NewzIntel.com

Category: Artificial Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The capital has provided four sites for the construction of public and business complexes in the Kommunarka district

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Since the beginning of 2024, the city has allocated four land plots for the implementation of large-scale investment projects (MaIP) in the Kommunarka district of the Novomoskovsky administrative district. It is planned to build public and business complexes on them. This was reported by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Urban Development Policy and Construction Vladimir Efimov.

    “Large-scale investment projects allow us to attract developers to develop urban infrastructure and create jobs. Since the beginning of 2024, the city has provided 5.4 hectares of land in the Kommunarka district of the Novomoskovsky administrative district for the construction of four multifunctional complexes. The total area of the facilities will exceed 340 thousand square meters,” said Vladimir Efimov.

    The complexes may include office real estate, bank branches, cafes, restaurants, shops and other facilities. They will be built within five years – this is the term for which the land lease agreements have been concluded.

    “An administrative and business center is being formed on the territory of Kommunarka. For the construction of multifunctional complexes with a total area of about 300 thousand square meters, the city has provided investors with three plots of land with an area of 3.7 hectares. Another 1.7 hectares of land have been allocated near the Kornilovskaya metro station under construction, where a business center with an area of almost 44 thousand square meters will appear,” said the Minister of the Moscow Government, head of the capital’s Department of City Property

    Maxim Gaman.

    The plots are provided for the implementation of large-scale investment projects. Investors and developers receive land for the construction of facilities without holding tenders. MAIP are significant projects for the city, aimed at the infrastructural development of the capital’s territories and an increase in the number of jobs.

    Previously on the implementation of large-scale investment projects told Sergei Sobyanin. According to him, since the beginning of the year, the largest number of land plots have been allocated in the territory of TiNAO – 18.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145888073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: From university excursions to working with neural networks: how initiatives of users of the City of Ideas platform help schoolchildren

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    In August 2023, city residents took part in the project “Moscow is a city of discoveries”. It was held on the “City of Ideas” platform and was dedicated to the development of educational tourism for schoolchildren. Muscovites proposed ideas for holding events for students, improving innovative platforms, choosing a corporate character, a project slogan, and many others. After expert selection and user voting, 61 initiatives were selected, 17 of which have already been implemented.

    Educational trips, master classes and educational quests

    Thanks to one of the ideas, schoolchildren from different regions have already visited famous educational institutions. Among them are the National Research University Higher School of Economics, the Russian National Research Medical University named after N.I. Pirogov and the Russian State Social University. The children saw how the educational process is organized, talked to teachers and students, learned about modern teaching methods and research.

    In addition, in the spring and summer, schoolchildren took part in interactive quests about the secrets of the capital “Play Moscow”. They completed exciting tasks, traveling along seven educational routes dedicated to history, architecture, science and other topics. The children solved puzzles and collected information, and at the end they received a reward – a sticker with the symbols of the capital or a toy figurine.

    Master classes on the topic are held for schoolchildren “Creative Industries”together with Moscow technology parks and the Soyuzmultfilm film studio. Among them are classes on the basics of graphic design, an introduction to Python programming, and training in the basics of working with artificial intelligence. This allows students to develop creative abilities and master new skills.

    Visiting technology parks and creating a corporate character

    The city will continue to implement Muscovites’ initiatives. Thus, schoolchildren who dream of connecting their destiny with medicine will be able to visit the ambulance station. Children who are keen on modern trends will be offered to go to the museum of technology of a famous IT corporation. There they will see how the model range of computers, accessories and peripherals has changed over several decades, and will track all stages of innovation and development of digital technologies.

    The participants of the project on the City of Ideas platform came up with a name for a branded virtual character that will appear at the end of this year. In addition, the slogans they created are already heard at industry exhibitions and forums. For example, at the All-Russian Forum of Class Teachers held in October, representatives of the Moscow City Tourism Committee used the slogan “City of Discoveries — Your Compass in the World of Knowledge” in their speeches. And “Travel, Learn, Get Inspired!” was the slogan of the Moscow International Education Fair held in April.

    Platform “City of Ideas” has been operating since 2014. More than 540 thousand users have joined it. They share suggestions on how to make life in the capital even more comfortable. More than seven thousand ideas have already been implemented. City residents participated in projects dedicated to electronic services, culture, entrepreneurship, healthcare, education, transport and other topics.

    The project is being developed Department of Information Technology of the City of Moscow and the State Institution “New Management Technologies”. The use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence to improve the quality of life of city residents corresponds to the objectives of the national program “Digital Economy of the Russian Federation” and the regional project of the capital “Digital Public Administration”.

    The educational and tourist project “City of Discoveries” is Moscow’s flagship in the field of children’s tourism, which appeared in 2020. Over the past four years, more than 10 thousand schoolchildren from all over Russia have become its participants. They visited the offices of Moscow IT companies, leading universities, technology parks, and explored Moscow’s attractions. More than 100 sites have already become partners of the project. The “City of Discoveries” project operates within the framework of the national project “Education”. More information about this and other national projects implemented in Moscow, You can find out here.

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

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145881073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: EPA Awards $400,000 to Greenlife Tech Corporation in North Carolina for Developing Environmental Technologies

    Source: US Environment Protection Agency

    Greenlife Tech Corporation is one of only seven small businesses selected nationwide for this award

    RALEIGH, N.C. – Today, October 25, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced $2.8 million in funding to seven small businesses to further develop and commercialize their environmental technologies. With these awards from EPA’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, businesses will be tackling complex challenges including destroying PFAS, cleaning indoor air during wildfires, enhancing recycling systems, reducing food waste, and improving disaster response. 

    Greenlife Tech Corporation of Banner Elk, North Carolina was selected for its development of an autonomous system that controls oxygen levels in refrigerators to preserve produce for a longer time. The company will receive about $400,000 to continue development of this technology.

    “Congratulations to these small businesses for continuing to pursue innovative solutions to some of our most pressing environmental challenges,” said Maureen Gwinn, Acting Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Research and Development. “EPA is proud to invest in these small businesses as they work to help protect human health and the environment across many sectors and help grow the American economy.”

    “We congratulate Greenlife Tech Corporation for developing this promising new technology to prevent and reduce food waste, which is a significant problem in our country and the world,” said acting Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle of EPA’s Southeast Region. “In 2015, EPA and our sister agency USDA announced a goal to reduce food waste in the U.S. by 50 percent by 2030. New technologies, like this refrigeration technique developed by Greenlife Tech, will help us achieve this important goal.”

    For over 40 years, EPA’s SBIR program has funded small businesses as they create environmental technologies and bring them to the marketplace. SBIR projects are funded in a phased approach. For Phase I, EPA awards contracts of up to $100,000 for six months for “proof of concept” of the proposed technology. Small businesses that have received a Phase I award can compete for a Phase II award of $400,000 to further develop and commercialize the technology. 

    Six other businesses selected nationwide for this award are receiving about $400,000 each in SBIR Phase II awards for the following projects:

    • DiPole Materials, Inc., Baltimore, Maryland, to design a biodegradable filter made of electro-spun nanofibers to clean indoor air during wildfires. 
    • Fourth State LLC, Ann Arbor, Michigan, for a plasma treatment technology to destroy PFAS in complex water matrices.
    • Holochip Corporation, Torrance, California, to build an artificial intelligence application to map sites to improve the safety and efficacy of disaster response. 
    • KLAW Industries LLC, Binghamton, New York, to produce a rapidly deployable, autonomous robotic sorting system to improve recycling facilities in disadvantaged communities.
    • Valis Insights, Inc., Worcester, Massachusetts, to develop an automated and AI-driven technology that helps optimize the sorting process for metals recycling. 
    • Water Illumination, Inc., Riverside, California, to create a novel chemical-free UV based PFAS destruction technology for saline wastewater treatment. 

    Learn more about the winning projects.

    Learn more about EPA’s SBIR program.

    Learn more about SBIR. 

    Learn more about food waste and efforts to prevent it.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Administrator Samantha Power at the Donors’ Conference to Support the Displaced and Refugees in the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin

    Source: USAID

    ADMINISTRATOR SAMANTHA POWER: Hello. Thank you all for being here – and a particular thanks to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center for bringing us together. 

    You’ve heard already about the overlapping crises in the Sahel and the Lake Chad Basin region – violence raging, floods surging, children starving. 

    So today, I’m announcing that the United States will contribute more than $572 million dollars to humanitarian efforts in Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Mali, Niger, and Nigeria. This new funding brings total U.S. humanitarian assistance to more than $1.2 billion in the region this fiscal year. These resources will help our partners provide badly needed basics like food, water, shelter, and health care. 

    This aid, and all of the aid fellow donors are generously committing today, has the potential to save lives. But, it will not fulfill that potential if the assistance can’t safely reach the people who need it most. 

    You know all too well the barriers facing humanitarians in the region. Burdensome and costly requirements for transporting aid; bans on cash assistance; deliberate blockades by armed extremists and the armies combating them; atrocities against civilians.

    So, all of us gathered today should contribute not only the resources needed for humanitarian response, but we must also use our collective influence to demand an environment that allows safe and unhindered delivery of that assistance across the region. 

    Thank you again to all of the donors who are stepping up. As we speak, lives are hanging in the balance, and we have to work together to do everything we can to protect them. 

    Thank you so much.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Administrator Samantha Power Meets with Executive Chairman of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change Tony Blair

    Source: USAID

    The below is attributable to Spokesperson Benjamin Suarato:‎

    Today, Administrator Samantha Power met with former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Tony Blair to discuss cooperation between USAID and the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI). Administrator Power and former Prime Minister Blair discussed TBI’s longstanding partnership with Power Africa and progress on rural electrification and other shared priorities aimed at improving access to affordable and reliable electricity in sub-Saharan Africa.

    Administrator Power and former Prime Minister Blair also discussed humanitarian efforts to meet the ongoing and urgent needs in the Middle East, initiatives for advancing digital development, and opportunities to support countries experiencing democratic openings, including Guatemala.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Acting Deputy Administrator Michele Sumilas During the World Bank Annual Meetings

    Source: USAID

    The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Shejal Pulivarti:‎

    From October 23 through 25, Acting Deputy Administrator Michele Sumilas participated in various engagements during the World Bank Annual Meetings. Throughout the week, she engaged USAID’s partners on shared priorities, including boosting food security and climate action, as well as collaborating on humanitarian assistance.

    On Wednesday, Acting Deputy Administrator Sumilas represented USAID at a signing ceremony, where Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen and Ukrainian Minister of Finance Sergii Marchenko marked the intention of the United States to join G7 efforts to make lending available to Ukraine, and provide a $20 billion U.S. loan to Ukraine that will be repaid by proceeds derived from Russia’s frozen assets. 

    Acting Deputy Administrator Sumilas then participated in a roundtable hosted by the Coalition on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), which featured Ministers from Angola, Bhutan, Chad, Comoros, India, Nigeria, and Madagascar. The roundtable provided an opportunity for participants to discuss how the Coalition can be responsive to infrastructure needs in Africa. 

    On Thursday, Acting Deputy Administrator Sumilas met with Denmark’s State Secretary for Development Policy Lotte Machon to discuss cooperation on food security, climate action, advancing democracy, and joint efforts on humanitarian assistance in Gaza and Ukraine. 

    The Acting Deputy Administrator also participated in a fireside chat, along with Norway’s Minister of International Development Anne Beathe Tvinnereim and Investisseurs & Partenaires (I&P’s) Jean-Michel Severino, Chair of the Supervisory Board, at the Financing for Agricultural Small-and-Medium Enterprises in Africa (FASA) Fund Launch, hosted by the Embassy of Norway. USAID and Norway announced that the United Kingdom and Republic of Korea have joined USAID as partners in the FASA Fund, which will help unlock additional commercial capital. In addition, Norway and USAID announced that Investisseurs and Partenaires (I&P) – a pioneering impact investment group dedicated to financing and supporting African entrepreneurs while strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems across the African continent – was competitively selected as the FASA fund manager. 

    On Friday, Acting Deputy Administrator Sumilas met with the United Kingdom’s Second Permanent Under-Secretary Nick Dyer to discuss U.S.-UK shared priorities. She also met Brazil’s Ambassador to the United States Maria Luiza Viotti to discuss key development priorities of Brazil’s G20 presidency, including the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty to include recognition of Brazil’s support for their role in Multi-National Security Support Missions in Haiti, and continued efforts to aid Venezuelan migrants and refugees in Brazil. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release – NEW RFP FOR AXIS DEER CONTROL ON MAUI NUI, Oct. 25, 2024

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release – NEW RFP FOR AXIS DEER CONTROL ON MAUI NUI, Oct. 25, 2024

    Posted on Oct 25, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    DAWN CHANG
    CHAIRPERSON

    NEWS RELEASE

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Oct. 25, 2024

    NEW RFP FOR AXIS DEER CONTROL ON MAUI NUI 

    (KAHULUI, MAUI) – Eligible private landowners and lessees of Maui Nui have the opportunity to participate in targeted axis deer control through the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) Landowner Incentive Program (LIP). The goal of this program is to incentivize Maui, Molokaʻi, and Lānaʻi landowners to decrease the number of axis deer from the landscape.

    This is the fourth Request for Proposals (RFP) administered by DOFAW related to axis deer on Maui Nui. Continual growth of axis deer populations on these islands, and impacts to natural resources, economic interests and public safety continue to be problematic.

    The LIP provides landowners and land managers with an option to help control axis deer numbers on their properties, mitigating their impacts. Recent harvest rates suggest a promising trend toward minimizing environmental and economic damage to property and land and reducing the overall deer population.

    If selected, the contract will run for a 12-month period, approximately Dec. 20, 2024 – Dec. 20, 2025, with the possibility of a one-year extension. A $25-$50/deer reimbursement throughout the life of the contract is pursuant to DOFAW’s detailed fee schedule. All axis deer harvest/control must abide by all applicable laws including Hawai‘i Administrative Rules Chapter 123, Rules Regulating Game Mammal Hunting.

    The deadline to submit proposals is November 25, 2024 at 4:00 p.m.

    Landowners who are currently enrolled in the program will not be eligible for this new round of proposals. Multiple awards will be made under this RFP. Participation in this program is entirely voluntary.

    Proposals will be selected on a competitive basis from available funds. Ranking criteria will include the number of axis deer to be harvested and impacts to overall population control goals. Full details of this RFP, including scope of work, proposal format, special provisions, and other information is at:https://hands.ehawaii.gov/hands/opportunities/opportunity-details/24906.

    # # #

    RESOURCES

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR) 

    HD Video – Axis Deer Aerials (Central Maui) (Oct. 25, 2023):

    [embedded content]

    HD Video – Molokaʻi  Axis Deer Aerials, James Espaniola SOTs (Jan. 13, 2022):

    [embedded content]

    Photographs – Axis Deer- Molokaʻi North Shore (Dec. 9, 2021):

    https://www.dropbox.com/sh/pno81w1tv1et17j/AADvrBRU2IGAwLF81ZG5pN2xa?dl=0

    Photographs – Axis Deer (Sept. 14, 2020):

    https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ovu1j7o4c1levxs/AAB2JoHvgXc5Hd3SO8TPN9GVa?dl=0

    Program questions can be directed to Jason Omick at: (808) 347-6869 or [email protected].

     

    Media Contact:

    Ryan Aguilar

    Communications Specialist

    Hawai‘i Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

    [email protected]

    808-587-0396

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DLNR News Release – IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS CAUSE TEMPORARY CLOSURES ON MAUI, Oct. 25, 2024

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DLNR News Release – IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS CAUSE TEMPORARY CLOSURES ON MAUI, Oct. 25, 2024

    Posted on Oct 25, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES 

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    DAWN CHANG
    CHAIRPERSON

    NEWS RELEASE 

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    October 25, 2024 

    IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS CAUSE TEMPORARY CLOSURES TO STATE LANDS ON MAUI

    (KEʻANAE, MAUI) – Two upcoming improvement projects on Maui will cause temporary closures to state lands under the care of the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW).

    Road widening and infrastructure improvement work scheduled to begin on Monday, Oct. 28 will close the Keʻanae Arboretum, located in the Koolau Forest Reserve in northeast Maui, through Dec. 1. The project will address safety concerns for pedestrian and vehicular access to and from the arboretum. A popular attraction off the Hana Highway, the arboretum’s trail and access road provides an easily accessible route for multiple user groups at the reserve.

    A shorter-term closure will impact parking at the Lahaina-Pali Trailhead (Ukumehame side) on the southern end of West Maui. Testing for coring and drilling work is scheduled from Oct. 28 to Oct. 30. The Lahaina-Pali Trail will remain open during this time with access from the Māʻalaea parking lot and trailhead. This project is part of a feasibility study for developing a sediment capture basin at the base of Manawaipueo Gulch to mitigate damage to the Olowalu reef.

    # # # 

    RESOURCES 

    (All images/video courtesy: DLNR) 

     Photographs – Improvement Projects on Maui (various dates):

    https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/c2pdepzzes4rlyjnm61ab/AIuQzlETFw69Ztnmuxyo5zo?rlkey=kwk5k5irhbq8stpz9gqv4v8fb&st=for1ziz2&dl=0

     

    Media Contact: 

    Ryan Aguilar

    Communications Specialist

    Hawaiʻi Dept. of Land and Natural Resources

    808-587-0396

    [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Šiaulių Bankas invitation to Q3 2024 Financial Results webinar

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Šiaulių Bankas (SAB1L) invites shareholders, investors, analysts and other stakeholders to join its Investors Webinar for Q3 2024 Financial Results and highlights scheduled on 31 October, 2024 at 8:30 am (EET). The presentation will be held online in English.

    The webinar will be hosted by Vytautas Sinius, CEO, Tomas Varenbergas, Head of Investment Management Division and Tautvydas Mėdžius, Strategy Partner, who will discuss the bank’s financial results for the third quarter of 2024, recent developments, and will take questions from participants.

    Please send your questions in advance to investors@sb.lt   

    How to join the webinar?

    To join the webinar, please register via following link https://sb.zoomtv.lt. After successful registration You will be provided with the webinar link. The webinar will be recorded and available online for everyone at Šiaulių Bankas website www.sb.lt/en/investors 

    Additional information:
    Tomas Varenbergas
    Head of Investment Management Division
    tomas.varenbergas@sb.lt

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Legible Releases FrankensteinAI with Spellbinding AI Chat Feature Just in Time for Halloween

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Legible (CSE: READ) (OTCQB: LEBGF) (FSE: D0T) (“Legible or “the Company”), a pioneer in mobile-centric eBook and audiobook entertainment, is thrilled to announce the release of FrankensteinAI, the third in its groundbreaking AI Classics series. This innovative “Living Book” seamlessly blends Mary Shelley’s iconic novel with state-of-the-art technology, offering readers an unparalleled interactive experience. The classic horror tale releases in three volumes beginning October 28th.

    FrankensteinAI breathes new life into Shelley’s masterpiece through stunning interactive artwork by renowned digital artist Mr. Remo Camerota. Each animated illustration is a dynamic fusion of Camerota’s vivid imagination and advanced AI technology, capturing the eerie atmosphere of Victor Frankenstein’s creation and enhancing the storytelling in a visually captivating manner. Mr. Camerota’s collaboration with AI technology results in visuals that not only complement but also elevate the storytelling, making every image an integral part of the narrative journey.

    FrankensteinAI also introduces a revolutionary AI chat feature that allows readers to engage in real-time conversations with the novel’s characters. Victor Frankenstein and his Creature serve as AI-driven guides, enabling readers to delve deeper into their fears, desires, and motivations as they explore the narrative. This unique interactive feature allows readers to ask questions, unravel plot intricacies, and explore themes in a way that traditional reading cannot, blending classic literature with modern technology for a uniquely immersive experience.

    “Legible has meticulously preserved the essence of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, ensuring that the original text remains intact and true to Shelley’s intentions. Our goal with FrankensteinAI is to honor the original narrative while enhancing the reader’s experience through technology,” stated Kaleeg Hainsworth, CEO of Legible. “By integrating interactive AI features and Remo Camerota’s mesmeric artwork, we’ve created a Living Book that remains true to Shelley’s vision while offering a fresh, immersive way to engage with this classic tale.”

    Remo Camerota commented, “My vision for FrankensteinAI was to complement Mary Shelley’s original narrative with artwork that feels alive, echoing the Creature’s journey of discovery and isolation. Through the power of AI, these illustrations become part of the reader’s journey, evolving alongside their experience with the text.” Camerota further commented, “I am looking forward to further collaborations with Legible on bringing literature to life with my art.”

    In addition to FrankensteinAI, Legible’s other AI Classics and groundbreaking original publications, such as the My Model Kitchen Living Cookbooks by former supermodel and NYT-bestselling author Ms. Cristina Ferrare, with their embedded Sous Chef AI, are exclusively available to Legible Unbound members. Join now and gain access to these innovations plus millions of eBooks and audiobooks for only US$9.99 per month, unlocking a new world of enriched reading experiences.

    About Legible
    Legible is a trailblazing, mobile-centric global company specializing in eBook and audiobook entertainment. Through extensive partnerships with four of the Big 5 Publishers, the world’s largest eBook distributors, and outstanding publishers of all sizes, Legible delivers millions of eBooks and audiobooks, transforming any smart device into a source of cutting-edge infotainment.

    Recent releases include My Model Kitchen – Vol. 2: Vegetables – The Garden of Earthly Delights, the second of 15 video-enriched Living Cookbooks by former supermodel, bestselling author, TV host, and celebrity chef Cristina Ferrare, featuring an AI Sous Chef for each recipe. The Living Cookbooks and Ms. Ferrare have been featured in various major media outlets including twice on the very popular Drew Barrymore Show, where she dazzles viewers with her culinary expertise while utilizing the AI Sous Chef interactive component.

    As a first mover in the rapidly expanding automotive infotainment market, Legible has partnered with media providers Faurecia Aptoide, Harman Ignite, LiveOne, and Visteon. Legible boasts the only Android Automotive app that can deliver both audiobooks and eBooks to drivers and passengers in tens of millions of vehicles worldwide, positioning the Company at the forefront of in-car infotainment experiences.

    Legible won the 2024 EdTech Breakthrough Award for eLearning Innovation of the Year. Committed to reshaping the digital publishing landscape, Legible is poised to gain significant market share through its innovative 21st-century publishing solutions and enriched reading experiences. Visit www.legible.com to explore how eBooks come to life.

    About Remo Camerota
    Remo Camerota is a world-renowned multidisciplinary artist blending art, pop culture, and technology through a unique visual style. Recognized as one of the top 200 digital artists globally by Lürzer’s Archive Magazine (2020-2023) and with works exhibited alongside icons like Banksy, he’s earned acclaim as a leading NFT artist, generating over $6 million in revenue in 2021-2022. Over 30 years, he’s worked across various media, winning hundreds of awards for campaigns with brands like MTV, Nikon, and Toyota and collaborating with notable figures, including Val Kilmer and Scott Page. His company, Npact, has also supported charitable projects, such as raising funds for 2,000 computers for children in need. With exhibitions in renowned venues like the Louvre and Tate, his passion for boundless creativity and storytelling continues to impact global audiences.

    Contacts

    Legible Inc.
    Ms. Deborah Harford, EVP, Global Strategic Partnerships
    Tel.: +1-604-283-2028
    Email: invest@legible.com
    Website: https://invest.legible.com

    Krupp Kommunications, Inc.
    Ms. Kathy Giaconia, VP Media Relations
    Tel.: +1-213-324-5665
    Email: kgiaconia@kruppagency.com
    Website: www.KruppAgency.com

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Information

    This Press Release contains certain statements which constitute forward-looking statements or information (“forward-looking statements”), including statements regarding Legible’s business. Such forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond Legible’s control, including the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, currency fluctuations, the lack of availability of qualified personnel or management, stock market volatility and the ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources. Although Legible believes that the expectations in its forward-looking statements are reasonable, they are based on factors and assumptions concerning future events which may prove to be inaccurate. Those factors and assumptions are based upon currently available information. Such statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could influence actual results or events and cause actual results or events to differ materially from those stated, anticipated or implied in the forward- looking information. As such, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward- looking information, as no assurance can be provided as to future results, levels of activity or achievements. The forward-looking statements contained in this document are made as of the date of this document and, except as required by applicable law, Legible does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The forward-looking statements contained in this document are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/98d32341-a97e-4b8c-b43a-c970ae023d46

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Mastering Document Verification with Reference Data: Key Insights from Regula’s Talk at INTERDOCPOL Congress

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RESTON, Va., Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At the 3rd International Congress of INTERDOCPOL, Regula’s identity verification expert Inga Voronko spotlighted a breakthrough for document verification: the power of precise and comprehensive reference data. This often-overlooked resource, she explained, is key to enhancing verification accuracy and combating fraud in today’s digital-first world.

    The congress, organized by INTERDOCPOL, a non-profit association working to improve security protocols and practices, provides a platform for law-enforcement professionals and forensic experts from all over the world to collaborate on fighting document fraud. This year’s event, held on October 23 and 24, 2024 in Les Franqueses del Vallès, Spain and themed “Document Fraud: New Points of View,” brought together all-women experts from state and private organizations to share knowledge of the most effective methods of detecting forged and tampered IDs.

    Inga Voronko showcased how using a comprehensive and detailed reference system can enhance the accuracy and efficiency of document verification.

    Image: At the INTERDOCPOL International Congress, Regula’s expert highlighted the importance of using comprehensive reference data in document verification.

    While skilled professionals and advanced technology are essential, reference data also contributes a lot to the quality of identity verification. Accurate verification requires understanding exactly which security features a genuine document should have, where those features are located, how they should look, and what unique properties they possess. With thousands of different identity documents in circulation across the globe, no expert can memorize all the features of every document. This is where reference data becomes crucial.

    With over 30 years of experience in identity verification and forensic research, Regula has created one of the most advanced Information Reference Systems. It contains over 337,000 images of more than 12,000 unique identity documents from 225 states and international organizations, providing vital data for detecting fraudulent documents. In fact, it is the first reference system that covers IDs from every country and territory in the world.

    The images in Regula’s Information Reference System are captured in laboratory conditions, using forensic devices that ensure high optical resolution. This highlights the smallest nuances in security features, such as holograms, watermarks, and specific printing techniques, all of which are essential for verifying document authenticity.

    Moreover, images are captured under various light sources—such as white, infrared, and different wavelengths of ultraviolet lighting—so that verifiers can inspect documents across different spectrums and detect hidden or altered features that may not be visible to the naked eye.

    Today, it’s not enough to simply rely on what you see. Document forgery has become so sophisticated that to be able to detect it, experts need more than technologies: they need a reliable source of reference data, which is constantly updated to be as comprehensive as possible. That is what Regula has been working at for more than 30 years, accumulating deep knowledge and creating the largest digital collection in the world, containing all sorts of documents.

    About Regula

    Regula is a global developer of forensic devices and identity verification solutions. With our 30+ years of experience in forensic research and the largest library of document templates in the world, we create breakthrough technologies in document and biometric verification. Our hardware and software solutions allow over 1,000 organizations and 80 border control authorities globally to provide top-notch client service without compromising safety, security or speed. Regula was repeatedly named a Representative Vendor in the Gartner® Market Guide for Identity Verification.

    Learn more at www.regulaforensics.com.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/eda18c0c-ced9-45de-a8e9-e901db370477

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Afreximbank Announces Investment Conference in Kisumu, Kenya to Strengthen Sub-Sovereign Participation in Intra-African Trade

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

    CAIRO, Egypt, October 28, 2024/APO Group/ —

    In a bid to strengthen the role of Africa’s sub-sovereign governments in driving intra-African trade and investment, and the successful implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), in collaboration with the County Government of Kisumu and the United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG Africa) is organising  the fourth edition of the African Sub-Sovereign Governments Network (AfSNET) Conference.

    The Conference will take place in Kisumu City, Kenya, from 25 to 27 November, under the theme ‘Leveraging the AfCFTA for Sustainable Trade and Investment: A Development Pathway for African Sub-Sovereigns.’ A key feature of the event will be an exhibition aimed at promoting trade at a local level, to be preceded by an investment promotion training on the first day.

    One of the key objectives of the conference is to foster greater collaboration in promoting trade, development and investment initiatives among African sub-sovereigns, aligned with AfCFTA’s goals.

    Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President Intra African Trade and Export Development, Afreximbank who will be speaking at the Investment Conference noted:

    “Afreximbank partnered with the Forum of Regions of Africa (FORAF), an organ of the UCLG Africa under the AfSNET initiative to ensure its products and interventions for trade and investment promotion are accessible both at the local and sub-sovereign level. This resulted in the announcement of US$ 2 billion in financing to tackle the pressing financing challenges faced by sub-sovereigns and businesses.”

    Mrs. Awani explained that Afreximbank will be leveraging the successes of the third AfSNET Investment Conference held during the Intra Africa Trade Fair (IATF2023) in

    Cairo, Egypt offering sub-sovereign governments the opportunity to showcase investment projects to potential investors and financiers, further strengthening the Bank’s commitment to facilitating impactful investments across the continent.

    While inviting delegates to participate in the forum, Kisumu County Governor H.E. Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o said:

    “Africa’s economic renaissance is hinged on unbridling the developmental capacity of local governments and increasing decentralization. Despite the gains made in decentralization in recent decades, African local governments still have low administrative and fiscal capacity to realize the much-needed local economic development. AfSNET, an innovative tool of the Afreximbank, therefore comes in handy to bridge that gap and allow sub sovereigns to accelerate and improve the quality of economic growth in Africa. Its vision aligns with the aspirations of the African Sub Sovereigns umbrella organisation UCLG Africa to support  decentralised governments access and participation in continental and international financial markets while also supporting the development of their fiscal capacities. As the Governor of Kisumu, it gives me great pleasure to warmly invite all the delegates to come and interact and share in the social and cultural passion of Kisumu and to experience our boundless economic opportunities.”

    Mr. Jean Pierre Elong Mbassi, Secretary General, United Cities and Local Governments of Africa while outlining UCLG’s mandate remarked:

    “Among the mandates of UCLG Africa is to assist its members to attract investments in sub-national and local governments so as to improve the living conditions of the populations, economic activities and businesses established within their territories. UCLG Africa supports its members in adopting local economic development policies and strategies that investment plans derive from, and that gives impetus to public and private business development.”

     The fourth AfSNET conference will provide Kisumu County Government and the Lake Victoria region economic block an opportunity to present their development strategies and projects for consideration to investors attending the Conference.

    The inaugural AfSNET conference, held in Durban, South Africa, on the margins of the second Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2021) in 2021, attracted more than 80 delegates while the second, organised in collaboration with the Nigeria Governors’ Forum in Abuja in September 2022, drew more than 150 delegates.

    The third conference, co-hosted with UCLG Africa in November 2023 on the sidelines IATF2023 in Cairo, had more than 250 participants and resulted in deals valued at more than USD$1.5 billion being signed.

    AfSNET was established by Afreximbank as a platform for promoting intra-African trade and investment, educational and cultural exchanges and the fostering of effective engagement among sub-sovereigns in Africa’s development and prosperity in the context of the AfCFTA.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Non-Profit Organizations Benefit from FEMA Funds

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    strong>Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO ― The Support and Therapy Center of the Puerto Rico Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association is one of the non-profit organizations that recently received funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to repair its infrastructure after Hurricane María and to continue offering its services for the development of its participants.
    The organization, which focuses on promoting the functioning, independence and integration of people with developmental disabilities, also offers services in social work, physical and occupational therapy, and assistance with the purchase of orthopedic equipment.
    “The social and health needs of our island are different and precise. We have the great talent and dedication of communities that are ready to meet these needs and FEMA remains committed to assisting in the recovery of these organizations,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José Baquero. 
    The Support and Therapy Center serves over 200 people. It also offers educational workshops on the management and prevention of births with neural tube defects and supports families during and after a pregnancy with a neural tube defect diagnosis. 
    The Association’s director, Isolina Laboy Arroyo, said that they recently discharged a 3-year-old participant, who “lives a full life, participates in extracurricular activities such as gymnastics and is a girl who enjoys having reached her full potential thanks to early intervention.” 
    The organization offered direct services to the mother during her pregnancy and after a surgery to treat the infant’s spina bifida from the womb. After birth, the entity offered direct occupational and physical therapy services to the girl from 5 months to 2 years old.
    Laboy Arroyo stated that “over the years, this organization has been able to fulfill its mission of offering direct services to participants to promote the functioning, independence and integration in the community of people with developmental disabilities. This entity has played an important role in being able to provide patients with the opportunity to become as independent as possible within the limits that their condition allows.”
    The Association has about $35,000 from the agency to replace the roof waterproofing system, the air conditioners, floor mats for therapy rooms and some office equipment, among others. Mitigation funds within this allocation will anchor the water cistern tank and improve the facilities’ infrastructure against infiltration. 
    On the other hand, FEMA also obligated funds for Bill’s Kitchen, an entity that has been providing food security along with nutritional counseling for 31 years.
    Bill’s Kitchen was born in memory of a young architect named Bill, who died of AIDS in Seattle in 1992. His mother Sara Metcalf, who lived in Puerto Rico, decided to help people on the island living with this condition by providing food to everyone who needed it, replicating several service programs in New York, Seattle, San Francisco and Washington, DC. Today, Bill’s Kitchen serves more than 30 towns in the northeastern area of the island: they serve about 1,175 people a year, distribute over 11,000 bags of food for two weeks, and coordinate thousands of clinical and support services for their participants.
    Bill’s Kitchen Executive Director Sandra Torres Rivera explained that its participants also have services in place to ensure they maintain their treatments for HIV and other chronic health conditions.
    “Our nutritional services program complements the provision of food, offering food security to the medical and nutritional counseling, to give the participant the tools to combat not only hunger, but also prevailing health conditions on the island such as diabetes, hypertension and gastrointestinal problems. Through the Intégrate Program we offer medical transportation, oral health and visual health services, which include the purchase of eyeglasses, laboratories and emergency assistance, among other services that our participants cannot access through their health insurance coverage,” said Torres Rivera.
    This organization received about $470,000 for its infrastructure. The work includes the replacement of equipment, such as the mezzanine and kitchen air conditioners. More than $78,000 of the funds were destined to mitigation measures aimed at ensuring proper drainage and preventing infiltration to the roof and interior of the facilities.
    For his part, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “our work team assists non-profit organizations such as Bill’s Kitchen, an entity that is currently in the construction acquisition phase to make way for the reconstruction of the facilities where they offer services aimed at a population in need. Puerto Rico has thousands of non-profit entities like this one, which have the commendable work of supporting and contributing to the quality of life of our citizens. At COR3 we will continue to guide them in the process so that they can complete their works.”
    To date, FEMA has allocated over $34.2 billion for more than 11,000 projects to address Puerto Rico’s recovery following Hurricane María. A total of over $1.4 billion are destined exclusively to support the recovery of 1,105 non-profit projects across the island.
    For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery,  visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.
     
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Vantage Drilling International Ltd. Schedules Third Quarter 2024 Earnings Release Date and Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Dubai, Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Vantage Drilling International Ltd. Schedules Third Quarter 2024 Earnings Release Date and Conference Call

     

     

    DUBAI, October 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Vantage Drilling International Ltd. (“Vantage” or the “Company”) today announced that it will host a conference call at 10:00 AM Eastern Time / 4:00 PM Oslo Time / 7:00 PM Dubai Time on November 7, 2024 to discuss operating results for the third quarter of 2024. Vantage will release earnings before the market opens on November 7, 2024. Vantage’s earnings release will be posted to the Vantage website at www.vantagedrilling.com. 

    To access the conference call, click on the Call Link following the instructions below. 

    1. Click on the Call Link and complete the online registration form.
    2. Once the registration is complete you will receive an email confirmation with the call details (dial-in and a unique PIN to join the call).
    3. You will have two options to join the call.
      1. Dial-In Option: A dial in number and unique PIN are displayed to connect directly from your phone.
      2. Call Me Option: Enter your phone number and click “Call Me” for an immediate callback from the system.

    Please call five minutes ahead of time to ensure proper connection. A replay of the conference call will be available following the call and can be accessed via Webcast Link.

    Online Registration:

    https://register.vevent.com/register/BI3f198530d1ee42e386c22ba7cba67366

    About the Company

    Vantage Drilling International Ltd., a Bermuda exempted company, is an offshore drilling contractor, with a fleet of two ultra-deepwater drillships and two premium jackup drilling rigs. Vantage’s primary business is to contract drilling units, related equipment and work crews primarily on a dayrate basis to drill oil and natural gas wells globally for major, national and independent oil and gas companies. Vantage also markets, operates and provides management services in respect of drilling units owned by others. www.vantagedrilling.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Primech AI, a Subsidiary of Primech Holdings, Launches AI-Powered Automated Toilet Cleaning Robot, Hytron

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

                                                                                       

    Hytron Enhances Hygiene Standards at Temasek Polytechnic, Marks a Monumental Leap in Cleaning Technology

    SINGAPORE, Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Primech AI Pte. Ltd., a subsidiary of Primech Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: PMEC), announces the launch of Hytron, a cutting-edge AI-powered automated toilet cleaning robot, now operational and enhancing hygiene standards at Temasek Polytechnic. This innovative technology introduces unprecedented levels of cleaning efficiency, setting new benchmarks in the industry.

    (Primech AI’s COO, Charles Ng, and CTO, Richard Zhang, proudly commemorate the successful deployment of the Hytron robot at Temasek Polytechnic. Image: Primech AI)

    Hytron is engineered to address the high demands for cleanliness in high-traffic areas such as offices, malls, and hospitals. Equipped with advanced AI, Hytron autonomously navigates and cleans toilet fixtures with a precision down to less than one millimeter, surpassing conventional cleaning methods. Its ability to navigate in three-dimensional spaces and perform touch-based cleaning allows it to remove stubborn stains effectively, ensuring a thorough and consistent clean every time.

    The technical superiority of Hytron lies in its integration of force-sensitive sensors and 3D recognition technologies, enabling it to adapt and respond to the nuances of different cleaning environments. This level of precision and adaptability sets Hytron apart from competitors, highlighting its unique position in the market.

    “The launch of Hytron at Temasek Polytechnic has already shown fantastic results, with significant improvements in restroom cleanliness and overall hygiene,” said Charles Ng, Vice President of Innovation and Technology at Primech Holdings and Co-Founder COO of Primech AI. “Hytron not only elevates the standard of cleanliness but also enhances the operational efficiency for facilities managers, offering a scalable solution that meets the growing global demands for hygiene.”

    The market potential for restroom-cleaning robots like Hytron is vast. With the global commercial cleaning products market projected to reach USD 121.29 billion by 2023, according to data from market research and consulting firm Grand View Research, growing at a CAGR of 7.91% from 2024 to 2030, the introduction of automated solutions like Hytron is timely. This growth is driven by increasing hygiene awareness and the need for more efficient cleaning solutions in public and private spaces worldwide.

    Primech AI, in collaboration with Temasek Polytechnic, plans to expand this cleaning initiative by introducing more robots to clean more toilets on campus, modernizing, streamlining, and humanizing toilet cleaning processes. Hytron’s successful deployment marks the beginning of its potential expansion into other cleaning applications, reinforcing Primech AI’s position as a leader in the field of robotic cleaning solutions. This technology not only promises to revolutionize the way cleaning tasks are approached but also offers substantial cost savings and health benefits, making it a game-changer in the cleaning industry.

    Additional images of Hytron in operation can be found at https://primech.ai/

    See Hytron in action at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBFBTs5vRjs

    (Hytron being deployed at Temasek Polytechnic, autonomously executing a restroom cleaning cycle, leveraging advanced AI algorithms for precise positioning and optimal task completion.Image:Primech AI)

    About Primech Holdings Limited
    Headquartered in Singapore, Primech Holdings Limited is a leading provider of comprehensive technology-driven facilities services, predominantly serving both public and private sectors throughout Singapore, with expanding operations in Malaysia. With a legacy of excellence and innovation in the facility services industry, Primech’s operating subsidiary, Primech A & P, offers an extensive range of services tailored to meet the complex demands of its diverse clientele. Services include advanced general facility maintenance services, specialized cleaning solutions such as marble polishing and facade cleaning, meticulous stewarding services, and targeted cleaning services for offices and homes. Additionally, CSG Industries Pte Ltd, a subsidiary of Primech Holdings, manufactures and supplies various high-quality cleaning products under its brand, extending its reach and capabilities within the industry. Known for its commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge technology, Primech integrates eco-friendly practices and smart technology solutions to enhance operational efficiency and client satisfaction. This strategic approach positions Primech Holdings as a leader in the industry and a proactive contributor to advancing industry standards and practices in Singapore and beyond. For more information, visit www.primechholdings.com.   

    About Primech AI
    Primech AI is a leading robotics company dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation in technology. With a team of passionate individuals and a commitment to collaboration, Primech AI is poised to revolutionize the robotics industry with groundbreaking solutions that make a meaningful impact on society. For more information, visit www.primech.ai.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements, including, for example, statements about completing the acquisition, anticipated revenues, growth, and expansion. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. These forward-looking statements are also based on assumptions regarding the Company’s present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future. Investors can find many (but not all) of these statements by the use of words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “likely to” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure that such expectations will be correct. The Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC.

    Company Contact:
    Email: ir@primech.com.sg

    Investor Relations Contact:        
    Matthew Abenante, IRC
    President                                        
    Strategic Investor Relations, LLC                                         
    Tel: 347-947-2093
    Email: matthew@strategic-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear Energy Announces Closing of Upsized $36 Million Underwritten Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Additional capital following public offerings in May and July 2024 to fund technology advancements and growth opportunities

    New York, N.Y., Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear”), a leading vertically integrated advanced nuclear energy and technology company developing portable clean nuclear energy solutions, today announced that it has closed its previously announced upsized $36 million firm commitment, registered underwritten public offering.

    In the offering, NANO Nuclear sold 2,117,646 shares of common stock and warrants to purchase 1,217,646 shares of common stock at $17.00 per share and associated warrant, less underwriting discounts and expenses. Such warrants include warrants to purchase 158,823 shares of common stock which were purchased by the underwriter at closing pursuant to a partial exercise of its offering over-allotment option. The underwriter retains an option through November 22, 2024, to purchase an additional 317,646 shares of common stock. The warrants are exercisable immediately, have a term of five years, and have an exercise price of $17.00 per share. The warrants will not trade on any market.

    This offering follows NANO Nuclear’s initial public offering which closed on May 10, 2024, and its underwritten follow-on offering which closed on July 15, 2024, from which NANO Nuclear received total gross proceeds of over $30 million.

    NANO Nuclear expects its net proceeds from the offering, after underwriting commissions and offering expenses, will be approximately $32.6 million. NANO Nuclear intends to use the net proceeds from this offering for (i) research and development of its products and technologies, including its ‘ZEUS’ and ‘ODIN’ microreactors and nuclear fuel transportation design optimization, fuel facility investigations and development, test work and scoping studies, and other technology research and development; (ii) marketing, promotion and business development activities; and (iii) regulatory compliance, intellectual property protection, hiring additional employees, retaining additional contractors and building out NANO Nuclear’s new Nuclear Technology Headquarters in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. NANO Nuclear will also use the proceeds for general working capital and may also use a portion of the net proceeds to acquire, license and invest in complementary products, technologies, or additional businesses, although NANO Nuclear currently has no agreements or commitments with respect to any such transaction.

    “We have worked extremely hard to establish NANO Nuclear as one of the leaders in the U.S. advanced nuclear energy market. It is incredibly gratifying to see the continued support from our current shareholder base as well as new fundamental and institutional investors in this oversubscribed financing round, which will fuel our efforts to further develop and refine our proprietary technologies,” said Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman of NANO Nuclear Energy. “With over $65 million raised in under 6 months as a public company, we are positioned to drive shareholder value and realize our vision of becoming a leading, diversified, and vertically integrated nuclear energy company.”

    The Benchmark Company, LLC acted as the sole book-running representative for the offering. Ellenoff Grossman & Schole LLP acted as counsel to NANO Nuclear. Lucosky Brookman LLP acted as counsel to The Benchmark Company. Withum Smith+Brown PC are NANO Nuclear’s registered independent auditors.

    Registration statements relating to this public offering were filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and declared. This registration statement can be obtained by visiting the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Please see such registration statement for additional information regarding NANO Nuclear.

    This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    About NANO Nuclear Energy Inc.

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

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s products in technical development are “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.

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

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

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

    For further information, please contact:

    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Silicon Motion Announces Annual Cash Dividend Payable Quarterly

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TAIPEI, Taiwan and MILPITAS, Calif., Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Silicon Motion Technology Corporation (NasdaqGS: SIMO)(“Silicon Motion” or the “Company”), a global leader in designing and marketing NAND flash controllers for solid state storage devices, announces today its annual cash dividend of $2.00 per ADS.

    The Board of Directors of the Company has declared an annual dividend of $2.00 per ADS1,2 which will be paid in four quarterly installments of $0.50 per ADS3 according to the following anticipated record and payment dates:

    Record Date Payment Date
    November 14, 2024 November 27, 2024
    February 13, 2025 February 27, 2025
    May 8, 2025 May 22, 2025
    August 7, 2025 August 21, 2025
       

    The Company’s depository bank’s DR books will be closed for issuance and cancellation on each of the record dates.

    “Silicon Motion’s business outlook and our ability to generate free cash flow remains strong. Our focus continues to be in distributing a meaningful portion of this to our shareholders as dividend,” said Wallace Kou, President and CEO of Silicon Motion.

    The payment of the annual dividend to be paid in quarterly installments will be made according to the anticipated record and payment dates unless subsequently changed by the Board. The declaration and payment of future cash dividends is subject to the Board’s continuing determination that the payment of dividends is in the best interests of the Company’s shareholders and is in compliance with all laws and agreements of the Company applicable to the declaration and payment of cash dividends.

    ABOUT SILICON MOTION:

    We are the global leader in supplying NAND flash controllers for solid state storage devices.  We supply more SSD controllers than any other company in the world for servers, PCs and other client devices and are the leading merchant supplier of eMMC and UFS embedded storage controllers used in smartphones, IoT devices and other applications.  We also supply customized high-performance hyperscale data center and specialized industrial and automotive SSD solutions.  Our customers include most of the NAND flash vendors, storage device module makers and leading OEMs.  For further information on Silicon Motion, visit us at www.siliconmotion.com.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Although such statements are based on our own information and information from other sources we believe to be reliable, you should not place undue reliance on them. These statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual market trends or our actual results of operations, financial condition or business prospects may differ materially from those expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements for a variety of reasons. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to the unpredictable volume and timing of customer orders, which are not fixed by contract but vary on a purchase order basis; the loss of one or more key customers or the significant reduction, postponement, rescheduling or cancellation of orders from one or more customers; general economic conditions or conditions in the semiconductor or consumer electronics markets; the impact of inflation on our business and customer’s businesses and any effect this has on economic activity in the markets in which we operate; the functionalities and performance of our information technology (“IT”) systems, which are subject to cybersecurity threats and which support our critical operational activities, and any breaches of our IT systems or those of our customers, suppliers, partners and providers of third-party licensed technology; the effects on our business and our customer’s business taking into account the ongoing U.S.-China tariffs and trade disputes; the uncertainties associated with any future global or regional pandemic; the continuing tensions between Taiwan and China including enhanced military activities; decreases in the overall average selling prices of our products; changes in the relative sales mix of our products; changes in our cost of finished goods; supply chain disruptions that have affected us and our industry as well as other industries on a global basis; the payment, or non-payment, of cash dividends in the future at the discretion of our board of directors and any announced planned increases in such dividends; changes in our cost of finished goods; the availability, pricing, and timeliness of delivery of other components and raw materials used in the products we sell given the current raw material supply shortages being experienced in our industry; our customers’ sales outlook, purchasing patterns, and inventory adjustments based on consumer demands and general economic conditions; any potential impairment charges that may be incurred related to businesses previously acquired or divested in the future; our ability to successfully develop, introduce, and sell new or enhanced products in a timely manner; and the timing of new product announcements or introductions by us or by our competitors. For additional discussion of these risks and uncertainties and other factors, please see the documents we file from time to time with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on April 30, 2024. Other than as required under the securities laws, we do not intend, and do not undertake any obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this press release.

    _________________

    1 One ADS is equivalent to four ordinary shares.
    2 $2.00 per ADS is equivalent to $0.50 per ordinary share.
    3 $0.50 per ADS is equivalent to $0.125 per ordinary share.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: QuestionPro Appoints Chris Robson as Vice President, Managed Services

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — QuestionPro, a global leader in online survey and research services announces Chris Robson has joined the company in the newly created position of Vice President, Managed Services. Robson will create this new division which is focused on helping QuestionPro customers get the most out of its robust research platform.

    Well known as a research industry thought-leader, Robson is a mathematician by training who has worked at both large enterprises as well as startups. Immediately prior to joining QuestionPro, he was the Global Head of Data Science at Human8, a global brand consultancy where he developed new methodologies including the application of Generative AI and LLMs. Earlier in his career he managed advanced research teams and large software teams (70+ people) at HP.

    He was also Chief Innovation Officer and Global Head of Research Science at ORC, where he led a team of analysts and statisticians to embrace and adopt new approaches for data-centered insights. Robson also co-founded and ran two successful research analytics agencies: Parametric Marketing and Deckchair Data. He holds a Bachelor of Science with Honors in Mathematics from the Brunel University of London.

    Robson will have overall responsibility for establishing and growing QuestionPro’s Managed Services Group which provides services to clients who need assistance to go above and beyond the capabilities of the company’s existing suite of research platforms. This can include project management, study design, custom programming, reporting and analytics. Whether it is providing end-to-end project support, simply customizing the appearance of a single question or running advanced analytic methods the group ensures that clients can get the answers they need for their business decisions.

    In particular, Robson will apply his deep expertise in Artificial Intelligence (AI) to not only integrate AI across the QuestionPro platform, but also leverage it for new ways to drive consumer insights through emerging techniques like synthetic data.

    “I’ve known and worked with Chris for close to 20 years,” said Vivek Bhaskaran, founder and CEO of QuestionPro. “In fact, he helped build some of our early features like MaxDiff and others. It’s great to have him on board full time to launch a new division and also ensure our customers benefit from the application of AI across our platform.”

    About QuestionPro:
    Founded in 2006, QuestionPro is a global provider of online survey and research services that help companies make better decisions through data. Our fully integrated online platform includes surveys, research & insights, customer experience (CX) and workforce/employee experience software. We additionally offer polling, journey mapping, employee 360s and data visualization. Our clientele ranges from small businesses to Fortune 100 companies, who rely on us for insights about customers, employees, and the marketplace. With offices in the US, Canada, Mexico, U.K., Germany, Japan, Australia, the United Arab Emirates and India, we offer customers 24-7 access to highly trained support specialists and engineers. More information is available at www.questionpro.com.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c9035859-cb80-41e3-be32-21eab55be2d3

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SWA Lithium and Koch Technology Solutions Sign License for First Commercial DLE Project in North America

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EL DORADO, Ark., Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SWA Lithium, the Joint Venture between Standard Lithium and Equinor which is developing the South West Arkansas Project (“SWA” or the “Project”), is pleased to announce that it has entered into a license agreement with Koch Technology Solutions LLC (“KTS”) to deploy and use KTS’ Li-ProTM Lithium Selective Sorption (“Li-Pro LSS”) technology at the JV’s commercial plant for the SWA Phase 1 Project.

    The license agreement allows the JV to utilize KTS’ technology for the lifetime of the first phase of the Project, with an option for utilization in subsequent phases of the Project. Considerations and benefits of the license agreement include:

    • Rights to use the Li-Pro LSS technology for subsequent phases of the JV’s SWA Project;
    • Certain technology performance guarantees for lithium recovery, contaminant rejection and water use;
      • Lithium recovery ≥ 95.00%
      • Impurity rejection Calcium, Sodium, Potassium & Magnesium ≥ 99%
    • Technical support from KTS to fully integrate the Li-Pro LSS technology into overall process plant design;
    • Continued exclusive joint development of the technology in the Smackover Formation;
    • Technical support from KTS during commissioning and startup;
    • License payment phased over several milestones; and
    • Continued collaboration and technology refinement between SWA Lithium and KTS.

    Standard Lithium’s Director, President & COO, Dr. Andy Robinson commented: “Signing this license agreement is the culmination of over two years of close work with the KTS team to refine the direct lithium extraction (‘DLE’) technology and integrate it into the JV’s flowsheet. The Li-Pro LSS technology is now sufficiently scaled-up, tested and derisked, so not only is the JV comfortable committing to its use at commercial scale, but KTS is also able to offer performance guarantees for its commercial deployment. We view this as a significant derisking event for the Project, and it points to the successful ongoing partnership with the KTS team.”

    Garrett Krall, Business Leader for Koch Technology Solutions, said: “This license agreement for use of our Li-Pro LSS technology is another key milestone in the development of DLE as a commercially viable, economic and environmentally responsible solution to deliver against future lithium demand.”

    UPDATED PERFORMANCE OF COMMERCIAL-SCALE DLE COLUMN

    Standard Lithium is also pleased to announce the continued successful operation of the commercial-scale DLE column at its wholly-owned Demonstration Plant (“Demo Plant”) near El Dorado, Arkansas. The Company installed a commercial-scale DLE column in late March 2024 and has been operating the column continuously. The column is a Li-Pro LSS unit, supplied by KTS and identical to those currently being integrated into the front-end engineering and design (FEED) study for the SWA Project.

    Since commissioning, the column has exceeded the targeted design parameters for lithium recovery and rejection of impurities. Key technical highlights of the commercial-scale DLE column are provided below:

    • Lithium recovery efficiency of 95.4%: During a four-month continuous operating period (1st April to 31st July 2024), the Li-Pro LSS process achieved an average lithium recovery (i.e. after loading and elution) of 95.4% from the 90 gallons per minute (gpm) incoming brine flow (the average incoming brine contained 183 mg/L lithium during the same period).
    • Excellent contamination rejection rate: During the same period, the DLE process rejected, on average;
      • Sodium – 99.9%
      • Calcium – 99.6%
      • Magnesium – 99.2%
      • Potassium – 99.7%
      • Boron – 95.4%
        High and consistent contaminant rejection at the DLE stage means that the eluate (the initial lithium chloride solution) is easier and cheaper to further refine and concentrate using tested and proven steps to make a concentrated and purified lithium chloride solution. This solution can then be converted to a battery quality carbonate, as has been demonstrated multiple times and at several different scales, both at the Demo Plant and off-site with various third-party vendors.
    • Nearly 10,000 operational cycles for the Li-Pro LSS technology: The commercial-scale Li-Pro LSS column has completed over 725 operational cycles, and the Li-Pro LSS technology has completed over 9,740 operational cycles at the Demo Plant (as of early October 2024).
    • Over 24 million gallons of brine processed: As of the end of September 2024, the Demo Plant had processed 24,446,306 gallons (92,539,335 litres) of Smackover brine, produced directly from the formation and reinjected continuously back into the same formation.

    Figure 1 – Side elevation of operators working on the commercial-scale DLE column at Standard Lithium’s Demonstration Plant near El Dorado, Arkansas.

    About Standard Lithium Ltd.

    Standard Lithium is a leading near-commercial lithium development company focused on the sustainable development of a portfolio of large, high-grade lithium-brine properties in the United States. The Company prioritizes projects characterized by the highest quality resources, robust infrastructure, skilled labor, and streamlined permitting. Standard Lithium aims to achieve sustainable, commercial-scale lithium production via the application of a scalable and fully integrated Direct Lithium Extraction (“DLE”) and purification process. The Company’s flagship projects are located in the Smackover Formation, a world-class lithium brine asset, focused in Arkansas and Texas. In partnership with global energy leader Equinor ASA, Standard Lithium is advancing the South West Arkansas project, a greenfield project located in southern Arkansas, and actively exploring promising lithium brine prospects in East Texas. Additionally, the Company is advancing the Phase 1A project in partnership with LANXESS Corporation, a brownfield development project located in southern Arkansas. Standard Lithium also holds an interest in certain mineral leases in the Mojave Desert in San Bernardino County, California.

    Standard Lithium trades on both the TSX Venture Exchange and the NYSE American under the symbol “SLI”; and on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol “S5L”. Please visit the Company’s website at www.standardlithium.com.

    About Equinor

    Equinor is an international energy company committed to long-term value creation in a low-carbon future. Our purpose is to turn natural resources into energy for people and progress for society. Equinor’s portfolio of projects encompasses oil and gas, renewables and low-carbon solutions, with an ambition of becoming a net-zero energy company by 2050. Headquartered in Stavanger (Norway), Equinor is the leading operator on the Norwegian continental shelf. We are present in around 30 countries worldwide.

    About Koch Technology Solutions (KTS)

    Koch Technology Solutions is the technology licensing business of Koch Engineered Solutions (KES). KTS creates value for its customers across a growing portfolio of technologies including direct lithium extraction, the polyester value chain, and 1,4-Butananediol plus its derivates. KTS combines its exclusive technologies, expertise, and capabilities with those of other KES companies to provide overall solutions to optimize customer’s capital investments and existing manufacturing assets.

    Qualified Person

    Marek Dworzanowski, EUR ING, CEng, HonFSAIMM, FIMMM, a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43 -101 – Technical Report Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, and a Consulting Metallurgical Engineer who is independent of the Company, has reviewed and approved the relevant scientific and technical information in this news release.

    Twitter: @standardlithium
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/standard-lithium/

    Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and “forward looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “target, “plan”, “forecast”, “may”, “schedule” and other similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information may relate to intended development timelines, future prices of commodities, accuracy of mineral or resource exploration activity, reserves or resources, continued operation of the LSS column, regulatory or government requirements or approvals, the reliability of third party information, the continued accuracy of current contaminant rejection rates, continued access to mineral properties or infrastructure, fluctuations in the market for lithium and its derivatives, changes in exploration costs and government regulation in Canada and the United States, and other factors or information. Such statements represent the Company’s current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0c4dea63-0750-44b2-bea8-e287cc9be29c

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Newly Published Research Shows 14-Day Monitoring Detected Almost Three Times More Nonsustained Ventricular Tachycardia Than Standard 48-Hour Monitoring in Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic heart condition affecting about 1 in 500 people and is one of the leading causes of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in people under 35, including among athletes.1
    • NSVT (nonsustained ventricular tachycardia), a known marker for increased risk of SCD in HCM, was detected in nearly 50% of HCM patients in the study undergoing long-term continuous ambulatory ECG monitoring of up to 14 days with a Zio®XT LTCM ECG patch device; 63% of NSVT episodes detected only after 48 hours, suggesting that Holter monitoring would miss the majority of episodes.
    • NSVT episodes clinically judged to be higher risk were identified in 24% of the study population and were detected more frequently during 14-day monitoring (3-fold greater diagnostic yield vs 48 hours).

    SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — iRhythm Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:IRTC), a leading digital health company focused on creating trusted solutions that detect, predict, and prevent disease, today announced that the results of the Extended Ambulatory ECG Monitoring Enhances Identification of Higher-Risk Ventricular Tachyarrhythmias in Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (EXAMINE-HCM) study have been published in Heart Rhythm Journal. The findings were also presented at the Heart Rhythm Society’s annual meeting in 2023, and most recently, at the International HCM Summit 8 in Boston, MA (October 25-28, 2024).

    The newly published research highlights the value of 14-day long-term, uninterrupted2 continuous monitoring (LTCM), using a Zio® XT patch ECG device, for detecting nonsustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT), a known marker for sudden cardiac death (SCD) in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). The findings support more informed decisions about care pathways and interventions, particularly by capturing arrhythmias that would go undetected by standard 48-hour monitoring, such as with a conventional Holter device monitoring period. Prior research has demonstrated that NSVT episodes occurring with higher heart rate, longer duration, and greater frequency are associated with increased risk of SCD3 and practice guidelines place greater emphasis on these episodes (8 consecutive beats, >200 bpm, 2 runs in consecutive 2-day period) in clinical decision-making regarding use of primary prevention implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD).4 These NSVT episodes clinically judged to be higher risk were detected in only 8% of the study population through 48 hours, but in 24% of patients through 14-days.       

    “The EXAMINE-HCM study provides important new insights into how we manage patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy identified with ventricular arrhythmias,” said Martin S. Maron, MD, study lead investigator, HCM expert, and Medical Director, Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Center, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center. “By extending the monitoring period beyond the traditional 48 hours, we have been able to detect nonsustained ventricular tachycardia episodes that may have otherwise gone undetected with traditional shorter monitoring periods, which may offer the potential to inform more tailored clinical decision-making to help prevent sudden cardiac death in this high-risk population.”

    Overall, the study authors concluded that traditional 48-hour short-term cardiac monitoring is significantly less effective compared to extended 14-day continuous monitoring for both NSVT and NVST detection with features judged to be high risk in patients with HCM. These data support the need for additional clinical studies to evaluate the significance of longer-term monitoring for NSVT detection and relationship to future risk for sudden death in HCM.

    Key findings from the Extended Ambulatory ECG Monitoring Enhances Identification of Higher-Risk Ventricular Tachyarrhythmias in Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy study:

    • 48% of study patients (n=114) with HCM experienced NSVT episodes, and high-risk NSVT was detected in 24% (n=56) of study patients during the 14-day monitoring period.
    • 63% of NSVT episodes (n=72) were detected during a 3 to 14-day continuous monitoring period, compared to 37% (n=42) of NSVT episodes detected during the standard 48-hour Holter monitoring period. This resulted in a 2.7-fold higher diagnostic yield for detecting NSVT during the 14-day extended monitoring period compared to the initial 48 hours (48% vs. 18%; p<0.001).
    • 64% of NSVT episodes clinically judged to be higher risk (n=36); 8 consecutive beats, >200 bpm, 2 runs in consecutive 2-day period)) were detected during a 3 to 14-day continuous monitoring period, compared to 36% (n=20) of high-risk NSVT episodes detected during the standard 48-hour Holter monitoring period. Therefore, the diagnostic yield of high-risk NSVT was 3.0-fold greater over the entire 2 weeks of monitoring vs. only the first 48 hours (24% vs. 8%; p<0.001).
    • 17% of patient profiles were re-classified with respect to risk of sudden cardiac death (n=40) based on their extended 14-day continuous monitoring period. The number of patients at high-risk for SCD increased 2.3-fold (95% CI: 1.2, 4.3) vs. 48-hour monitoring, with 18 (8%) of study patients reclassified from low- or intermediate-risk to high-risk for SCD. In addition, 22 (9%) of patients were reclassified from low to intermediate risk.

    Importance of Detecting NSVT in HCM Patients

    HCM is a genetic condition that affects approximately 1 in 500 people and one of the leading causes of sudden cardiac death (SCD), especially in individuals under 35, including among athletes. HCM is caused by mutations in genes controlling the production of heart muscle proteins, resulting in thickening of the left ventricle wall. These changes can impair the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently and disrupt its electrical signaling. Nonsustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT) is a well-recognized marker for SCD risk in patients with HCM.

    Standard Holter monitoring captures only up to 48 hours of data, potentially missing episodes of NSVT that can occur later. This study shows that extended monitoring can detect NSVT that would otherwise go unnoticed, providing clinicians with clinical actionable information needed to make timely interventions such as implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs).

    The findings underscore the importance of long-term continuous monitoring (LTCM) for patients with HCM. By detecting NSVT that would otherwise go undetected, clinicians are better equipped to assess sudden cardiac death (SCD) risk and recommend interventions like ICD placement.

    This study highlights the value of extended monitoring as an important tool for risk stratification in HCM patients, complementing current American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology guidelines, which recommend monitoring every 1 to 2 years but do not yet specify the optimal duration for detecting arrhythmias.

    “There is an abundance of clinical evidence demonstrating that uninterrupted, continuous, patch-based monitoring with the Zio® long-term continuous monitoring service leads to increased diagnostic yield of Afib, atrial arrhythmias, ventricular arrhythmias, more accurate ectopic burden estimation, and lower rates of retesting,”5 said Mintu Turakhia, MD, iRhythm’s Chief Medical and Scientific Officer and EVP, Product Innovation. “This study adds to the evidence by showing how ascertainment of NSVT could be missed during risk stratification, in this case specifically for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, depending on the diagnostic test being used.”

    About the Study

    The EXAMINE-HCM study was a single-center, prospective study focused on patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a common genetic heart disease and a leading cause of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in young adults. The study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and clinical profile of nonsustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT), a key marker for SCD risk, using extended continuous ambulatory ECG monitoring. The primary goal was to assess the benefit of long-term monitoring compared to traditional 48-hour Holter monitoring, with a focus on NSVT episodes of longer duration, greater frequency, and occurring with a higher heart rate, which have been associated greater risk of SCD.

    The study enrolled 236 consecutive adult patients diagnosed with HCM (mean age 49 ± 12 years; 72% male), none of whom had prior implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) or permanent pacemakers. These patients were being evaluated for SCD risk stratification. Participants wore the Zio® XT long-term continuous (LTCM) patch ECG device (iRhythm Technologies, Inc.), a long-term continuous monitoring ECG patch device, for 14 days. The Zio patch recorded ECG data continuously, offering an extended wear time compared to traditional 48-hour Holter monitors. After the 14-day monitoring period, patients returned the device for data analysis, which was performed using artificial intelligence (AI)-powered algorithms and validated by certified cardiographic technicians.

    NSVT was defined as more than 3 consecutive ventricular beats at a rate of ≥120 beats per minute (bpm) lasting for less than 30 seconds and terminating spontaneously. High-risk NSVT episodes were defined as those with one or more of the following: ≥8 consecutive beats, a rate of >200 bpm, or ≥2 runs within a 48-hour period, all of which are associated with a higher risk of SCD.

    The study’s primary objective was to compare the prevalence, burden, speed, and length of NSVT episodes detected during the initial 48-hour period (standard Holter monitoring) versus the full 14-day extended monitoring period.

    Key outcomes included the detection of NSVT with features judged to be higher risk and its potential impact on SCD risk stratification. The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) SCD risk score was calculated based on both the 48-hour and full 14-day data, and patients were stratified into low, intermediate, and high-risk SCD categories over a 5-year period.

    This project was supported by an investigator-initiated grant from iRhythm Technologies, Inc. Results presented are scientific data and not product or marketing claims.

    Zio XT is indicated for use on patients who may be asymptomatic or who may suffer from transient symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, light-headedness, pre-syncope, syncope, fatigue or anxiety.

    To learn more about the study, visit Heart Rhythm. To learn more about the value of the Zio LTCM service, which has been demonstrated in over 100 original scientific research manuscripts6, visit iRhythmTech.com..

    About iRhythm Technologies, Inc.
    iRhythm is a leading digital health care company that creates trusted solutions that detect, predict, and prevent disease. Combining wearable biosensors and cloud-based data analytics with powerful proprietary algorithms, iRhythm distills data from millions of heartbeats into clinically actionable information. Through a relentless focus on patient care, iRhythm’s vision is to deliver better data, better insights, and better health for all. To learn more about iRhythm, including its portfolio of Zio products and services, please visit irhythmtech.com.

    Media Contact:
    Kassandra Perry
    irhythm@highwirepr.com

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Stephanie Zhadkevich
    investors@irhythmtech.com

    1“Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM).” Www.Heart.Org, American Heart Association, Aug. 2024, www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiomyopathy/what-is-cardiomyopathy-in-adults/hypertrophic-cardiomyopathy.

    2“Uninterrupted” refers to uninterrupted ECG recording.

    3Wang W, Lian Z, Rowin EJ, Maron BJ, Maron MS, Link MS. Prognostic implications of nonsustained ventricular tachycardia in high-risk patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol. 2017;10.

    4Ommen et al. 2024 AHA/ACC/AMSSM/HRS/PACES/SCMR Guideline for the Management of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A Report of the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines. Circulation. 2024 Jun 4;149(23):e1239-e1311.

    5Reynolds et al. Comparative effectiveness and healthcare utilization for ambulatory cardiac monitoring strategies in Medicare beneficiaries. Am Heart J. 2024;269:25–34. Accessed January 2, 2024. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ahj.2023.12.002

    6Data on file. iRhythm Technologies, 2023: https://www.irhythmtech.com/providers/evidence/list-of-clinical-articles

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Wearable Devices Regains Compliance with Nasdaq Minimum Bid Price Rule

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    YOKNEAM ILLIT, ISRAEL, Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wearable Devices Ltd. (Nasdaq: WLDS, WLDSW) (“Wearable Devices” or the “Company”), a technology growth company specializing in artificial intelligence (“AI”)-powered touchless sensing wearables, today announced that it has received a written notice from Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”), indicating that the Company has regained compliance with the minimum bid price requirement for continued listing set forth in Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2), which requires listed securities to maintain a minimum bid price of $1.00 per share.

    The Nasdaq staff made this determination of compliance after the closing bid price of the Company’s ordinary shares was at $1.00 per share or greater for the last 10 consecutive business days. Accordingly, the Company has regained compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2) and Nasdaq considers the prior bid price deficiency matter now closed.

    About Wearable Devices Ltd.

    Wearable Devices Ltd. is a growth company developing AI-based neural input interface technology for the B2C and B2B markets. The Company’s flagship product, the Mudra Band for Apple Watch, integrates innovative AI-based technology and algorithms into a functional, stylish wristband that utilizes proprietary sensors to identify subtle finger and wrist movements allowing the user to “touchlessly” interact with connected devices. The Company also markets a B2B product, which utilizes the same technology and functions as the Mudra Band and is available to businesses on a licensing basis. Wearable Devices Is committed to creating disruptive, industry leading technology that leverages AI and proprietary algorithms, software, and hardware to set the input standard for the Extended Reality, one of the most rapidly expanding landscapes in the tech industry. The Company’s ordinary shares and warrants trade on the Nasdaq market under the symbols “WLDS” and “WLDSW”, respectively.

    Investor Relations Contact

    Walter Frank
    IMS Investor Relations
    203.972.9200
    wearablesdevices@imsinvestorrelations.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Citizens Community Bancorp, Inc. Reports Third Quarter 2024 Earnings of $0.32 Per Share; Nine Month 2024 Earnings of $1.07 Per Share

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EAU CLAIRE, Wis., Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Citizens Community Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company”) (Nasdaq: CZWI), the parent company of Citizens Community Federal N.A. (the “Bank” or “CCFBank”), today reported earnings of $3.3 million and earnings per diluted share of $0.32 for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024, compared to $3.7 million and earnings per diluted share of $0.35 for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, and $2.5 million and $0.24 earnings per diluted share for the quarter ended September 30, 2023, respectively.

    The Company’s third quarter 2024 operating results reflected the following changes from the second quarter of 2024: (1) no loan forbearance interest income in the third quarter compared to $0.2 million in the second quarter; (2) a $1.1 million decrease in negative provision for credit losses to $0.4 million in the third quarter; and (3) higher non-interest income of $1.0 million due to $0.5 million higher gain on sale of loans and $0.6 million lower net losses on sale of equity securities in the third quarter of 2024.

    Book value per share improved to $17.88 at September 30, 2024, compared to $17.10 at June 30, 2024, and $15.80 at September 30, 2023. Tangible book value per share (non-GAAP)1 was $14.64 at September 30, 2024, compared to $13.91 at June 30, 2024, and a 16.1% increase from $12.61 at September 30, 2023. For the third quarter of 2024, tangible book value was positively influenced by net income, net unrealized gains on the available for sale securities portfolio and intangible amortization. Stockholders’ equity as a percentage of total assets was 10.01% at September 30, 2024, compared to 9.77% at June 30, 2024. Tangible common equity (“TCE”) as a percent of tangible assets (non-GAAP)1 was 8.35% at September 30, 2024, compared to 8.09% at June 30, 2024, with the changes above impacted favorably by asset shrinkage.

    “We continued to execute on our strategic objectives during the third quarter that further strengthened franchise value. The quarter reflected our balance sheet optimization efforts, which increased tangible common equity levels and allowed for the continued repurchase of shares at prices that were accretive to tangible book value per share and earnings per share. The TCE ratio increased to 8.35%, from 8.09% in the prior quarter, which included the impact of repurchasing 223 thousand shares. Deposits, net of the decrease in brokered deposits, increased $31 million. While credit metrics were impacted by an increase in nonperforming loans, the increase largely reflected one lending relationship. Meanwhile, we continue to maintain a healthy reserve for credit losses to total loans at 1.47%,” stated Stephen Bianchi, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer.

    September 30, 2024, Highlights:

    • Quarterly earnings were $3.3 million, or $0.32 per diluted share for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, a decrease from the quarter ended June 30, 2024, earnings of $3.7 million, or $0.35 per diluted share, and an increase from the quarter ended September 30, 2023, earnings of $2.5 million, or $0.24 per diluted share.
    • Net interest income decreased $0.3 million for the current quarter ended September 30, 2024, from $11.6 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, and decreased from $12.1 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2023. The decrease in net interest income from the second quarter of 2024 was primarily due to lower non-recurring interest income of $0.2 million recognized in the second quarter from curing technical defaults on performing loans.
    • The net interest margin was 2.63% for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, compared to 2.72% for the previous quarter, and 2.79% for the quarter ended September 30, 2023. The net interest margin declined nine basis points in the third quarter, of which five basis points were due to no interest income recognition from curing technical defaults.
    • In the third quarter ended September 30, 2024, a negative provision for credit losses of $0.4 million was recorded compared to a negative provision for credit losses of $1.525 million in the quarter ended June 30, 2024, and a negative provision for credit losses of $0.30 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2023. The third quarter’s negative provision was due to decreases in on-balance sheet allowance for credit losses (“ACL”) of $0.1 million and a $0.3 million decrease in off-balance sheet ACL due to a reduction in unfunded loan commitments.
    • Non-interest income increased $1.0 million in the third quarter of 2024, due to $0.5 million of higher gain on sale of loans and $0.6 million of lower net losses on equity securities and was $0.4 million higher compared to the third quarter of 2023, due to higher gain on sale of loans.
    • Non-interest expense increased $122 thousand to $10.4 million from $10.3 million for the previous quarter and increased $452 thousand from $10.0 million one year earlier.
    • Gross loans decreased by $3.9 million during the third quarter ended September 30, 2024, to $1.43 billion, compared to June 30, 2024.
    • Total deposits increased $1.1 million, more than offsetting the $30.1 million decrease in brokered deposits during the quarter ended September 30, 2024, to $1.52 billion, compared to June 30, 2024.
    • Federal Home Loan Bank advances decreased $10.5 million to $21.0 million at September 30, 2024, from $31.5 million at June 30, 2024.
    • The effective tax rate was 21.48% for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, compared to 22.1% for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, and 50.5% for the quarter ended September 30, 2023. The change in tax rate from 2023 is largely due to the Wisconsin state legislation in the third quarter of 2023, eliminating the Company’s state income tax in Wisconsin.
    • Nonperforming assets increased to $17.1 million at September 30, 2024, compared to $10.3 million at June 30, 2024. The increase was largely due to one agricultural real estate loan relationship in forestry services that moved from special mention to substandard and was placed on nonaccrual in the third quarter.
    • Common stock totaling 223 thousand shares were repurchased in the third quarter of 2024 at an average price of $12.91 per share.
    • The efficiency ratio was 72% for the quarters ended September 30, 2024 and June 30, 2024.

    Balance Sheet and Asset Quality

    Total assets decreased by $3.2 million during the quarter to $1.80 billion at September 30, 2024.

    Securities available for sale (“AFS”) increased $3.0 million during the quarter ended September 30, 2024, to $149.4 million from $146.4 million at June 30, 2024. The increase was due to: (1) pre-tax unrealized gains of $4.6 million; and (2) a purchase of $2.9 million of agency MBS to support the Bank’s CRA program partially offset by principal repayments of $4.5 million.

    Securities held to maturity (“HTM”) decreased $1.6 million to $87.0 million during the quarter ended September 30, 2024, from $88.6 million at June 30, 2024, due to principal repayments.

    The on-balance sheet liquidity ratio, which is defined as the fair market value of AFS and HTM securities that are not pledged and cash on deposit with other financial institutions, was 11.46% of total assets at September 30, 2024, compared to 11.48% at June 30, 2024. On-balance sheet liquidity, collateralized new borrowing capacity and uncommitted federal funds borrowing availability was $718 million, or 269%, of uninsured and uncollateralized deposits at September 30, 2024, and $714 million, or 289%, at June 30, 2024.

    Gross loans decreased by $3.9 million during the third quarter ended September 30, 2024, due to loan payoffs exceeding origination activity and construction loan fundings.

    The office loan portfolio totaled $31.0 million at quarter end and consists of 71 loans. There was one criticized loan in this portfolio during the quarter ended September 30, 2024, totaling $0.2 million and there have been no charge-offs in the trailing twelve months.

    The allowance for credit losses on loans decreased by $0.2 million to $21.0 million at September 30, 2024, representing 1.47% of total loans receivable compared to 1.48% of total loans receivable at June 30, 2024. For the quarter ended September 30, 2024, the Bank recorded negative provision of $0.4 million which included a negative provision on ACL for loans of $0.1 million and a negative provision of $0.3 million on ACL for unfunded commitments.

    Allowance for Credit Losses (“ACL”) – Loans Percentage

    (in thousands, except ratios)

      September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   December 31, 2023   September 30, 2023
    Loans, end of period $ 1,424,828     $ 1,428,588     $ 1,460,792     $ 1,447,529  
    Allowance for credit losses – Loans $ 21,000     $ 21,178     $ 22,908     $ 22,973  
    ACL – Loans as a percentage of loans, end of period   1.47 %     1.48 %     1.57 %     1.59 %

    In addition to the ACL – Loans, the Company has established an ACL – Unfunded Commitments of $0.460 million at September 30, 2024, $0.712 million at June 30, 2024, and $1.571 million at September 30, 2023, classified in other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets.

    Allowance for Credit Losses – Unfunded Commitments:
    (in thousands)

      September 30, 2024
    and Three Months
    Ended    		   September 30, 2023
    and Three Months
    Ended    		   September 30, 2024
    and Nine Months
    Ended    		   September 30, 2023
    and Nine Months
    Ended
    ACL – Unfunded commitments – beginning of period $ 712     $ 1,544   $ 1,250     $ —
    Cumulative effect of ASU 2016-13 adoption   —       —     —       1,537
    (Reductions) additions to ACL – Unfunded commitments via provision for credit losses charged to operations   (252 )     27     (790 )     34
    ACL – Unfunded commitments – end of period $ 460     $ 1,571   $ 460     $ 1,571

    Special mention loans increased by $2.2 million to $11.0 million at September 30, 2024, compared to $8.8 million at June 30, 2024. The increase is largely due to one loan of $8.7 million, which is secured by a multi-family unit. The addition of the multi-family unit to special mention was partially offset by the movement of a $7.7 million agricultural real estate loan relationship in forestry services that moved to substandard and was placed on nonaccrual.

    Substandard loans increased by $6.8 million to $21.2 million at September 30, 2024, compared to $14.4 million at June 30, 2024, due to the addition of the forestry services loan relationship noted above.

    Nonperforming assets increased to $17.1 million at September 30, 2024, compared to $10.3 million at June 30, 2024 largely due to the previously mentioned forestry services loan relationship.

      (in thousands)
      September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   March 31, 2024   December 31, 2023   September 30, 2023
    Special mention loan balances $ 11,047   $ 8,848   $ 13,737   $ 18,392   $ 20,043
    Substandard loan balances   21,202     14,420     14,733     19,596     16,171
    Criticized loans, end of period $ 32,249   $ 23,268   $ 28,470   $ 37,988   $ 36,214

    Total deposits increased $1.1 million during the quarter ended September 30, 2024, to $1.52 billion. Consumer deposits increased $22.1 million, including an increase in CDs of $17.9 million. Commercial deposits increased by $20.0 million. Brokered deposits decreased $30.1 million as the company decreased brokered MMDAs by $24.6 million and $5.5 million in brokered CDs matured and were not replaced. Public deposits decreased $10.9 million, largely due to expected seasonal outflows.

    Deposit Portfolio Composition
    (in thousands)

      September 30,
    2024    		   June 30,
    2024    		   March 31,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023    		   September 30,
    2023
    Consumer deposits $ 844,808   $ 822,665   $ 827,290   $ 814,899   $ 794,970
    Commercial deposits   432,361     412,385     414,088     423,762     429,358
    Public deposits   176,844     187,698     202,175     182,172     163,734
    Brokered deposits   66,654     96,796     83,936     98,259     85,173
    Total deposits $ 1,520,667   $ 1,519,544   $ 1,527,489   $ 1,519,092   $ 1,473,235


    Deposit Composition
    (in thousands)

      September 30,
    2024    		   June 30,
    2024    		   March 31,
    2024    		   December 31,
    2023    		   September 30,
    2023
    Non-interest-bearing demand deposits $ 256,840   $ 255,703   $ 248,537   $ 265,704   $ 275,790
    Interest-bearing demand deposits   346,971     353,477     361,278     343,276     336,962
    Savings accounts   169,096     170,946     177,595     176,548     183,702
    Money market accounts   366,067     370,164     387,879     374,055     312,689
    Certificate accounts   381,693     369,254     352,200     359,509     364,092
    Total deposits $ 1,520,667   $ 1,519,544     1,527,489   $ 1,519,092   $ 1,473,235

    At September 30, 2024, the deposit portfolio composition was 56% consumer, 28% commercial, 12% public, and 4% brokered deposits compared to 54% consumer, 27% commercial, 12% public, and 7% brokered deposits at June 30, 2024.

    Uninsured and uncollateralized deposits were $267.1 million, or 18% of total deposits, at September 30, 2024, and $246.7 million, or 16% of total deposits, at June 30, 2024. Uninsured deposits alone at September 30, 2024, were $413.6 million, or 27% of total deposits, and $401.6 million, or 26% of total deposits at June 30, 2024.

    Federal Home Loan Bank advances decreased $10.5 million to $21.0 million at September 30, 2024, from $31.5 million one quarter earlier.

    Common stock totaling 223 thousand shares were repurchased in the third quarter of 2024 at an average price of $12.91 per share. For the nine-month period ended September 30, 2024, 382 thousand shares of common stock were repurchased at an average price of $12.32 per share. There are 333 thousand shares remaining under the July 2024 Board of Director repurchase authorization plan.

    Review of Operations

    Net interest income decreased $0.3 million for the current quarter ended September 30, 2024, from $11.6 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, and decreased from $12.1 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2023. The decrease in net interest income from the second quarter of 2024 was primarily due to lower non-recurring interest income of $0.2 million recognized from curing technical defaults on performing loans during the prior quarter. The net interest margin declined nine basis points in the third quarter, of which five basis points were due to no interest income recognition from curing technical defaults.

    Net interest income and net interest margin analysis:
    (in thousands, except yields and rates)

      Three months ended
      September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   March 31, 2024   December 31, 2023   September 30, 2023
      Net
    Interest
    Income    		   Net
    Interest
    Margin    		   Net
    Interest
    Income    		   Net
    Interest
    Margin    		   Net
    Interest
    Income    		   Net
    Interest
    Margin    		   Net
    Interest
    Income    		   Net
    Interest
    Margin    		   Net
    Interest
    Income    		   Net
    Interest
    Margin
    As reported $ 11,285     2.63 %   $ 11,576     2.72 %   $ 11,905     2.77 %   $ 11,747     2.69 %   $ 12,121     2.79 %
    Less accretion for PCD loans   (45 )   (0.01 )%     (62 )   (0.01 )%     (75 )   (0.02 )%     (37 )   (0.01 )%     (39 )   (0.01 )%
    Less scheduled accretion interest   (33 )   (0.01 )%     (32 )   (0.01 )%     (33 )   (0.01 )%     (33 )   (0.01 )%     (77 )   (0.02 )%
    Without loan purchase accretion $ 11,207     2.61 %   $ 11,482     2.70 %   $ 11,797     2.74 %   $ 11,677     2.67 %   $ 12,005     2.76 %

    Non-interest income increased $1.0 million in the third quarter of 2024, due to $0.5 million of higher gain on sale of loans and $0.6 million of lower net losses on equity securities. Non-interest income was $0.4 million higher compared to the third quarter of 2023 due to higher gain on sale of loans.

    Non-interest expense increased $122 thousand to $10.4 million in the third quarter of 2024 from $10.3 million for the previous quarter and increased $452 thousand from $10.0 million one year earlier. The increase in the current quarter relative to the second quarter was primarily related to one-time data processing costs, modest REO losses and higher quarterly marketing spending, partially offset by $0.2 million in branch closure costs in the second quarter.

    Provision for income taxes decreased to $0.9 million in the third quarter of 2024 from $1.0 million in the second quarter of 2024 largely due to lower pre-tax income. The effective tax rate was 21.48% for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, 22.1% for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, and 50.5% for the quarter ended September 30, 2023. The change in tax rate from 2023 is largely due to the Wisconsin state legislation in the third quarter of 2023, eliminating the Company’s state income tax in Wisconsin.

    These financial results are preliminary until Form 10-Q is filed in November 2024.

    About the Company

    Citizens Community Bancorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: “CZWI”) is the holding company of the Bank, a national bank based in Altoona, Wisconsin, currently serving customers primarily in Wisconsin and Minnesota through 22 branch locations. Its primary markets include the Chippewa Valley Region in Wisconsin, the Twin Cities and Mankato markets in Minnesota, and various rural communities around these areas. The Bank offers traditional community banking services to businesses, ag operators and consumers, including residential mortgage loans.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this release are considered “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified using forward-looking words or phrases such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “expect,” “estimates,” “intend,” “may,” “on pace,” “preliminary,” “planned,” “potential,” “should,” “will,” “would” or the negative of those terms or other words of similar meaning. Such forward-looking statements in this release are inherently subject to many uncertainties arising in the operations and business environment of the Company and the Bank. These uncertainties include: conditions in the financial markets and economic conditions generally; the impact of inflation on our business and our customers; geopolitical tensions, including current or anticipated impact of military conflicts; higher lending risks associated with our commercial and agricultural banking activities; future pandemics (including new variants of COVID-19); cybersecurity risks; adverse impacts on the regional banking industry and the business environment in which it operates; interest rate risk; lending risk; changes in the fair value or ratings downgrades of our securities; the sufficiency of allowance for credit losses; competitive pressures among depository and other financial institutions; disintermediation risk; our ability to maintain our reputation; our ability to maintain or increase our market share; our ability to realize the benefits of net deferred tax assets; our inability to obtain needed liquidity; our ability to raise capital needed to fund growth or meet regulatory requirements; our ability to attract and retain key personnel; our ability to keep pace with technological change; prevalence of fraud and other financial crimes; the possibility that our internal controls and procedures could fail or be circumvented; our ability to successfully execute our acquisition growth strategy; risks posed by acquisitions and other expansion opportunities, including difficulties and delays in integrating the acquired business operations or fully realizing the cost savings and other benefits; restrictions on our ability to pay dividends; the potential volatility of our stock price; accounting standards for credit losses; legislative or regulatory changes or actions, or significant litigation, adversely affecting the Company or Bank; public company reporting obligations; changes in federal or state tax laws; and changes in accounting principles, policies or guidelines and their impact on financial performance. Stockholders, potential investors, and other readers are urged to consider these factors carefully in evaluating the forward-looking statements and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Such uncertainties and other risks that may affect the Company’s performance are discussed further in Part I, Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” in the Company’s Form 10-K, for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 5, 2024 and the Company’s subsequent filings with the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to make any revisions to the forward-looking statements contained in this news release or to update them to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release.

    1Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    This press release contains non-GAAP financial measures, such as net income as adjusted, net income as adjusted per share, tangible book value, tangible book value per share, tangible common equity as a percent of tangible assets and return on average tangible common equity, which management believes may be helpful in understanding the Company’s results of operations or financial position and comparing results over different periods.

    Net income as adjusted and net income as adjusted per share are non-GAAP measures that eliminate the impact of certain expenses such as branch closure costs and related severance pay, accelerated depreciation expense and lease termination fees, and the gain on sale of branch deposits and fixed assets. Tangible book value, tangible book value per share, tangible common equity as a percentage of tangible assets and return on average tangible common equity are non-GAAP measures that eliminate the impact of goodwill and intangible assets on our financial position. Management believes these measures are useful in assessing the strength of our financial position.

    Where non-GAAP financial measures are used, the comparable GAAP financial measure, as well as the reconciliation to the comparable GAAP financial measure, can be found in this press release. These disclosures should not be viewed as a substitute for operating results determined in accordance with GAAP, nor are they necessarily comparable to non-GAAP performance measures that may be presented by other banks and financial institutions.

    Contact: Steve Bianchi, CEO
    (715)-836-9994

    (CZWI-ER)

     
    CITIZENS COMMUNITY BANCORP, INC.
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (in thousands, except shares and per share data)
     
      September 30, 2024
    (unaudited)    		   June 30, 2024
    (unaudited)    		   December 31, 2023
    (audited)    		   September 30, 2023
    (unaudited)
    Assets              
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 36,632     $ 36,886     $ 37,138     $ 32,532  
    Securities available for sale “AFS”   149,432       146,438       155,743       153,414  
    Securities held to maturity “HTM”   87,033       88,605       91,229       92,336  
    Equity investments   5,096       5,023       3,284       2,433  
    Other investments   12,311       13,878       15,725       15,109  
    Loans receivable   1,424,828       1,428,588       1,460,792       1,447,529  
    Allowance for credit losses   (21,000 )     (21,178 )     (22,908 )     (22,973 )
    Loans receivable, net   1,403,828       1,407,410       1,437,884       1,424,556  
    Loans held for sale   697       275       5,773       2,737  
    Mortgage servicing rights, net   3,696       3,731       3,865       3,944  
    Office properties and equipment, net   17,365       17,774       18,373       19,465  
    Accrued interest receivable   6,235       6,289       5,409       5,936  
    Intangible assets   1,158       1,336       1,694       1,873  
    Goodwill   31,498       31,498       31,498       31,498  
    Foreclosed and repossessed assets, net   1,572       1,662       1,795       1,046  
    Bank owned life insurance (“BOLI”)   25,901       25,708       25,647       25,467  
    Other assets   16,683       15,794       16,334       18,741  
    TOTAL ASSETS $ 1,799,137     $ 1,802,307     $ 1,851,391     $ 1,831,087  
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity              
    Liabilities:              
    Deposits $ 1,520,667     $ 1,519,544     $ 1,519,092     $ 1,473,235  
    Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) advances   21,000       31,500       79,530       114,530  
    Other borrowings   61,548       61,498       67,465       67,407  
    Other liabilities   15,773       13,720       11,970       10,513  
    Total liabilities   1,618,988       1,626,262       1,678,057       1,665,685  
    Stockholders’ equity:              
    Common stock— $0.01 par value, authorized 30,000,000; 10,074,136, 10,297,341, 10,440,591, and 10,468,091 shares issued and outstanding, respectively   101       103       104       105  
    Additional paid-in capital   115,455       117,838       119,441       119,612  
    Retained earnings   78,438       75,501       71,117       67,424  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (13,845 )     (17,397 )     (17,328 )     (21,739 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   180,149       176,045       173,334       165,402  
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY $ 1,799,137     $ 1,802,307     $ 1,851,391     $ 1,831,087  

    Note: Certain items previously reported were reclassified for consistency with the current presentation.

    CITIZENS COMMUNITY BANCORP, INC.
    Consolidated Statements of Operations
    (in thousands, except per share data)
     
      Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended
      September 30, 2024 (unaudited)   June 30, 2024 (unaudited)   September 30, 2023 (unaudited)   September 30, 2024 (unaudited)   September 30, 2023 (unaudited)
    Interest and dividend income:                  
    Interest and fees on loans $ 20,115     $ 19,921     $ 19,083     $ 60,204     $ 54,169
    Interest on investments   2,397       2,542       2,689       7,450       8,053
    Total interest and dividend income   22,512       22,463       21,772       67,654       62,222
    Interest expense:                  
    Interest on deposits   10,165       9,338       7,388       28,712       17,898
    Interest on FHLB borrowed funds   128       576       1,210       1,216       4,595
    Interest on other borrowed funds   934       973       1,053       2,960       3,127
    Total interest expense   11,227       10,887       9,651       32,888       25,620
    Net interest income before provision for credit losses   11,285       11,576       12,121       34,766       36,602
    (Negative) provision for credit losses   (400 )     (1,525 )     (325 )     (2,725 )     175
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses   11,685       13,101       12,446       37,491       36,427
    Non-interest income:                  
    Service charges on deposit accounts   513       490       491       1,474       1,464
    Interchange income   577       579       601       1,697       1,743
    Loan servicing income   643       526       611       1,751       1,679
    Gain on sale of loans   752       226       299       1,998       1,501
    Loan fees and service charges   165       309       140       704       308
    Net realized gains on debt securities   —       —       —       —       12
    Net (losses) gains on equity securities   (78 )     (658 )     116       (569 )     170
    Bank Owned Life Insurance (BOLI) death benefit   —       184       —       184       —
    Other   349       257       307       859       893
    Total non-interest income   2,921       1,913       2,565       8,098       7,770
    Non-interest expense:                  
    Compensation and related benefits   5,743       5,675       5,293       16,901       15,967
    Occupancy   1,242       1,333       1,335       3,942       4,117
    Data processing   1,665       1,525       1,536       4,787       4,440
    Amortization of intangible assets   178       179       179       536       576
    Mortgage servicing rights expense, net   163       116       150       427       456
    Advertising, marketing and public relations   225       186       185       575       472
    FDIC premium assessment   201       200       204       606       608
    Professional services   336       347       342       1,249       1,153
    Losses (gains) on repossessed assets, net   65       (18 )     100       47       62
    Other   603       756       645       2,427       2,085
    Total non-interest expense   10,421       10,299       9,969       31,497       29,936
    Income before provision for income taxes   4,185       4,715       5,042       14,092       14,261
    Provision for income taxes   899       1,040       2,544       3,043       4,895
    Net income attributable to common stockholders $ 3,286     $ 3,675     $ 2,498     $ 11,049     $ 9,366
    Per share information:                  
    Basic earnings $ 0.32     $ 0.35     $ 0.24     $ 1.07     $ 0.89
    Diluted earnings $ 0.32     $ 0.35     $ 0.24     $ 1.07     $ 0.89
    Cash dividends paid $ —     $ —     $ —     $ 0.32     $ 0.29
    Book value per share at end of period $ 17.88     $ 17.10     $ 15.80     $ 17.88     $ 15.80
    Tangible book value per share at end of period (non-GAAP) $ 14.64     $ 13.91     $ 12.61     $ 14.64     $ 12.61

    Reconciliation of GAAP Net Income and Net Income as Adjusted (non-GAAP)

    (in thousands, except per share data)

      Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended
      September 30,
    2024    		   June 30,
    2024    		   September 30,
    2023    		   September 30,
    2024    		   September 30,
    2023
                       
    GAAP pretax income $ 4,185   $ 4,715   $ 5,042   $ 14,092   $ 14,261
    Branch closure costs (1)   —     168     —     168     —
    Pretax income as adjusted (2) $ 4,185   $ 4,883   $ 5,042   $ 14,260   $ 14,261
    Provision for income tax on net income as adjusted (3)   899     1,077     2,544     3,079     4,895
    Net income as adjusted (non-GAAP) (2) $ 3,286   $ 3,806   $ 2,498   $ 11,181   $ 9,366
    GAAP diluted earnings per share, net of tax $ 0.32   $ 0.35   $ 0.24   $ 1.07   $ 0.89
    Branch closure costs, net of tax   —     0.01     —     0.01     —
    Diluted earnings per share, as adjusted, net of tax (non-GAAP) $ 0.32   $ 0.36   $ 0.24   $ 1.08   $ 0.89
                       
    Average diluted shares outstanding   10,204,195     10,373,089     10,470,098     10,339,802     10,474,685

    (1) Branch closure costs include severance pay recorded in compensation and benefits and depreciation and right of use lease asset accelerated expense included in other non-interest expense in the consolidated statement of operations.
    (2) Pretax income as adjusted and net income as adjusted are non-GAAP measures that management believes enhances the market’s ability to assess the underlying business performance and trends related to core business activities.
    (3) Provision for income tax on net income as adjusted is calculated at our effective tax rate for each respective period presented.


    Loan Composition

    (in thousands)

      September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   December 31, 2023   September 30, 2023
    Total Loans:              
    Commercial/Agricultural real estate:              
    Commercial real estate $ 730,459     $ 729,236     $ 750,531     $ 750,282  
    Agricultural real estate   76,043       78,248       83,350       84,558  
    Multi-family real estate   239,191       234,758       228,095       219,193  
    Construction and land development   87,875       87,898       110,941       109,799  
    C&I/Agricultural operating:              
    Commercial and industrial   119,619       127,386       121,666       121,033  
    Agricultural operating   27,550       27,409       25,691       24,552  
    Residential mortgage:              
    Residential mortgage   134,944       133,503       129,021       125,939  
    Purchased HELOC loans   2,932       2,915       2,880       2,881  
    Consumer installment:              
    Originated indirect paper   4,405       5,110       6,535       7,175  
    Other consumer   5,438       5,860       6,187       6,440  
    Gross loans $ 1,428,456     $ 1,432,323     $ 1,464,897     $ 1,451,852  
    Unearned net deferred fees and costs and loans in process   (2,703 )     (2,733 )     (2,900 )     (3,048 )
    Unamortized discount on acquired loans   (925 )     (1,002 )     (1,205 )     (1,275 )
    Total loans receivable $ 1,424,828     $ 1,428,588     $ 1,460,792     $ 1,447,529  

    Nonperforming Assets
    Loan Balances at Amortized Cost

    (in thousands, except ratios)

      September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   December 31, 2023   September 30, 2023
    Nonperforming assets:              
    Nonaccrual loans              
    Commercial real estate $ 4,778     $ 5,350     $ 10,359     $ 10,570  
    Agricultural real estate   6,193       382       391       469  
    Construction and land development   106       —       54       94  
    Commercial and industrial (“C&I”)   1,956       422       —       —  
    Agricultural operating   901       1,017       1,180       1,373  
    Residential mortgage   1,088       1,145       1,167       923  
    Consumer installment   20       36       33       27  
    Total nonaccrual loans $ 15,042     $ 8,352     $ 13,184     $ 13,456  
    Accruing loans past due 90 days or more   530       256       389       971  
    Total nonperforming loans (“NPLs”) at amortized cost   15,572       8,608       13,573       14,427  
    Foreclosed and repossessed assets, net   1,572       1,662       1,795       1,046  
    Total nonperforming assets (“NPAs”) $ 17,144     $ 10,270     $ 15,368     $ 15,473  
    Loans, end of period $ 1,424,828     $ 1,428,588     $ 1,460,792     $ 1,447,529  
    Total assets, end of period $ 1,799,137     $ 1,802,307     $ 1,851,391     $ 1,831,087  
    Ratios:              
    NPLs to total loans   1.09 %     0.60 %     0.93 %     1.00 %
    NPAs to total assets   0.95 %     0.57 %     0.83 %     0.85 %

    Average Balances, Interest Yields and Rates

    (in thousands, except yields and rates)

      Three Months Ended
    September 30, 2024    		   Three Months Ended
    June 30, 2024    		   Three Months Ended
    September 30, 2023
      Average
    Balance    		   Interest
    Income/
    Expense    		   Average
    Yield/
    Rate    		   Average
    Balance    		   Interest
    Income/
    Expense    		   Average
    Yield/
    Rate    		   Average
    Balance    		   Interest
    Income/
    Expense    		   Average
    Yield/
    Rate
    Average interest earning assets:                                  
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 25,187   $ 360   5.69 %   $ 18,894   $ 272   5.79 %   $ 21,298   $ 302   5.63 %
    Loans receivable   1,429,928     20,115   5.60 %     1,439,535     19,921   5.57 %     1,435,284     19,083   5.27 %
    Investment securities   236,960     1,966   3.30 %     238,147     2,012   3.40 %     252,226     2,119   3.33 %
    Other investments   12,553     71   2.25 %     13,051     258   7.95 %     15,511     268   6.85 %
    Total interest earning assets $ 1,704,628   $ 22,512   5.25 %   $ 1,709,627   $ 22,463   5.28 %   $ 1,724,319   $ 21,772   5.01 %
    Average interest-bearing liabilities:                                  
    Savings accounts $ 170,777   $ 450   1.05 %     174,259   $ 429   0.99 %   $ 199,279   $ 328   0.65 %
    Demand deposits   357,201     2,152   2.40 %     354,850   $ 2,023   2.29 %     354,073     1,863   2.09 %
    Money market accounts   381,369     3,126   3.26 %     377,346   $ 2,958   3.15 %     298,098     1,889   2.51 %
    CD’s   379,722     4,437   4.65 %     352,323   $ 3,928   4.48 %     358,238     3,308   3.66 %
    Total deposits $ 1,289,069   $ 10,165   3.14 %   $ 1,258,778   $ 9,338   2.98 %   $ 1,209,688   $ 7,388   2.42 %
    FHLB advances and other borrowings   80,338     1,062   5.26 %     121,967   $ 1,549   5.11 %     182,967     2,263   4.91 %
    Total interest-bearing liabilities $ 1,369,407   $ 11,227   3.26 %   $ 1,380,745   $ 10,887   3.17 %   $ 1,392,655   $ 9,651   2.75 %
    Net interest income     $ 11,285           $ 11,576           $ 12,121    
    Interest rate spread         1.99 %           2.11 %           2.26 %
    Net interest margin         2.63 %           2.72 %           2.79 %
    Average interest earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities         1.24             1.24             1.24  
      Nine Months Ended
    September 30, 2024    		   Nine Months Ended
    September 30, 2023
      Average
    Balance    		   Interest
    Income/
    Expense    		   Average
    Yield/
    Rate    		   Average
    Balance    		   Interest
    Income/
    Expense    		   Average
    Yield/
    Rate
    Average interest earning assets:                      
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 19,073   $ 823   5.76 %   $ 19,066   $ 768   5.39 %
    Loans receivable   1,441,972     60,204   5.58 %     1,420,423     54,169   5.10 %
    Interest bearing deposits   —     —   — %     84     1   1.59 %
    Investment securities   240,054     6,038   3.36 %     261,507     6,505   3.33 %
    Other investments   12,983     589   6.06 %     16,447     779   6.33 %
    Total interest earning assets $ 1,714,082   $ 67,654   5.27 %   $ 1,717,527   $ 62,222   4.84 %
    Average interest-bearing liabilities:                      
    Savings accounts $ 173,946   $ 1,300   1.00 %   $ 208,446   $ 1,103   0.71 %
    Demand deposits   355,356     6,192   2.33 %     370,235     5,047   1.82 %
    Money market accounts   378,740     9,005   3.18 %     298,957     4,759   2.13 %
    CD’s   364,131     12,215   4.48 %     300,279     6,989   3.11 %
    Total deposits $ 1,272,173   $ 28,712   3.01 %   $ 1,177,917   $ 17,898   2.03 %
    FHLB advances and other borrowings   108,897     4,176   5.12 %     214,034     7,722   4.82 %
    Total interest-bearing liabilities $ 1,381,070   $ 32,888   3.18 %   $ 1,391,951   $ 25,620   2.46 %
    Net interest income     $ 34,766           $ 36,602    
    Interest rate spread         2.09 %           2.38 %
    Net interest margin         2.71 %           2.85 %
    Average interest earning assets to average interest bearing liabilities         1.24             1.23  


    Key Financial Metric Ratios:

      Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended
      September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   September 30, 2023   September 30, 2024   September 30, 2023
    Ratios based on net income:                  
    Return on average assets (annualized) 0.72 %   0.81 %   0.54 %   0.81 %   0.68 %
    Return on average equity (annualized) 7.34 %   8.52 %   5.97 %   8.46 %   7.59 %
    Return on average tangible common equity4 (annualized) 9.38 %   10.92 %   7.74 %   10.78 %   9.91 %
    Efficiency ratio 72 %   72 %   67 %   71 %   66 %
    Net interest margin with loan purchase accretion 2.63 %   2.72 %   2.79 %   2.71 %   2.85 %
    Net interest margin without loan purchase accretion 2.61 %   2.70 %   2.76 %   2.69 %   2.82 %
    Ratios based on net income as adjusted (non-GAAP)                  
    Return on average assets as adjusted2 (annualized) 0.72 %   0.84 %   0.54 %   0.82 %   0.68 %
    Return on average equity as adjusted3 (annualized) 7.34 %   8.82 %   5.97 %   8.56 %   7.59 %


    Reconciliation of Return on Average Assets

    (in thousands, except ratios)

      Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended
      September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   September 30, 2023   September 30, 2024   September 30, 2023
           
    GAAP earnings after income taxes $ 3,286     $ 3,675     $ 2,498     $ 11,049     $ 9,366  
    Net income as adjusted after income taxes (non-GAAP) (1) $ 3,286     $ 3,806     $ 2,498     $ 11,181     $ 9,366  
    Average assets $ 1,810,826     $ 1,815,693     $ 1,836,775     $ 1,822,106     $ 1,832,832  
    Return on average assets (annualized)   0.72 %     0.81 %     0.54 %     0.81 %     0.68 %
    Return on average assets as adjusted (non-GAAP) (annualized)   0.72 %     0.84 %     0.54 %     0.82 %     0.68 %

    (1) See Reconciliation of GAAP Net Income and Net Income as Adjusted (non-GAAP)


    Reconciliation of Return on Average Equity

    (in thousands, except ratios)

      Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended
      September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   September 30, 2023   September 30, 2024   September 30, 2023
    GAAP earnings after income taxes $ 3,286     $ 3,675     $ 2,498     $ 11,049     $ 9,366  
    Net income as adjusted after income taxes (non-GAAP) (1) $ 3,286     $ 3,806     $ 2,498     $ 11,181     $ 9,366  
    Average equity $ 178,050     $ 173,462     $ 166,131     $ 174,436     $ 165,075  
    Return on average equity (annualized)   7.34 %     8.52 %     5.97 %     8.46 %     7.59 %
    Return on average equity as adjusted (non-GAAP) (annualized)   7.34 %     8.82 %     5.97 %     8.56 %     7.59 %

    (1) See Reconciliation of GAAP Net Income and Net Income as Adjusted (non-GAAP)


    Reconciliation of Efficiency Ratio

    (in thousands, except ratios)

      Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended
      September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   September 30, 2023   September 30, 2024   September 30, 2023
    Non-interest expense (GAAP) $ 10,421     $ 10,299     $ 9,969     $ 31,497     $ 29,936  
    Less amortization of intangibles   (178 )     (179 )     (179 )     (536 )     (576 )
    Efficiency ratio numerator (GAAP) $ 10,243     $ 10,120     $ 9,790     $ 30,961     $ 29,360  
                       
    Non-interest income $ 2,921     $ 1,913     $ 2,565     $ 8,098     $ 7,770  
    Add back net losses on debt and equity securities   (78 )     (658 )     —       (569 )     —  
    Subtract net gains on debt and equity securities   —       —       116       —       182  
    Net interest income   11,285       11,576       12,121       34,766       36,602  
    Efficiency ratio denominator (GAAP) $ 14,284     $ 14,147     $ 14,570     $ 43,433     $ 44,190  
    Efficiency ratio (GAAP)   72 %     72 %     67 %     71 %     66 %


    Reconciliation of tangible book value per share (non-GAAP)

    (in thousands, except per share data)

    Tangible book value per share at end of period September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   December 31, 2023   September 30, 2023
    Total stockholders’ equity $ 180,149     $ 176,045     $ 173,334     $ 165,402  
    Less: Goodwill   (31,498 )     (31,498 )     (31,498 )     (31,498 )
    Less: Intangible assets   (1,158 )     (1,336 )     (1,694 )     (1,873 )
    Tangible common equity (non-GAAP) $ 147,493     $ 143,211     $ 140,142     $ 132,031  
    Ending common shares outstanding   10,074,136       10,297,341       10,440,591       10,468,091  
    Book value per share $ 17.88     $ 17.10     $ 16.60     $ 15.80  
    Tangible book value per share (non-GAAP) $ 14.64     $ 13.91     $ 13.42     $ 12.61  


    Reconciliation of tangible common equity as a percent of tangible assets (non-GAAP)

    (in thousands, except ratios)

    Tangible common equity as a percent of tangible assets at end of period September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   December 31, 2023   September 30, 2023
    Total stockholders’ equity $ 180,149     $ 176,045     $ 173,334     $ 165,402  
    Less: Goodwill   (31,498 )   $ (31,498 )     (31,498 )   $ (31,498 )
    Less: Intangible assets   (1,158 )   $ (1,336 )     (1,694 )   $ (1,873 )
    Tangible common equity (non-GAAP) $ 147,493     $ 143,211     $ 140,142     $ 132,031  
    Total Assets $ 1,799,137     $ 1,802,307     $ 1,851,391     $ 1,831,087  
    Less: Goodwill   (31,498 )     (31,498 )     (31,498 )   $ (31,498 )
    Less: Intangible assets   (1,158 )     (1,336 )     (1,694 )   $ (1,873 )
    Tangible Assets (non-GAAP) $ 1,766,481     $ 1,769,473     $ 1,818,199     $ 1,797,716  
    Total stockholders’ equity to total assets ratio   10.01 %     9.77 %     9.36 %     9.03 %
    Tangible common equity as a percent of tangible assets (non-GAAP)   8.35 %     8.09 %     7.71 %     7.34 %


    Reconciliation of Return on Average Tangible Common Equity (non-GAAP)

    (in thousands, except ratios)

      Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended
      September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   September 30, 2023   September 30, 2024   September 30, 2023
    Total stockholders’ equity $ 180,149     $ 176,045     $ 165,402     $ 180,149     $ 165,402  
    Less: Goodwill   (31,498 )     (31,498 )     (31,498 )     (31,498 )     (31,498 )
    Less: Intangible assets   (1,158 )     (1,336 )     (1,873 )     (1,158 )     (1,873 )
    Tangible common equity (non-GAAP) $ 147,493     $ 143,211     $ 132,031     $ 147,493     $ 132,031  
    Average tangible common equity (non-GAAP) $ 145,305     $ 140,539     $ 132,671     $ 141,512     $ 131,425  
    GAAP earnings after income taxes   3,286       3,675       2,498       11,049       9,366  
    Amortization of intangible assets, net of tax   140       140       89       374       378  
    Tangible net income $ 3,426     $ 3,815     $ 2,587     $ 11,423     $ 9,744  
    Return on average tangible common equity (annualized)   9.38 %     10.92 %     7.74 %     10.78 %     9.91 %


    1    Net income as adjusted and net income as adjusted per share are non-GAAP financial measures that management believes enhances investors’ ability to better understand the underlying business performance and trends related to core business activities. For a detailed reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP results, see the accompanying financial table “Reconciliation of GAAP Net Income and Net Income as Adjusted (non-GAAP)”.

    2Return on average assets as adjusted is a non-GAAP measure that management believes enhances investors’ ability to better understand the underlying business performance and trends relative to average assets. For a detailed reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP results, see the accompanying financial table “Reconciliation of Return on Average Assets as Adjusted (non-GAAP)”.

    3Return on average equity as adjusted is a non-GAAP measure that management believes enhances investors’ ability to better understand the underlying business performance and trends relative to average equity. For a detailed reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP results, see the accompanying financial table “Reconciliation of Return on Average Equity as Adjusted (non-GAAP)”.

    4Tangible book value, tangible book value per share, tangible common equity as a percent of tangible assets and return on tangible common equity are non-GAAP measures that management believes enhances investors’ ability to better understand the Company’s financial position. For a detailed reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP results, see the accompanying financial table “Reconciliation of tangible book value per share (non-GAAP)”, “Reconciliation of tangible common equity as a percent of tangible assets (non-GAAP)”, and “Reconciliation of return on average tangible common equity)”.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Helport AI to Report Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Results on Thursday, October 31, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Management to Host Business Update Conference Call on Wednesday, November 6, 2024 at 5:30 pm ET

    SINGAPORE and SAN DIEGO, Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Helport AI Limited (NASDAQ: HPAI) (“Helport” or the “Company”), an AI technology company serving enterprise clients with intelligent products, solutions and a digital platform, will report financial results for its fiscal full year ended June 30, 2024, after the market close on Thursday, October 31, 2024.

    The Company will hold a Business Update Conference Call on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. Eastern time to discuss its financial results, recent consumption of its business combination and Nasdaq listing, ongoing initiatives and upcoming milestones.

    Guanghai Li, Chief Executive Officer, and Tao Ke, Chief Financial Officer, will host the conference call, followed by a question-and-answer session. The conference call will be accompanied by a presentation, which can be viewed during the webcast or accessed via the investor relations section of the Company’s website here.

    To access the call, please use the following information:

    Date: Wednesday, November 6, 2024
    Time: 5:30 p.m. Eastern Time, 2:30 p.m. Pacific Time
    Toll-free dial-in number: 1-800-445-7795
    International dial-in number: 1-203-518-9848
    Conference ID (Required for Entry): HELPORT
       

    Please call the conference telephone number 5-10 minutes prior to the start time. An operator will register your name and organization. If you have any difficulty connecting with the conference call, please contact MZ Group at 1-949-491-8235.

    The conference call will be broadcast live and available for replay at https://viavid.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1695608&tp_key=0c8510f685 and via the investor relations section of the Company’s website here.

    A replay of the webcast will be available after 9:30 p.m. Eastern Time through February 6, 2025.

    Toll-free replay number: 1-844-512-2921
    International replay number: 1-412-317-6671
    Replay ID: 11157509
       

    About Helport

    Helport AI (NASDAQ: HPAI) is a premier provider of AI-driven solutions, specializing in enhancing professional capabilities across industries. Focused on delivering measurable outcomes, Helport AI is transforming the way businesses operate by ensuring that professionals have the tools they need to succeed. The company serves enterprise-level customer contact services through intelligent products, solutions, and a digital platform, helping businesses optimize their operations and improve customer engagement. Our mission is to Empower everyone to work as an expert. For more information, please visit Helport’s website: https://ir.helport.ai/.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, Helport’s business plan and outlook. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on Helport’s current expectations and projections about future events that Helport believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “approximates,” “believes,” “hopes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may” or other similar expressions. Helport undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although Helport believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and Helport cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in Helport’s registration statement and other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Chris Tyson 
    Executive Vice President
    MZ North America
    Direct: 949-491-8235
    HPAI@mzgroup.us
    www.mzgroup.us

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AI & Technology Virtual Investor Conference Agenda Announced for October 31st

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Virtual Investor Conferences, the leading proprietary investor conference series announced the agenda for the AI & Technology Virtual Investor Conference to be held October 31st.

    Individual investors, institutional investors, advisors, and analysts are invited to attend.

    REGISTER NOW AT: https://bit.ly/3BYlp8w

    It is recommended that investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates. There is no cost to log-in, attend live presentations, or schedule 1×1 meetings with management.

    “We’re looking forward to hosting the upcoming AI & Technology Virtual Investor Conference,” said Jason Paltrowitz, Executive Vice President at OTC Markets Group. “A group of innovative companies and executives will have the opportunity to elaborate on their business strategies and connect directly with an expanded investor base.”

    October 31st

    To facilitate investor relations scheduling and to view a complete calendar of Virtual Investor Conferences, please visit www.virtualinvestorconferences.com.

    About Virtual Investor Conferences®

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

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

    Media Contact: 
    OTC Markets Group Inc. +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: DBMM Group’s Digital Clarity to Present at the AI & Technology Virtual Investor Conference on October 31, 2024 at 12:30 pm

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Digital Brand Media & Marketing Group, Inc. (OTCPK: DBMM), and its flagship brand Digital Clarity, a fully integrated management consultancy, based in London and operating globally, focused on specializing in the optimal marketing of B2B tech companies, today confirmed that Reggie James, Chief Operating Officer and Director of DBMM, and Founder and Managing Director of Digital Clarity, the public company’s operating subsidiary and brand, will present live at the AI & Technology Virtual Investor Conference hosted by VirtualInvestorConferences.com, on October 31, 2024.

    DATE: October 31, 2024
    TIME: 12:30 PM ET
    LINK: https://bit.ly/3ASgcyv
    Available for 1×1 meetings

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

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

    Learn more about the event at www.virtualinvestorconferences.com

    Overview

    • The marketing consulting market is expected to increase by $3.83 billion in 2026, and the market’s growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 4.75%. (Business Research Insight & Technavio Research). 
    • Global artificial intelligence (AI) in marketing market size was valued at $12.64 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 26.6% from 2023 to 2030. (Grand View Research, Inc.)
    • Digital Clarity sits at the intersection of 21st century marketing strategy, data, and AI. Currently utilizing third-party, AI tools, Digital Clarity is building out its marketing strategy framework augmented with AI integration to allow companies to communicate value to their customers, at scale. Digital Clarity’s innovative approaches as the digital market continues to evolve rapidly, will give both clients and DBMM competitive advantages in their marketplaces for all stakeholders.
    • DBMM is at an inflection point in its offering as a full services management consultancy and a perfect time to onboard for both clients and shareholders. 

    About DBMM GROUP

    Digital Brand Media & Marketing Group, Inc. (DBMM)  is a fully reporting  US public company that trades on the Over-the-Counter (OTC)  Market, with its headquarters in New York City and its 100%-owned/operating subsidiary and brand, Digital Clarity, in the UK. Digital Clarity operates globally.

    DBMM is listed on the OTC as a fully reporting SEC Company. The Company intends to Uplist to the OTCQB as soon as DBMM meets the required criteria. The ultimate, longer-term goal is for the Company to Uplist to NASDAQ when it meets the required criteria.

    Learn more at: 
    www.dbmmgroup.com
    www.digital-clarity.com 

    About Virtual Investor Conferences®

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

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


    CONTACTS:

    DBMM Group, Inc.

    Reggie James 
    Chief Operating Officer and Director of DBMM
    +1 646-722-2706
    Phone: +1 646-722-2706
    Email: info@dbmmgroup.com

    Virtual Investor Conferences 

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: cBrain lowers expected yearly revenue growth to 10-15%, but maintains EBT margin of 24-28%

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company Announcement no. 10/2024

    cBrain lowers expected yearly revenue growth to 10-15%, but maintains EBT margin of 24-28%

    Copenhagen, November 28, 2024

    cBrain (NASDAQ: CBRAIN) is executing its international growth plan with a financial goal of reaching total revenue of 350 million DKK in 2025. This goal is anchored in two primary revenue streams, referred to as “Base” and “Stepping stones”. 

    The “Base” stream aims to achieve annual revenue growth of 10-15% by strengthening and expanding existing operations and customer relationships. In parallel, the “Stepping Stones” initiative aims to lift annual revenue growth to 30%, by increasing contract values and winning larger international contracts.

    cBrain continues to execute its growth strategy, building a robust pipeline of major opportunities. This is facilitated by a growing number of international pilot projects that set the stage for significant “Stepping Stones” achievements.

    In early 2024, cBrain anticipated some of these opportunities, particularly in Germany and the U.S., to yield significant revenue in the second half of the year. cBrain remains highly active in these pursuits and has added further opportunities during the year.

    However, not unusually with larger government procurement, delays in decision making mean that cBrain estimates less than a 50% likelihood of substantial revenue from larger international projects materializing in Q4. Consequently, cBrain adjusts its 2024 revenue growth forecast to 10-15%, down from the initial estimate of 20-25%.

    In alignment with business planning, cBrain has earmarked financial investments to support “Stepping Stones” projects in Germany and the U.S. Since these projects have not yet materialized, these reserved funds have not been deployed. This provides a positive impact on earnings. cBrain, therefore, maintains its EBT (Earnings Before Tax) guidance at 24-30%.

    —

    Larger international projects are often structured so that F2 standard software licenses form the majority of the contract value. Due to financial standards for software revenue recognition, larger international orders may, as a result, introduce greater variability in revenue patterns over time.

    As cBrain is currently pursuing global opportunities across the USA, Europe, Africa, the UAE, and India, some of these opportunities may still materialize during the fourth quarter, with a positive affect on this year’s revenue.
    ​

    Best regards

    Per Tejs Knudsen, CEO

    Inquiries regarding this Company Announcement may be directed to

    Ejvind Jørgensen, CFO & Head of Investor Relations, cBrain A/S, ir@cbrain.com, +45 2594 4973

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Correction: cBrain lowers expected yearly revenue growth to 10-15%, but maintains EBT margin of 24-30%

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Company Announcement no. 10/2024

    cBrain lowers expected yearly revenue growth to 10-15%, but maintains EBT margin of 24-30%

    Copenhagen, November 28, 2024

    cBrain (NASDAQ: CBRAIN) is executing its international growth plan with a financial goal of reaching total revenue of 350 million DKK in 2025. This goal is anchored in two primary revenue streams, referred to as “Base” and “Stepping stones”. 

    The “Base” stream aims to achieve annual revenue growth of 10-15% by strengthening and expanding existing operations and customer relationships. In parallel, the “Stepping Stones” initiative aims to lift annual revenue growth to 30%, by increasing contract values and winning larger international contracts.

    cBrain continues to execute its growth strategy, building a robust pipeline of major opportunities. This is facilitated by a growing number of international pilot projects that set the stage for significant “Stepping Stones” achievements.

    In early 2024, cBrain anticipated some of these opportunities, particularly in Germany and the U.S., to yield significant revenue in the second half of the year. cBrain remains highly active in these pursuits and has added further opportunities during the year.

    However, not unusually with larger government procurement, delays in decision making mean that cBrain estimates less than a 50% likelihood of substantial revenue from larger international projects materializing in Q4. Consequently, cBrain adjusts its 2024 revenue growth forecast to 10-15%, down from the initial estimate of 20-25%.

    In alignment with business planning, cBrain has earmarked financial investments to support “Stepping Stones” projects in Germany and the U.S. Since these projects have not yet materialized, these reserved funds have not been deployed. This provides a positive impact on earnings. cBrain, therefore, maintains its EBT (Earnings Before Tax) guidance at 24-30%.

    —

    Larger international projects are often structured so that F2 standard software licenses form the majority of the contract value. Due to financial standards for software revenue recognition, larger international orders may, as a result, introduce greater variability in revenue patterns over time.

    As cBrain is currently pursuing global opportunities across the USA, Europe, Africa, the UAE, and India, some of these opportunities may still materialize during the fourth quarter, with a positive affect on this year’s revenue.
    ​

    Best regards

    Per Tejs Knudsen, CEO

    Inquiries regarding this Company Announcement may be directed to

    Ejvind Jørgensen, CFO & Head of Investor Relations, cBrain A/S, ir@cbrain.com, +45 2594 4973

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Is Tim Burton an outsider auteur or a global megastar? The Design Museum thinks it has the answer

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Catherine Spooner, Professor of Literature and Culture, Lancaster University

    “Like walking around in a weird, beautiful funhouse.” That’s how Tim Burton described his private viewing of The World of Tim Burton at the exhibition’s opening at London’s Design Museum.

    A travelling circus that initially took shape at New York’s Museum of Modern Art in 2009 and has since visited 14 cities in 11 countries, the exhibition now reaches its grand finale in expanded, remixed form in Burton’s adopted hometown. At the press conference, he admitted to feeling somewhat anxious about it. This points to one of the underlying tensions of the exhibition itself – the contrast between laying bare an intensely personal creative process, and Burton’s global megastar status.

    The exhibition’s collaboration with the Design Museum has enabled its re-framing as an exploration of Burton’s “design practice” (in curator Maria McClintock’s words). It traces the complex path from Burton’s initial sketches to their realisation on screen.

    In this respect, the exhibition is successful. Visitors get a sense of the holistic development of Burton’s ideas from preliminary drawings to their realisation by puppet-makers and set and costume designers. Unrealised film projects and personal artworks are also included. This provides a unique insight into the director’s creative process.

    The work itself, moreover, is joyous – a riot of colour and fizzing line. The Burton that emerges is restlessly inventive. We see not only his prolific sketches in pen and ink and watercolour but also his experiments across media with collage, pastels, oils, acrylics on velvet, home movies, photography, children’s picture books and comic verse.

    Some of the most thrilling items are the most personal – teen fan art, scribbles on table napkins, university lecture notes. These offer an impression of intimacy, of unadulterated creativity bubbling up from some hidden wellspring of the subconscious. The staging of the exhibition enhances this impression. Skewed doorways and chequerboard floors suggest that the art is spilling out of the frame into the space of the gallery, evoking the “funhouse” feel that Burton commented on.

    The exhibition is invested in the notion of Burton as auteur, supported by a loyal team of creatives, many of whom are showcased here. One highlight is rows of Jack Skellington heads with different facial expressions, devised by stop-motion animators Mackinnon and Saunders for The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993). Elsewhere, there is a genuine frisson in seeing Bob Ringwood and Mary Vogt’s iconic costume for Catwoman in Batman Returns (1992), now so fragile that it can only be laid flat, and looking uncannily like shed skin.

    The indisputable star among Burton’s collaborators, however, is costume designer Colleen Atwood. Her spectacular ensembles for Edward Scissorhands (1990), Mars Attacks! (1996), Sleepy Hollow (1999), Alice in Wonderland (2010) and Wednesday (2022) dominate the central room of the exhibition. Someone please give her a show of her own.

    Missed opportunities

    Where the exhibition is less successful is in its attempts to place Burton in a wider cultural framework. Burton’s influences are covered patchily and explained poorly. Vincent Price is conflated with Hammer Horror (he never made a film with Hammer Studios) and the theoretical concept of the carnivalesque is misunderstood.

    A more thorough exploration of the horror traditions on which Burton draws – particularly German expressionism and Roger Corman’s Edgar Allan Poe adaptations – would have been welcome. The focus on Burton’s drawings also begs closer attention to the illustrative traditions he is indebted to, from Ralph Steadman to Charles Addams and Edward Gorey. To neglect this is to diminish Burton’s skill as an artist who consciously reworks the American gothic tradition into a distinctive new form.

    The final room, “Burtonesque”, has the potential to be the most interesting. It explores the way that Burton’s aesthetic has become distinctive enough to be recognisable in the work of other artists.

    Ultimately, however, it shies away from asking searching questions about stylistic transferability and influence. Rather, it looks at Burton’s collaborations with artists in other media, whether fashion designer Alexander McQueen, photographer Tim Walker, or rock band The Killers.

    These are interesting in their own right but crucially, Burton is still involved in this process. The traditional exit through the gift shop reveals another side to Burton, in which his highly recognisable aesthetic has lent itself to merchandise with varying degrees of connection to the original source. The director has been vocal about the exploitation of his work by AI. But is this, in today’s culture, the logical end-point of the “Burtonesque”?

    The exhibition avoids any kind of investigation of the Burton brand, or even of Burton’s influence on a new generation of creators. In doing so, it misses what is one of the most fascinating paradoxes about Burton: that an artist who is so preoccupied with the figure of the outsider has been so widely embraced, with such immense commercial success.

    Burton’s work raises serious questions about the role and popularity of gothic imagery in 21st-century culture, but this exhibition is content to stick with the funhouse thrills.

    The World of Tim Burton is on at the Design Museum, London, until April 21 2025.


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

    Catherine Spooner has previously received funding from the Arts and Humanities Research Council for a related project.

    – ref. Is Tim Burton an outsider auteur or a global megastar? The Design Museum thinks it has the answer – https://theconversation.com/is-tim-burton-an-outsider-auteur-or-a-global-megastar-the-design-museum-thinks-it-has-the-answer-242172

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: Mimecast fuels leading Human Risk Management strategy in first half of fiscal year

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LEXINGTON, Mass., Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mimecast, a leading global Human Risk Management (HRM) platform, closed the first half of its fiscal year reaching new revenue heights and citing significant steps toward its vision to transform how organizations manage and mitigate risk. The company started strong with the unveiling of its comprehensive HRM platform; and followed up in the second quarter with two strategic acquisitions, new geographical expansions and a record number of advancements in its technology alliances and partner integrations. 

    The Mimecast platform secures 27 million end users around the globe across their 42,000+ customers. Customers span more than 100 countries, and on average, each organization uses 4.9 Mimecast services. Mimecast has cemented its standing as an industry-leading security partner trusted by major organizations across the globe.  

    The value Mimecast delivers for companies was highlighted in the recent Total Economic Impact™ study conducted by Forrester Consulting. Based on Forrester’s interviews and financial analysis, a composite organization experienced benefits of $2.13 million over three years, with $1.53 million in net value and 255% ROI. The news was followed by the announcement that Mimecast was recognized as a strong performer in The Forrester Wave™: Human Risk Management Solutions, Q3 2024 report. 

    Forging the future of HRM – the next generation of cybersecurity  

    Early in its fiscal half, Mimecast unveiled its AI-powered, API-enabled Human Risk Management platform. In response to customer and market demand for a more effective way to mitigate risk brought on by employee mistakes and user errors, this new platform provides unprecedented visibility into an organization’s risk profile, scoring users by risk and allowing security teams to educate and protect the riskiest part of their employee base.   

    A key pillar to the platform is the company’s new human risk awareness training offering, Mimecast Engage™, which is built to redefine how security leaders can manage human risk. Mimecast Engage, the result of the integration of Elevate Security technology acquired in December 2023 with Mimecast’s awareness training product, will soon be available to organizations across the globe.  

    In an effort to bolster the platform and further protect customers from risks associated with human activity, Mimecast closed two industry-shaping acquisitions in Q2: Code42 and Aware.

    “Our momentum over these six months is a testament to our commitment and progress toward charting the future of human risk management,” said Marc van Zadelhoff, Chief Executive Officer of Mimecast, “Our acquisitions and solution enhancements continue to elevate our platform and support our aim of helping businesses of all sizes manage and mitigate human risk. I am also incredibly proud to see the significant progress we’ve made in expanding our tech integrations and channel partners, recognizing the demands of a complex threat landscape and the importance of collaboration on a global level. As the attack surface grows and evolves, so too will Mimecast, remaining one step ahead for our customers.” 

    Thousands of organizations tapping into Mimecast’s powerful integrations  

    In Q2, Mimecast further strengthened its partnership with CrowdStrike by integrating Mimecast Advanced Email Security and CrowdStrike Falcon Next-Gen SIEM. Building on the existing integrations of CrowdStrike Falcon® Insight XDR, CrowdStrike Falcon® LogScale and CrowdStrike Falcon® Fusion SOAR, this development provides a robust multifaceted defense strategy for Mimecast customers.  

    The combination of Mimecast and CrowdStrike Falcon Next-Gen SIEM will empower thousands of organizations to understand a bad actor’s complete attack path, improving their ability to rapidly investigate, detect, and mitigate accurately, and demonstrating the power of combining two leading solutions can effectively tackle the intricate challenges of today’s threat landscape.  

    Almost one third of Mimecast’s addressable customer base is connected to at least one of Mimecast’s technology alliance partners. In total, Mimecast’s technology integrates into over 300 security products. 

    Mimecast expands channel partnerships into Mexico  

    Following successful expansions in France, Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia, Mimecast furthered their geographic reach in Q2 by making its industry-leading AI-powered email security solutions available Mexico-wide, including the new Human Risk Management platform.    

    With an expanded product portfolio, new revenue opportunities and enhanced credibility, Mimecast’s channel partners can now offer end-to-end protection for their clients in more regions around the world.  

    Additional expansion on the horizon includes the launch of the Partner ONE MSP Program. Building mutually beneficial partnerships with organizations, this new program extends Mimecast’s market presence to new audiences and provides partners with a range of resources, including enhanced training, ongoing support and market resources.  

    Innovation underpinned by research 

    Mimecast continues to conduct leading research into the state of the cybersecurity environment, offering critical insights and guidance on how businesses can prepare for the future.   

    In August 2024, Mimecast published its most recent Threat Intelligence report. Based on an analysis of more than 1.7 billion messages daily over a six-month period, the report offers unparalleled insight into the current threat landscape as well as new and emerging attack methods and vulnerabilities. 

    About Mimecast 
    Mimecast is a leading AI-powered, API-enabled connected Human Risk Management platform, purpose-built to protect organizations from the spectrum of cyber threats. Integrating cutting-edge technology with human-centric pathways, our platform is engineered to enhance visibility. It provides strategic insight that enables decisive action and empowers businesses to protect their collaborative environments, safeguard their critical data and actively engage employees in reducing risk and enhancing productivity. More than 42,000 businesses worldwide trust Mimecast to help them keep ahead of the ever-evolving threat landscape. From insider risk to external threats, with Mimecast customers get more. More visibility. More insight. More agility. More security.  

    Mimecast and the Mimecast logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Mimecast Services Limited in the United States and/or other countries. All other third-party trademarks and logos contained in this press release are the property of their respective owners.   

    Press Contacts
    Tim Hamilton
    Principal Public Relations Manager
    +1 603-918-6757
    thamilton@mimecast.com

    General inquiries
    press@mimecast.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Progress Appoints Amanda Arria to the Role of Chief People Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Accomplished industry leader with proven track record in developing people strategies and creating impactful employee experiences for global multi-billion-dollar organizations to enhance award-winning best employer

    BURLINGTON, Mass., Oct. 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Progress (Nasdaq: PRGS), the trusted provider of AI-powered infrastructure software, today announced the appointment of Amanda Arria as Chief People Officer (CPO), effective October 28, 2024. In her new role, Arria will be responsible for all aspects of Progress’ global People Team function. She joins the Progress executive team, reporting directly to CEO Yogesh Gupta.

    “Amanda Arria is an exceptional Human Resources professional with a talent for building strong employee-centric cultures and partnering with senior leaders, managers and cross-functional global teams,” said Yogesh Gupta, CEO, Progress. “Her experience at multi-billion-dollar organizations and ability to align business and people priorities will be critical as Progress continues to successfully deliver upon our Total Growth Strategy.”

    The Progress Total Growth Strategy focuses on three key pillars: Invest and Innovate, Acquire and Integrate and Drive Customer Success. In her new role, Arria will lead the ongoing evolution of the company’s organization and culture to drive the successful execution of this strategy. She will align the People Team function to meet business objectives, sustain a committed and engaged workforce across the global organization of more than 2,500 employees and strengthen the company’s overall organizational effectiveness.

    Prior to Progress, Arria was Chief Human Resources Officer at EFI, a leader in digital imaging, where she led all aspects of the Human Resources function across both the EFI and Fiery businesses. Previously, she held global human resources leadership roles at Schneider Electric and EMC (acquired by Dell Technology). She is also well versed in M&A, having led the people and cultural integration efforts for numerous acquisitions throughout her career. Arria also founded Women in Energy, a global group of more than 5,000 women focused on connecting, networking and growing in the technology and energy industries.

    “Progress has a tremendous culture built by people who are collaborative, accountable and innovative,” said Arria. “I want to build on that foundation by leveraging my global business experience to create a world-class people strategy that will empower Progress employees to thrive as the business continues to grow and evolve.”

    Progress has continually been recognized as a Best Employer by Forbes, The Boston Globe, Boston Business Journal and more. Discover more about Progress by exploring its 2023 Corporate Social Responsibility Report or browsing career opportunities at Progress.

    About Progress
    Progress (Nasdaq: PRGS) empowers organizations to achieve transformational success in the face of disruptive change. Our software enables our customers to develop, deploy and manage responsible, AI-powered applications and experiences with agility and ease. Customers get a trusted provider in Progress, with the products, expertise and vision they need to succeed. Over 4 million developers and technologists at hundreds of thousands of enterprises depend on Progress. Learn more at www.progress.com.

    Progress is a trademark or registered trademark of Progress Software Corporation and/or its subsidiaries or affiliates in the U.S. and other countries. Any other names contained herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.

    Press Contacts:
    Kim Baker
    Progress
    +1-800-477-6473
    pr@progress.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/33a6bbbd-1779-4e3c-a88b-e49988234842

    The MIL Network –