NewzIntel.com

Category: Banking

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China to cut interest rates on loans from housing savings fund

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) — The People’s Bank of China (PBOC, the central bank) on Wednesday announced it would cut interest rates on loans issued from the housing savings fund by 0.25 percentage points starting from Thursday.

    Interest rates on loans from the housing savings fund for first-time home buyers with a repayment term of up to 5 years, as well as with a repayment term of more than 5 years, will be adjusted to 2.1 percent and 2.6 percent, respectively, and for second-time home buyers – no less than 2.525 percent and 3.075 percent, respectively, the NBC said in a statement.

    The measure is expected to save home buyers more than 20 billion yuan (about $2.8 billion) a year in interest payments, People’s Bank of China Governor Pan Gongsheng told a news conference. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China combines quotas of two monetary policy instruments to strengthen capital market

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 7 (Xinhua) — China’s central bank said Wednesday it will combine the quotas of two monetary policy tools to further support the capital market.

    The swap facility for securities, fund and insurance companies (SFISF), with an initial capacity of 500 billion yuan (about $69.4 billion), and the 300 billion yuan re-lending facility that supports share buybacks and share expansion, will be implemented within a total quota of 800 billion yuan, according to the People’s Bank of China (PBOC, the central bank).

    The decision, which took effect on Wednesday, is expected to make the two mechanisms more convenient and flexible to better meet the needs of different types of institutions and strengthen the inherent stability of the capital market, the PBOC said in a statement.

    Both instruments, launched in October last year to strengthen the capital market, operated in accordance with market principles and played a positive role in ensuring the stable operation of the capital market, the Central Bank said in a statement.

    The SFISF allows eligible securities, fund and insurance companies to use their assets, including bonds, ETFs and CSI 300 index stocks, as collateral in exchange for highly liquid assets such as government bonds and central bank bills.

    The PBOC has carried out two SFISF operations totaling 105 billion yuan, and more than 500 listed companies and major shareholders have reported using the refinancing mechanism to buy back shares or increase their holdings, according to PBOC Governor Pan Gongsheng. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to cut reserve requirement ratio by 0.5 percentage points

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

    China’s central bank will cut the reserve requirement ratio by 0.5 percentage points, providing about 1 trillion yuan (about 138.9 billion U.S. dollars) in long-term liquidity, said Pan Gongsheng, governor of the People’s Bank of China, on Wednesday. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s central bank vows more financial support for certain sectors via relending

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

    China’s central bank vowed on Wednesday more financial support through relending for sectors including tech innovation, service consumption and elderly care.

    The People’s Bank of China (PBOC), the central bank, will add the quota of relending for technological innovation and upgrading by 300 billion yuan (about 41.7 billion U.S. dollars) to a total of 800 billion yuan, PBOC governor Pan Gongsheng told a press conference.

    The central bank will establish a 500-billion-yuan relending facility to support service consumption and elderly care, guiding commercial banks to enhance credit support for these sectors, Pan said.

    He noted that the central bank will also add 300 billion yuan in relending quota to support agriculture and small businesses. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to cut interest rates on personal housing provident fund loans

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

    China’s central bank announced on Wednesday it will lower the interest rates on personal housing provident fund loans by 0.25 percentage points starting Thursday.

    The interest rates on personal housing provident fund loans with maturities of five years or less and those with maturities above five years will be adjusted to 2.1 percent and 2.6 percent, respectively, for first-home buyers, and to no lower than 2.525 percent and 3.075 percent, respectively, for second-home buyers, the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) said in a statement.

    The adjustments are expected to save homebuyers’ interest payments by more than 20 billion yuan (about 2.8 billion U.S. dollars) per year, PBOC governor Pan Gongsheng told a press conference. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China combines quotas of two monetary policy tools to bolster capital market

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

    China’s central bank announced Wednesday that it will combine the quotas of its two monetary policy tools to further support the capital market.

    The Securities, Funds and Insurance companies Swap Facility (SFISF), with an initial scale of 500 billion yuan (about 69.4 billion U.S. dollars), and the 300-billion-yuan re-lending facility that supports stock buybacks and shareholding increases, will be operated under a shared quota of 800 billion yuan, according to the People’s Bank of China (PBOC).

    The decision, effective Wednesday, is expected to make the two facilities more convenient and flexible to better meet the varied needs of institutions and strengthen the inherent stability of the capital market, the PBOC said in a statement.

    The two tools, both launched last October to bolster the capital market, have operated under market-oriented principles and played a positive role in promoting the stable operation of the capital market, the central bank said.

    The SFISF allows eligible securities, funds and insurance companies to use their assets, including bonds, stock ETFs, and holdings in constituents of the CSI 300 Index, as collateral in exchange for highly liquid assets such as treasury bonds and central bank bills.

    The central bank has so far conducted two SFISF operations with a total scale of 105 billion yuan, and over 500 listed companies and major shareholders have reported using the re-lending facility to repurchase shares or increase their holding, according to Pan Gongsheng, governor of the central bank. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Announcement on Open Market Business No.1 [2025]

    Source: Peoples Bank of China

    Announcement on Open Market Business No.1 [2025]

    (Open Market Operations Office, May 7, 2025)

    In order to implement a moderately accommodative monetary policy and strengthen support for the real economy, starting from May 8, 2025, the interest rate on 7-day reverse repo operations will be adjusted to 1.40 percent from the previous 1.50 percent. The interest rates on 14-day reverse repo operations, and on ad hoc repo and reverse repo operations will continue to be priced based on the 7-day reverse repo rate with the spread over the rate kept unchanged.

    Date of last update Nov. 29 2018

    2025年05月07日

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to cut reserve requirement ratio by 0.5 percentage points from May 15

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

    BEIJING, May 7 — China’s central bank announced Wednesday that it will cut the reserve requirement ratio (RRR) by 0.5 percentage points for financial institutions from May 15.

    The move is expected to provide about 1 trillion yuan (about 138.9 billion U.S. dollars) in long-term liquidity, according to Pan Gongsheng, governor of the People’s Bank of China.

    Financial institutions that have already implemented a 5-percent RRR will be exempt from the upcoming reduction, and the RRR for auto financing and financial leasing companies will be cut by 5 percentage points, the central bank said in a statement.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to cut policy rate by 0.1 percentage points from Thursday

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

    BEIJING, May 7 — China’s central bank announced on Wednesday to cut the rate for the seven-day reverse repos by 0.1 percentage points, starting Thursday.

    After the adjustment, the rate will be set at 1.4 percent, according to the People’s Bank of China (PBOC), the central bank.

    The move aims to better implement the moderately loose monetary policy and enhance support for the real economy, the PBOC said in a statement.

    A reverse repo is a process in which the central bank purchases securities from commercial banks through bidding, with an agreement to sell them back in the future.

    Starting Thursday, the interest rates for the standing lending facility (SLF) will also be reduced by 0.1 percentage points, the PBOC said.

    The overnight, seven-day and one-month SLF rates will be lowered to 2.25 percent, 2.4 percent and 2.75 percent, according to the central bank.

    The PBOC announcement came following PBOC governor Pan Gongsheng told a press conference that the central bank will roll out a package of monetary policies to enhance macro regulation, including lowering the policy rate and reserve requirement ratio.

    Pan said the policy rate reduction is expected to lead the loan prime rate (LPR), a market-based benchmark lending rate, down by 0.1 percentage points.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Announcement on Government Bond Transactions No.4 [2025]

    Source: Peoples Bank of China

    Announcement on Government Bond Transactions No.4 [2025]

    (Open Market Operations Office, April 30, 2025)

    The People’s Bank of China (PBOC) did not purchase or sell government bonds on the open market in April 2025.

    Date of last update Nov. 29 2018

    2025年04月30日

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Announcement on Open Market Operations No.85 [2025]

    Source: Peoples Bank of China

    Announcement on Open Market Operations No.85 [2025]

    (Open Market Operations Office, May 7, 2025)

    The People’s Bank of China conducted reverse repo operations in the amount of RMB195.5 billion through quantity bidding at a fixed interest rate on May 7, 2025.

    Details of the Reverse Repo Operations

    Maturity

    Rate

    Bidding Volume

    Winning Bid Volume

    7 days

    1.50%

    RMB195.5 billion

    RMB195.5 billion

    Date of last update Nov. 29 2018

    2025年05月07日

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economy – Risks to the financial system have increased – Reserve Bank of NZ

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand  

    7 May 2025 – Risks to the financial system have increased over the past six months, Reserve Bank Governor Christian Hawkesby says in releasing the May 2025 Financial Stability Report.

    “Financial stability is critical for ensuring that New Zealanders can safely save, borrow, and manage financial risk,” Mr Hawkesby says. “While the global economic environment has become more volatile, our financial institutions are in a strong position to support the economy.”

    Geopolitical risks have escalated, particularly following the US imposition of sweeping tariffs on goods imports from many countries, including New Zealand. These developments have heightened financial market volatility and pose a material risk to global economic activity.

    Domestically, economic activity remains subdued. Previously high interest rates, rising unemployment, and a weak housing market continue to weigh on demand. However, lower borrowing costs and high agricultural export prices are supporting debt serviceability.

    Banks have strong capital and liquidity buffers in place to maintain credit flows even if conditions deteriorate further. They also remain profitable, with non-performing loans expected to decline as mortgage rates reprice lower.

    General insurers are experiencing more stable conditions. Our recent insurance stress test highlighted improved resilience in the sector, but also the challenges of extreme seismic events for New Zealand.
       
    Progress is continuing on the implementation of the Deposit Takers Act 2023. Several strands of this work will help to promote competition and efficiency in the deposit-taking sector.

    “Work on the review of key bank capital settings is well underway, with the release of the Terms of Reference today. This outlines the purpose, approach, and scope of the review, to ensure the right settings are in place to support financial stability and promote the wellbeing and prosperity of New Zealand,” Mr Hawkesby says. “We will engage leading international experts to inform and challenge our review.”

    The Depositor Compensation Scheme will come into effect on 1 July 2025. This will protect depositors’ funds in the event of a deposit taker failure and is a significant milestone for enhancing trust and competition in the financial system.

    More information:

    What is a Stress Test?

    Stress Tests are a critical tool we use to assess potential vulnerabilities, support risk management, and inform policy and supervisory decisions

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: MSF – Israel’s New INGO Registration Measures Are a Grave Threat to Humanitarian Operations and International Law – 55 Organisations Say

     Source: Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) – Doctors Without Borders

    The undersigned 55 organisations operating in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt) call for urgent action from the international community against new Israeli registration rules for international NGOs. Based on vague, broad, politicised, and open-ended criteria, these rules appear designed to assert control over independent humanitarian, development and peacebuilding operations, silence advocacy grounded in international humanitarian and human rights law, and further entrench Israeli control and de facto annexation of the occupied Palestinian territory.

    For over a year and a half, humanitarian organisations have continued operating despite unprecedented constraints. In 2024, they reached millions of people across the oPt with essential services – from food and water to mobile clinics, legal aid, and education. The new registration rules now threaten to shut this work down. These measures go beyond routine policy. They mark a serious escalation in restrictions on humanitarian and civic space and risk setting a dangerous precedent.

    Under the new provisions, INGOs already registered in Israel may face de-registration, while new applicants risk rejection based on arbitrary, politicised allegations, such as “delegitimising Israel” or expressing support for accountability for Israeli violations of international law. Other disqualifiers include public support for a boycott of Israel within the past seven years (by staff, a partner, board member, or founder) or failure to meet exhaustive reporting requirements. By framing humanitarian and human rights advocacy as a threat to the state, Israeli authorities can shut out organisations merely for speaking out about conditions they witness on the ground, forcing INGOs to choose between delivering aid and promoting respect for the protections owed to affected people.

    INGOs are further required to submit complete staff lists and other sensitive information about staff and their families to Israel when applying for registration. In a context where humanitarian and healthcare workers are routinely subject to harassment, detention, and direct attacks, this raises serious protection concerns.

    These new rules are part of a broader, long-term crackdown on humanitarian and civic space, marked by heightened surveillance and attacks, and a series of actions that restrict humanitarian access, compromise staff safety, and undermine core principles of humanitarian action. They are not isolated but part of a wider pattern that includes:

    Blocking or delaying aid through arbitrary bureaucratic restrictions, logistical obstacles, and complete sieges, denying essential lifesaving supplies to Palestinians.
    Killing more than 400 humanitarian workers in Gaza, injuring and detaining countless others, and repeatedly attacking marked and notified humanitarian premises, facilities or convoys.
    Passing legislation aimed at curtailing the operations of UNRWA, the largest provider of essential services for Palestinians.
    Advancing legislation to impose a tax of up to 80 per cent on foreign government funding to Israeli NGOs, while barring them from seeking recourse through the Israeli court system – including organisations that serve as partners for INGOs to deliver assistance and uphold protections in communities facing displacement, demolitions, or settler violence.
    Suspending work visas for international staff and revoking permits for Palestinians residing in the West Bank to access Jerusalem, severely disrupting operations.

    And now, making INGO registration conditional on political and ideological alignment, undermining the neutrality, impartiality and independence of humanitarian actors.

    Under international humanitarian law, occupying powers are obligated to facilitate impartial humanitarian assistance and ensure the welfare of the protected population. Any attempt to condition humanitarian access on political alignment or penalise organisations for fulfilling their mandate risks breaching this framework. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Israel to allow unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza in three legally binding provisional measures orders in 2024. Yet, these new rules expand and institutionalise existing barriers to aid.

    We call on States, donors, and the international community to:

    • Use all possible means to protect humanitarian operations from measures that compromise neutrality, independence, and access – including staff list requirements, political vetting, and vague revocation clauses.
    • Take concrete political and diplomatic action beyond statements of concern to ensure unhindered humanitarian access and prevent the erosion of principled aid delivery.
    • Support INGOs and Palestinian and Israeli civil society organisations through legal assistance, diplomatic support, and flexible funding to help mitigate legal, financial, and reputational risks. Donors must defend principled humanitarian and human rights work.

    The undersigned 55 organisations stress that engagement with the registration process to preserve critical humanitarian operations should not be misinterpreted as endorsement of these measures.

    These 55 organisations remain committed to the delivery of humanitarian aid, along with development and peacebuilding services and activities that are independent, impartial, and based on need, in full accordance with international law and the humanitarian principles derived from it. INGOs stand ready to engage with Israeli authorities in good faith on administrative processes but cannot accept measures that penalise principled humanitarian work or expose staff to retaliation. These measures not only undermine assistance in the oPt but also set a dangerous precedent for humanitarian operations globally.

    1. Act Church of Sweden
    2. ActionAid
    3. Alianza / ActionAid Spain (ApS/AAS)
    4. American Friends Service Committee (AFSC)
    5. Anera
    6. Asamblea de Cooperación Por la Paz (ACPP)
    7. Asociación Paz con Dignidad
    8. CARE International
    9. CESVI
    10. Children Not Numbers
    11. Christian Aid
    12. CIDSE – International family of Catholic social justice organisations
    13. Cooperazione Internazionale Sud Sud (CISS)
    14. COSPE
    15. DanChurchAid (DCA)
    16. Danish House in Palestine
    17. Diakonia
    18. Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
    19. forumZFD
    20. Global Communities
    21. HEKS/EPER
    22. Humanity First UK
    23. Humanity & Inclusion – Handicap International
    24. IM Swedish Development Partner
    25. International Media Support (IMS)
    26. Islamic Relief Worldwide
    27. Japan International Volunteer Center (JVC)
    28. KURVE Wustrow
    29. MedGlobal
    30. Mennonite Central Committee (MCC)
    31. Médecins du Monde (MdM) France
    32. Médecins du Monde (MdM) Spain
    33. Médecins du Monde (MdM) Switzerland
    34. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)
    35. medico international
    36. Middle East Children’s Alliance (MECA)
    37. Movement for Peace (MPDL)
    38. Muslim Aid
    39. Norwegian Church Aid (NCA)
    40. Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA)
    41. Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC)
    42. Oxfam
    43. Pax Christi International
    44. Plan International
    45. Polish Medical Mission Association (PMM)
    46. Première Urgence Internationale (PUI)
    47. Relief International (RI)
    48. Save the Children International (SCI)
    49. Secours Islamique France (SIF)
    50. Terre des Hommes (Tdh) Italia
    51. Terre des Hommes (Tdh) Lausanne
    52. The Center for Mind-Body Medicine
    53. War Child
    54. Weltfriedensdienst e.V. (world peace service)
    55. West Bank Protection Consortium (WBPC).

    MSF is an international, medical, humanitarian organisation that delivers medical care to people in need, regardless of their origin, religion, or political affiliation. MSF has been working in Haiti for over 30 years, offering general healthcare, trauma care, burn wound care, maternity care, and care for survivors of sexual violence. MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Consumer NZ – This Mother’s Day, give the gift of scam protection and digital confidence

    Source: Consumer NZ

    Now is a great time to brush up on digital hygiene or share advice with someone you care about – in your family, workplace or social circle.

    “When it comes to showing someone you care for them, a bunch of flowers is nice – but helping protect them from scams and digital threats might be the most powerful gift you could give,” says Sahar Lone, Consumer NZ’s communications and campaigns manager.

    “Many of us act as unofficial tech support for the mother figures in our lives. Mother’s Day is a great time to sit down together and set up some simple protections or share some tips to the family group chat. It’s a free, practical and genuinely caring gesture.”

    Consumer’s latest Sentiment Tracker results show that 56% of New Zealand households have been targeted by scams in the last year. Notably, high-value losses are growing – 34% of scam victims lost over $1,000, up from 26% last year.

    With scams becoming more sophisticated – from fake parcel tracking texts to the rise of ‘Hi Mum’ impersonation scams – it’s important to have these conversations, says Lone.

    “These chats can feel awkward, but they don’t have to be. One way that works for a lot of people is to tell a story – whether it’s yours or someone else’s – to share, not shame.”
     
    The Financial Crime Prevention Network found people aged 50 years and older are a bit more common in scam victim data, but all age groups are affected.

    “Scams affect New Zealanders of all ages and backgrounds – not just older individuals or those who aren’t tech-savvy. While women are slightly more likely to fall victim, no one is immune” says Lone.

    So, yes, helping your mum with scam protections is a gift to her – but also a way to protect your whole whānau from messy financial fallout.

    Seven tips to share this Mother’s Day.

    Set up two-factor authentication for accounts like banking, email and social media. This extra layer of protection sends a code to your phone or email to log in. Make sure the phone number you give is a mobile – not a landline.

    Use a password manager. These tools store and generate strong passwords, so you don’t have to remember them.

    “You only need to remember one password, the ‘vault’ password,” says Lone. “And if you write it down, don’t label it. Just stash it away somewhere safe.”

    Don’t reuse passwords. A password manager makes it easy to create unique passwords for every site, limiting the amount of thinking you have to do.

    Avoid clicking links in emails or texts. “Even if it looks legit, go to the website directly instead of clicking a link that someone has sent you,” says Lone.

    Check that account names and numbers match. Major banks offer confirmation of payee, a service that can help make sure your money goes to the right person. If there’s a partial match, no match, or other issue, check the details and only pay if you’re sure they’re correct. If you proceed without a full match, you risk sending the money to the wrong account and may never get it back.

    Only buy from trusted sites and check the URL. Scammers often use social media marketplaces and create fake websites. According to the State of Scams in New Zealand 2024 report by New Zealand’s online safety organisation Netsafe and the Global Anti-Scam Alliance, scammers use Gmail, Facebook and WhatsApp as their go-to platforms.

    Make a family scam plan. “My mum and I agreed I’ll never contact her about money in writing, only in person. That gives us both peace of mind,” says Lone.

    And while you’re on the topic, take the opportunity to talk with the whole whānau about how they’d respond to a scam, including the following steps.

    If something feels off, act quickly. Contact your bank, report the incident to the National Cyber Security Centre’s response team, CERT NZ, and if needed, reach out to the police, a lawyer or the Banking Ombudsman Scheme.

    Go to Netsafe or CERT NZ for free scam information and support.

    Sign our Stamp out scams petition and help apply pressure to government to introduce a national scam framework in New Zealand that will hold businesses to account: https://consumernz.cmail19.com/t/i-l-fhildll-ijjdkdttjk-j/

    About Consumer

    Consumer NZ is an independent, non-profit organisation dedicated to championing and empowering consumers in Aotearoa. Consumer NZ has a reputation for being fair, impartial and providing comprehensive consumer information and advice.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Mizuho Names 2023 Mizuho Americas Open Junior Winner Yana Wilson as Brand Ambassador

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The Epson Tour’s newest champion joins Legend Michelle Wie West and LPGA stars Rose Zhang and Ayaka Furue to form Team Mizuho

    Wilson to compete in 2025 Mizuho Americas Open as sponsor exemption

    NEW YORK, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mizuho Americas, the Americas arm of Mizuho Financial Group (NYSE: MFG), one of the largest financial institutions in the world and title sponsor of the Mizuho Americas Open, today announced Yana Wilson, 2023 American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) Player of the Year and current rookie on the Epson Tour, as an official brand ambassador. Wilson – who earned her first professional victory on the Epson Tour this past Sunday in her hometown of Las Vegas – joins Michelle Wie West, Rose Zhang and Ayaka Furue in representing “Team Mizuho.”

    After advancing to Qualifying in the LPGA Q-Series, Wilson secured guaranteed Epson Tour status for 2025 and ultimately decided to bet on herself and go pro. Prior to joining the Epson Tour, Wilson secured four AJGA victories, including winning the amateur tournament at the inaugural 2023 Mizuho Americas Open at Liberty National Golf Club.

    “Watching Yana transition from a top-ranked amateur to a dedicated pro, has been an inspiring journey,” said Cheryl Gilberg, Chief Marketing Officer, Mizuho Americas. “Her win at the inaugural Mizuho Americas Open in 2023 and her impressive second-place finish in 2024 showcased not just her incredible talent, but also her unwavering determination and grace. We are thrilled to have her as part of Team Mizuho and look forward to supporting her every step of the way.”

    As previously announced at the Mizuho Americas Open media day in April, Mizuho has extended a sponsor exemption for Wilson to compete in the 2025 Mizuho Americas Open May 8 – 11, at the iconic Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City. She will make history as the first player to win the tournament as a junior and return to compete as a professional.

    “It’s an honor to join Team Mizuho alongside such inspiring women and accomplished golfers,” said Wilson. “Mizuho’s commitment to providing a championship experience for amateur and professional players alike is something I have been fortunate enough to experience through the Mizuho Americas Open. I am proud to represent Mizuho as they continue to help advance the next generation of talent and level the playing field for women.”

    Mizuho recently renewed its title sponsor agreement for the Mizuho Americas Open through 2030 and will raise the purse to $3.25 million in 2026, one of the largest outside of the Major championships. The tournament will maintain its successful format where the AJGA’s future stars compete alongside the best women golfers in the world. The new five-year agreement will allow the marquee tournament to remain in the New York City Metro area, providing unmatched benefits to the LPGA players, AJGA junior golfers, and the local community.

    The expanded ambassador program is a key component of Mizuho’s support of the LPGA. As the title sponsor of the Mizuho Americas Open, Mizuho is committed to enhancing the player experience while providing opportunity and mentorship through a new standard of competition with its pro/junior format, world-class golf course, player accommodations, and longstanding partnership with Girls Inc.

    About Mizuho
    Mizuho Financial Group, Inc. is one of the largest financial institutions in the world as measured by total assets of ~$2 trillion, according to S&P Global 2024. Mizuho’s 65,000 employees worldwide offer comprehensive financial services to clients in 36 countries and 850 offices throughout the Americas, EMEA, and Asia.

    Mizuho Americas is a leading Corporate and Investment Bank (CIB) that provides a full spectrum of client-driven solutions across strategic advisory, capital markets, corporate banking, and fixed income and equities sales & trading to corporate, government, and institutional clients in the US, Canada, and Latin America. Through its acquisition of Greenhill, Mizuho enhanced its M&A, restructuring, and private capital advisory capabilities across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. Mizuho Americas employs approximately 4,000 professionals. For more information, visit www.mizuhoamericas.com.

    About the Mizuho Americas Open
    The Mizuho Americas Open is a purpose-driven tournament on the LPGA Tour. As title sponsor, Mizuho Americas created and drove the vision for a distinctive and premium event that celebrates women and advances the next generation, with a charitable focus on providing leadership and life skills to young girls from underserved communities. Played at the prestigious Liberty National Golf Club, with LPGA icon Michelle Wie West as celebrity host, the tournament features an elevated purse and a unique junior component where the AJGA’s stars of tomorrow compete alongside the best women golfers in the world. The tournament is also home to the Mizuho Americas DrivHER Summit, an inspirational day of learning and activities for Girls Inc., the official charitable partner of the Mizuho Americas Open. The Summit leverages the game of golf and the LPGA to inspire the members of Girls Inc. to discover the confidence they need to become leaders in their communities.

    Media Contacts

    For Mizuho:
    Laura London
    Director, Media Relations, Mizuho
    (917) 446-5226
    laura.london@mizuhogroup.com

    Jon Schwartz
    Head of Sports, Prosek Partners
    (347) 794-9633
    jschwartz@prosek.com

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d4b7ec21-1e15-4b10-9012-601c7b5dec5a
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0a3bc026-d816-486f-9906-ade8df91f1f0
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/58b485e7-cef7-4f36-8957-b30ce9423d54
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1345499e-6536-41eb-887e-043748d4ca82

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: There will be a softening – experts have given a forecast for the key rate for the summer of 2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Mainfin Bank –

    Why does the regulator keep the key rate at 21%?

    The tight monetary policy in Russia is due to high inflationary expectations, which, in turn, are provoked by a number of negative factors:

    rising prices for goods – food prices are rising faster; a shortage of personnel in the labor market, which leads to an increase in wages at an accelerated pace; an acceleration in lending – the industry has now been stabilized; geopolitical instability with a cooling of the global economy; indexation of housing and communal services tariffs by 12% in July of this year.

    Price growth in the Russian Federation is slowing down, but inflation remains high (above 7%). The population also maintains elevated inflation expectations – there is too much uncertainty in the national economy and on the international track.

    What will happen to monetary policy in the Russian Federation in the summer of 2025?

    The key rate has remained at 21% for more than six months, but in April the regulator revised the signals for the market – the Central Bank of the Russian Federation did not mention the possibility of increasing the indicator at future meetings, as was the case earlier. Let us recall that a new meeting on the key rate will be held on June 6, and on July 25 the Board of Directors of the Bank of Russia will not only revise the indicator, but also publish a medium-term forecast. Decisions will be made taking into account inflation risks, but experts allow for a gradual reduction in the key rate.

    “The monetary policy easing cycle will begin in 2025, but it is difficult to predict the exact timing – the rate revision could take place in June or July,” experts note.

    In general, analysts believe that the regulator will reduce the key rate by 100-200 bp in the summer, and by the end of the year the indicator may fall to 14% per annum. The signals from the Central Bank of the Russian Federation are neutral for now – the regulator does not clearly indicate the possible vector of actions: at the next meetings the rate may be reduced or maintained. However, pessimistic experts also allow for a new round of tightening if there are upheavals in the market and the economic situation significantly worsens.

    15:00 06.05.2025

    Source:

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

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //Mainfin.ru/novosti/ Samyagi-being-experts-dali-prognosis-pole-steam-on-ya-summer-2025 year

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Bin Collections & Recycling Centres to operate as normal over the Bank Holiday Weekend

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Bin Collections & Recycling Centres to operate as normal over the Bank Holiday Weekend

    2 May 2025

    Derry City and Strabane District Council is advising the public of service arrangements for the upcoming May Bank Holiday on Monday 5th May 2025.

    Bin collections and Recycling Centres will operate as normal on Bank Holiday Monday. Residents are reminded to leave out their bins for collection as usual. The Council encourages everyone to continue recycling and to use Blue and Brown bins correctly to help reduce waste over the bank holiday weekend.

    Council offices on Strand Road, Derry, and the Derry Road offices in Strabane, will be closed on Monday 5th May for the public holiday, and will resume normal service on Tuesday.

    Registry Offices in both Derry and Strabane will also be closed on Monday 5th May, reopening on Tuesday 2nd May.

    The Guildhall and Tower Museum will both be open as normal and welcoming visitors over the Bank Holiday weekend.

    Council-owned cemeteries will remain open and operational daily from 8:00am to 8:00pm throughout the Bank Holiday weekend.

    The Council’s Out of Hours Service for ongoing dog attacks on persons or animals will be available across the holiday. To report an incident, contact 07734 128096. While there is no obligation for the Council to respond to other matters outside normal hours, the Dog Warden may assess and respond to serious voicemails left on this number.

    All Council parks and greenways will be open over the Bank Holiday weekend, and the public is encouraged to enjoy the outdoor spaces responsibly, keeping areas clean and safe by using bins provided.

    The Alley Theatre will be open over the Bank Holiday weekend with family-friendly activities and workshops.

    Leisure Services – May Bank Holiday Schedule:

    Open – Foyle Arena, Riversdale Leisure Centre, Melvin Arena, Derg Valley Leisure and Waterside Shared Village

    Closed – Bishop’s Field, Brooke Park, City Baths and Templemore Sports Complex

    Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Lilian Seenoi-Barr, encouraged everyone to enjoy the long weekend while making the most of the services available:

    “I wish everyone in our community a safe and enjoyable May Bank Holiday and I hope everyone enjoys the beautiful weather we are experiencing at the minute. Please remember to recycle where possible and use our parks, greenways and leisure spaces respectfully. Let’s keep our city and district beautiful for everyone to enjoy this spring.”

    For the most up-to-date information on services, visit the Council’s website:
     https://www.derrystrabane.com/services/opening-hours

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sunshine brings out the crowds for the City of Derry Jazz Festival

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Sunshine brings out the crowds for the City of Derry Jazz Festival

    6 May 2025

    The ‘City of Song’ certainly lived up to its name at the weekend as tens of thousands soaked up the sunshine and the sounds at the City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival.

    It was the 24th year of the renowned festival and it did not disappoint, with early indicators that numbers this year are expected to exceed the 100,000 mark.

    The festival ended on a high note on Bank Holiday Monday, with the sunshine keeping the al fresco party going all weekend. On Saturday and Sunday night headliner Billy Ocean brought some A-list magic to the Millennium Forum and had the crowds on their feet for an extravaganza of iconic hits. Waterloo Street was bouncing to the sound of the Mr Wilson’s Second Liners on Sunday evening, while the Craft Village and Guildhall Square were filled all weekend with fair weather jazz fans.

    Looking back on the events, Mayor of Derry and Strabane Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, said it had been a fabulous celebration from start to finish. “What a weekend – the city was absolutely swinging from when the first note sounded on Thursday until the curtain closed this evening. We welcomed music lovers from all over the world and it was wonderful to see everyone coming together out on the streets.

    “I want to take this opportunity to thank the Council team for all their work on the festival which really excelled all expectations this year. And I want to thank everyone in the business community for getting on board and making it such a success from start to finish. Next year is the 25th anniversary of the jazz festival and I’m really looking forward to marking the milestone of this fabulous event in style.”

    This year the festival saw over 400 performances delivered by over 190 acts in pubs, hotels, outdoor stages, jazz hubs, cafes and even street corners. The atmosphere was electric and the good weather brought people of all ages out in the sunshine to enjoy outdoor performances, and soak up the festival vibes.

    With over 100,000 attending over the weekend, the jazz festival always provides a significant boost to the local economy and heralds the start of the summer tourist season. The additional footfall and trade generated and high hotel occupancy rates, highlight the festival’s crucial role in showcasing the city’s renowned hospitality.

    Head of Culture with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Aeidin McCarter, praised the collective effort behind the hugely successful event. “I am absolutely delighted with the overwhelming success of this year’s City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival. To see tens of thousands of people out enjoying themselves in our city was truly wonderful and the great weather was an added bonus. It’s a testament to the exceptional local talent we have here in the city, and each year our international artists return again and again because of the unbelievable atmosphere and the hospitality that sets this place apart. I want to extend a huge thank you to everyone involved in organising, from our festivals team to the streetscape crew who were out on the ground keeping the city clean for visitors all weekend. My sincere gratitude goes out to all the local businesses – the venues, hotels, restaurants, retailers and of course our sponsors – whose partnership and support are absolutely vital. Their enthusiasm and commitment to the event brings visitors back year after year.”

    As the dust now settles after a wonderful weekend, planning will soon begin for next year’s 25th anniversary edition, building on the success of 2025 and 24 years of jazz.

    The City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival is delivered by Derry City and Strabane District Council with support from Diageo and EY.

    For more information on all the events at this year’s festival, go to cityofderryjazzfestival.com

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Intesa Sanpaolo Reports Best-Ever Net Income of €2.6BN in 1Q25

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MILAN, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Intesa Sanpaolo delivered its best-ever quarterly net income in 1Q25, exceeding €2.6 billion and generating an annualized Return on Equity of 20%.

    This outstanding start to the year supports guidance for 2025 net income well above €9 billion.

    Strong revenue growth and cost efficiency

    Intesa Sanpaolo posted a record first quarter for commissions (+7% vs 1Q24), with 11% growth in Wealth Management & Protection related activities. Insurance income saw its best quarter ever (+9% vs 4Q24).

    Customer financial assets grew by €45.5 billion from March 31, 2024, to around €1.4 trillion, supported by €900 billion in direct deposits and Assets under Management (AuM).

    Despite significant investments in technology, cost discipline remains a priority. The Cost/Income ratio hit a record low of 38%, one of the best in Europe.

    Technology investments and digital transformation

    Technology remains central to Intesa Sanpaolo’s strategy. The bank has invested €4.4 billion in its digital transformation, hiring ~2,350 IT specialists and migrating 62% of applications to the cloud.

    Isybank—Intesa Sanpaolo’s digital bank—has reached one million clients, with a strong acceleration in Q1 that confirms the success of the Group’s digital strategy.

    Commitment to Social Impact

    Intesa Sanpaolo continues to lead in social impact initiatives, deploying more than €0.7 billion from 2023 to 1Q25—including around €65 million in the first quarter—to combat poverty and reduce inequality, supported by a dedicated team of ~1,000 professionals.

    Outlook for 2025

    Thanks to this strong start, Intesa Sanpaolo confirms its outlook with 2025 net income well above €9 billion. Intesa Sanpaolo plans to return over €8.2 billion to shareholders this year, with additional distributions to be quantified at year-end.

    Pull quotes from CEO Carlo Messina

    Carlo Messina, CEO of Intesa Sanpaolo, remarked on the results:

    “The results achieved in the first quarter of 2025 confirm and reinforce Intesa Sanpaolo’s standing among Europe’s major banks.”

    “In terms of market capitalization, we rank among the leading European banking groups, alongside competitors with significantly larger balance sheets.”

    “Amid market volatility and shifting interest rates, we are facing these challenges from a position of strength, thanks to a resilient, efficient and well-diversified business model.”

    “We rank first in the eurozone for the contribution of fees and insurance activities to total revenues.”

    “Capital generation remains strong: our CET1 ratio stands at 13.3%. During the quarter, we increased it by approximately 45 basis points, confirming the Bank’s ability to generate capital consistently and robustly.”

    “Technological innovation is a key driver of our success.”

    “We are strongly committed to the environmental transition. From 2021 to the first quarter of 2025, we have provided €72.2 billion in support of the green economy.”

    “The quality of our people is a decisive factor in generating strong, sustainable results. I am proud of what we have achieved and thank all our people for their extraordinary contribution.”

    “Our well-diversified business model, solid capital position and strong income-generating capacity are the pillars of Intesa Sanpaolo’s success. We are confident that the Group’s existing potential will sustain our leadership in Europe in the years ahead.”

    Click here for more information on Intesa Sanpaolo’s financial results and strategic outlook.

    Contact: international.media@intesasanpaolo.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/19fa4ad4-2506-402c-beff-ada3953bc85a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Israel’s New INGO Registration Measures Are a Grave Threat to Humanitarian Operations and International Law – 55 Organisations Say

    Source: Oxfam –

    Oxfam, together with 54 organisations operating in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt) call for urgent action from the international community against new Israeli registration rules for international NGOs. Based on vague, broad, politicised, and open-ended criteria, these rules appear designed to assert control over independent humanitarian, development and peacebuilding operations, silence advocacy grounded in international humanitarian and human rights law, and further entrench Israeli control and de facto annexation of the occupied Palestinian territory.

    For over a year and a half, humanitarian organisations have continued operating despite unprecedented constraints. In 2024, they reached millions of people across the oPt with essential services – from food and water to mobile clinics, legal aid, and education. The new registration rules now threaten to shut this work down. These measures go beyond routine policy. They mark a serious escalation in restrictions on humanitarian and civic space and risk setting a dangerous precedent.

    Under the new provisions, INGOs already registered in Israel may face de-registration, while new applicants risk rejection based on arbitrary, politicised allegations, such as “delegitimising Israel” or expressing support for accountability for Israeli violations of international law. Other disqualifiers include public support for a boycott of Israel within the past seven years (by staff, a partner, board member, or founder) or failure to meet exhaustive reporting requirements. By framing humanitarian and human rights advocacy as a threat to the state, Israeli authorities can shut out organisations merely for speaking out about conditions they witness on the ground, forcing INGOs to choose between delivering aid and promoting respect for the protections owed to affected people.

    INGOs are further required to submit complete staff lists and other sensitive information about staff and their families to Israel when applying for registration. In a context where humanitarian and healthcare workers are routinely subject to harassment, detention, and direct attacks, this raises serious protection concerns.

    These new rules are part of a broader, long-term crackdown on humanitarian and civic space, marked by heightened surveillance and attacks, and a series of actions that restrict humanitarian access, compromise staff safety, and undermine core principles of humanitarian action. They are not isolated but part of a wider pattern that includes:

    • Blocking or delaying aid through arbitrary bureaucratic restrictions, logistical obstacles, and complete sieges, denying essential lifesaving supplies to Palestinians.
    • Killing more than 400 humanitarian workers in Gaza, injuring and detaining countless others, and repeatedly attacking marked and notified humanitarian premises, facilities or convoys.
    • Passing legislation aimed at curtailing the operations of UNRWA, the largest provider of essential services for Palestinians.
    • Advancing legislation to impose a tax of up to 80 per cent on foreign government funding to Israeli NGOs, while barring them from seeking recourse through the Israeli court system – including organisations that serve as partners for INGOs to deliver assistance and uphold protections in communities facing displacement, demolitions, or settler violence.
    • Suspending work visas for international staff and revoking permits for Palestinians residing in the West Bank to access Jerusalem, severely disrupting operations.• And now, making INGO registration conditional on political and ideological alignment, undermining the neutrality, impartiality and independence of humanitarian actors.

    Under international humanitarian law, occupying powers are obligated to facilitate impartial humanitarian assistance and ensure the welfare of the protected population. Any attempt to condition humanitarian access on political alignment or penalise organisations for fulfilling their mandate risks breaching this framework. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordered Israel to allow unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza in three legally binding provisional measures orders in 2024. Yet, these new rules expand and institutionalise existing barriers to aid.

    We call on States, donors, and the international community to:

    • Use all possible means to protect humanitarian operations from measures that compromise neutrality, independence, and access – including staff list requirements, political vetting, and vague revocation clauses.
    • Take concrete political and diplomatic action beyond statements of concern to ensure unhindered humanitarian access and prevent the erosion of principled aid delivery.
    • Support INGOs and Palestinian and Israeli civil society organisations through legal assistance, diplomatic support, and flexible funding to help mitigate legal, financial, and reputational risks. Donors must defend principled humanitarian and human rights work.

    The undersigned 55 organisations stress that engagement with the registration process to preserve critical humanitarian operations should not be misinterpreted as endorsement of these measures.

    These 55 organisations remain committed to the delivery of humanitarian aid, along with development and peacebuilding services and activities that are independent, impartial, and based on need, in full accordance with international law and the humanitarian principles derived from it. INGOs stand ready to engage with Israeli authorities in good faith on administrative processes but cannot accept measures that penalise principled humanitarian work or expose staff to retaliation. These measures not only undermine assistance in the oPt but also set a dangerous precedent for humanitarian operations globally.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Launch of the UK–ADB Nature and Food Partnership

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    This session highlighted key initiatives, including the Central and South Asian Flyways, regenerative agriculture, natural capital and biodiversity credits, and the UK Conservation Learning Week. The launch event was held on the sidelines of the 58th Annual Meeting of the ADB Board of Governors in Milan, Italy.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Lufthansa shareholders approve all agenda items at the Annual General Meeting

    Source: Lufthansa Group

    About 1,500 shareholders followed today’s 72th Annual General Meeting of Deutsche Lufthansa AG online. A total of 42,16 percent of the share capital was represented. Nine items were on the agenda for the Annual General Meeting. The shareholders of the company approved all items by a large majority.

    The shareholders thereby approved the actions of the members of the Executive Board and the Supervisory Board for the 2024 financial year by a large majority.

    The items on the agenda of the Annual General Meeting included the appropriation of balance sheet profits, which provides for the distribution of a dividend of EUR 0.30 per share, and the election of members of the Supervisory Board. Erich Clementi, Dr. Astrid Stange, and Angela Titzrath were re-elected to the Supervisory Board. Dr. Alexis von Hoensbroech, Chief Executive Officer of Canadian airline the WestJet Airlines, was newly elected to the Supervisory Board.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI: ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc. and The First of Long Island Corporation Announce Receipt of FDIC Approval for Merger

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J. and MELVILLE, N.Y., May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc. (Nasdaq: CNOB) (the “Company” or “ConnectOne”), parent company of ConnectOne Bank (the “Bank”), and The First of Long Island Corporation (Nasdaq: FLIC) (“First of Long Island”), parent company of The First National Bank of Long Island, today announced they have received the approval of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation to proceed with the previously announced merger of ConnectOne and First of Long Island.

    Closing of the transaction is expected to occur on or about June 1, 2025, pending approvals or waivers from the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

    “We are pleased to have received FDIC approval to combine two highly complementary, client focused banks,” said Frank Sorrentino III, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ConnectOne. “By leveraging ConnectOne’s commercial expertise and modern infrastructure, we are well-positioned to serve First of Long Island’s distinguished client base. We look forward to unlocking new opportunities for our clients, employees, and stakeholders.”

    “I’m excited to move ahead with our proposed merger with ConnectOne,” commented Chris Becker, CEO of The First National Bank of Long Island. He added, “Following months of strategic and collaborative planning, our teams are ready to execute a seamless integration. I am thrilled to partner with an organization that values client service in the same way we do, and I look forward to ensuring a smooth transition for our clients.”

    Upon completion of the transaction, the combined company will operate under the ConnectOne brand, and will have approximately $14 billion in total assets, $11 billion in total deposits, and $11 billion in total loans. The combination will establish ConnectOne as one of the top 5 community banks on Long Island, in terms of deposit market share.

    About ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc.

    ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc., is a modern financial services company that operates, through its subsidiary, ConnectOne Bank, and the Bank’s fintech subsidiary, BoeFly, Inc. ConnectOne Bank is a high-performing commercial bank offering a full suite of banking & lending products and services that focus on small to middle-market businesses. BoeFly, Inc. is a fintech marketplace that connects borrowers in the franchise space with funding solutions through a network of partner banks. ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc. is traded on the Nasdaq Global Market under the trading symbol “CNOB,” and information about ConnectOne may be found at https://www.connectonebank.com.

    About The First of Long Island Corporation

    The First of Long Island Corporation (Nasdaq: FLIC) is the parent company of The First National Bank of Long Island, a local bank founded in 1927 in Glen Head, New York. Through its branch network branded as First National Bank LI, the Bank focuses on business and consumer needs on Long Island and in New York City. The Bank offers a broad set of lending, deposit, investment, and digital products. First National Bank LI is known for its culture of delivering extraordinary service and a “Customer First” banking experience to small and middle market businesses, professional service firms, not-for-profits, municipalities and consumers. For more information about the Bank and Corporation visit fnbli.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained herein are “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. Such forward looking statements may be identified by reference to a future period or periods, or by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as “may,” “will,” “believe,” “expect,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “continue,” or similar terms or variations on those terms, or the negative of those terms.

    Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those in such statements. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results expressed in the forward-looking statements: failure to consummate the merger for any reason, including the failure to obtain necessary regulatory approvals (and the risk that such approvals may result in the imposition of conditions that could adversely affect the combined company) or failure to satisfy any of the other closing conditions in a timely basis or at all; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the right of one or both of the parties to terminate the merger agreement; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against ConnectOne or FLIC; and potential adverse reactions or changes to business or employee relationships, including those resulting from the announcement or completion of the transaction. Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements are discussed in ConnectOne’s and FLIC’s reports (such as the Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and available at the SEC’s Internet website (www.sec.gov). Except as required by law, ConnectOne and FLIC do not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date the forward-looking statement is made.

    ConnectOne Investor Contact:
    William S. Burns
    Senior Executive VP & CFO
    201.816.4474; bburns@cnob.com

    First of Long Island Investor Contact:
    Janet T. Verneuille
    Senior Executive VP & CFO
    516.671.4900 Ext 7462; janet.verneuille@fnbli.com

    Media Contact:
    Shannan Weeks
    MikeWorldWide
    732.299.7890; sweeks@mww.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Leveling the playing field: Talkdesk supercharges small businesses with accessible, enterprise-grade artificial intelligence service tools

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALO ALTO, Calif., May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Talkdesk®, Inc., a global provider of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered customer experience (CX) technology that serves enterprises of all sizes, today announced the launch of Talkdesk Express™, an enterprise-grade customer service solution for small businesses that empowers them to deliver the same exceptional customer service as large organizations, without the complexity. A Gartner® study reports, “76% of executive leaders see CX as critical to meeting organizations’ business goals.”* However, traditional contact center software is either too expensive or complex for small businesses, placing them at an unfair disadvantage. Talkdesk Express is an affordable, intuitive solution designed for ultra-fast setup, and its ease of use enables small businesses to self-manage multi-channel customer service operations—no technical knowledge required or precious hours wasted on support hotlines.

    Easy Set-up, $100 Free Credits, and 25 Free Licences

    To help small businesses with up to 50 employees get started setting up their customer service operations, Talkdesk Express includes $100 in free credits and 25 free licenses. Businesses create their contact center directly from the Talkdesk website—bypassing cumbersome vendor sales-led setup and onboarding. Talkdesk Express is self-provisioning and guides new customers through a step-by-step process to procure a phone number and set up channels, users, and connected knowledge bases in just a few minutes.

    Businesses that have started using Talkdesk Express, like TV Wall Mounters LLC, DBA Visionary AV Solutions—a company specializing in residential and commercial AV installations, including TV mounting, LED video walls, and projector setups—are already seeing the difference. By simplifying customer service operations and improving call quality, Visionary AV Solutions has been able to deliver faster, more professional support while focusing on growing its business.

    “Talkdesk has been a game-changer for us. Compared to other systems we’ve used, Talkdesk Express truly stands out—the sound quality is clearer, the platform layout is more intuitive, and the overall performance has been outstanding. Our team loves using it, and we’ve already seen great success,” said Calvin Williams, chief executive officer of TV Wall Mounters LLC, DBA Visionary AV Solutions.

    Enterprise-Grade AI for Enhanced Customer Service

    Talkdesk Express equips small businesses with the same suite of powerful AI-driven tools used by Talkdesk large enterprise customers like BankUnited, Canon, Medela, and Michael’s. The AI tools come pre-installed and pre-configured for ease, so small businesses can compete with larger organizations without needing an IT team. These include:

    • Intelligent customer routing: A tool that allows customers to state their query in their own words, understands the interaction priority level for the business, and to whom the interaction should be routed (Talkdesk Navigator™).
    • Real-time agent assistance: A real-time AI assistant that supports agents by providing important information relevant to customer queries to resolve issues faster, and automating admin tasks, e.g., summarizing after-call notes (Talkdesk Copilot™).
    • 24/7 virtual agents: A self-service AI solution that ensures customers can get answers to common questions even outside of business hours (Talkdesk After Hours and Autopilot™).
    • Intelligent voice biometrics: A tool that automates customer authentication, which helps reduce call wait times while enhancing security (Talkdesk Identity™).

    “This move not only strengthens Talkdesk’s position as an innovative AI CX leader for businesses of all sizes, it’s set to transform the customer service landscape, driving much broader adoption of AI-powered solutions,” said Tiago Paiva, chief executive officer and founder at Talkdesk. “Large enterprises have long trusted Talkdesk to modernize and enhance their CX. Now we are making advanced AI-powered customer service tools inclusive, accessible, and affordable to all businesses for the first time.”

    Additionally, multiple non-AI tools are seamlessly integrated into Talkdesk Express. Small businesses are walked through setting up: a customer service phone number with their area code; the channels they want to converse with customers on, e.g., short message service (SMS), chat, email, social, and messaging; and users, all in minutes. They can also design intuitive workflows, carry out reporting, and more.

    Flexible and Cost-Effective

    Talkdesk Express offers usage-based pricing, ensuring small businesses only pay for what they use once they exhaust their $100 in free credits. The platform also scales as the company grows, providing a cost-effective way to expand customer service capabilities as and when the business is ready.

    Visit the Talkdesk Express page to learn more or get started with the solution today.

    About Talkdesk

    Talkdesk® is on a mission to rid the world of bad customer experience. With our cloud-native, generative AI-powered CX platform, purpose-built industry solutions, and extensible AI offerings, we empower enterprises in the cloud and on-premises to deliver exceptional customer experiences that make them more competitive, grow revenue, reduce costs, and provide operational efficiencies. With specialized workflows and integrations delivered out of the box for our Industry Experience Clouds, Talkdesk accelerates value for our customers faster and more simply than legacy or one-size-fits-all solutions.

    Partnering with enterprises globally, we deliver continuous innovation and breakthrough results. Our commitment to reliability and security, paired with our track record of delivering on promises, sets us apart in the industry. Elevate customer experiences, streamline operations, and increase revenue with Talkdesk. Companies that love their customers use Talkdesk.

    Talkdesk is a registered trademark of Talkdesk, Inc. All product and company names are trademarks™ or registered® trademarks of their respective holders. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by them.

    *Gartner; What the Best CX Organizations Do Differently; May 1, 2023; Don Scheibenreif, Michael Chiu
    GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

    Media Contact:

    Talkdesk Public Relations

    pr@talkdesk.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Williams Introduces Federal Reserve Financial Accountability and Transparency Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Roger Williams (25th District of Texas)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25), introduced the Federal Reserve Financial Accountability and Transparency Act to increase Congressional oversight of the Federal Reserve. This bill requires reporting on spending and staffing by activity, identification of top research areas, engagements with international banking organizations, and disclosure of costs for new regulations.

    “For too long, burdensome regulations have been piled onto our financial institutions without considering the impacts,”  said Chairman Roger Williams.“It is time that Congress has increased oversight and transparency over the Federal Reserve’s operations and expenses. Our financial regulators should be focusing on the health and safety of the financial sector and promoting U.S. interests globally.”

    The American Bankers Association is a supporting organization.

    Read the bill text here.

    ###

    Congressman Roger Williams is the Chairman of the House Small Business Committee and member of the House Financial Services Committee. He proudly represents the 25th Congressional District of Texas.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Banzai Secures Expanded Agreement with RBC Capital Markets for OpenReel Enterprise License

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEATTLE, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Banzai International, Inc. (NASDAQ: BNZI) (“Banzai” or the “Company”), a leading marketing technology company that provides essential marketing and sales solutions, today announced it has expanded its agreement with RBC Capital Markets.

    As part of the expanded agreement, RBC Capital Markets’ Wealth Marketing Division will have an enterprise license for usage of OpenReel, Banzai’s leading digital video creation platform.

    “This agreement reinforces our strategy of expansion in the enterprise,” said Joe Davy, Founder and CEO of Banzai. “Having already been working with RBC Global Asset Management, this deal shows movement throughout the enterprise into the wealth marketing division, doubling our current engagement and validating our growth in the enterprise space. We are seeing solid traction in the financial sector, where the OpenReel Creator tool gives global financial firms the ability to offer standardized branded video with personalization at scale for their wealth managers, partners, and other stakeholders.”

    OpenReel empowers organizations to efficiently produce high-quality, branded video content at scale. Its platform enables users to remotely direct, record, edit, and collaborate on professional-grade video projects, significantly streamlining the production process and ensuring brand consistency. OpenReel serves a global enterprise client base, including industry leaders like Bristol Myers Squibb, Ingram Micro, DXC Technology, Insider Inc., and US Steel.

    About RBC Capital Markets

    The most significant corporations, institutional investors, asset managers, private equity firms, and governments around the globe recognize RBC Capital Markets as an innovative, trusted partner with an in-depth expertise in capital markets, banking, and finance. We are well-established in the largest, most mature capital markets across North America, Europe, and the Asia Pacific region, which collectively encompasses 80% of the global investment banking fee pool.

    RBC Capital Markets is part of a leading provider of financial services, Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). Founded in 1864, RBC is one of the largest banks in the world and the fifth largest in North America, as measured by market capitalization. With a strong capital base and consistent financial performance, RBC is among a small group of highly rated global banks. Learn more at rbccm.com.

    We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/community-social-impact.

    About Banzai

    Banzai is a marketing technology company that provides AI-enabled marketing and sales solutions for businesses of all sizes. On a mission to help their customers grow, Banzai enables companies of all sizes to target, engage, and measure both new and existing customers more effectively. Customers who use Banzai’s product suite include Autodesk, Dell Technologies, New York Life, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Thinkific, and ActiveCampaign, among thousands of others. Learn more at www.banzai.io. For investors, please visit https://ir.banzai.io.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements often use words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “target,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “propose,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “predict,” “potential,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook,” and similar variations and expressions. Forward-looking statements are those that do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. Examples of forward-looking statements may include, among others, statements regarding Banzai International, Inc.’s (the “Company’s”): future financial, business and operating performance and goals; annualized recurring revenue and customer retention; ongoing, future or ability to maintain or improve its financial position, cash flows, and liquidity and its expected financial needs; potential financing and ability to obtain financing; acquisition strategy and proposed acquisitions and, if completed, their potential success and financial contributions; strategy and strategic goals, including being able to capitalize on opportunities; expectations relating to the Company’s industry, outlook and market trends; total addressable market and serviceable addressable market and related projections; plans, strategies and expectations for retaining existing or acquiring new customers, increasing revenue and executing growth initiatives; and product areas of focus and additional products that may be sold in the future. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and our actual results of operations, financial condition and liquidity and development of the industry in which the Company operates may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Therefore, investors should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially include changes in the markets in which the Company operates, customer demand, the financial markets, economic, business and regulatory and other factors, such as the Company’s ability to execute on its strategy. More detailed information about risk factors can be found in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q under the heading “Risk Factors,” and in other reports filed by the Company, including reports on Form 8-K. The Company does not undertake any duty to update forward-looking statements after the date of this press release.

    Investor Relations
    Chris Tyson
    Executive Vice President
    MZ Group – MZ North America
    949-491-8235
    BNZI@mzgroup.us
    www.mzgroup.us

    Media
    Nancy Norton
    Chief Legal Officer, Banzai
    media@banzai.io

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Deccan Merchants Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated April 25, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹2.00 lakh (Rupees Two Lakh only) on The Deccan Merchants Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Loans and advances to directors, their relatives, and firms/concerns in which they are interested’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice, additional submissions made by it and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had sanctioned director related loans.

    This action is based on the deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/268

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Hindusthan Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated April 25, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹3.00 lakh (Rupees Three Lakh only) on The Hindusthan Co-operative Bank Ltd., Mumbai, Maharashtra (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Maintenance of Deposit Accounts – Primary (Urban) Co-operative Banks’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice, additional submissions made by it and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had levied penal charges for non-maintenance of minimum balance in savings bank account, without notifying the customers by SMS / email / letter, etc.

    This action is based on the deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/267

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on Siddheshwar Urban Co-operative Bank Maryadit, Sillod, Aurangabad, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBl) has, by an order dated May 02, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹50,000/- (Rupees Fifty Thousand only) on Siddheshwar Urban Co-operative Bank Maryadit, Sillod, Aurangabad, Maharashtra (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Placement of Deposits with Other Banks by Primary (Urban) Co-operative Banks (UCBs)’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the BR Act.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by the RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had breached prudential inter-bank (gross) exposure limit.

    This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/266

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Pusad Urban Cooperative Bank Limited, Pusad, Maharashtra

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBl) has, by an order dated May 02, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹7.50 lakh (Rupees Seven Lakh Fifty Thousand only) on The Pusad Urban Cooperative Bank Limited, Pusad, Maharashtra (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Income Recognition, Asset Classification, Provisioning and Other Related Matters – UCBs’, ‘Co-operative Banks- Interest Rates on Deposits’, and specific directions issued by RBI under ‘Supervisory Action Framework (SAF)’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the BR Act.

    The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by the RBI with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charges against the bank were sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty:

    The bank had:

    1. regularised Non-Performing Accounts (NPAs) without repayment through genuine sources;

    2. opened certain savings deposit accounts in the name of ineligible entities; and

    3. offered higher interest rates on deposits than those offered by the State Bank of India, in non-adherence to directions under SAF.

    This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/265

    MIL OSI Global Banks –