping orders that blocked his agenda at every turn. Now in his second term, federal judges have continued issuing nationwide injunctions trying to stop President Trump from firing unaccountable bureaucrats, cutting wasteful USAID spending, and deporting criminal illegal aliens.
    No longer should a single federal judge in California or New York issue an order that stops the Trump administration, or any future administration, from enforcing immigration law nationwide. And in the same way, federal judges should not prevent Idaho from enforcing our laws on the books across the state if only a handful of individuals sue. Federal judges must now limit their orders to the actual parties in front of them, not the whole country or state.
    While liberal critics and the press—but I repeat myself—have attacked our approach throughout my time as Attorney General, the results speak for themselves. When the Supreme Court cites your case to establish binding legal precedent that protects constitutional governance nationwide, that is a clear sign that we are doing something right.
    I’m proud that Idaho’s legal work established the precedent for the Supreme Court victory in Trump v. Casa. We didn’t just defend our state’s sovereignty—we helped restore the proper balance of power between judges and the American people. When voters elect leaders to enact their priorities, no single federal judge should have the power to override the will of millions. That principle now stands as the law of the land.
    Best Regards,

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Labrador Letter: Idaho’s Legal Fight Helps Trump End Nationwide Injunctions

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom Labrador Letter: Idaho’s Legal Fight Helps Trump End Nationwide Injunctions

    Dear Friends,
    I promised when I became Idaho’s 33rd Attorney General that I would be aggressive in defending the laws of our state and the constitutional rights of our citizens. Recently, the United States Supreme Court delivered a landmark victory that proves this approach was correct—and Idaho’s legal work helped make it possible.
    In Trump v. Casa, the Supreme Court cited our case, Labrador v. Poe, six times when establishing new legal precedent that ends the era of a single federal judge blocking policies for the entire country, referred to as “universal injunctions.” When the nation’s highest court uses Idaho’s case as legal precedent to rule on a critically important constitutional question, it proves that principled legal strategy works.
    This victory began right here in Idaho. When we defended our Vulnerable Child Protection Act, which protects children from dangerous and irreversible gender hormones and procedures, activists challenged the law. A federal district judge issued a universal injunction that blocked Idaho from enforcing the entire law anywhere in the state.
    We immediately appealed this judicial overreach to the Ninth Circuit, arguing that the injunction should apply only to the two plaintiffs who sued, not every person in Idaho. When the Ninth Circuit refused to narrow the scope, we took the case directly to the Supreme Court.
    In April 2024, the Supreme Court granted our request in Labrador v. Poe. Justice Gorsuch wrote a powerful concurring opinion explaining why these universal injunctions circumvent normal judicial processes, force judges to make rushed, high-stakes, low-information decisions, and let parties by barring the enforcement of a duly enacted law against anyone through strategic judge shopping.
    That legal reasoning became the foundation for this landmark decision. The Supreme Court used our precedent to rule that federal judges can no longer issue universal injunctions that let one judge in one courthouse block policies for the entire nation.
    This couldn’t come at a better time. Americans watched in frustration during President Trump’s first term as single federal judges issued sweeping orders that blocked his agenda at every turn. Now in his second term, federal judges have continued issuing nationwide injunctions trying to stop President Trump from firing unaccountable bureaucrats, cutting wasteful USAID spending, and deporting criminal illegal aliens.
    No longer should a single federal judge in California or New York issue an order that stops the Trump administration, or any future administration, from enforcing immigration law nationwide. And in the same way, federal judges should not prevent Idaho from enforcing our laws on the books across the state if only a handful of individuals sue. Federal judges must now limit their orders to the actual parties in front of them, not the whole country or state.
    While liberal critics and the press—but I repeat myself—have attacked our approach throughout my time as Attorney General, the results speak for themselves. When the Supreme Court cites your case to establish binding legal precedent that protects constitutional governance nationwide, that is a clear sign that we are doing something right.
    I’m proud that Idaho’s legal work established the precedent for the Supreme Court victory in Trump v. Casa. We didn’t just defend our state’s sovereignty—we helped restore the proper balance of power between judges and the American people. When voters elect leaders to enact their priorities, no single federal judge should have the power to override the will of millions. That principle now stands as the law of the land.
    Best Regards,

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: RIDOH and DEM Recommend Avoiding Contact with Select Roger Williams Park Ponds

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) are advising people to avoid contact with Roger William Park Ponds (Edgewood Lake, Cunliff Lake, and Elm Lake) in Providence due to a confirmed cyanobacteria bloom. Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are naturally present in bodies of water, but under certain environmental conditions will form harmful algae blooms (HABs). All recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking, is high risk to health and recommended to be avoided at these locations. HABs can produce toxins which can be harmful to humans and animals. Toxins and/or high cell counts have been detected by the RIDOH State Health Laboratory from water samples collected by DEM at these locations. This advisory recommendation remains in effect until further notice.

    Use caution in all areas of Roger William Park Ponds as cyanobacteria HABs can move locations in ponds and lakes. People should not drink untreated water or eat fish from affected waterbodies. Pet owners should not allow pets to drink or swim in this water.

    Skin contact with water containing toxin-producing cyanobacteria can cause irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, and throat. Symptoms from ingestion of water can include stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Less common symptoms can include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. Young children and pets are at higher risk for health effects associated with cyanobacteria HABs because they are more likely to swallow water when they are in or around bodies of water. People who have had contact with these ponds and experience those symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.

    If you or your pet come into contact with a cyanobacteria HAB: — Rinse your skin with clean water right away. — Shower and wash your cloths when you get home. — If your pet was exposed, wash it with clean water immediately and don’t let it lick algae from its fur. — Call a vet if your pet shows signs of illness like tiredness, no eating, vomiting, diarrhea or other symptoms within a day. — If you feel sick after contact, call a healthcare provider.

    Affected waters might look bright to dark green, with thick algae floating on the surface. It may resemble green paint, pea soup, or green cottage cheese. If you see water like this, people and pets should avoid contact with the water. To report suspected cyanobacteria blooms, contact DEM’s Office of Water Resources at 401-222-4700 Press 6 or DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov and if possible, send a photograph of the reported algae bloom.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom provides $11 million to organizations helping underserved job seekers find training and employment

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jul 11, 2025

    What you need to know: Governor Newsom is announcing that the California Employment Development Department is awarding $11 million to help six California organizations connect underserved adults — including veterans, people with disabilities, and at-risk young adults — with job training and career development services.

    SACRAMENTO — A nearly $11 million grant will help six California-based organizations develop and deliver job training and career development services to Californians facing some of the most significant barriers to finding employment. This includes veterans, people with disabilities, English-language learners, the long-term unemployed, workers over the age of 55, and at-risk young adults who are not in school or are unemployed. According to a national Georgetown University study, Jobs for All, there are approximately 27 to 35 million individuals who want to work but face significant barriers (such as poverty, disability, or long-term unemployment) to getting hired. 

    In California, investments like the Employment Social Enterprise program supports Governor Newsom’s Master Plan for Career Education, which aims to bridge the gap and equip all students and workers with the tools necessary to achieve stability through good-paying jobs. 

    “Every Californian deserves the opportunity to pursue a meaningful career. This investment advances California’s Master Plan for Career Education and California Jobs First by expanding access to career pathways for Californians who’ve historically faced systemic barriers. It’s a step toward a more inclusive and opportunity-rich economy for everyone.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    “The Employment Social Enterprise Program brings jobs and dignity to Californians who’ve been left out of the workforce by connecting them to real work, supportive services, and long-term opportunity. These grants help mission-driven businesses grow while unlocking potential in communities too often excluded from the labor market.”

    Stewart Knox, Secretary of Laboy & Workforce Development

    “By providing opportunities for those who have been overlooked in society, we’re helping more Californians build lasting careers that strengthen our workforce,” said EDD Director Nancy Farias.

     These awards from the Employment Development Department (EDD), in coordination with the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency, are part of the Employment Social Enterprise program.

    Employment Social Enterprises are businesses that sell goods and services and provide transitional jobs and support to people breaking through employment barriers. Grant funds focus on transitioning individuals into stable, good-paying jobs — where they can earn wages, gain work experience, improve job skills, and access supportive services. Supportive services may include housing assistance, childcare access, mental health services, job coaching, and more.

    The Employment Social Enterprise program is a part of the California Jobs First initiative. In partnership with its 13 economic regions, the State is investing in job creation, industrial strategy, and economic development initiatives, to create a more equitable economy that works for all Californians. 

    What they’re saying

    Jeff Negrete, Executive Director, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fresno: “At Catholic Charities, we’ve always been here to meet immediate needs — food, clothing, and critical support in moments of crisis. But this grant allows us to do something more. It gives us the opportunity to offer a true hand up. Our mission calls us to serve, advocate for, and empower those in need, and this program truly brings empowerment to life. With this workforce development program, we can help people take real steps forward — to find meaningful work, to experience the power of the paycheck, and to help them gain the tools necessary to shape a better future.”

    Will Oliver, President & CEO, Fresno County Economic Development Corporation: “We’re thrilled to receive this EDD grant. It’s a critical investment that will allow us to expand access to high-quality careers, providing vital talent for our growing businesses and ensuring job seekers from social enterprises can step into good-paying, sustainable employment.”

    Kerry Doi, PACE President & CEO: “TEACH Track represents an intentional investment in the people and future of Los Angeles. By connecting underserved job seekers to meaningful, quality careers in early childhood education, we are strengthening families, the workforce, and the community.”

    Elisabeth White, Founder, Plan of Action: “Our mission is to open doors for autistic talent in the creative industries by building an inclusive, industry-focused employment pipeline. By bringing animation jobs back to Los Angeles, we’re showcasing the outstanding talents and contributions of neurodiverse individuals.”

    Jessica Filbrun, CEO Stanislaus Equity Partners: “We have a unique mission and opportunity, through California Employment Development Department’s Social Enterprise Grant to catalyze social enterprise incubation, increase job training models, and create employment opportunities. This truly mobilizes regional partnerships to develop creative, low-cost housing solutions through the development of a regional San Joaquin Valley modular home manufacturing facility.”

    Maria Kim, President & CEO, REDF: “This program goes beyond just creating jobs; these grantee organizations help restore dignity, expand opportunity, and build a more inclusive economy. Inspired by the ESE [Employment Social Enterprise] model that leverages the power of real work experiences as a critical first step, the California Employment Social Enterprise WIOA program supports 6 innovative organizations as they unlock economic mobility and workforce equity for some of our most vulnerable Californians. REDF is honored to help these organizations to grow and to surface economic mobility models that can be inspiration for the field.”

    Employment social enterprise program awardees

    • Fresno County: Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fresno, $1.91 million; The Economic Development Corporation Serving Fresno County, $1.7 million
    • Los Angeles County: Pacific Asian Consortium in Employment, $1.91 million; Plan of Action, $833,829
    • Riverside County: Inland Southern California 211+, $1.73 million
    • Stanislaus County: Stanislaus Equity Partners, $1.91 million
    • Statewide: REDF, $978,735

    An additional $1 million has been awarded to REDF to provide technical assistance and strengthen collaboration among the six awardees, share best practices, and support program development and implementation.

    These grants are funded under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Governor’s Discretionary funds and are 100 percent federally funded by two separate awards totaling $9,999, $199.53, and $978,735.71 respectively, from the U.S. Department of Labor.

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom restructures state government to combat homelessness, boost housing and affordability

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jul 11, 2025

    What you need to know: As part of California’s strategy to combat homelessness and expand housing, Governor Gavin Newsom is reorganizing state agencies to institutionalize housing, homelessness, and affordability as long-term priorities. The reorganization creates a new California Housing and Homelessness Agency and a separate Business and Consumer Services Agency to enhance focus and accountability across these critical areas.

    SACRAMENTO – Building on the Administration’s efforts to reverse decades of inaction on housing and homelessness, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the reorganization proposal went into effect last week, authorizing the state to move forward and create the California Housing and Homelessness Agency and the Business and Consumer Services Agency. As a result, the state will move forward with the formation of the two new agencies to institutionalize these policy priorities for years to come: The California Housing and Homelessness Agency (CHHA) focused on housing, homelessness, and civil rights, and the Business and Consumer Services Agency (BCSA) is dedicated to business regulation and consumer protection.  

    “Housing and homelessness are complex and multifaceted issues — deserving of full and prioritized attention — something we have established within this administration. I am grateful that the legislature recognized the need for a new standalone agency dedicated to addressing these vexing issues that continue to face our state and nation, so that these issues will never fall into the shadows again. We have a moral imperative to continue this work and to ensure every Californian has a safe place to call home.”

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Since taking office in 2019, Governor Newsom has created unprecedented policy and structural changes in state government to help California better address its housing and homelessness crises, including additional and unprecedented support for local governments, stronger accountability and enforcement, transformational changes to mental health services, and groundbreaking reforms — including a recently signed housing and infrastructure package that delivers foundational reforms to break down systemic barriers and help ensure California can meet the housing needs of current and future generations. These changes have helped connect hundreds of thousands of people at risk of or experiencing homelessness with vital supports.

    Today’s announcement continues the administration’s ongoing work to increase housing, reduce homelessness, and improve affordability. Establishing a standalone agency provides the alignment needed to speed up the construction and financing of housing under California’s affordable housing programs. This approach aims to reduce, prevent, and ultimately end homelessness, while safeguarding civil rights and reinforcing California’s leadership in consumer protections. The new structure will also create a new housing continuum system to better align housing programs and financing and provide a more streamlined process with an all-of-government approach.

    Creating long-term solutions

    By creating a dedicated housing agency and streamlining consumer oversight, the Newsom Administration is ensuring California remains focused on long-term, scalable solutions that serve current and future generations.

    “This bold plan shows we are being more aggressive in prioritizing change for the better,” said Tomiquia Moss, Secretary of the Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency. “This will enable us to better reach our goal of 2.5 million new homes by 2030, with one million of them being affordable housing. I’m extremely pleased the Governor is cementing his legacy by taking the Administration’s accomplishments to the next level, providing the structure to make lasting and sustainable change.”

    The California Housing and Homelessness Agency (CHHA) will concentrate on coordinating efforts across government to tackle housing and homelessness challenges, as well as protecting Californians’ civil rights. In this all-of-government approach, CHHA will utilize resources and expertise within government to address these important issues. It includes the following departments:

    • The Housing Development and Finance Committee (HDFC)
    • Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) 
    • California Interagency Council on Homelessness (Cal ICH) 
    • California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA)
    • Civil Rights Department (CRD) 

    The Business and Consumer Services Agency (BCSA) will strengthen the state’s ability to protect consumers by providing focused leadership and oversight across a wide range of industries, such as occupational licensing, alcohol regulation, cannabis regulation, and financial protection, fostering a proactive approach to addressing emerging risks and needs. It includes the following departments:

    • Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) 
    • Alcoholic Beverage Control Appeals Board (ABC AB) 
    • Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) 
    • Cannabis Control Appeals Panel (CCAP) 
    • California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) 
    • Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) 
    • Department of Real Estate (DRE) 
    • Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) 

    The new California Housing and Homelessness Agency and the Business Consumer Services Agency will become effective July 1, 2026, at which time the current Business Consumer Services and Housing Agency will be dissolved. 

    Reversing decades of inaction

    The Newsom administration is making significant progress in reversing decades of inaction on homelessness. Between 2014 and 2019—before Governor Newsom took office—unsheltered homelessness in California rose by approximately 37,000 people. Since then, under this Administration, California has significantly slowed that growth, even as many other states have seen worsening trends

    In 2024, while homelessness increased nationally by over 18%, California limited its overall increase to just 3%—a lower rate than in 40 other states. The state also held the growth of unsheltered homelessness to just 0.45%, compared to a national increase of nearly 7%. States like Florida, Texas, New York, and Illinois saw larger increases both in percentage and absolute numbers. California also achieved the nation’s largest reduction in veteran homelessness and made meaningful progress in reducing youth homelessness.

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: EuroMed Prosecutors General Forum brings cross-Mediterranean partners together

    Source: Eurojust

    Eurojust hosted Prosecutor Generals from six South Partner Countries – Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Lebanon, Morocco and Palestine*- and nine EU Member States – Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, The Netherlands – to discuss the challenges and best practices in fighting cross-border crimes, with a focus on asset recovery and trafficking in human beings and migrant smuggling. The EuroMed Prosecutor General Forum also endorsed the multi-annual Strategy 2025-2027 with a roadmap for the project’s objectives and priorities.

    The project, funded by the European Commission and implemented by Eurojust, aims at enhancing strategic and operational international criminal justice cooperation. The EuroMed Justice project aims at increased opportunities for dialogue and joint actions between relevant EU Member States and the South Partner Countries, as well as increased opportunities for cross-border cooperation in criminal matters between respective judicial authorities. 

    The President of Eurojust Michael Schmid opened the Prosecutors General Forum: “It has been a great honour to host the Prosecutors General and senior officials from Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Lebanon, Morocco, and Palestine*. These past days have confirmed the strong potential of our partnerships and a shared commitment to growing our joint casework. With the 2025–2027 EuroMed Justice Strategy now in place, we are eager to expand our network of Liaison Prosecutors at Eurojust and look forward to welcoming representatives from our Southern Partner Countries in the near future. As a first step, we will facilitate study visits to Eurojust to further build mutual trust, deepen understanding, and lay the groundwork for closer cooperation.

    The meeting was chaired by Alexander Van Dam, National Member for the Netherlands, he said: “It is crucial for all countries to work together to combat serious organised crime, through direct exchanges and sharing of best practices.

    The agenda included the project’s results for Year 1 and 2, a presentation from the European Commission on the International Agreements on cooperation with Eurojust, as well as interventions by the Liaison Prosecutors for Serbia and Norway. Participants further exchanged challenges and best practices in judicial cooperation for asset recovery, trafficking in human beings and migrant smuggling. In the margins of the event, South Partner officials met with the  President of Eurojust. The project team also facilitated ten bilateral meetings between the delegations, representatives of Eurojust and the European Commission.

    The Forum marked the adoption of the 2025-2027 multi-annual Strategy of the EuroMed Justice project. 

    For further information: EuroMed Justice | Eurojust | European Union Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation

    * This designation shall not be construed as recognition of a State of Palestine and is without prejudice to the initial positions of the Member States on this issue.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Georgia: Jailing of teenage protester raises fair trial concerns  

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Reacting to the sentencing yesterday of 19-year-old protester Saba Jikia, to more than four years in prison for allegedly kicking a police officer during ongoing protests in Georgia, Denis Krivosheev, Amnesty International’s Deputy Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, said: 

    “Saba Jikia’s trial was marred by fair trial concerns and a failure to apply youth justice procedures, usually available under Georgian law for defendants aged 18 to 21. The evidence against him includes video footage challenged by his defence and conclusions by the prosecution’s expert whom his defence was unable to cross-examine.

    This selective approach to justice is of deep concern. Georgian authorities must immediately end this impunity and injustice

    “There is a wider pattern of protesters being dealt lengthy jail sentences following unfair trials. At the same time, Georgian authorities have proved unwilling to investigate grave violations by police, with no law enforcement officials held to account for widespread ill-treatment of protesters during arrest and allegations of torture in custody. This selective approach to justice is of deep concern. Georgian authorities must immediately end this impunity and injustice.” 

    Background 

    Saba Jikia was arrested on 5 December 2024, a week after mass pro-European protests broke out. He was prosecuted for allegedly kicking a fallen riot police officer. The officer in question – who had not been uniformed during the incident – testified in court saying he had not suffered any injuries.  

    Georgian youth justice legislation requires consideration of the least restrictive measures for defendants under 21 and of restorative justice alternatives. When applying youth justice procedures to defendants aged 18 to 21, deprivation of liberty is to be permissible only as a measure of last resort and for the shortest possible period. However, in spite of the wide application of the youth justice provisions in Georgia’s courts for 18 to 21 year olds, they were not applied in Saba Jikia’s case. Initially, he was remanded in detention in a swift hearing, similar to other remanded Georgian protesters, without due consideration of either the grounds for his pretrial detention or of alternative restraining measures. Following his trial, the judge imposed a prison sentence closer to the maximum penalty. 

    Amnesty International has reported extensively on human rights violations of anti-government protesters in Georgia, including denial of the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, arbitrary detention, torture and other ill-treatment, violence by pro-government groups or undercover police targeting opposition activists, and unfair trials. The organization has recently launched a global campaign to Demand accountability and justice for protesters in Georgia!  – Amnesty International   

    MIL OSI NGO

  • MIL-OSI Africa: ConocoPhillips’ Frederic Phipps Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 Amid Equatorial Guinea Expansion

    Source: APO

    Frederic Phipps, President: Equatorial Guinea at global exploration and production company ConocoPhillips, has joined the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference as a speaker. Taking place September 29 to October 3, 2025, in Cape Town, the event is the premier meeting place for the continent’s oil, gas and broader energy sectors. With various stages of oil and gas exploration, development and production activities in Equatorial Guinea, ConocoPhillips is an instrumental player in the country. As such, Phipps is well-positioned to discuss strategies for enhancing LNG production and exports at a time when Equatorial Guinea is consolidating its position as a major gas hub. 

    Aligned with a goal to expand its global portfolio, ConocoPhillips has committed to positioning itself as a key player in Equatorial Guinea’s gas market. The company transported its inaugural LNG cargo from the country in June 2025. The ConocoPhillips-marketed cargo was loaded from the country’s EG LNG terminal at the Punta Europa facility on June 9, forming part of the broader Gas Mega Hub initiative – which seeks to leverage existing infrastructure to create a regional gas industry. During AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025, Phipps is expected to share insights into ConocoPhillips’ strategy in Equatorial Guinea, from LNG production to exploration plans to future exports and investments.

    AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

    ConocoPhillips plays an instrumental part in developing and producing oil and gas resources in Equatorial Guinea. The country operates in both the Alba and Block D production sharing contracts that form the Alba Unit, located offshore Equatorial Guinea. In 2024, the company further enhanced its presence in Equatorial Guinea with the acquisition of independent oil and gas company Marathon Oil. The acquisition – which saw Marathon Oil become a subsidiary of ConocoPhillips – adds to the company’s deep, durable and diverse portfolio. Marathon Oil supports the development of the country’s Gas Mega Hub, with a five-year agreement in place with natural resource company Glencore for its equity natural gas from the Alba field. The agreement optimizes gas operations by redirecting partial volumes from the methanol plant to the LNG facility. The first LNG cargo represents a key step forward in this agreement.

    ConocoPhillips operations in Equatorial Guinea form part of a global strategy which seeks to position the company as a key player in Africa’s energy landscape. Beyond West Africa, the company is strengthening its presence in North Africa, with key investments in Libya. As a long-term partner in the country, ConocoPhillips is targeting increased production through upgrades to existing facilities and investments in underdeveloped reserves. Currently, the company has been gradually increasing production at the Waha concession, which presently produces around 375,000 barrels per day (bpd). Targeting between 600,000 and 700,000 bpd, ConocoPhillips is leveraging collaborations, new workover programs and pipeline integrity to bolster output.

    As the company seeks to strengthen its footprint in North and West Africa, AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 offers a vital platform for enhanced collaboration and industry engagement. Uniting stakeholders from both the global and African energy landscapes, the event seeks to drive investment into African energy by providing a platform for engagement and dealmaking. Phipps’ participation underscores ConocoPhillips’ commitment to investing in oil and gas production in Africa and is poised to unlock new opportunities for industry growth in Africa.

    “ConocoPhillips continues to play a major role in increasing African oil and gas production. Through strategic investments in Libya and an expanded presence in Equatorial Guinea, the company is creating greater value from the continent’s oil and gas resources. Looking ahead, these investments are expected to fuel the next era of industry development as Africa seeks to make energy poverty history through accelerated hydrocarbon production,” states Tomás Gerbasio, VP Commercial and Strategic Engagement, African Energy Chamber.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Gabon’s Minister of Universal Access to Water and Energy Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 Amid Power Expansion

    Source: APO


    .

    Philippe Tonangoye, Minister of Universal Access to Water and Energy of Gabon, will participate at the African energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference – taking place September 29 to October 3, 2025. His participation comes as Gabon implements an aggressive strategy to enhance access to water and energy, with strategic investments and partnerships in infrastructure, power and local businesses. His insights will support future investments as project developers, financiers and global partners convene in Cape Town to discuss strategies for making energy poverty history.

    For Gabon, natural gas has emerged as a cornerstone of the country’s petroleum and power development. The country aims to utilize its offshore resources to drive economic growth, leveraging investments in gas-to-power and floating power generation solutions to enhance energy access country-wide. The country’s long-awaited Orinko gas-to-power plant is on track to start construction soon, with a Shareholders’ Agreement signed in May 2025 to advance the project. The project is expected to play a vital role in expanding Gabonese power access, as it will boost the country’s generation capacity by 50%. Developed by Orinko SPV – comprising the state-owned Gabon Power Company in partnership with Wärtsilä, Africa 50, FGIS and Melec PowerGen – the project will be constructed under a build-own-operate-transfer IPP model. Otinko will utilize offshore gas resources as feedstock to produce electricity, laying the foundation for greater generating capacity in Gabon. At present, gas power plants operated by independent oil and gas company Perenco account for 70% of the power in Libreville and 100% of the power in Port-Gentil. With the Orinko facility, Gabon will be well-positioned to significantly enhance access.

    Beyond natural gas, Gabon is spearheading a pipeline of renewable energy developments, seeking to enhance access to both grid-connected and off-grid power in pursuit of universal access by 2030. The Orinko milestone follows the start of operations at energy company Karpowership’s floating power plants in Gabon in February 2025. The plants provide electricity to the capital city of Libreville and other regions, thereby boosting the power grid while offering a clean source of power to underserves communities. Karpowership signed a contract in 2024 with Gabon to provide 250 MW of electricity to the country for a period of five years. The company has been supplying 25% of the country’s total electricity via two powership situated at different locations. These solutions represent a flexible and scalable option for Gabon as it strives to enhance access to electricity through modernized infrastructure solutions. Meanwhile, Gabon is investing in new hydropower projects. Currently approximately half of the power consumed in the country is derived from hydro, largely from the Grand Poubara Hydroelectric Dam (160 MW) and Kinguele Aval Hydroelectric Dam (70 MW). However, to achieve its energy goals, much more investment is needed across the power market.

    To further support project development, Gabon established a National Fund for Energy and Water (FNEE) in 2025, aimed at mobilizing capital for energy and water projects. The FNEE will address power outages by implementing short-term measures, driving key infrastructure investments and boosting regional energy cooperation. The fund also seeks to revive delayed power projects, including the 125 MW Owendo thermal power station – planned for 2027 -, the Ngoulmendjim and L’impératrice Eugénie hydroelectric plants. The fund falls under the country’s broader National Development Plan for Transition, with the three projects alone requiring an estimated $453 million to develop. This highlights a strategic opportunity for investors and projects developers seeking to make impactful investments in Africa.

    “Gabon’s strategy to achieve universal access to electricity is expected to unlock a wealth of economic and development opportunities for the country. By utilizing a variety of different power generation solutions – from gas-to-power to floating facilities to hydroelectric projects and renewables – the country is diversifying and strengthening its portfolio of power facilities. This approach not only creates greater opportunities for energy access but opens up the market to a variety of investors and project developers,” states Ore Onagbesan, Program Director, AEW: Invest in African Energies.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    About AEW: Invest in African Energies:
    AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit https://AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Announces Expedited Assistance for Vermont Farmers Impacted by Natural Disasters 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    BURLINGTON, VT – Today, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) announced that Vermont farmers and producers affected by crop losses from natural disasters in 2023 and 2024 can now submit applications for assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Supplemental Disaster Relief Program. More than $16 billion in aid, made possible by the American Relief Act, 2025, will support farmers across the U.S., including in Vermont, who suffered agricultural and revenue losses due to natural disasters. This funding for farmers was a priority championed by Senator Welch. 
    Vermont producers impacted by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024 can learn more about applying for USDA disaster relief payments here. 
    “After brutal flooding wreaked havoc across Vermont in 2023 and again in 2024, I promised our farmers the federal government would be there to help. This funding will provide more than $16 billion to producers across the country who were victim to natural disasters—including those hit hard by flooding in the Green Mountain State. I’ll keep working with USDA to get more disaster aid to Vermont’s impacted farms,” said Senator Welch. 
    This funding is currently only open to those who received assistance through crop insurance or the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance program in 2023 and 2024. Sign-ups are happening in-person at the county offices of the Farm Service Agency, and pre-filled applications were mailed out to eligible producers earlier this week. USDA will share additional information on how producers that suffered shallow or uncovered losses can apply for assistance later this year. 
    Further USDA disaster assistance information can be found on farmers.gov, including the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster-at-a-Glance fact sheet, Loan Assistance Tool, and the FarmRaise online FSA education hub. Payment details will be updated here weekly. For more information, Vermont farmers can contact their local USDA Service Center. 

    MIL OSI USA News