Category: Banking

MIL-OSI: BNP PARIBAS SA: Disclosure for G-SIIs indicators as of 31 December 2024
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Paris, 30 April 2025

Global systemically important institutions (G-SIIs) indicators for BNP Paribas Group as of 31 December 2024 are presented hereafter according to European Banking Authority (EBA) Implementing Technical Standards.

The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) assesses the systemic importance of banks in a global context.

The measurement approach of the global systemic importance is indicator-based. The methodology is outlined in “Global systemically important banks: updated assessment methodology and the higher loss absorbency requirement”⁽¹⁾.

The indicators provided hereafter are calculated based on specific instructions by the BCBS and thus may be not directly comparable against other disclosed information. It has to be noted that BCBS instructions are based on the regulatory, not the accounting consolidation scope.

⁽¹⁾ These documents are available at https://www.bis.org/bcbs/gsib/

Attachment
- Disclosure of the indicators for the assessment of global systemic importance (G-SIIs G-SIBs) as of 31-12-2024
The MIL Network –
May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI: Companjon and Omio expand globally with Cancel for any reason – No questions asked and no documentation required
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
- Companjon is a global leader in CFAR and in embedded insurance solutions
- Omio is the leading multi-modal travel booking platform
- Omio Flex, CFAR developed with the partnership between Omio and Companjon, was first introduced in EEA countries and the UK, and now make it available for the rest of the world
DUBLIN, April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Companjon, a leading Insurtech company specializing in dynamic embedded insurance, announced the rollout of its flexible cancellation solution for Omio to the rest of the world. Omio Flex was developed in partnership with the multi-modal travel booking platform, bringing ultimate flexibility to travel plans. From now on, Omio customers from all over the world can cancel their train and bus journeys for any reason up to 15 minutes before departure (depending on fare type).

The solution is seamlessly integrated into Omio’s customer journey from purchasing to cancelling. Users can select it in the ticket configuration process. If customers with Omio Flex decide not to travel, they can simply cancel their trip and receive a payment of up to 100% of the purchase fare (depending on fare type). Omio pays the compensation directly to the customer. The solution was first introduced in EEA countries and the UK, and after a successful trial period, Omio decided to make it available for the rest of the world as well. Companjon will use its advanced technology into Omio’s booking platform and ensuring a seamless customer experience for Omio users.

Matthias Naumann, CEO, Companjon, said: “We’ve been proud of our collaboration with Omio since day one, and we’re thrilled to take it a step further. The expansion of Omio Flex allows customers across the world to cancel for any reason, with no questions asked and no documentation required. Travellers consistently highlight flexibility as one of the most valued features when booking trips. Embedding our technology into Omio’s booking platform is essential to staying ahead of the competition. Both teams—Omio and Companjon—have invested heavily in developing this product, with our unique technology and data-driven insights playing a key role in bringing it to life.”

Veronica Diquattro, President B2C Europe, Omio, commented, “Journeys don’t always go as planned. The ability to cancel a booking for any reason is an important cornerstone of our promise to offer seamless travel anywhere in the world. Our customer data shows that flexibility is a key travel consideration, which is why we’re excited to now offer Omio Flex globally. Companjon’s advanced technology and data insights were instrumental in helping us address the evolving demands of our users and developing this product.”

About Omio

Since its foundation in 2013, the Omio Group has helped customers discover new ways of travelling. Thanks to its two interconnected platforms, Omio and Rome2Rio, Omio is the world’s leading travel platform for searching, comparing, and booking. Omio B2B Partnership services OTAs and mobility providers with bespoke business solutions. Omio supports its customers in their desire to explore Europe, the US, Canada and Southeast Asia by train, bus, flight, and ferry. Omio sells more than 80,000 tickets daily, employs over 430 staff from more than 50 countries and maintains offices in Berlin, Prague, Melbourne, London and Bangalore. The Omio Group offers its customers journeys that move them.

www.omio.com

About Companjon

Companjon is a leading B2B2C Insurtech start-up specializing in fully digital, AI-driven embedded insurance. Its modern, end-to-end insurance solutions enable companies to delight their customers and drive more business value from stronger brand loyalty and new ancillary revenue opportunities. Companjon designs, builds, and underwrites its dynamic solutions on a 100% cloud-based platform capable of issuing 32,000 policies per second, integrating API gateways easily, and leveraging the latest advanced technology. It has been recognized as one of the World’s Top Insurtech Companies 2024 by CNBC and one of the world’s most innovative insurtechs by FinTech Global for four consecutive years (2021-2024).

Companjon seeks to change the way people think about insurance by creating seamless and positive experiences when things don’t go as planned: being right there when ‘life’ happens. The company is registered in Ireland and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

www.companjon.com

Media Contact:
Simone Vottari
+353 86 032 4630
press@companjon.com

The MIL Network –
May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Statements on Ukraine and Middle East by Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister for Europe and foreign Affairs, at the UN Security Council

Source: France-Diplomatie – Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development

Ministers,

Ladies and gentlemen,

My European partners and I would have preferred not to have to convene this Security Council meeting on Ukraine, but Russia’s high-intensity war of aggression continues to ravage Ukraine, as reiterated by the Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs and the Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, with drastic humanitarian consequences in violation of international law and in violation of the Charter of the United Nations: our Charter.

How did this happen?

It started with the aspirations of the Ukrainian people to freedom and democracy, which Russia sought to repress in the 2014 Maidan Uprising.

Ten years ago, a fragile ceasefire was agreed in Minsk. It was violated twenty times.

Three years ago, Russia launched its large-scale invasion of Ukraine, a unilateral, brutal, unjustifiable war of aggression that must end now. A war that was not a defensive war, and that was not inevitable. A war that was not justified, and continues to be unjustifiable. It is quite simply the expression of an overt revisionist plan.

Ladies and gentlemen,

On 24 February this year, the Security Council adopted an American resolution, Resolution 2774, and I wish to cite it as a reminder: “the Security Council […] implores a swift end to the conflict”.

What has Ukraine done since 24 February?

On 9 March, Ukraine accepted the principle of a total and unconditional ceasefire, in accordance with Resolution 2774, showing its good faith and sincere desire to move towards peace.

And what has Russia done since 24 February and the adoption of Resolution 2774?

It has continued its war crimes and crimes against humanity by striking infrastructures and targeting civilians, women and children, and humanitarian workers.

While it is totally violating international law, Russia would have us believe that is in within its right and that it may lay claim to the Ukrainian territories in the name of the principle of self-determination. But it is a diversion; it is false. What is true is that Russia is violating the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, Russia is attacking its neighbour, and in this war of aggression, it is violating international law and international humanitarian law. Everyone can see that, and everyone knows it.

And today, the only obstacle now to the ceasefire, the only obstacle to the implementation of Resolution 2774 adopted by the Council on 24 February, is Vladimir Putin.

So why oppose the implementation of this resolution in this way?

Vladimir Putin’s Russia most likely wants to push Ukraine to surrender. But France, like many other members of this Council, is opposed to this, and will continue to oppose it.

First, because it is a security challenge for Europe and France, which Russia seeks to destabilize.

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, France has already been targeted.

Since the beginning of the conflict, our country, a supporter of Ukraine, has been targeted by Russian cyber attacks originating in the Russian military intelligence services, GRU, carried out by threat actor APT28. They targeted a dozen French entities including public services, enterprises, and sports organizations involved in the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. We condemn these cyber attacks in the strongest terms. They are unworthy of a permanent member of the Security Council and contrary to the framework set by the United Nations. They must cease immediately.

But if France, like other members of this Council, is opposed to any form of surrender by Ukraine, it is not only for the sake of Europe’s and France’s security, it is also for the sake of global peace and security. Because such an outcome in this war would enshrine the concept of “might is right”, and inevitably lead the world into a frenetic arms race, and most certainly proliferation.

I believe that quite simply we must return to some of the elementary principles of our Charter, which I would once again like to cite to refresh the memories of all members of this Council. In Chapter I, Article 2, Paragraph 4, it states that: “States shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State, or in any other manner inconsistent with the Purposes of the United Nations (…)”.

So let’s get back to simple principles: aggressors must not be rewarded at the victim’s expense; borders are intangible; and States, no matter which, are sovereign.

I therefore call on President Putin to say to him:

Cease fire!

Cease fire!

Cease fire!

That is when peace will become possible again.

A just and true peace.

A peace that complies with the Charter of the United Nations and international law.

A peace that respects the sovereignty, territorial integrity and security of Ukraine.

We can succeed.

That is why, while commending the mediation efforts undertaken by the United States of America and at the highest level, France wants this Council to unanimously demand a total, immediate and unconditional ceasefire, and by that I mean that weapons be laid down.

Thank you.

Open debate on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinain issue

Statement by the Minister for Europe and Foreign affairs, Jean Noel Barrot

Dear Secretary-General,

Ministers,

Ladies and gentlemen,

I wanted to make the debate on the Middle East a focus of the French Presidency of the Security Council.

The anti-Semitic massacres on 7 October 2023 and the ensuing military conflagration have upended the region.

As we are speaking here today, Gaza has been devastated by war, Lebanon is struggling to recover, Syria is engaged in a fragile and uncertain transition, and Iran is pursuing its dangerous race towards nuclear weapons. This spiral of destabilization must not lead us to a situation that cannot be undone. That is why we must work together to find a path to peace and security for all.

Our first priority is to stop the hostilities and end the suffering of civilian populations.

In Lebanon, in close cooperation with our American partners, we managed to achieve a ceasefire agreement five months ago. Its implementation still needs to be fine-tuned, but it has brought about peace. It is crucial and must be upheld.

In Gaza, war rages on. The fact that the ceasefire has been broken and Israel has resumed its military strikes should alarm us all. It is a huge step backwards for the Palestinian civilian population, for the Israeli hostages and their loved ones, and for the security of the entire region. Negotiations urgently need to resume and bring about a lasting ceasefire. We support mediators’ efforts to achieve that.

This ceasefire must bring about the unconditional and immediate release of all the hostages being held arbitrarily by Hamas. I would like to take a moment to mention before this Council our fellow Frenchman, Ofer Kalderon, who was released after 484 days in captivity. I would also like to pay homage to the memory of another fellow Frenchman, Ohad Yahalomi, taken hostage on 7 October, arbitrarily held and murdered in Gaza. He has left behind a widow and three innocent children.

The ceasefire must also bring about deliveries of massive amounts of humanitarian aid to Gaza. The situation in Gaza is catastrophic, as all humanitarian aid has been blocked for two months. I was able to see this for myself when I visited the Egyptian border and I testify before you that this situation is unacceptable. Because since the end of March, Israeli bombings have killed more than 1,300 people, including many civilians, women and children. And these military strikes have also killed humanitarian workers and UN staff members. The tremendous suffering of the civilian populations in Gaza has to stop. I call on Israel to remove all obstacles so that massive amounts of humanitarian aid can finally be delivered to Gaza.

France is fully doing its part to address this humanitarian emergency. Since 2023, we have contributed €250 million in humanitarian aid to civilian populations. A portion of this aid was distributed via UNRWA and France supports UNRWA’s action and efforts of committed reform. In close cooperation with our regional partners, including Egypt and Jordan, we have also directly provided healthcare, food and shelter for people living in Gaza who are victims of the war.

Our second priority is to help the territories ravaged by conflicts to recover.

The International Conference in Support of Lebanon’s People and Sovereignty held in Paris on 24 October 2024 raised more than $1 billion. This aid went to the population and security forces. The new authorities have begun reform and reconstruction efforts that we support. When the time is right, we will hold an international conference in support of Lebanon’s economic recovery in Paris. The role of the United Nations throughout this process will be key.

Lebanon needs to recover its sovereignty – its full sovereignty. We call on Israeli forces that are still in Lebanon to fully withdraw from Lebanese territory so that the Lebanese Armed Forces can be redeployed there. It is up to them to ensure the security and sovereignty of the State, assisted by UNIFIL and the supervision mechanism in which France participates alongside the United States, and which includes the United Nations. France is continuing its efforts with determination to ensure the full implementation of Council’s Resolution 1701.

In Syria, a historic transition process has begun since Bashar al-Assad’s dictatorship was overthrown. France is prepared to provide support. With its European partners, it has started to lift the first sanctions under certain conditions. The transition process must respect and protect the rights of all Syrians, regardless of their ethnic background, religion or gender. It must also ensure effective and determined action to counter terrorism. I will say this before the United Nations General Assembly: the terrible crimes committed by Bashar al-Assad’s regime must not be forgotten. The UN has an important role to play against impunity and in Syria’s reconstruction.

In Gaza, we will support our Arab partners’ efforts to build a robust and credible framework for the “day after”. This framework should enable the reconstruction, governance and security of the enclave. But these efforts can only produce their effects if they are carried out from a political standpoint.

That is why our third priority is to work on political solutions ensuring a just and lasting peace

There is only one solution to achieve a political settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict: it is the two-state solution, the only solution that can ensure peace and security over the long term for both Israelis and Palestinians.

This solution is now being threatened by the increasing settlement building in the West Bank, by the violence of extremist settlers, by the desire to weaken the Palestinian Authority and by discourse on an annexation and forced displacement of the population.

Amid faits accomplis on the ground, the prospect of a Palestinian State has to be protected. That is why France is holding an international conference on the implementation of the two-state solution with Saudi Arabia here in New York in June. Our aim is clear: to advance the recognition of Palestine and the normalization of relations with Israel. That is how we will successfully ensure Israel’s security and regional integration, while responding to the legitimate aspirations of Palestinians to have a State. This roadmap for the effective implementation of the two-state solution also involves disarming Hamas, defining a credible governance from which it will be excluded, and reforming the Palestinian Authority. The UN and its agencies must have a full role in this process.

Also, we are not toning down our efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the challenge related to the headlong pursuit of Iran’s nuclear programme. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi explained the situation clearly yesterday during our meeting on non-proliferation.

Amid destabilizing interference, we have to continue to work on reinforcing the sovereignty of the States in the region.

Having just visited Iraq, I would like to stress how much headway this country is making. Destroyed recently by conflicts and power plays, it is now on the sidelines of regional tensions. Iraq has resumed its role as a hub for balance and stabilization. The third Baghdad Conference, which will be held at the end of 2025, testifies to this. It will provide an opportunity to work on regional cooperation and security, countering the fragmentation and confrontation approach at work today.

Secretary-General,

Ladies and gentlemen,

France is working for peace and sovereignty; without them nothing is possible. We are deeply committed to the Middle East for historic and geographic reasons. Today, everyone’s security and stability depend on this region. We are therefore determined to build a path to peace there, for you and with you.

MIL OSI Europe News –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) and Asakabank Ink US$ 20 Million Trade Finance Deal to Strengthen Uzbekistan’s Private Sector

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

TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, April 30, 2025/APO Group/ —

The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (www.ITFC-IDB.org), the trade finance arm of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, has signed a US$ 20 million Line of Trade Finance Agreement with Asakabank to bolster trade finance solutions for SMEs and private sector clients in Uzbekistan.

Structured under Murabaha, this facility is designed to support trade finance needs of SMEs, enabling business expansion, strengthening economic resilience, and contributing to sustainable development. By advancing UN SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), the agreement empowers businesses to thrive, create jobs, and drive long-term economic progress.

Through this financing, private sector companies in Uzbekistan will gain access to vital import and pre-export funding, further stimulating trade and enhancing key industries that drive the nation’s economic growth. This strategic partnership marks a key milestone, making Asakabank ITFC’s newest partner institution and increasing the number of active ITFC partner banks in Uzbekistan to 12.

Commenting on the signing, Mr. Abdihamid Aweis Abu stated: “The private sector serves as a key driver of economic growth in Uzbekistan, making access to funding essential for its contribution to the country’s development. At ITFC, we are delighted to launch this strategic collaboration with Asakabank and are committed to strengthening our partnership to enhance trade finance accessibility for Uzbekistan’s private sector and SMEs, empowering them to drive economic progress, as well as supporting the growth of Islamic finance in the country”.

“This agreement opens up new horizons for mutually beneficial cooperation and strengthens our bank’s position on the international stage. The agreement with ITFC marks a strategic step for Asakabank, as ITFC is an organization that provides financial support at the international level and supports projects aligned with the principles of Islamic finance. This partnership will unlock new opportunities for Asakabank to attract investment, expand the range of services offered to our clients, and introduce innovative financial products. The agreement with ITFC paves the way for the development of the banking sector, promotes capital markets, and helps attract needed funding to support the private sector and SMEs.” Said Mr Tulyaganov Kudratilla, Chairman of the Board of AsakaBank.

This financing aligns with the US$ 600 million Framework Agreement signed between ITFC and the Republic of Uzbekistan in March 2024, reinforcing ITFC’s ongoing efforts to enhance trade finance access for SMEs and private sector businesses.

Since 2019, ITFC has approved over US$ 168 million in financing for Uzbekistan’s private sector, facilitating trade and contributing to economic development.

MIL OSI Africa –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: ECB introduces changes to the dedicated credit facility for euro area CCPs
Source: European Central Bank

30 April 2025
- Discretionary activation by the Governing Council no longer required
- Additional safeguards introduced in relation to financial soundness and sound liquidity risk management
- Changes will come into effect through the adoption of relevant legal acts in 2025, including the TARGET Guideline
The Governing Council of the European Central Bank (ECB) decided to implement changes to the dedicated Eurosystem overnight credit facility, which serves as a crisis-related liquidity backstop for eligible euro area central counterparties (CCPs) under the TARGET Guideline.¹ Currently, activation of the CCP credit facility requires a decision by the ECB Governing Council. This discretionary activation will be no longer required to ensure prompt operationalisation, meaning that the CCP credit facility will be immediately available to eligible euro area CCPs if needed.

CCPs are systemically important financial market infrastructures. Under normal operating conditions, their liquidity inflows and outflows are balanced by the end of the day, meaning that they do not generally encounter liquidity mismatches. In situations of severe financial stress, however, it may not be feasible for a CCP to manage its potentially sizeable liquidity needs through market-based solutions in a timely manner. In these circumstances, the CCP credit facility can provide a pre-arranged and effective liquidity backstop.

The revised CCP credit facility remains subject to the TARGET Guideline and is outside the monetary policy implementation framework.

Euro area CCPs need to meet the relevant requirements set out in the TARGET Guideline to access the CCP credit facility. As part of these requirements, new safeguards are being introduced to ensure that only euro area CCPs that are financially sound and have sound liquidity risk management may access the CCP credit facility. In case of non-compliance with these safeguards, the ECB Governing Council may decide on discretionary measures on the grounds of prudence. The interest rate applicable to borrowings under the CCP credit facility will be the ECB marginal lending facility rate. The maturity of the facility will be overnight, with the possibility of rolling over across business days. Collateralisation requirements will continue to apply in line with the current provisions of the TARGET Guideline.

The aforementioned decision of the Governing Council concludes a review of the CCP credit facility by the Eurosystem central banks that has been conducted over the past years. The changes to the CCP credit facility will come into effect through an amendment to the TARGET Guideline and the adoption of further legal acts dedicated to the aforementioned safeguards, the assessments underpinning those safeguards and related discretionary measures of the Eurosystem on the grounds of prudence. The application date of all related legal acts is foreseen for the fourth quarter of 2025. Once formally adopted, the relevant legal acts will be published.

For media queries, please contact Alessandro Speciale, tel.: +49 172 1670791

Notes
MIL OSI Europe News –
May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Visit the EU institutions to celebrate Europe Day!

Source: European Union 2

The Schuman Declaration laid the foundations for the European Union and paved the way for an unprecedented era of prosperity, peace, democracy, solidarity and cooperation in Europe.

To mark the occasion, many events will take place in EU Member States and around the world, bringing together citizens from all walks of life. The EU institutions will open their doors and invite citizens to visit their premises, discover their work and engage in a wide range of educational and entertaining activities.

Landmark buildings and monuments across the globe will be illuminated in the EU colours, while a special Europe Day programme is planned for Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.

In times of global uncertainty, Europe remains an anchor of stability – a place of opportunity and protection for its citizens. The EU and its institutions are working towards the common goal of ensuring prosperity and competitiveness, guaranteeing our security and defence, while upholding the fundamental values Europeans care about.

European Parliament

On 4 May, citizens of all ages will be able to attend the official Europe Day opening ceremony and take a seat in the hemicycle of the European Parliament in Strasbourg. The ceremony will begin with a video message from President Roberta Metsola, followed by a speech from Vice-President Younous Omarjee, and a musical performance by the Voix de Stras’ ensemble. Through various exhibits and interactive activities, visitors will learn how the Parliament works, how laws are made, and why European politics matters. Visitors will also be able to visit the “Changemakers” exhibition. On 10 May, the public will once again be given the chance to discover European democracy in action at the Parliament’s hemicycle in Brussels, with day-long activities emphasising the importance of citizen participation. In Luxembourg, special activities will mark the first anniversary of the Visitors’ Centre on 9 May, including the recently inaugurated Europa Experience. The following day, a rich cultural programme is planned in the Echternach Abbey courtyard. Full programme and events organised in the 27 EU countries.

European Council/Council of the European Union

On 10 May, the Council of the European Union will also open its doors, granting citizens an opportunity to follow in EU leaders’ footsteps. Guided tours throughout the day will offer visitors a rare look at where important European decisions are made. Each of the 27 Member States will host a stand, showcasing their culture, traditions, culinary specialties and more. Younger visitors can also expect tailor-made activities, including a treasure hunt and a “fun fact” quest designed specifically for kids. In honour of the Council’s 50th anniversary, the public will even be able to travel back in time and take a selfie with the leaders of 1974.

European Commission

On 10 May, citizens will also have the opportunity to visit the Commission’s iconic Berlaymont building in Brussels. Here, they will have the chance to learn about the Commission’s role and priorities, engage in series of activities, and find out more about initiatives and concrete benefits for their daily lives. Among others, visitors will have an opportunity to learn about the Commission’s efforts to boost European competitiveness both, promote social cohesion, protect democracy and protect fundamental rights, at home and abroad.

European Central Bank

As part of its Europe Day celebrations on 10 May, the European Central Bank (ECB) will bring the vibrant spirit of Europe to its hometown, Frankfurt am Main, by participating in the city’s Europa-Fest. Visitors will find the ECB at the “European Marketplace” on the Römerberg plaza, alongside Frankfurt-based European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority and the Authority for Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism. In such a special year, celebrating 40 years of Schengen and the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, many themed activities have been organised, with the ECB even planning a lightshow, to be projected onto the west wing of the city’s Grossmarkthalle. In Brussels, the ECB will also host its own stand at the Commission’s Europe Day event.

European Investment Bank

The European Investment Bank (EIB) Group will welcome visitors to its stand at the Council of the European Union’s Justus Lipsius building as part of its Open Day on 10 May in Brussels. EIB Group staff will inform visitors of how its financing and advisory services improve lives and advance EU policy goals. This includes anything from innovation, security and defence to social and territorial cohesion, and the transition towards a net-zero economy. The stand itself will be enhanced by various activities and media, such as quizzes, games and audiovisual material showcasing EIB-financed projects.

European Court of Auditors

On 10 May, as part of the Europe Day celebrations in Echternach, EU auditors will host a series of interactive and engaging activities at the European Court of Auditors’ premises. Among other things, visitors will have the chance to partake in an engaging quiz to test their audit skills. Families and people of all ages are welcome to discover how the European Court of Auditors, the guardian of the EU’s finances, helps protect EU citizens’ money.

European External Action Service

The European External Action Service (EEAS) will open its doors to the public on 10 May for its “Travel the World in a Day“. Travel the World in a Day” event. Visitors to the EU’s diplomatic headquarters in Brussels will be given an opportunity to learn about the work of the EEAS and its 144 delegations and offices worldwide. Through interactive exhibits and activities, visitors will discover the EU’s role as a global leader and reliable partner for prosperity, peace, security, multilateralism, democracy, and a rules-based order. The event will also include a digital booth to help explore the EU pavilion at Expo 2025 in Japan, as well as live dance performances, workshops and family-friendly activities that celebrate global diversity.

European Economic and Social Committee

This year, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) will also host a special celebration of the Schuman Declaration’s 75th anniversary. To honour this seminal text, the EESC – the house of European organised civil society – is putting together a range of activities on its premises, through which it will inform and engage with citizens, while offering insights into its various Sections’ and Groups’ advisory work. The day itself will offer entertainment for all, with a real-time voting simulation allowing visitors to step into EESC members’ shoes and discover the process for themselves.

European Committee of the Regions

On 10 May, the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) – ideally located between the European Parliament and Council in Brussels – will open its doors to the public as well, showcasing how it represents regions and cities in the EU, and everything that regional and local elected politicians do for citizens. Visitors will learn how their region voices its interests in the EU, and they will have the chance to meet local and regional elected politicians and discuss European issues in a direct, informal atmosphere. The traditional Festival of Regions and Cities will treat visitors to a showcase of their preferred tourist spots, traditional music and dance, and various culinary specialties.

Background

Europe Day held on 9 May every year celebrates peace and unity in Europe. The date marks the anniversary of the ‘Schuman declaration’, a historic proposal made by Robert Schuman, French Foreign Minister, in 1950 that laid out the foundation of European cooperation. Schuman’s proposal is considered to be the beginning of what is now the European Union.

In 2025, Europe Day is a special occasion, as we are celebrating 75 years since the Schuman declaration. To learn more about each institution’s programme, visit the Europe Day 2025 website.

MIL OSI Europe News –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: The EBA consults on draft amending technical standards on factors assessing the appropriateness of real estate risk weights

Source: European Banking Authority

The European Banking Authority (EBA) today launched a public consultation on its draft amending Regulatory Technical Standards (RTS) on the types of factors to be considered by national authorities in assessing the appropriateness of real estate risk weights. This review is driven by the revised Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR 3), which confers a new mandate onto the EBA. The consultation runs until 30 May 2025.

Based on the assessment of the CRR3 changes to the treatment of exposures secured by immovable property, the only proposed amendment to the existing RTS consists in updating the relevant legal references to align with the new banking framework.

It is important to note that the original RTS were delivered jointly with another set of technical standards on the appropriateness of the minimum loss given default (LGD) values for retail exposures secured by immovable property. For the sake of simplification and regulatory consistency, the EBA is, therefore, proposing to align both RTS with the CRR3.

Given the narrow scope of the amendments to the RTS, the EBA will run this consultation over only month.

Consultation process

Responses to this consultation can be sent to the EBA by clicking on the “send your comments” button on the consultation page. Please note that the deadline for the submission of comments is 30 May 2025.

A public hearing will take place via conference call on Tuesday 13 May from 14:00 to 15:00 CEST. The deadline for registration is the 9 May 2025, 16:00 CEST.

All contributions received will be published after the consultation closes, unless requested otherwise.

Legal basis and next steps

These draft RTS have been developed according to Article 124(11) of Regulation (EU) 2024/1623 (CRR3), which mandates the EBA, in close cooperation with the European Systemic Risk Board, to develop draft RTS to specify the types of factors to be considered for the assessment of the appropriateness of the risk weights referred to in article 124(11).

MIL OSI Europe News –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: BATON ROUGE MAN SENTENCED TO 151 MONTHS IN FEDERAL PRISON FOR BANK ROBBERY

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Acting United States Attorney April M. Leon announced that U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced Jonathan Wayne Lanaute, age 40, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to 151 months in federal prison following his conviction for bank robbery. The Court further sentenced Lanaute to serve three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered him to pay $20,000 in restitution.

According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, on the morning of May 3, 2024, Lanaute entered United Community Bank, located on Bluebonnet Boulevard in Baton Rouge, and stated that he needed to cash a check. He approached a counter and passed a handwritten note to the bank teller which stated, “give me all the money in the cash resgister [sic] before everybody die in here.” The teller, fearful of bodily harm, directed the bank’s computer to begin dispensing $100 bills. While waiting for the bills to be dispensed, Lanaute was fidgeting in his sweatshirt pockets as if he had a firearm. He told the teller to “hurry up, hurry up,” and not to make any moves.

The machine dispensed fifty $100 bills at a time and ran through four (4) cycles. When complete, Lanaute took the money from the teller and walked towards the bank to leave. Before exiting the building, he heard the machine continuing to dispense money and he returned to the teller counter to retrieve the additional bills before finally exiting the building with $20,000.

Law enforcement was dispatched to the scene and retrieved video footage from the bank’s surveillance system. The surveillance footage showed Lanaute entering the bank wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt and a black Saints baseball cap, and ultimately fleeing the scene in a dark colored sedan with a spoiler on the rear of the vehicle. Law enforcement identified the vehicle as a dark grey Mitsubishi Lancer which had been reported stolen during an armed robbery near the bank the previous night.

The vehicle was identified around the immediate area of United Community Bank and law enforcement visually confirmed the driver to be the same individual identified as the robber from the bank’s video surveillance. Officers attempted a traffic stop of the vehicle. Lanaute refused to stop and a vehicle pursuit ensued. During the pursuit, he drove the vehicle into ongoing traffic, ran another motorist off the road, and drove in the wrong direction on the interstate. The pursuit of the vehicle ended when the driver crashed head-on into an innocent motorist on the interstate.

After the crash, Lanaute fled on foot. Following a short foot pursuit, he was apprehended and taken into custody. Lanaute was wearing the same clothing as seen in the bank’s video surveillance. Approximately $8,207.89 was recovered from his person.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Baton Rouge Police Department, and the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristen Lundin Craig.

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Banking: Large Yacht Corporation Limited

Source: Isle of Man

Published on: 30 April 2025

Notice is hereby given that Large Yacht Corporation Limited, which was registered under the Designated Businesses (Registration & Oversight) Act 2015, has been de-registered in accordance with 12(1)(a) of this Act with effect from 30/04/2025.

MIL OSI Global Banks –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI: AB Šiaulių bankas new share buyback program approved

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

On April 30, 2025, the Management Board of AB Šiaulių bankas (the Bank), implementing the decision of the Bank’s ordinary general meeting of shareholders of March 31, 2025, decided to approve the Bank’s share (ISIN code LT0000102253) buyback program, the sole purpose of which is to reduce the Bank’s capital.

The shares will be purchased by the Bank by placing orders on the Nasdaq Vilnius regulated market under the following conditions and schedule:

·         the maximum purchase price per share shall not exceed the higher of the following prices:

o   the last independent trading price and

o   the highest independent bid price for a specific transaction on the trading venue where the shares are acquired (Nasdaq Vilnius).

·         Start of share buyback: May 5, 2025.

·         End of share buyback: June 27, 2025.

· Share purchase schedule – up to 100,000 shares on each trading day of the regulated market.

·         Maximum number of shares to be purchased during the program – 2,652,251 shares.

“Our commitment to our shareholders is to ensure a return of at least 20%, and we are continuing our active efforts to achieve this goal. We have again chosen to implement a share buyback program on the open market, as this method together increases the liquidity of the shares on the stock exchange,” says Tomas Varenbergas, Member of the Bank’s Management Board and Head of the Investment Management Division.

On the first business day of each calendar week, the Bank will publish information on the transactions carried out during the previous calendar week.

This share buyback program will be carried out in accordance with the “safe harbor” requirements set out in Article 5 of Regulation (EU) No. 596/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council on market abuse, Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No. 2016/1052 of the European Commission supplementing Regulation (EU) No. 596/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to regulatory technical standards on conditions for buy-back programs and stabilization measures, Articles 2-4, and other applicable legal provisions.

On August 15, 2024, the Bank received permission from the European Central Bank (ECB) to repurchase up to 13,745,114 of its own shares, of which the Bank has already acquired 11,092,863.

Additional information:

Tomas Varenbergas

Head of Investment Management

tomas.varenbergas@sb.lt, +370 610 44447

The MIL Network –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI: DelNorte Partners with Brazilian Government to Launch Landmark Data Tokenization Project and Release DTV Token

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Miami, FL, April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a transformative step toward modernizing public data management, DelNorte has partnered with the government of Brazil to launch a pioneering data tokenization program in Rondônia. This initiative marks the official debut of the DTV Token, the core digital asset powering DelNorte’s Terra Vision ecosystem — a blockchain-based CRM platform with full government endorsement for digitizing, tokenizing, and securing all government data and transactions. With deployments already active in Mexico, Honduras, and El Salvador, DelNorte is the only tokenization customer relationship management platform operating across four Latin American nations, supported by blockchain networks like Ethereum, NEAR, Polygon, and Partisia, and backed by collaborators including Coldwell Banker, Novotel, Valkary, and Farcana.

“This is real, working technology addressing trillion-dollar challenges,” says Anton Glotser, Co- Founder & CEO. “We’re not just imagining a future of secure, automated government data — we’re building it, hand-in-hand with governments ready for change.”

_{Anton Glotser – Founder & CEO of DelNorte}

The Vision:

Automating and Securing All Government Data. DelNorte’s mission is to digitize and tokenize all government data — from land titles to IDs, licenses, and public records — with a long-term goal of automating and securing every government transaction on the blockchain. By leveraging AI and blockchain, DelNorte’s Terra Vision platform ensures transparency, efficiency, and tamper-proof security, transforming how governments and citizens interact with critical data. This initiative empowers economic inclusion by turning undocumented assets and identities into verifiable, active capital.

The Founders Driving Change:

Anton Glotser, a serial entrepreneur with over 20 ventures, is the visionary behind Terra Vision. His focus is on creating infrastructure that revolutionizes government data management and unlocks economic opportunities for billions.

Jud Ireland, Co-Founder, brings expertise in real estate and a passion for solving global challenges. “Over 70% of critical assets, like land, lack formal documentation,” Ireland explains. “We’re changing that by digitizing and securing all government data, creating pathways to economic empowerment.”

_{Anton Glotser and Jud Ireland – Founders of DelNorte}

What Is the DTV Token?
The DTV Token is the utility backbone of the Terra Vision platform, enabling: • Secure payments for access to digitized government records
• Staking to enhance network security
• Governance participation in platform evolution
• Access to a digital government service hub (e.g., smart contracts for IDs, licenses, deeds, and more)

Key Details:
•⁠ ⁠Token Launch: April 30, 2025
•⁠ ⁠Where to Buy: Multiple launchpads — see pinned post at x.com/delnorte_io
•⁠ ⁠Also Listed On: MEXC
•⁠ ⁠Use Cases: Identity verification, secure data transfers, staking, governance, and access to certified digital records

In a transformative step toward modernizing public data management, DelNorte has partnered with the government of Brazil to launch a pioneering data tokenization program in Rondônia. This initiative marks the official debut of the DTV Token, the core digital asset powering DelNorte’s Terra Vision ecosystem — a blockchain-based CRM platform with full government endorsement for digitizing, tokenizing, and securing all government data and transactions.

The DTV Token will be available through multiple launchpads (details in the pinned post at x.com/delnorte_io) and is officially listed on MEXC, making it accessible to a global audience ready to participate in a new era of trusted digital infrastructure.

Global Expansion:
With Brazil now onboard, DelNorte is scaling its government-backed programs across Colombia, Costa Rica, Panama, Argentina, Ireland, Guatemala, Cyprus, the Philippines, and beyond. Each partnership advances the shift toward secure, digitized, and automated public data systems.

About DelNorte:
DelNorte is a blockchain infrastructure company dedicated to closing legal, economic, and technological gaps worldwide. Founded by Anton Glotser and Jud Ireland, DelNorte builds certified systems to securely digitize and tokenize government data, enabling billions to participate in the global economy.

Learn More & Join the Movement:
• Website: https://delnorte.io
• Linktree: linktr.ee/DTVT
• X: @delnorte_io | Telegram: t.me/Delnorte_io | Demo: demo.delnorte.io • Press Contact: Rocio Botero | info@latinolive.net

Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.

The MIL Network –

May 1, 2025

MIL-OSI: Alpine Banks of Colorado announces financial results for first quarter 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colo., April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alpine Banks of Colorado (OTCQX: ALPIB) (“Alpine” or the “Company”), the holding company for Alpine Bank (the “Bank”), today announced results (unaudited) for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025. The Company reported net income of $14.3 million, or $133.99 per basic Class A common share and $0.89 per basic Class B common share, for first quarter 2025.

Highlights in first quarter 2025 include:

Basic earnings per Class A common share increased 3.9%, or $5.07, during first quarter 2025.
Basic earnings per Class A common share increased 36.3%, or $35.67, compared to first quarter 2024.
Basic earnings per Class B common share increased 3.9%, or $0.03, during first quarter 2025.
Basic earnings per Class B common share increased 36.3%, or $0.23, compared to first quarter 2024.
Net interest margin for first quarter 2025 was 3.38%, compared to 3.18% in fourth quarter 2024, and 2.81% in first quarter 2024.

“We are pleased with the start to 2025 as shown in our first quarter 2025 financial performance,” said Glen Jammaron, Alpine Banks of Colorado President and Vice Chairman. “Customer deposit growth continued, led by a strong winter season in our resort markets. Additionally, we saw our loan portfolio totals begin growing again following a slow 2024. Net income increased 35% from the first quarter 2024. During first quarter 2025 we launched Mission Possible: Operation Streamline, our initiative to simplify and streamline operations. We anticipate modules of Mission Possible: Operation Streamline to continue through 2027.”

Net Income

Net income for first quarter 2025 and fourth quarter 2024 was $14.3 million and $13.8 million, respectively. Interest income decreased $0.7 million in first quarter 2025 compared to fourth quarter 2024, primarily due to decreases in yields on balances due from banks, decreased volume in the securities portfolio and two fewer days in the quarter. These decreases were slightly offset by increases in yields on the loan and securities portfolios and increases in volume in the loan portfolio and balances due from banks. Interest expense decreased $3.2 million in first quarter 2025 compared to fourth quarter 2024, primarily due to decreases in costs on the Company’s trust preferred securities, other borrowings, and cost of deposits. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in volume of deposits. Noninterest income decreased $0.8 million in first quarter 2025 compared to fourth quarter 2024, primarily due to decreases in earnings on bank‐owned life insurance and service charges on deposit accounts, partially offset by increases in other income. Noninterest expense increased $0.8 million in first quarter 2025 compared to fourth quarter 2024, due to increases in salary and employee benefit expenses and occupancy expenses, slightly offset by decreases in furniture and fixture expenses and other expenses. A provision for loan losses of $1.8 million was recorded in first quarter 2025 compared to a $1.5 million provision for loan losses recorded in the fourth quarter 2024.

Net income for the three months ended March 31, 2025, and March 31, 2024, was $14.3 million and $10.6 million, respectively. Interest income increased $3.2 million in first quarter 2025 compared to first quarter 2024, primarily due to increases in volume in the loan portfolio and balances due from banks, along with increases in yields on the loan portfolio, the securities portfolio, and balances due from banks. These increases were slightly offset by a decrease in volume in the securities portfolio and a decrease in yield on the balances due from banks. Interest expense decreased $4.9 million in first quarter 2025 compared to first quarter 2024, primarily due to decreases in costs on the Company’s trust preferred securities, other borrowings, and cost of deposits. These decreases were partially offset by an increase in the volume of deposit balances. Noninterest income increased $1.1 million in 2025 compared to 2024, primarily due to increases in earnings on bankowned life insurance, service charges on deposit accounts, and other income. Noninterest expense increased $2.2 million in 2025 compared to 2024, due to increases in other expenses, salary and employee benefit expenses, and occupancy expenses, partially offset a decrease in furniture and fixtures expenses, Provision for loan losses increased $2.5 million in the three months ended March 31, 2025 due to loan portfolio increases and a small volume of loan charge‐offs, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2024.

Net interest margin increased from 3.18% to 3.38% from fourth quarter 2024 to first quarter 2025. Net interest margin for the three months ended March 31, 2025, and March 31, 2024, was 3.38% and 2.81%, respectively.

Assets

Total assets increased $139.7 million, or 2.1%, to $6.64 billion as of March 31, 2025, compared to December 31, 2024, primarily due to increased cash and due from banks and loans receivable partially offset by decreased investment securities balances. The Alpine Bank Wealth Management* division had assets under management of $1.32 billion on March 31, 2025, compared to $1.37 billion on December 31, 2024, a decrease of 3.8%.

Loans

Loans outstanding as of March 31, 2025, totaled $4.1 billion. The loan portfolio increased $66.0 million, or 1.6%, during first quarter 2025 compared to December 31, 2024. This increase was driven by a $48.6 million increase in real estate construction loans, a $22.3 million increase in commercial real estate loans and a $1.7 million increase in consumer loans. This increase was slightly offset by a $3.4 million decrease in residential real estate loans and a $3.1 million decrease in commercial and industrial loans.

Loans outstanding as of March 31, 2025, reflected an increase of $96.5 million, or 2.4%, compared to loans outstanding of $4.0 billion on March 31, 2024. This growth was driven by a $63.4 million increase in commercial real estate loans, a $30.4 million increase in real estate construction loans and a $7.8 million increase in consumer loans. This increase was slightly offset by a $3.4 million decrease in commercial and industrial loans and a $2.0 million decrease in residential real estate loans.

Deposits

Total deposits increased $118.0 million, or 2.0%, to $5.9 billion during first quarter 2025 compared to December 31, 2024, primarily due to a $104.5 million increase in money market accounts, a $74.2 million increase in demand deposits, a $27.2 million increase in interest‐bearing checking accounts, and a $1.9 million increase in savings accounts. This increase was partially offset by a $89.8 million decrease in certificate of deposit accounts. Brokered certificates of deposit decreased 24.5% to $185.0 million on March 31, 2025, compared to $245.0 million on December 31, 2024. Noninterest‐bearing demand accounts comprised 30.8% of all deposits on March 31, 2025, compared to 30.2% on December 31, 2024.

Total deposits of $5.94 billion on March 31, 2025, reflected an increase of $27.0 million, or 0.5%, compared to total deposits of $5.91 billion on March 31, 2024. This increase was due to a $278.1 million increase in money market accounts, a $26.8 million increase in demand deposits and a $10.2 million increase in interest‐bearing checking accounts. This increase was partially offset by a $275.6 million decrease in certificate of deposit accounts and a $12.5 million decrease in savings accounts. Brokered certificates of deposit decreased 60.7% to $185.0 million on March 31, 2025, compared to $470.7 million on March 31, 2024. Noninterest‐bearing demand accounts comprised 30.8% of all deposits on March 31, 2025, compared to 30.5% on March 31, 2024.

Capital

The Bank continues to be designated as a “well capitalized” institution as its capital ratios exceed the minimum requirements for this designation. As of March 31, 2025, the Bank’s Tier 1 Leverage Ratio was 9.76%, Tier 1 Risk‐Based Capital Ratio was 14.13%, and Total Risk‐Based Capital Ratio was 15.28%. On a consolidated basis, the Company’s Tier 1 Leverage Ratio was 9.46%, Tier 1 Risk‐Based Capital Ratio was 13.69%, and Total Risk‐Based Capital Ratio was 15.92% as of March 31, 2025.

Book value per share on March 31, 2025, was $4,940.82 per Class A common share and $32.94 per Class B common share, an increase of $204.63 per Class A common share and $1.37 per Class B common share from December 31, 2024.

Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation

On April 10, 2025, the shareholders of Alpine approved amended and restated articles of incorporation to affect the following actions, among other things:

Increase from 15,100,000 to 30,000,000 the total authorized shares of common stock that the Company is authorized to issue;
Increase from 100,000 to 15,000,000 the authorized shares of the Class A common stock;
Effect a forward stock split of the outstanding shares of the Class A common stock by a ratio of 150‐for‐one;
Provide that holders of Class A common stock and Class B common stock shall be entitled to share equally, on a per share basis based upon the number of shares issued and outstanding, in dividends and other distributions;
Provide that each one share of Class B common stock shall be entitled to one vote;
Provide that each one share of Class A common stock shall be entitled to twenty votes;
Provide that unless otherwise required by law the Class A common stock and Class B common stock will vote together as a single class on all matters, including the election of directors;
Provide that a majority of the total voting power of the outstanding shares of common stock entitled to vote shall constitute a quorum at any meeting of shareholders; and
Provide that the approval of certain corporate actions requires the approval of more than 66 2/3% of the voting power of the outstanding shares of common stock entitled to vote.

Alpine anticipates that the amended and restated articles of incorporation and related stock split of the Class A common stock will become effective on May 1, 2025.

Additional information can be found in the proxy materials for our 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders at www.alpinebank.com/who‐we‐are/investor‐relations.html.

Dividends

During first quarter 2025, the Company paid cash dividends of $31.50 per Class A common share and $0.21 per Class B common share. On April 10, 2025, the Company declared cash dividends of $31.50 per Class A common share and $0.21 per Class B common share payable on April 28, 2025, to shareholders of record on April 21, 2025.

About Alpine Banks of Colorado

Alpine Banks of Colorado, is a $6.7 billion, independent, employee‐owned organization founded in 1973 with headquarters in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Alpine Bank employs 890 people and serves 170,000 customers with personal, business, wealth management*, mortgage, and electronic banking services across Colorado’s Western Slope, mountains and Front Range. Alpine Bank has a five‐star rating – meaning it has earned a superior performance classification – from BauerFinancial, an independent organization that analyzes and rates the performance of financial institutions in the United States. Shares of the Class B non‐voting common stock of Alpine Banks of Colorado trade under the symbol “ALPIB” on the OTCQX® Best Market. Learn more at www.alpinebank.com.

*Alpine Bank Wealth Management services are not FDIC insured, may lose value, and are not guaranteed by the Bank.

Contacts:	Glen Jammaron	Eric A. Gardey
	President and Vice Chairman	Chief Financial Officer
	Alpine Banks of Colorado	Alpine Banks of Colorado
	2200 Grand Avenue	2200 Grand Avenue
	Glenwood Springs, CO 81601	Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
	(970) 384‐3266	(970) 384‐3257

A note about forward‐looking statements

This press release contains “forward‐looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward‐looking statements can be identified by words such as “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “seeks,” “reflects,” “believes,” “can,” “would,” “should,” “will,” “estimates,” “looks forward to,” “continues,” “expects” and similar references to future periods. Examples of forward‐looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements we make regarding our evaluation of macro‐environment risks, Federal Reserve rate management, and trends reflecting things such as regulatory capital standards and adequacy. Forward‐looking statements are based on our current expectations and assumptions regarding our business, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward‐looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward‐looking statements. We caution you therefore against relying on any of these forward‐looking statements. They are neither statements of historical fact nor guarantees or assurances of future performance. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward‐looking statement include, but are not limited to:

The ability to attract new deposits and loans;
Demand for financial services in our market areas;
Competitive market‐pricing factors;
Changes in assumptions underlying the establishment of allowances for loan losses and other estimates;
Effects of future economic, business and market conditions, including higher inflation;
Adverse effects of public health events, such as the COVID‐19 pandemic, including governmental and societal responses;
Deterioration in economic conditions that could result in increased loan losses;
Actions by competitors and other market participants that could have an adverse impact on expected performance;
Risks associated with concentrations in real estate‐related loans;
Risks inherent in making loans, such as repayment risks and fluctuating collateral values;
Market interest rate volatility, including changes to the federal funds rate;
Stability of funding sources and continued availability of borrowings;
Geopolitical events, including global tariffs, acts of war, international hostilities and terrorist activities;
Assumptions and estimates used in applying critical accounting policies and modeling, including under the CECL model, which may prove unreliable, inaccurate, or not predictive of actual results;
Actions of government regulators, including potential future changes in the target range for the federal funds rate by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve;
Sale of investment securities in a loss position before their value recovers, including as a result of asset liability management strategies or in response to liquidity needs;
Any increases in FDIC assessments;
Risks associated with potential cybersecurity incidents, data breaches or failures of key information technology systems;
The ability to maintain adequate liquidity and regulatory capital, and comply with evolving federal and state banking regulations;
Changes in legal or regulatory requirements or the results of regulatory examinations that could restrict growth;
The ability to recruit and retain key management and staff;
The ability to raise capital or incur debt on reasonable terms; and
Effectiveness of legislation and regulatory efforts to help the U.S. and global financial markets.

There are many factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by forward‐looking statements. Any forward‐looking statement made by us in this press release or in any subsequent written or oral statements attributable to the Company are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements above. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to update any forward‐looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

https://alpinebank.kcmspreview.com/_/kcms-doc/1507/91579/Alpine-Banks-of-Colorado-Consolidated-Financial-Statements-3.31.25.pdf

Contact:	Eric A. Gardey, Chief Financial Officer
	Alpine Banks of Colorado
	(970) 384‐3257
	ericgardey@alpinebank.com

The MIL Network –

May 1, 2025

MIL-OSI: Red River Bancshares, Inc. Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

ALEXANDRIA, La., April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Red River Bancshares, Inc. (the “Company”) (Nasdaq: RRBI), the holding company for Red River Bank (the “Bank”), announced today its unaudited financial results for the first quarter of 2025.

Net income for the first quarter of 2025 was $10.4 million, or $1.52 per diluted common share (“EPS”), an increase of $1.0 million, or 11.2%, compared to $9.3 million, or $1.37 EPS, for the fourth quarter of 2024, and an increase of $2.2 million, or 26.4%, compared to $8.2 million, or $1.16 EPS, for the first quarter of 2024. For the first quarter of 2025, the quarterly return on assets was 1.32%, and the quarterly return on equity was 12.85%.

First Quarter 2025 Performance and Operational Highlights

The Company had solid financial results for the first quarter of 2025. The net interest margin, net interest income, and net income increased. The balance sheet reflects good loan growth, while deposits and assets had slight increases. We increased the quarterly cash dividend paid to shareholders by 33.3% to $0.12 per share for the first quarter of 2025. Also, in the first quarter, we completed significant upgrades to our digital banking systems.

Net income for the first quarter of 2025 was $10.4 million, which was $1.0 million, or 11.2%, higher than the prior quarter. Net income for the first quarter increased due to having higher net interest income, along with approximately $620,000 of periodic items that reduced operating expenses. These operating expense reductions benefited EPS by approximately $0.07.
Net interest income and net interest margin FTE increased for the first quarter of 2025 compared to the prior quarter. Net interest income for the first quarter of 2025 was $24.6 million, which was $923,000, or 3.9%, higher than the prior quarter. Net interest margin FTE increased 13 basis points (“bp(s)”) to 3.22% for the first quarter of 2025, compared to 3.09% for the prior quarter. These improvements resulted from higher securities yields and lower deposit rates.
As of March 31, 2025, assets were $3.19 billion, which was $36.8 million, or 1.2%, higher than December 31, 2024. The increase was mainly due to a $20.6 million increase in deposits.
Deposits totaled $2.83 billion as of March 31, 2025, an increase of $20.6 million, or 0.7%, compared to $2.81 billion as of December 31, 2024. This increase was mainly due to higher balances in consumer and commercial customer deposit accounts, partially offset by the seasonal outflow of funds from public entity customers.
As of March 31, 2025, loans held for investment (“HFI”) were $2.11 billion, which was $39.7 million, or 1.9%, higher than $2.08 billion as of December 31, 2024. In the first quarter of 2025, we had steady new loan closing activity, combined with funding of loan construction commitments.
As of March 31, 2025, total securities were $699.5 million, which was $14.7 million, or 2.1%, higher than December 31, 2024. Securities increased mainly due to the purchase of new securities, combined with a smaller net unrealized loss on securities available-for-sale (“AFS”).
As of March 31, 2025, liquid assets, which are cash and cash equivalents, were $252.2 million, and the liquid assets to assets ratio was 7.91%. We do not have any borrowings, brokered deposits, or internet-sourced deposits.
The provision for credit losses was $450,000 for the first quarter of 2025, compared to $300,000 for the prior quarter. The $150,000 increase was due to loan growth and uncertainty regarding tariffs and trade.
As of March 31, 2025, nonperforming assets (“NPA(s)”) were $5.2 million, or 0.16% of assets, and the allowance for credit losses (“ACL”) was $21.8 million, or 1.03% of loans HFI.
In the first quarter of 2025, the quarterly cash dividend increased by 33.3% to $0.12 per common share, up from $0.09 per common share for each quarter in 2024.
The 2025 stock repurchase program authorizes us to purchase up to $5.0 million of our outstanding shares of common stock from January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025. As of March 31, 2025, the 2025 stock repurchase program had $5.0 million of available capacity.
In the first quarter of 2025, Red River Bank’s online, mobile banking, and bill payment systems were upgraded in order to improve our digital services for all customers.
In the first quarter of 2025, S&P Global Market Intelligence ranked the Bank 14th of the top 50 best deposit franchises in 2024 for banks with assets between $3.0 and $10.0 billion.
On March 14, 2025, our board of directors and executive management had the privilege of ringing the closing bell at the Nasdaq Market Site in New York to commemorate being a public company for 6 years.

Blake Chatelain, President and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “We are pleased with the financial results for the first quarter of 2025. We produced solid net interest margin improvement, higher net income, and positive, relationship-based core loan growth. As a result of consistent earnings, strong capital levels, and confidence in our consistent and conservative banking culture, the board of directors approved a 33.3% increase to the quarterly cash dividend for the first quarter of 2025 to $0.12 per share.

“We continue to be very focused on net interest margin improvement and managing our cost of deposits, while also focusing on redeploying assets into higher yielding assets. In the first quarter of 2025, our net interest margin FTE increased by 13 bps, net interest income increased by 3.9%, and net income increased by 11.2%.

“We remain pleased with the level of our customer banking activity across Louisiana. We are focused on adding experienced relationship bankers and growing our presence in our newer markets. Recently there has been expanded emphasis and renewed efforts on economic development in Louisiana. This has resulted in various new and significant corporate expansion announcements for new projects throughout the state. Overall, as of March 31, 2025, our customers seem optimistic about economic activity and growth.

“Despite this optimism, as result of the April 2, 2025 announcements and changes to the United States tariff policy, we are assessing the possible impact to our customers and the Company. These changes have injected new uncertainty into the economic environment and could result in a slowdown in activity, higher inflation, and a loss of consumer confidence. We are monitoring this situation with our customers as these events unfold. We are hopeful that these policies will be settled quickly and with minimal, negative impact.

“Since the Company was founded in 1998, we have focused on having a consistent, conservative, and prudent banking philosophy and strategy. We remain focused on these principles, while also striving daily to build customer relationships, expand market share, and create value for our shareholders.”

Net Interest Income and Net Interest Margin FTE

Net interest income and net interest margin FTE increased in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the prior quarter. These measures were both primarily impacted by improved yields on securities and lower deposit rates. The Federal Open Market Committee (“FOMC”) decreased the federal funds rate by 50 bps in September of 2024, and by an additional 50 bps during the fourth quarter of 2024, and then kept the federal funds rate consistent in the first quarter of 2025.

Net interest income for the first quarter of 2025 was $24.6 million, which was $923,000, or 3.9%, higher than the fourth quarter of 2024, due to a $178,000 increase in interest and dividend income, combined with a $745,000 decrease in interest expense. The increase in interest and dividend income was mainly due to higher interest income on securities. Securities income increased $233,000, primarily due to reinvesting lower yielding securities cash flows into higher yielding securities. The decrease in interest expense was primarily due to lower rates on time deposits.

The net interest margin FTE increased 13 bps to 3.22% for the first quarter of 2025, compared to 3.09% for the prior quarter. This increase was due to improved yields on securities and loans, combined with lower deposit costs. The yield on securities increased 11 bps, primarily due to reinvesting lower yielding securities cash flows into higher yielding securities. The yield on loans increased 7 bps due to higher rates on new and renewed loans compared to the existing portfolio yield. The average rate on new and renewed loans was 7.02% for the first quarter of 2025 and 7.25% for the prior quarter. The cost of deposits decreased 10 bps to 1.61% for the first quarter of 2025, compared to 1.71% for the previous quarter, mainly due to lowering selected time deposit rates. As a result of this change, there was a 37 bp decrease on time deposits during the first quarter.

The FOMC kept the federal funds rate consistent in the first quarter of 2025, with the target federal funds range remaining at 4.25%-4.50%. The market’s expectation is that the FOMC may lower the target range of the federal funds rate several times in 2025. During the remainder of 2025, we anticipate receiving approximately $80.0 million in securities cash flows with an average yield of 3.28%, and we project approximately $162.2 million of fixed rate loans will mature with an average yield of 6.15%. We expect to redeploy these balances into slightly higher yielding assets. Additionally, during the second quarter of 2025, we expect $253.6 million of time deposits to mature with an average rate of 4.06%, which we anticipate repricing into slightly lower cost deposits. As of March 31, 2025, floating rate loans were 17.6% of loans HFI, and floating rate transaction deposits were 8.7% of interest-bearing transaction deposits. Depending on balance sheet activity, the movement in interest rates, and the economic outlook, we expect the net interest income and net interest margin FTE to remain fairly consistent for the remainder of 2025.

Provision for Credit Losses

The provision for credit losses for the first quarter of 2025 was $450,000 for loans, which was $150,000 higher than the provision for credit losses of $300,000 for the prior quarter. The increase in the first quarter of 2025 was related to loan growth in the quarter, combined with uncertainty regarding tariffs and trade. The provision in the fourth quarter of 2024, which included $200,000 for loans and $100,000 for unfunded loans commitments, was due to potential economic challenges resulting from the recent inflationary environment, changing monetary policy, and loan growth. We will continue to evaluate future provision needs in relation to current economic situations, loan growth, trends in asset quality, forecasted information, and other conditions influencing loss expectations.

Noninterest Income

Noninterest income totaled $5.3 million for the first quarter of 2025, an increase of $277,000, or 5.5%, compared to $5.0 million for the previous quarter. The increase was mainly due to higher brokerage income and a gain on equity securities, partially offset by lower mortgage loan income and Small Business Investment Company (“SBIC”) income.

Brokerage income was $1.3 million for the first quarter of 2025, an increase of $401,000, or 43.4%, compared to $924,000 for the previous quarter. The higher income in the first quarter of 2025 was due to increased investing activity by clients. Assets under management were $1.14 billion as of March 31, 2025.

Equity securities are an investment in a Community Reinvestment Act (“CRA”) mutual fund consisting primarily of bonds. The gain or loss on equity securities is a fair value adjustment primarily driven by changes in the interest rate environment. Due to the fluctuations in market rates between quarters, equity securities had a gain of $44,000 in the first quarter of 2025, compared to a loss of $91,000 for the previous quarter.

Mortgage loan income totaled $530,000 for the first quarter of 2025, a decrease of $122,000, or 18.7%, compared to $652,000 for the previous quarter due to decreased purchase activity.

SBIC income was $280,000 for the first quarter of 2025, a decrease of $66,000, or 19.1%, compared to $346,000 for the previous quarter. This decrease was primarily due to lower normal income received from these partnerships. We expect SBIC income to be lower in future quarters due to fund value fluctuations.

Operating Expenses

Operating expenses totaled $16.6 million for the first quarter of 2025, a decrease of $252,000, or 1.5%, compared to $16.8 million for the previous quarter. The decrease was mainly due to lower data processing expense and loan and deposit expense, partially offset by higher personnel expense.

Data processing expense totaled $288,000 for the first quarter of 2025, a decrease of $393,000, or 57.7%, compared to $681,000 for the previous quarter. The decrease was attributable to receipt of a $447,000 periodic refund from our data processing center in the first quarter of 2025. This decrease was partially offset by new expenses and $14,000 of nonrecurring implementation fees related to online, mobile banking, and bill payment systems implemented in the first quarter of 2025.

Loan and deposit expenses totaled $62,000 for the first quarter of 2025, a decrease of $272,000, or 81.4%, compared to $334,000 for the previous quarter. This decrease was primarily attributable to receipt of a $173,000 negotiated, variable rebate from a vendor in the first quarter of 2025.

Personnel expenses totaled $10.0 million for the first quarter of 2025, an increase of $254,000, or 2.6%, compared to the previous quarter. This increase was primarily due to an increase in head count, restarting of payroll tax expense, and increased revenue-based commission compensation. As of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, we had 375 and 369 total employees, respectively.

Asset Overview

As of March 31, 2025, assets were $3.19 billion, compared to assets of $3.15 billion as of December 31, 2024, an increase of $36.8 million, or 1.2%. In the first quarter, assets were mainly impacted by a $20.6 million, or 0.7%, increase in deposits. In the first quarter of 2024, liquid assets decreased $16.8 million, or 6.3%, to $252.2 million and averaged $275.9 million for the first quarter. As of March 31, 2025, we had sufficient liquid assets available and $1.66 billion accessible from other liquidity sources. The liquid assets to assets ratio was 7.91% as of March 31, 2025. Total securities increased $14.7 million, or 2.1%, to $699.5 million in the first quarter and were 22.0% of assets as of March 31, 2025. During the first quarter, loans HFI increased $39.7 million, or 1.9%, to $2.11 billion. The loans HFI to deposits ratio was 74.84% as of March 31, 2025, compared to 73.97% as of December 31, 2024.

Securities

Total securities as of March 31, 2025, were $699.5 million, an increase of $14.7 million, or 2.1%, from December 31, 2024. Securities increased mainly due to the purchase of new securities, combined with a smaller net unrealized loss on securities AFS.

The estimated fair value of securities AFS totaled $566.9 million, net of $58.7 million of unrealized loss, as of March 31, 2025, compared to $550.1 million, net of $63.2 million of unrealized loss, as of December 31, 2024. As of March 31, 2025, the amortized cost of securities held-to-maturity (“HTM”) totaled $129.7 million compared to $131.8 million as of December 31, 2024. As of March 31, 2025, securities HTM had an unrealized loss of $21.8 million compared to $22.8 million as of December 31, 2024.

As of March 31, 2025, equity securities, which is an investment in a CRA mutual fund consisting primarily of bonds, totaled $3.0 million compared to $2.9 million as of December 31, 2024.

Loans

Loans HFI as of March 31, 2025, were $2.11 billion, an increase of $39.7 million, or 1.9%, from $2.08 billion as of December 31, 2024. In the first quarter of 2025, we had steady new loan closing activity, combined with funding of loan construction commitments.

Loans HFI by Category
	March 31, 2025				December 31, 2024				Change from December 31, 2024 to March 31, 2025
(dollars in thousands)	Amount		Percent		Amount		Percent		$ Change			% Change
Real estate:
Commercial real estate	$	892,205	42.2	%	$	884,641	42.6	%	$	7,564		0.9	%
One-to-four family residential		617,679	29.2	%		614,551	29.6	%		3,128		0.5	%
Construction and development		175,575	8.3	%		155,229	7.5	%		20,346		13.1	%
Commercial and industrial		339,115	16.0	%		327,086	15.8	%		12,029		3.7	%
Tax-exempt		61,722	2.9	%		64,930	3.1	%		(3,208	)	(4.9	%)
Consumer		28,446	1.4	%		28,576	1.4	%		(130	)	(0.5	%)
Total loans HFI	$	2,114,742	100.0	%	$	2,075,013	100.0	%	$	39,729		1.9	%

Commercial real estate (“CRE”) loans are collateralized by owner occupied and non-owner occupied properties mainly in Louisiana. Non-owner occupied office loans were $54.2 million, or 2.6% of loans HFI, as of March 31, 2025, and are primarily centered in low-rise suburban areas. The average CRE loan size was $970,000 as of March 31, 2025.

Health care loans are our largest industry concentration and are made up of a diversified portfolio of health care providers. As of March 31, 2025, total health care loans were 8.0% of loans HFI. Within the health care sector, loans to nursing and residential care facilities were 4.2% of loans HFI, and loans to physician and dental practices were 3.4% of loans HFI. The average health care loan size was $370,000 as of March 31, 2025.

Asset Quality and Allowance for Credit Losses

NPAs totaled $5.2 million as of March 31, 2025, an increase of $1.9 million, or 58.6%, from December 31, 2024. The increase was primarily due to a past due loan, partially offset by payoffs and charge-offs of nonaccrual loans. As of early April 2025, the past due loan was brought current by the customer, and NPAs were further reduced by receiving principal payments on two legacy nonaccrual loans. The ratio of NPAs to assets was 0.16% and 0.10% as of March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively.

As of March 31, 2025, the ACL was $21.8 million. The ratio of ACL to loans HFI was 1.03% as of March 31, 2025 and 1.05% as of December 31, 2024. The net charge-offs to average loans ratio was 0.02% for the first quarter of 2025 and 0.01% for the fourth quarter of 2024.

Deposits

As of March 31, 2025, deposits were $2.83 billion, an increase of $20.6 million, or 0.7%, compared to December 31, 2024. Average deposits for the first quarter of 2025 were $2.82 billion, an increase of $36.2 million, or 1.3%, from the prior quarter. The following tables provide details on our deposit portfolio:

Deposits by Account Type
	March 31, 2025				December 31, 2024				Change from December 31, 2024 to March 31, 2025
(dollars in thousands)	Balance		% of Total		Balance		% of Total		$ Change			% Change
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits	$	906,540	32.1	%	$	866,496	30.9	%	$	40,044		4.6	%
Interest-bearing deposits:
Interest-bearing demand deposits		147,343	5.2	%		154,720	5.5	%		(7,377	)	(4.8	%)
NOW accounts		432,054	15.3	%		467,118	16.7	%		(35,064	)	(7.5	%)
Money market accounts		569,613	20.2	%		556,769	19.8	%		12,844		2.3	%
Savings accounts		175,239	6.2	%		169,894	6.1	%		5,345		3.1	%
Time deposits less than or equal to $250,000		403,354	14.2	%		403,096	14.3	%		258		0.1	%
Time deposits greater than $250,000		191,533	6.8	%		187,013	6.7	%		4,520		2.4	%
Total interest-bearing deposits		1,919,136	67.9	%		1,938,610	69.1	%		(19,474	)	(1.0	%)
Total deposits	$	2,825,676	100.0	%	$	2,805,106	100.0	%	$	20,570		0.7	%

Deposits by Customer Type
	March 31, 2025				December 31, 2024				Change from December 31, 2024 to March 31, 2025
(dollars in thousands)	Balance		% of Total		Balance		% of Total		$ Change			% Change
Consumer	$	1,388,944	49.1	%	$	1,362,740	48.6	%	$	26,204		1.9	%
Commercial		1,200,367	42.5	%		1,178,488	42.0	%		21,879		1.9	%
Public		236,365	8.4	%		263,878	9.4	%		(27,513	)	(10.4	%)
Total deposits	$	2,825,676	100.0	%	$	2,805,106	100.0	%	$	20,570		0.7	%

The increase in deposits in the first quarter of 2025 was mainly due to higher balances in consumer and commercial customer deposit accounts, partially offset by the seasonal outflow of funds from public entity customers.

The Bank has a granular, diverse deposit portfolio with customers in a variety of industries throughout Louisiana. As of March 31, 2025, the average deposit account size was approximately $28,000.

As of March 31, 2025, our estimated uninsured deposits, which are the portion of deposit accounts that exceed the FDIC insurance limit (currently $250,000), were approximately $875.2 million, or 31.0% of total deposits. This amount was estimated based on the same methodologies and assumptions used for regulatory reporting purposes. Also, as of March 31, 2025, our estimated uninsured deposits, excluding collateralized public entity deposits, were approximately $689.6 million, or 24.4% of total deposits. Our cash and cash equivalents of $252.2 million, combined with our available borrowing capacity of $1.66 billion, equaled 218.4% of our estimated uninsured deposits and 277.1% of our estimated uninsured deposits, excluding collateralized public entity deposits.

Stockholders’ Equity

Total stockholders’ equity as of March 31, 2025, was $333.3 million compared to $319.7 million as of December 31, 2024. The $13.6 million, or 4.2%, increase in stockholders’ equity during the first quarter of 2025 was attributable to $10.4 million of net income, a $3.9 million, net of tax, market adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive loss related to securities, and $149,000 of stock compensation, partially offset by $813,000 in cash dividends related to a $0.12 per share cash dividend that we paid on March 20, 2025.

Non-GAAP Disclosure

Our accounting and reporting policies conform to United States generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) and the prevailing practices in the banking industry. Certain financial measures used by management to evaluate our operating performance are discussed as supplemental non-GAAP performance measures. In accordance with the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) rules, we classify a financial measure as being a non-GAAP financial measure if that financial measure excludes or includes amounts, or is subject to adjustments that have the effect of excluding or including amounts, that are included or excluded, as the case may be, in the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP as in effect from time to time in the U.S.

Management and the board of directors review tangible book value per share, tangible common equity to tangible assets, and realized book value per share as part of managing operating performance. However, these non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the most directly comparable or other financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. Moreover, the manner we calculate the non-GAAP financial measures that are discussed may differ from that of other companies’ reporting measures with similar names. It is important to understand how such other banking organizations calculate and name their financial measures similar to the non-GAAP financial measures discussed by us when comparing such non-GAAP financial measures.

A reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to the comparable GAAP financial measures is included within the following financial statement tables.

About Red River Bancshares, Inc.

Red River Bancshares, Inc. is the bank holding company for Red River Bank, a Louisiana state-chartered bank established in 1999 that provides a fully integrated suite of banking products and services tailored to the needs of our commercial and retail customers. Red River Bank operates from a network of 28 banking centers throughout Louisiana and one combined loan and deposit production office in New Orleans, Louisiana. Banking centers are located in the following Louisiana markets: Central, which includes the Alexandria metropolitan statistical area (“MSA”); Northwest, which includes the Shreveport-Bossier City MSA; Capital, which includes the Baton Rouge MSA; Southwest, which includes the Lake Charles MSA; the Northshore, which includes Covington; Acadiana, which includes the Lafayette MSA; and New Orleans.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this news release regarding our expectations and beliefs about our future financial performance and financial condition, as well as trends in our business, interest rates, and markets, 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. Forward-looking statements often include words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate,” “project,” “outlook,” or words of similar meaning, or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” or “may.” The forward-looking statements in this news release are based on current information and on assumptions that we make about future events and circumstances that are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that are often difficult to predict and beyond our control. As a result of those risks and uncertainties, our actual financial results in the future could differ, possibly materially, from those expressed in or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this news release and could cause us to make changes to our future plans. Additional information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties to which our business and future financial performance are subject is contained in the section titled “Risk Factors” in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and in other documents that we file with the SEC from time to time. In addition, our actual financial results in the future may differ from those currently expected due to additional risks and uncertainties of which we are not currently aware or which we do not currently view as, but in the future may become, material to our business or operating results. Due to these and other possible uncertainties and risks, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this news release or to make predictions based solely on historical financial performance. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and we do not undertake any obligation to update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by law. All forward-looking statements, express or implied, included in this news release are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

Contact:
Isabel V. Carriere, CPA, CGMA
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Assistant Corporate Secretary
318-561-4023
icarriere@redriverbank.net

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (UNAUDITED)

	As of and for the Three Months Ended
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)	March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			March 31, 2024
Net Income	$	10,352		$	9,306		$	8,188

Per Common Share Data:
Earnings per share, basic	$	1.53		$	1.37		$	1.16
Earnings per share, diluted	$	1.52		$	1.37		$	1.16
Book value per share	$	49.18		$	47.18		$	43.43
Tangible book value per share ⁽¹⁾	$	48.95		$	46.95		$	43.20
Realized book value per share ⁽¹⁾	$	57.49		$	56.07		$	52.52
Cash dividends per share	$	0.12		$	0.09		$	0.09
Shares outstanding		6,777,657			6,777,238			6,892,448
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic		6,777,332			6,797,469			7,050,048
Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted		6,796,707			6,816,299			7,066,709

Summary Performance Ratios:
Return on average assets		1.32	%		1.18	%		1.07	%
Return on average equity		12.85	%		11.46	%		10.77	%
Net interest margin		3.17	%		3.04	%		2.80	%
Net interest margin FTE		3.22	%		3.09	%		2.83	%
Efficiency ratio		55.51	%		58.71	%		60.37	%
Loans HFI to deposits ratio		74.84	%		73.97	%		74.22	%
Noninterest-bearing deposits to deposits ratio		32.08	%		30.89	%		32.61	%
Noninterest income to average assets		0.67	%		0.63	%		0.64	%
Operating expense to average assets		2.12	%		2.14	%		2.07	%

Summary Credit Quality Ratios:
NPAs to assets		0.16	%		0.10	%		0.08	%
Nonperforming loans to loans HFI		0.24	%		0.16	%		0.12	%
ACL to loans HFI		1.03	%		1.05	%		1.06	%
Net charge-offs to average loans		0.02	%		0.01	%		0.00	%

Capital Ratios:
Stockholders’ equity to assets		10.46	%		10.15	%		9.74	%
Tangible common equity to tangible assets⁽¹⁾		10.42	%		10.11	%		9.69	%
Total risk-based capital to risk-weighted assets		18.25	%		18.13	%		17.84	%
Tier I risk-based capital to risk-weighted assets		17.25	%		17.12	%		16.82	%
Common equity Tier I capital to risk-weighted assets		17.25	%		17.12	%		16.82	%
Tier I risk-based capital to average assets		12.01	%		11.86	%		11.44	%

⁽¹⁾Non-GAAP financial measure. Calculations of this measure and reconciliations to GAAP are included in the schedules accompanying this release.

RED RIVER BANCSHARES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)

(in thousands)	March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			March 31, 2024
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks	$	36,438		$	30,558		$	39,664		$	35,035		$	19,401
Interest-bearing deposits in other banks		215,717			238,417			192,983			178,038			210,404
Securities available-for-sale, at fair value		566,874			550,148			560,555			526,890			545,967
Securities held-to-maturity, at amortized cost		129,686			131,796			134,145			136,824			139,328
Equity securities, at fair value		2,981			2,937			3,028			2,921			2,934
Nonmarketable equity securities		2,349			2,328			2,305			2,283			2,261
Loans held for sale		2,178			2,547			1,805			3,878			1,653
Loans held for investment		2,114,742			2,075,013			2,056,048			2,047,890			2,038,072
Allowance for credit losses		(21,835	)		(21,731	)		(21,757	)		(21,627	)		(21,564	)
Premises and equipment, net		59,034			59,441			57,661			57,910			57,539
Accrued interest receivable		10,553			10,048			9,465			9,570			9,995
Bank-owned life insurance		30,593			30,380			30,164			29,947			29,731
Intangible assets		1,546			1,546			1,546			1,546			1,546
Right-of-use assets		2,611			2,733			2,853			2,973			3,091
Other assets		32,965			33,433			31,285			34,450			32,940
Total Assets	$	3,186,432		$	3,149,594		$	3,101,750		$	3,048,528		$	3,073,298
LIABILITIES
Noninterest-bearing deposits	$	906,540		$	866,496		$	882,394		$	892,942		$	895,439
Interest-bearing deposits		1,919,136			1,938,610			1,864,731			1,823,704			1,850,452
Total Deposits		2,825,676			2,805,106			2,747,125			2,716,646			2,745,891
Accrued interest payable		6,463			7,583			11,751			8,747			8,959
Lease liabilities		2,739			2,864			2,982			3,100			3,215
Accrued expenses and other liabilities		18,238			14,302			15,574			13,045			15,919
Total Liabilities		2,853,116			2,829,855			2,777,432			2,741,538			2,773,984
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES		—			—			—			—			—
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Preferred stock, no par value		—			—			—			—			—
Common stock, no par value		38,710			38,655			41,402			44,413			45,177
Additional paid-in capital		2,871			2,777			2,682			2,590			2,485
Retained earnings		348,093			338,554			329,858			321,719			314,352
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		(56,358	)		(60,247	)		(49,624	)		(61,732	)		(62,700	)
Total Stockholders’ Equity		333,316			319,739			324,318			306,990			299,314
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity	$	3,186,432		$	3,149,594		$	3,101,750		$	3,048,528		$	3,073,298

RED RIVER BANCSHARES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)

	For the Three Months Ended
(in thousands)	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024			March 31, 2024

INTEREST AND DIVIDEND INCOME
Interest and fees on loans	$	28,270	$	28,285		$	25,893
Interest on securities		4,856		4,623			4,064
Interest on deposits in other banks		2,661		2,699			3,039
Dividends on stock		21		23			22
Total Interest and Dividend Income		35,808		35,630			33,018
INTEREST EXPENSE
Interest on deposits		11,198		11,943			11,655
Interest on other borrowed funds		—		—			—
Total Interest Expense		11,198		11,943			11,655
Net Interest Income		24,610		23,687			21,363
Provision for credit losses		450		300			300
Net Interest Income After Provision for Credit Losses		24,160		23,387			21,063
NONINTEREST INCOME
Service charges on deposit accounts		1,383		1,452			1,368
Debit card income, net		992		960			1,022
Mortgage loan income		530		652			456
Brokerage income		1,325		924			987
Loan and deposit income		459		463			492
Bank-owned life insurance income		213		216			202
Gain (Loss) on equity securities		44		(91	)		(31	)
SBIC income		280		346			352
Other income (loss)		46		73			80
Total Noninterest Income		5,272		4,995			4,928
OPERATING EXPENSES
Personnel expenses		10,023		9,769			9,550
Occupancy and equipment expenses		1,794		1,716			1,616
Technology expenses		835		884			709
Advertising		333		313			337
Other business development expenses		558		486			475
Data processing expense		288		681			347
Other taxes		612		547			737
Loan and deposit expenses		62		334			(42	)
Legal and professional expenses		632		658			618
Regulatory assessment expenses		391		428			404
Other operating expenses		1,060		1,024			1,122
Total Operating Expenses		16,588		16,840			15,873
Income Before Income Tax Expense		12,844		11,542			10,118
Income tax expense		2,492		2,236			1,930
Net Income	$	10,352	$	9,306		$	8,188

RED RIVER BANCSHARES, INC.
NET INTEREST INCOME AND NET INTEREST MARGIN (UNAUDITED)

	For the Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2025							December 31, 2024
(dollars in thousands)	Average Balance Outstanding			Interest Income/ Expense		Average Yield/ Rate		Average Balance Outstanding			Interest Income/ Expense		Average Yield/ Rate
Assets
Interest-earning assets:
Loans^(1,2)	$	2,089,712		$	28,270	5.41	%	$	2,072,858		$	28,285	5.34	%
Securities – taxable		559,752			3,871	2.77	%		555,622			3,636	2.62	%
Securities – tax-exempt		189,729			985	2.08	%		190,470			987	2.07	%
Interest-bearing deposits in other banks		243,751			2,661	4.37	%		225,660			2,699	4.74	%
Nonmarketable equity securities		2,330			21	3.56	%		2,307			23	3.99	%
Total interest-earning assets		3,085,274		$	35,808	4.64	%		3,046,917		$	35,630	4.60	%
Allowance for credit losses		(21,789	)						(21,824	)
Noninterest-earning assets		107,295							109,992
Total assets	$	3,170,780						$	3,135,085
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing transaction deposits	$	1,341,885		$	5,641	1.70	%	$	1,263,775		$	5,658	1.78	%
Time deposits		592,368			5,557	3.80	%		599,910			6,285	4.17	%
Total interest-bearing deposits		1,934,253			11,198	2.35	%		1,863,685			11,943	2.55	%
Other borrowings		—			—	—	%		—			—	—	%
Total interest-bearing liabilities		1,934,253		$	11,198	2.35	%		1,863,685		$	11,943	2.55	%
Noninterest-bearing liabilities:
Noninterest-bearing deposits		884,484							918,804
Accrued interest and other liabilities		25,336							29,567
Total noninterest-bearing liabilities		909,820							948,371
Stockholders’ equity		326,707							323,029
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	3,170,780						$	3,135,085
Net interest income				$	24,610						$	23,687
Net interest spread						2.29	%						2.05	%
Net interest margin						3.17	%						3.04	%
Net interest margin FTE⁽³⁾						3.22	%						3.09	%
Cost of deposits						1.61	%						1.71	%
Cost of funds						1.47	%						1.56	%

⁽¹⁾Includes average outstanding balances of loans held for sale of $2.6 million and $3.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively.
⁽²⁾Nonaccrual loans are included as loans carrying a zero yield.
⁽³⁾Net interest margin FTE includes an FTE adjustment using a 21.0% federal income tax rate on tax-exempt securities and tax-exempt loans.

RED RIVER BANCSHARES, INC.
NET INTEREST INCOME AND NET INTEREST MARGIN (UNAUDITED)

	For the Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2025							March 31, 2024
(dollars in thousands)	Average Balance Outstanding			Interest Income/ Expense		Average Yield/ Rate		Average Balance Outstanding			Interest Income/ Expense		Average Yield/ Rate
Assets
Interest-earning assets:
Loans^(1,2)	$	2,089,712		$	28,270	5.41	%	$	2,015,063		$	25,893	5.09	%
Securities – taxable		559,752			3,871	2.77	%		569,600			3,048	2.14	%
Securities – tax-exempt		189,729			985	2.08	%		197,817			1,016	2.05	%
Interest-bearing deposits in other banks		243,751			2,661	4.37	%		224,301			3,039	5.42	%
Nonmarketable equity securities		2,330			21	3.56	%		2,240			22	3.95	%
Total interest-earning assets		3,085,274		$	35,808	4.64	%		3,009,021		$	33,018	4.35	%
Allowance for credit losses		(21,789	)						(21,402	)
Noninterest-earning assets		107,295							100,486
Total assets	$	3,170,780						$	3,088,105
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing transaction deposits	$	1,341,885		$	5,641	1.70	%	$	1,261,361		$	5,680	1.81	%
Time deposits		592,368			5,557	3.80	%		582,847			5,975	4.12	%
Total interest-bearing deposits		1,934,253			11,198	2.35	%		1,844,208			11,655	2.54	%
Other borrowings		—			—	—	%		—			—	—	%
Total interest-bearing liabilities		1,934,253		$	11,198	2.35	%		1,844,208		$	11,655	2.54	%
Noninterest-bearing liabilities:
Noninterest-bearing deposits		884,484							913,114
Accrued interest and other liabilities		25,336							25,055
Total noninterest-bearing liabilities		909,820							938,169
Stockholders’ equity		326,707							305,728
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	3,170,780						$	3,088,105
Net interest income				$	24,610						$	21,363
Net interest spread						2.29	%						1.81	%
Net interest margin						3.17	%						2.80	%
Net interest margin FTE⁽³⁾						3.22	%						2.83	%
Cost of deposits						1.61	%						1.70	%
Cost of funds						1.47	%						1.56	%

⁽¹⁾Includes average outstanding balances of loans held for sale of $2.6 million and $2.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.
⁽²⁾Nonaccrual loans are included as loans carrying a zero yield.
⁽³⁾Net interest margin FTE includes an FTE adjustment using a 21.0% federal income tax rate on tax-exempt securities and tax-exempt loans.

RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)	March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			March 31, 2024
Tangible common equity
Total stockholders’ equity	$	333,316		$	319,739		$	299,314
Adjustments:
Intangible assets		(1,546	)		(1,546	)		(1,546	)
Total tangible common equity (non-GAAP)	$	331,770		$	318,193		$	297,768
Realized common equity
Total stockholders’ equity	$	333,316		$	319,739		$	299,314
Adjustments:
Accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss		56,358			60,247			62,700
Total realized common equity (non-GAAP)	$	389,674		$	379,986		$	362,014
Common shares outstanding		6,777,657			6,777,238			6,892,448
Book value per share	$	49.18		$	47.18		$	43.43
Tangible book value per share (non-GAAP)	$	48.95		$	46.95		$	43.20
Realized book value per share (non-GAAP)	$	57.49		$	56.07		$	52.52

Tangible assets
Total assets	$	3,186,432		$	3,149,594		$	3,073,298
Adjustments:
Intangible assets		(1,546	)		(1,546	)		(1,546	)
Total tangible assets (non-GAAP)	$	3,184,886		$	3,148,048		$	3,071,752
Total stockholders’ equity to assets		10.46	%		10.15	%		9.74	%
Tangible common equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP)		10.42	%		10.11	%		9.69	%

The MIL Network –

May 1, 2025

MIL-OSI: Blue Foundry Bancorp Reports First Quarter 2025 Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

RUTHERFORD, N.J., April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Blue Foundry Bancorp (NASDAQ:BLFY) (the “Company”), the holding company for Blue Foundry Bank (the “Bank”), today reported a net loss of $2.7 million, or $0.13 per diluted common share, for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to net loss of $2.7 million, or $0.13 per diluted common share, for the three months ended December 31, 2024, and a net loss of $2.8 million, or $0.13 per diluted common share, for the three months ended March 31, 2024.

James D. Nesci, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented, “We are pleased with the improvement experienced in yields on assets and cost of liabilities as both contributed to a 27 basis points increase in net interest margin. In addition, we continue to maintain our strong capital position, increasing tangible book value to $14.81 per share.”

Mr. Nesci also noted, “Deposit growth continued in the first quarter, funding loan growth of $42 million. Increases in our commercial real estate and consumer portfolios drove loan growth during the quarter as we remain focused on growing our commercial portfolio, supplemented with consumer loan purchases. Credit quality remained strong with a non-performing asset to total asset ratio of 0.27% and our allowance for credit losses on loans at 81 basis points of our loan portfolio covers non-performing loans by 2.3 times.”

Highlights for the first quarter of 2025:

Deposits increased $43.9 million to $1.39 billion and Loans increased $42.2 million to $1.63 billion compared to the linked quarter.
Uninsured deposits to third-party customers totaled approximately 11% of total deposits as of March 31, 2025.
Net interest margin increased 27 basis points from the linked quarter to 2.16%.
Interest income for the quarter was $22.7 million, an increase of $928 thousand, or 4.3%, compared to the linked quarter.
Interest expense for the quarter was $12.0 million, a decrease of $343 thousand, or 2.8%, compared to the linked quarter.
Provision for credit losses of $201 thousand was primarily due to the increase in the provision for loans attributed to the increase in the commercial real estate portfolio.
Book value per share was $14.82 and tangible book value per share was $14.81. See the “Supplemental Information – Non-GAAP Financial Measures” tables below for additional information regarding our non-GAAP measures.
464,085 shares were repurchased under our share repurchase plans at a weighted average share price of $9.52 per share.

Loans

Loans increased by $42.2 million during the first three months of 2025. The Company continues to focus on diversifying its lending portfolio by growing its commercial portfolios. Additionally, we purchased unsecured consumer loans with credit reserves. These loans improved yields while having low exposure to credit loss. During the first three months of 2025, the consumer loan portfolio increased by $34.3 million as a result of these purchases. In addition, the commercial real estate portfolio increased by $28.5 million, of which $14.4 million was in owner-occupied properties and the construction portfolio increased by $7.3 million. The multifamily and residential portfolios decreased by $25.7 million and $5.5 million, respectively.

The details of the loan portfolio are below:

	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024		September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024		March 31, 2024
	(In thousands)
Residential	$	512,793	$	518,243	$	516,754	$	526,453	$	540,427
Multifamily		645,399		671,116		666,304		671,185		671,011
Commercial real estate		288,151		259,633		241,711		241,867		244,207
Construction		92,813		85,546		80,081		71,882		63,052
Junior liens		26,902		25,422		24,174		23,653		22,052
Commercial and industrial		18,079		16,311		14,228		12,261		13,372
Consumer and other		41,518		7,211		7,731		83		56
Total loans		1,625,655		1,583,482		1,550,983		1,547,384		1,554,177
Less: Allowance for credit losses		13,152		12,965		13,012		13,027		13,749
Loans receivable, net	$	1,612,503	$	1,570,517	$	1,537,971	$	1,534,357	$	1,540,428

Deposits

As of March 31, 2025, deposits totaled $1.39 billion, an increase of $43.9 million, or 3.27%, from December 31, 2024, driven by increases of $28.8 million and $19.6 million in NOW and demand accounts and time deposits, respectively, partially offset by decreases in savings accounts of $3.6 million. The Company’s strategy is to focus on attracting the full banking relationship of small- to medium-sized businesses through an extensive suite of deposit products. While there is strong competition for deposits in the northern New Jersey market, we were able to increase core customer deposits during the quarter. Brokered deposits increased $50.0 million during the first quarter of 2025 as higher cost customer time deposits matured and were supplemented with brokered deposits.

The details of deposits are below:

	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024		September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024		March 31, 2024
	(In thousands)
Non-interest bearing deposits	$	25,222	$	26,001	$	22,254	$	24,733	$	25,342
NOW and demand accounts		398,332		369,554		357,503		368,386		373,172
Savings		236,779		240,426		237,651		246,559		250,298
Core deposits		660,333		635,981		617,408		639,678		648,812
Time deposits		726,908		707,339		701,262		671,478		642,372
Total deposits	$	1,387,241	$	1,343,320	$	1,318,670	$	1,311,156	$	1,291,184

Financial Performance Overview:

First quarter of 2025 compared to the fourth quarter of 2024

Net interest income compared to the fourth quarter of 2024:

Net interest income was $10.7 million for the first quarter of 2025 compared to $9.5 million for the fourth quarter of 2024 as interest earned on interest-earning assets increased and interest paid on time deposits decreased.
Net interest margin increased by 27 basis points to 2.16%.
The yield on average interest-earning assets increased 14 basis points to 4.51%, while the cost of average interest-bearing liabilities decreased eight basis points to 2.89%.
Average interest-earning assets increased by $22.7 million and average interest-bearing liabilities increased by $30.3 million.

Non-interest expense compared to the fourth quarter of 2024:

Non-interest expense increased $748 thousand primarily driven by an increase of $895 thousand in compensation and benefits expenses due to normal salary increases and a reset of variable compensation accruals. Variable compensation, achieved at less than target in 2024, was reset at the start of 2025. In addition, an increase of $109 thousand in occupancy and equipment was largely due to snow removal expenses in the first quarter partially offset by decreases in furniture and equipment expense. These increases were partially offset by a decrease of $174 thousand in other expenses.

Income tax expense compared to the fourth quarter of 2024:

The Company did not record a tax benefit for the losses incurred during the first quarter of 2025 and the fourth quarter of 2024 due to the full valuation allowance required on its deferred tax assets.
The Company’s current tax position reflects the previously established full valuation allowance on its deferred tax assets. At March 31, 2025, the valuation allowance on deferred tax assets was $25.4 million.

First quarter of 2025 compared to the first quarter of 2024

Net interest income compared to the first quarter of 2024:

Net interest income was $10.7 million for the first three months of 2025 compared to $9.4 million for the same period in 2024. The increase was largely due to increases in interest earned on interest-earning assets and lower interest costs on time deposits.
Net interest margin increased by 24 basis points to 2.16%.
The yield on average interest-earning assets increased 26 basis points to 4.51%, partially offset by a three basis point increase in the cost of average interest-bearing liabilities.
Average interest-earning assets and average interest-bearing liabilities increased by $44.3 million and $70.2 million, respectively. Average loans drove the growth in interest-earning assets, with an increase of $45.7 million. Average interest-bearing deposits increased by $96.6 million, while average FHLB advances decreased by $26.5 million.

Non-interest expense compared to the first quarter of 2024:

Non-interest expense was $13.6 million for the first quarter of 2025, an increase of $387 thousand driven by increases of $289 thousand, $111 thousand and $100 thousand in compensation and benefits expenses, occupancy and equipment expenses and data processing, respectively.

Income tax expense compared to the first quarter of 2024:

The Company did not record a tax benefit for the losses incurred during the first quarters of 2025 and 2024 due to the full valuation allowance required on its deferred tax assets.
The Company’s current tax position reflects the previously established full valuation allowance on its deferred tax assets. At March 31, 2025, the valuation allowance on deferred tax assets was $25.4 million.

Balance Sheet Summary:

March 31, 2025 compared to December 31, 2024

Cash and cash equivalents:

Cash and cash equivalents increased $3.7 million to $46.2 million.

Securities available-for-sale:

Securities available-for-sale decreased $10.4 million to $286.6 million due to maturities, calls and pay downs offset by a decrease in unrealized losses of $4.1 million.

Securities held-to-maturity

Securities held-to-maturity decreased $1.0 million due to pay downs in the portfolio.

Total loans:

Total loans held for investment increased $42.2 million to $1.63 billion.
Consumer, commercial real estate and construction loans increased $34.3 million, $28.5 million, and $7.3 million, respectively. Partially offsetting these increases were decreases in multifamily loans of $25.7 million and residential loans of $5.5 million.
During the first quarter, the Company purchased consumer and residential loans totaling $35.0 million and $6.6 million, respectively.

Deposits:

Deposits increased $43.9 million from December 31, 2024 to $1.39 billion at March 31, 2025. This was largely the result of a $28.8 million increase in NOW and demand accounts and a $19.6 million increase in certificates of deposits.
Core deposits (defined as non-interest bearing checking, NOW and demand accounts and savings accounts) represented 47.6% of total deposits, compared to 47.3% at December 31, 2024.
Brokered deposits totaled $205.0 million and $155.0 million at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively. The increase in brokered deposits supplemented the reduction in retail time deposits.
Uninsured and uncollateralized deposits to third-party customers were $159.8 million, or 11% of total deposits, at the end of the first quarter.

Borrowings:

FHLB borrowings decreased $5.5 million to $334.0 million.
As of March 31, 2025, the Company had $275.6 million of additional borrowing capacity at the FHLB, $107.5 million in secured lines at the Federal Reserve Bank and $30.0 million of other unsecured lines of credit.

Capital:

Shareholders’ equity decreased $5.5 million to $326.7 million. The decrease was primarily driven by the repurchase of shares, including shares netted for income tax withholding on vested equity awards, at a cost of $4.8 million. Additionally, the year-to-date loss, partially offset by favorable changes in accumulated other comprehensive income, contributed to the decrease in shareholders’ equity.
Tangible equity to tangible assets was 15.61% and tangible common equity per share outstanding was $14.81. See the “Supplemental Information – Non-GAAP Financial Measures” tables below for additional information regarding our non-GAAP measures.
The Bank’s capital ratios remain above the FDIC’s “well capitalized” standards.

Asset quality:

As of March 31, 2025, the allowance for credit losses (“ACL”) on loans as a percentage of gross loans was 0.81%.
The Company recorded a provision for credit losses of $201 thousand for the first quarter of 2025. For the first quarter of 2025, there was a provision of $203 thousand in the ACL for loans, offset by a release of $1 thousand in the ACL for both off-balance-sheet commitments and held-to-maturity securities. The provision was primarily driven by the increase in loan balances and the shift in composition of the portfolio.
Non-performing loans totaled $5.7 million, or 0.35% of total loans compared to $5.1 million, or 0.33% of total loans at December 31, 2024.
Net charge-offs were $16 thousand for the three months ended March 31, 2025.
The ratio of allowance for credit losses on loans to non-performing loans was 229.81% at March 31, 2025 compared to 254.02% at December 31, 2024.

About Blue Foundry

Blue Foundry Bancorp is the holding company for Blue Foundry Bank, a place where things are made, purpose is formed, and ideas are crafted. Headquartered in Rutherford NJ, with a presence in Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset and Union counties, Blue Foundry Bank is a full-service, innovative bank serving the doers, movers, and shakers in our communities. We offer individuals and businesses alike the tailored products and services they need to build their futures. With a rich history dating back more than 145 years, Blue Foundry Bank has a longstanding commitment to its customers and communities. To learn more about Blue Foundry Bank visit BlueFoundryBank.com or call (888) 931-BLUE. Member FDIC.

Conference Call Information

A conference call covering Blue Foundry’s first quarter 2025 earnings announcement will be held today, Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. (EDT). To listen to the live call, please dial 1-833-470-1428 (toll free) or +1-404-975-4839 (international) and use access code 556514. The webcast (audio only) will be available on ir.bluefoundrybank.com. The conference call will be recorded and will be available on the Company’s website for one month.

Contact:
James D. Nesci
President and Chief Executive Officer
BlueFoundryBank.com
jnesci@bluefoundrybank.com
201-972-8900

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 (the “Exchange Act”) and are intended to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements, which are based on certain current assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of the words “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “plan,” “potential,” “estimate,” “project,” “believe,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “target” and similar expressions.

Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and expectations of management and are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control. In addition, these forward-looking statements are subject to assumptions with respect to future business strategies and decisions that are subject to change. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from the anticipated results or other expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements: inflation and changes in the interest rate environment that reduce our margins and yields, the fair value of financial instruments or our level of loan originations, or increase in the level of defaults, losses and prepayments on loans we have made and make; general economic conditions, either nationally or in our market areas, that are worse than expected, including potential recessionary conditions, the imposition of tariffs or other domestic or international governmental policies; including potential recessionary conditions, the imposition of tariffs or other domestic or international governmental policies; changes in the level and direction of loan delinquencies and write-offs and changes in estimates of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses; our ability to access cost-effective funding; fluctuations in real estate values and both residential and commercial real estate market conditions; demand for loans and deposits in our market area; our ability to implement and change our business strategies; competition among depository and other financial institutions; adverse changes in the securities or secondary mortgage markets; changes in laws or government regulations or policies affecting financial institutions, including changes in regulatory fees, capital requirements and insurance premiums; changes in monetary or fiscal policies of the U.S. Government, including policies of the U.S. Treasury and the Federal Reserve Board; changes in the quality or composition of our loan or investment portfolios; technological changes that may be more difficult or expensive than expected; a failure or breach of our operational or security systems or infrastructure, including cyber-attacks; the inability of third party providers to perform as expected; our ability to manage market risk, credit risk and operational risk in the current economic environment; changes in consumer spending, borrowing and savings habits; changes in accounting policies and practices, as may be adopted by the bank regulatory agencies, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, the Securities and Exchange Commission or the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board; our ability to retain key employees; the current or anticipated impact of military conflict, terrorism or other geopolitical events; the ability of the U.S. Government to manage federal debt limits; and changes in the financial condition, results of operations or future prospects of issuers of securities that we own.

Because of these and other uncertainties, our actual future results may be materially different from the results indicated by these forward-looking statements. Except as required by applicable law or regulation, we do not undertake, and we specifically disclaim any obligation, to release publicly the results of any revisions that may be made to any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of the statements or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.


BLUE FOUNDRY BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY
Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition

	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024		March 31, 2024
	(unaudited)		(audited)		(unaudited)
	(Dollars in Thousands)
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents	$	46,220	$	42,502	$	53,753
Securities available-for-sale, at fair value		286,620		297,028		265,191
Securities held to maturity		32,038		33,076		33,217
Other investments		17,605		17,791		17,908
Loans, net		1,612,503		1,570,517		1,540,428
Real estate owned, net		—		—		593
Interest and dividends receivable		8,746		8,014		8,001
Premises and equipment, net		28,805		29,486		31,696
Right-of-use assets		22,778		23,470		24,454
Bank owned life insurance		22,638		22,519		22,153
Other assets		14,253		16,280		30,393
Total assets	$	2,092,206	$	2,060,683	$	2,027,787

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Liabilities
Deposits	$	1,387,241	$	1,343,320	$	1,291,184
Advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank		334,000		339,500		342,500
Advances by borrowers for taxes and insurance		9,743		9,356		9,368
Lease liabilities		24,490		25,168		26,081
Other liabilities		10,069		11,141		8,498
Total liabilities		1,765,543		1,728,485		1,677,631
Shareholders’ equity		326,663		332,198		350,156
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	2,092,206	$	2,060,683	$	2,027,787

BLUE FOUNDRY BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY
Consolidated Statements of Operations
(Dollars in Thousands Except Per Share Data) (Unaudited)

	Three months ended
	March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			March 31, 2024
	(Dollars in thousands)
Interest income:
Loans	$	18,892		$	17,777		$	17,192
Taxable investment income		3,785			3,972			3,614
Non-taxable investment income		36			36			36
Total interest income		22,713			21,785			20,842
Interest expense:
Deposits		9,026			9,573			8,413
Borrowed funds		2,943			2,739			3,012
Total interest expense		11,969			12,312			11,425
Net interest income		10,744			9,473			9,417
Provision for (release of) credit losses		201			(301	)		(535	)
Net interest income after provision for (release of) credit losses		10,543			9,774			9,952
Non-interest income:
Fees and service charges		243			306			329
Gain on sale of loans		—			—			36
Other income		151			114			86
Total non-interest income		394			420			451
Non-interest expense:
Compensation and employee benefits		7,838			6,943			7,549
Occupancy and equipment		2,303			2,194			2,192
Data processing		1,487			1,514			1,387
Advertising		67			81			72
Professional services		699			737			730
Federal deposit insurance		223			226			199
Other		1,012			1,186			1,113
Total non-interest expense		13,629			12,881			13,242
Loss before income tax expense		(2,692	)		(2,687	)		(2,839	)
Income tax expense		—			—			—
Net loss	$	(2,692	)	$	(2,687	)	$	(2,839	)
Basic loss per share	$	(0.13	)	$	(0.13	)	$	(0.13	)
Diluted loss per share	$	(0.13	)	$	(0.13	)	$	(0.13	)
Weighted average shares outstanding
Basic		20,404,941			20,826,845			22,095,260
Diluted ⁽¹⁾		20,404,941			20,826,845			22,095,260
(1) The assumed vesting of outstanding restricted stock units had an anti-dilutive effect on diluted earnings per share due to the Company’s net loss for the 2025 and 2024 periods.

BLUE FOUNDRY BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY
Consolidated Financial Highlights
(Dollars in Thousands Except Per Share Data) (Unaudited)

	Three months ended
	March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			March 31, 2024
	(Dollars in thousands)
Performance Ratios (%):
Loss on average assets		(0.53	)		(0.52	)		(0.79	)		(0.47	)		(0.56	)
Loss on average equity		(3.29	)		(3.17	)		(4.68	)		(2.71	)		(3.23	)
Interest rate spread ⁽¹⁾		1.62			1.40			1.29			1.43			1.40
Net interest margin ⁽²⁾		2.16			1.89			1.82			1.96			1.92
Efficiency ratio ^{(3) (4)}		122.36			130.20			140.04			130.73			134.19
Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities		120.01			120.84			121.37			122.28			122.50
Tangible equity to tangible assets ⁽⁴⁾		15.61			16.11			16.50			16.88			17.25
Book value per share ⁽⁵⁾	$	14.82		$	14.75		$	14.76		$	14.70		$	14.61
Tangible book value per share ^{(4) (5)}	$	14.81		$	14.74		$	14.74		$	14.69		$	14.60

Asset Quality:
Non-performing loans	$	5,723		$	5,104		$	5,146		$	6,208		$	6,691
Real estate owned, net		—			—			—			—			593
Non-performing assets	$	5,723		$	5,104		$	5,146		$	6,208		$	7,284
Allowance for credit losses to total loans (%)		0.81			0.83			0.84			0.84			0.88
Allowance for credit losses to non-performing loans (%)		229.81			254.02			252.86			209.84			205.48
Non-performing loans to total loans (%)		0.35			0.33			0.33			0.40			0.43
Non-performing assets to total assets (%)		0.27			0.25			0.25			0.30			0.36
Net charge-offs to average outstanding loans during the period (%)		—			—			—			—			—
(1) Interest rate spread represents the difference between the yield on interest-earning assets and the cost of interest-bearing liabilities.
(2) Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.
(3) Efficiency ratio represents adjusted non-interest expense divided by the sum of net interest income plus non-interest income.
(4) See the “Supplemental Information – Non-GAAP Financial Measures” tables below for additional information regarding our non-GAAP measures.
(5) March 31, 2025 per share metrics computed using 22,047,649 total shares outstanding.

BLUE FOUNDRY BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY
Analysis of Net Interest Income
(Dollars in Thousands) (Unaudited)

	Three Months Ended,
	March 31, 2025						December 31, 2024						March 31, 2024
	Average Balance		Interest		Average Yield/Cost		Average Balance		Interest		Average Yield/Cost		Average Balance		Interest		Average Yield/Cost
	(Dollars in thousands)
Assets:
Loans ⁽¹⁾	$	1,601,262	$	18,892	4.72	%	$	1,557,342	$	17,777	4.57	%	$	1,555,534	$	17,192	4.45	%
Mortgage-backed securities		189,820		1,323	2.79	%		185,382		1,254	2.71	%		160,349		876	2.20	%
Other investment securities		163,590		1,689	4.13	%		164,392		1,573	3.83	%		183,717		1,652	3.62	%
FHLB stock		17,680		399	9.02	%		17,153		411	9.58	%		20,123		492	9.83	%
Cash and cash equivalents		43,195		410	3.80	%		68,536		770	4.50	%		51,561		630	4.92	%
Total interest-earning assets		2,015,547		22,713	4.51	%		1,992,805		21,785	4.37	%		1,971,284		20,842	4.25	%
Non-interest earning assets		61,518						61,586						59,357
Total assets	$	2,077,065					$	2,054,391					$	2,030,641
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity:
NOW, savings, and money market deposits	$	619,234		2,031	1.33	%	$	614,623		1,988	1.29	%	$	616,169		1,937	1.26	%
Time deposits		712,796		6,995	3.98	%		698,801		7,585	4.32	%		619,220		6,476	4.21	%
Interest-bearing deposits		1,332,030		9,026	2.75	%		1,313,424		9,573	2.90	%		1,235,389		8,413	2.74	%
FHLB advances		347,394		2,943	3.39	%		335,686		2,739	3.26	%		373,874		3,012	3.24	%
Total interest-bearing liabilities		1,679,424		11,969	2.89	%		1,649,110		12,312	2.97	%		1,609,263		11,425	2.86	%
Non-interest bearing deposits		25,411						24,945						26,491
Non-interest bearing other		40,679						43,016						41,569
Total liabilities		1,745,514						1,717,071						1,677,323
Total shareholders’ equity		331,551						337,320						353,318
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	2,077,065					$	2,054,391					$	2,030,641
Net interest income			$	10,744					$	9,473					$	9,417
Net interest rate spread ⁽²⁾					1.62	%					1.40	%					1.39	%
Net interest margin ⁽³⁾					2.16	%					1.89	%					1.92	%
(1) Average loan balances are net of deferred loan fees and costs, premiums and discounts and include non-accrual loans.
(2) Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the yield on interest-earning assets and the cost of interest-bearing liabilities.
(3) Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.

BLUE FOUNDRY BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY
Supplemental Information – Non-GAAP Financial Measures
(Unaudited)

This press release contains certain supplemental financial information, described in the table below, which has been determined by methods other than U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) that management uses in its analysis of Blue Foundry’s performance. Management believes these non-GAAP financial measures provide information useful to investors in understanding Blue Foundry’s financial results. These non-GAAP measures should not be considered a substitute for GAAP basis measures and results and Blue Foundry strongly encourages investors to review its consolidated financial statements in their entirety and not to rely on any single financial measure. Because non-GAAP financial measures are not standardized, it may not be possible to compare these financial measures with other companies’ non-GAAP financial measures having the same or similar names.

Net income, as presented in the Consolidated Statements of Operations, includes the provision for credit losses and income tax expense, while pre-provision net revenue does not.

	Three months ended
	March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			March 31, 2024
	(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Pre-provision net revenue and efficiency ratio:
Net interest income	$	10,744		$	9,473		$	9,087		$	9,573		$	9,417
Other income		394			420			387			536			451
Total revenue		11,138			9,893			9,474			10,109			9,868
Operating expenses		13,629			12,881			13,267			13,215			13,242
Pre-provision net loss	$	(2,491	)	$	(2,988	)	$	(3,793	)	$	(3,106	)	$	(3,374	)
Efficiency ratio		122.4	%		130.2	%		140.0	%		130.7	%		134.2	%

Core deposits:
Total deposits	$	1,387,241		$	1,343,320		$	1,318,670		$	1,311,156		$	1,291,184
Less: time deposits		726,908			707,339			701,262			671,478			642,372
Core deposits	$	660,333		$	635,981		$	617,408		$	639,678		$	648,812
Core deposits to total deposits		47.6	%		47.3	%		46.8	%		48.8	%		50.2	%

Total assets	$	2,092,206		$	2,060,683		$	2,055,093		$	2,045,452		$	2,027,787
Less: intangible assets		189			244			300			386			473
Tangible assets	$	2,092,017		$	2,060,439		$	2,054,793		$	2,045,066		$	2,027,314

Tangible equity:
Shareholders’ equity	$	326,663		$	332,198		$	339,299		$	345,597		$	350,156
Less: intangible assets		189			244			300			386			473
Tangible equity	$	326,474		$	331,954		$	338,999		$	345,211		$	349,683

Tangible equity to tangible assets		15.61	%		16.11	%		16.50	%		16.88	%		17.25	%

Tangible book value per share:
Tangible equity	$	326,474		$	331,954		$	338,999		$	345,211		$	349,683
Shares outstanding		22,047,649			22,522,626			22,990,908			23,505,357			23,958,888
Tangible book value per share	$	14.81		$	14.74		$	14.74		$	14.69			14.60

The MIL Network –

May 1, 2025

MIL-OSI: Banco Santander-Chile Announces First Quarter 2025 Earnings

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SANTIAGO, Chile, April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Banco Santander Chile (NYSE: BSAC; SSE: Bsantander) announced today its results¹ for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, and first quarter 2025 (1Q25).

Solid financial performance with a ROAE²of 25.7% in 1Q25³, the fourth consecutive quarter with a ROAE of over 20%.

As of March 31, 2025, the bank’s net income attributable to shareholders totaled $278 billion ($1.47 per share and $0.62 per ADR), representing a 131.0% YoY⁴ increase and an ROAE of 25.7%, compared to an ROAE of 11.2% in 1Q24. The increase in results is explained by an increase in the bank’s main revenue lines. Operating income increased 33.2% YoY, driven by better net interest and readjustment income.

Compared to the previous quarter, 4Q24, the bank’s net income attributable to shareholders increased by 0.5%. The UF variation in 1Q25 was slightly lower than in 4Q24, which reduced QoQ⁵ readjustment gains. This was offset by higher fees and results from financial transactions and improved expense control. This resulted in a ROAE of 25.7% in 1Q25, marking the fourth consecutive quarter with ROAEs above 20%.

Dividend payment of Ch$3.19 per share with a dividend yield of 5.4%. A solid CET1 ratio⁶of 10.7%.

At our Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting on April 22, 2025, the distribution of 70% of our 2024 earnings, amounting to $857,623 million, was approved. These earnings represent a dividend of $3.18571574 Chilean pesos per share, for a total of $600,336 million.

Likewise, it was approved that the remaining 30% be partially allocated to increasing the Accumulated Earnings from previous years by the amount necessary to cover the payment of the next three interest coupons on the fixed-term bonds for $29.993 billion and to increase the Bank’s Reserves and Other Retained Earnings by $227.294 billion.

Our CET1 ratio remains at a solid 10.7% at the end of March 2025, with the overall Basel III ratio reaching 16.9%. The Bank’s capital includes a dividend payment provision of 70% of 2024 earnings and a 60% provision of 2025 earnings to date.

Strong recovery of NIM⁷, reaching 4.1% in 1Q25

Net interest and readjustment income (NII) accumulated as of March 31, 2025, increased 41.7% compared to the same period in 2024. This increase in NII was due to higher net interest income due to the impact of a lower monetary policy rate on our funding cost, which fell from 5.3% to 3.9% in 3M25. The increase is also explained by higher readjustment income, resulting from a greater variation in the UF during the quarter compared to the same quarter last year.

Compared to 4Q24, net interest and readjustment income decreased slightly due to lower inflation in 1Q25 compared to the previous quarter.

Given the above, the NIM increased from 2.7% in 1Q24 to 4.2% in 4Q24 to 4.1% in 1Q25.

Gravity: Migration of our systems to the cloud. Best-in-class efficiency⁸of 35.0% in 1Q25.

In 1Q25, the Bank celebrated the major milestone of the Gravity project, the migration from the Mainframe to the Cloud. In January, we transitioned processing to our new Cloud, which resulted in higher technology expenses related to the change and write-downs and impairments related to legacy systems.

The Bank’s efficiency ratio reached 35.0% as of March 31, 2025, better than the 47.4% of the same period in the previous year. Total operating expenses (which include other expenses) decreased 1.7% in 3M25 compared to 3M24, driven by lower other operating expenses related to the restructuring of our branch network and the transformation to Work/Café.

The customer base continues to expand, with total customers increasing by 9.4% YoY and digital customers increasing by 6.6% YoY.

Our strategy of strengthening our digital products has led to continued growth in our customer base, reaching approximately 4.3 million customers, of which nearly 2.3 million are digital customers (88% of our active customers).

The Bank’s market share in checking accounts remains strong at 22.5% through February 2025, driven by increased customer demand for US dollar checking accounts, as customers can open these types of accounts digitally through our platform in a few easy steps. This also demonstrates the success of Getnet’s strategy to encourage cross-selling of other products such as the Cuenta Pyme Life.

Net commissions increased by 16.8% in 3M25, reaching recurrence levels⁹of 61.8%.

Net commissions increased 16.8% in the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to the same period in 2024, driven by increased customer numbers and greater product usage. As a result, the recurrence ratio (total net commissions divided by structural support expenses) increased from 57.8% as of March 2024 to 61.8% as of March 2025, demonstrating that more than half of the Bank’s expenses are financed by commissions generated by our customers.

Banco Santander Chile is one of the companies with the highest risk ratings in Latin America, with an A2 rating from Moody’s, A- from Standard & Poor’s, A+ from the Japan Credit Rating Agency, AA- from HR Ratings, and A from KBRA. All of our ratings have a stable outlook as of the date of this report.

As of March 31, 2025, the bank had total assets of Ch$67,059,423 million (US$70,284 million), total gross loans (including those owed by banks) at amortized cost of Ch$41,098,666 million (US$43,075 million), total deposits of Ch$30,607,715 million (US$32,080 million), and bank owners’ equity of Ch$4,400,233 million (US$4,612 million). The BIS capital ratio was 16.9%, with a core capital ratio of 10.7%. As of March 31, 2025, Santander Chile employed 8,712 people and had 237 branches throughout Chile.

CONTACT INFORMATION
Cristian Vicuña
Chief Strategy Officer and Head of Investor Relations
Banco Santander Chile
Bandera 140, Floor 20
Santiago, Chile
Email: irelations@santander.cl Website: www.santander.cl

¹ The information contained in this report is presented in accordance with Chilean Bank GAAP as defined by the Financial Markets Commission (FMC).
² Annualized net income attributable to shareholders of the Bank divided by the average equity attributable to equity holders
³ The first quarter of 2025
⁴ Year on year.
⁵ Quarter on quarter
⁶ Common Equity Tier 1 under Chilean regulation.
⁷ NIM: Net interest margin. Net interest income and annualized adjustments divided by interest-earning assets.
⁸ Efficiency: operating expenses including impairment and other operating expenses/ financial margin + fees+ financial transactions and net other operating income.
⁹ Recurrence: net commissions divided bycore support costs.

The MIL Network –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI: Safe Harbor Financial Expands Executive Leadership Team with Appointments of Jeffrey Kay as SVP of Marketing and Dominic Marella as VP of Business Development

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

GOLDEN, Colo., April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SHF Holdings, Inc., d/b/a Safe Harbor Financial (“Safe Harbor” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: SHFS), a fintech leader providing financial services and credit facilities to the regulated cannabis industry, announced two strategic appointments to its leadership team: Jeffrey Kay as senior vice president of Marketing and the return of Dominic Marella as vice president of Business Development.

Together, Kay and Marella will play key roles in expanding Safe Harbor’s national footprint, enhancing client services and elevating brand visibility—supporting the Company’s mission to deliver compliant, scalable and technology-driven financial solutions to cannabis-related businesses (CRBs).

“Safe Harbor is entering a new phase of accelerated growth, innovation and market leadership,” said Terry Mendez, CEO of Safe Harbor Financial. “The appointments of Jeff and Dom represent a strategic investment in both our brand and business development engine. Jeff’s marketing acumen and Dominic’s deep relationships and experience across the cannabis sector give us an unmatched edge in serving the evolving needs of cannabis operators and financial institutions.”

Jeffrey Kay, a seasoned marketing executive with over 30 years of experience, most recently served as chief marketing officer at AMMA Investments, a vertically integrated multi-state cannabis operator. He previously founded Brandfan, a marketing agency with a diverse client roster across cannabis, retail, technology and consumer goods. In his new role, Kay will lead integrated marketing strategy, brand development and go-to-market execution, driving demand generation, sales enablement and strategic partnerships.

“I’m honored to join Safe Harbor at such a pivotal time,” said Jeff Kay, senior vice president of Marketing. “The opportunity to shape the strategic evolution of the brand and drive measurable results for our clients and partners is incredibly exciting.”

Dominic Marella rejoins Safe Harbor following nearly two years of entrepreneurial and fintech leadership outside the organization. A veteran of the commodities and derivatives sector, Marella brings deep experience navigating highly regulated industries. He previously led the cannabis vertical at Paro, a digital-first accounting platform, where he supported cannabis entrepreneurs navigating Illinois’ adult-use dispensary licensing process. As vice president of business development at Abaca—a company acquired by Safe Harbor in 2022—Marella led national sales efforts and was instrumental in integrating cannabis financial solutions post-acquisition. Most recently, he ran CannaTech Ventures, an incubator helping launch innovative cannabis technology startups.

“Returning to Safe Harbor feels like a homecoming,” added Dominic Marella, vice president of Business Development. “Our team has a powerful mission and a clear opportunity to help lead financial innovation in the cannabis sector. I’m excited to capitalize on our strong foundation—partnering with operators, legacy businesses and newcomers to the space to deliver scalable, tech-forward financial solutions.”

Key initiatives under Kay’s leadership include a brand refresh, a comprehensive demand-generation strategy and a new partnership marketing program. Marella will focus on expanding Safe Harbor’s business development operations nationally, with an emphasis on strategic client acquisition, channel partnerships and tailored financial solutions that meet the unique needs of cannabis operators navigating complex regulatory frameworks.

Both Kay and Marella join the Company with equity-based incentives, aligning their long-term interests with those of shareholders.

About Safe Harbor
Safe Harbor is among the first service providers to offer compliance, monitoring and validation services to financial institutions that provide traditional banking services to cannabis, hemp, CBD and ancillary operators, making communities safer, driving growth in local economies and fostering long-term partnerships. Safe Harbor, through its financial institution clients, implements high standards of accountability, transparency, monitoring, reporting and risk mitigation measures while meeting Bank Secrecy Act obligations in line with FinCEN guidance on cannabis-related businesses. Over the past decade, Safe Harbor has facilitated more than $25 billion in deposit transactions for businesses with operations spanning more than 41 states and US territories with regulated cannabis markets. For more information, visit www.shfinancial.org.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain information contained in this press release may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements other than statements of historical facts included herein may constitute forward-looking statements and are not guarantees of future performance or results and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to trends in the cannabis industry, including proposed changes in U.S and state laws, rules, regulations and guidance relating to Safe Harbor’s services; Safe Harbor’s growth prospects and Safe Harbor’s market size; Safe Harbor’s projected financial and operational performance, including relative to its competitors and historical performance; success or viability of new product and service offerings Safe Harbor may introduce in the future; the impact volatility in the capital markets, which may adversely affect the price of Safe Harbor’s securities; the outcome of any legal proceedings that have been or may be brought by or against Safe Harbor; and other statements regarding Safe Harbor’s expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future. In addition, any statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intends,” “outlook,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “would,” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including those described from time to time in Safe Harbor’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Safe Harbor undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statement made herein. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release.

Safe Harbor Investor Relations Contact
Mike Regan, head of Safe Harbor Investor Relations
ir@SHFinancial.org

Safe Harbor Media Relations Contact
Ellen Mellody
safeharbor@kcsa.com
570-209-2947

The MIL Network –

May 1, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: Lending and Deposit Rates of Scheduled Commercial Banks – April 2025

Source: Reserve Bank of India

Data on lending and deposit rates of scheduled commercial banks (SCBs) (excluding regional rural banks and small finance banks) received during the month of April 2025 are set out in Tables 1 to 7.

Highlights:

Lending Rates:

The weighted average lending rate (WALR) on fresh rupee loans of SCBs stood at 9.35 per cent in March 2025 (9.40 per cent in February 2025).
The WALR on outstanding rupee loans of SCBs declined to 9.77 per cent in March 2025 from 9.80 per cent in February 2025.¹
1-Year median Marginal Cost of Funds based Lending Rate (MCLR) of SCBs remained unchanged at 9.00 per cent in April 2025.

Deposit Rates:

The weighted average domestic term deposit rate (WADTDR) on fresh rupee term deposits of SCBs stood at 6.65 per cent in March 2025 as compared to 6.49 per cent in February 2025.
The weighted average domestic term deposit rate (WADTDR) on outstanding rupee term deposits of SCBs was 7.03 per cent in March 2025 (7.02 per cent in February 2025).¹

Ajit Prasad
Deputy General Manager
(Communications)

Press Release: 2025-2026/223

MIL OSI Economics –

May 1, 2025

MIL-OSI Russia: Financial News: Saint Petersburg to Host Economic Research Seminar on Monetary Policy

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Central Bank of Russia –

On July 1, the Bank of Russia, the New Economic School and the regulator’s basic department at the National Research University Higher School of Economics will hold the 15th seminar on economic research in St. Petersburg on the topic “Monetary policy and inflation: the effects of asymmetry and behavioral aspects.”

The participants will discuss what information influences household inflation expectations, how stock prices and inflation are related, and the role of the money flow channel. Research on the conditions for the effectiveness of monetary policy communication and the Phillips curve in a network economy will also be presented.

To participate offline or online you must: register.

Preview photo: Gorbacheva_jul / Shutterstock / Fotodom

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: //vv. KBR.ru/Press/Event/? ID = 23587

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 1, 2025

MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: Four Federal Treasury deposit auctions will take place on 30.04.2025

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

Application selection parameters
Date of the selection of applications	04/30/2025
Unique identifier of the application selection	22025110
Deposit currency	rubles
Type of funds	funds of the single treasury account
Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units	480,000
Placement period, in days	6
Date of deposit	04/30/2025
Refund date	06/06/2025
Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating)	Fixed
Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum	20.05
Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds	–
Minimum spread, % per annum	–
Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special)	Urgent
Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units	1,000
Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs.	5
Application selection form (open or closed)	Open
Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
Venue for the selection of applications	PAO Moscow Exchange
Applications accepted:	from 09:30 to 09:40
Pre-applications:	from 09:30 to 09:35
Applications in competition mode:	from 09:35 to 09:40
Formation of a consolidated register of applications:	from 09:40 to 09:50
Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful:	from 09:40 to 10:00
Submission to credit institutions of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement:	from 10:00 to 10:50
Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions:	from 10:00 to 10:50
Deposit transfer time	In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

Application selection parameters
Date of the selection of applications	04/30/2025
Unique identifier of the application selection	22025111
Deposit currency	rubles
Type of funds	funds of the single treasury account
Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units	700,000
Placement period, in days	14
Date of deposit	04/30/2025
Refund date	05/14/2025
Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating)	Floating
Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum	–
Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds	Ruonmds
Minimum spread, % per annum	0.00
Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special)	Urgent
Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units	1,000
Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs.	5
Application selection form (open or closed)	Open
Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
Venue for the selection of applications	PAO Moscow Exchange
Applications accepted:	from 12:00 to 12:10
Preliminary applications:	from 12:00 to 12:05
Applications in competition mode:	from 12:05 to 12:10
Formation of a consolidated register of applications:	from 12:10 to 12:20
Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful:	from 12:10 to 12:30
Submission to credit institutions of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement:	from 12:30 to 13:20
Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions:	from 12:30 to 13:20
Deposit transfer time	In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

RUONmDS = RUONIA – DS, where

RUONIA – the value of the indicative weighted rate of overnight ruble loans (deposits) RUONIA, expressed in hundredths of a percent, published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued. In the absence of a RUONIA rate value published on the day preceding the day for which interest is accrued, the last of the published RUONIA rate values is taken into account.

DS – discount – a value expressed in hundredths of a percent and rounded (according to the rules of mathematical rounding) to two decimal places, calculated by multiplying the value of the Key Rate of the Bank of Russia by the value of the required reserve ratio for other liabilities of credit institutions for banks with a universal license, non-bank credit institutions (except for long-term ones) in the currency of the Russian Federation, valid on the date for which interest is accrued, and published on the official website of the Bank of Russia on the Internet.

Application selection parameters
Date of the selection of applications	04/30/2025
Unique identifier of the application selection	22025112
Deposit currency	rubles
Type of funds	funds of the single treasury account
Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units	100,000
Placement period, in days	182
Date of deposit	04/30/2025
Refund date	29.10.2025
Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating)	Floating
Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum	–
Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds	Ruonmds
Minimum spread, % per annum	0.00
Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special)	Special
Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units	1,000
Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs.	5
Application selection form (open or closed)	Closed
Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
Venue for the selection of applications	PAO Moscow Exchange
Applications accepted:	from 16:00 to 16:10
Formation of a consolidated register of applications:	from 16:10 to 16:20
Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful:	from 16:10 to 16:30
Submission to credit institutions of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement:	from 16:30 to 17:20
Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions:	from 16:30 to 17:20
Deposit transfer time	In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

RUONmDS = RUONIA – DS, where

Application selection parameters
Date of the selection of applications	04/30/2025
Unique identifier of the application selection	22025113
Deposit currency	rubles
Type of funds	funds of the single treasury account
Maximum amount of funds placed in bank deposits, million monetary units	10,000
Placement period, in days	6
Date of deposit	04/30/2025
Refund date	06/06/2025
Interest rate for placement of funds (fixed or floating)	Fixed
Minimum fixed interest rate for placement of funds, % per annum	20.05
Basic floating interest rate for placement of funds	–
Minimum spread, % per annum	–
Terms of conclusion of a bank deposit agreement (fixed-term, replenishable or special)	Urgent
Minimum amount of funds placed for one application, million monetary units	1,000
Maximum number of applications from one credit institution, pcs.	5
Application selection form (open or closed)	Open
Application selection schedule (Moscow time)
Venue for the selection of applications	PAO Moscow Exchange
Applications accepted:	from 18:30 to 18:40
Preliminary applications:	from 18:30 to 18:35
Applications in competition mode:	from 18:35 to 18:40
Formation of a consolidated register of applications:	from 18:40 to 18:50
Setting a cut-off percentage rate and/or recognizing the selection of applications as unsuccessful:	from 18:40 to 18:50
Submission to credit institutions of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement:	from 18:50 to 19:30
Receiving acceptance of an offer to conclude a bank deposit agreement from credit institutions:	from 18:50 to 19:30
Deposit transfer time	In accordance with the requirements of paragraph 63 and paragraph 64 of the Order of the Federal Treasury dated 04/27/2023 No. 10n

Contact information for media 7 (495) 363-3232Pr@moex.kom

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: //VVV. MEEX.K.MO/N89940

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 1, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: Data on India’s Invisibles for Third Quarter (October-December) of 2024-25

Source: Reserve Bank of India

The Reserve Bank today released data on India’s invisibles as per the IMF’s Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual (BPM6) format for October-December of 2024-25.

Ajit Prasad
Deputy General Manager
(Communications)

Press Release: 2025-2026/221

MIL OSI Economics –

May 1, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: Monthly Data on India’s International Trade in Services for the Month of March 2025

Source: Reserve Bank of India

The value of exports and imports of services during March 2025 is given in the following table.

International Trade in Services
(US$ million)
Month	Receipts (Exports)	Payments (Imports)
January – 2025	34,726 (12.0)	16,706 (12.6)
February – 2025	31,625 (11.6)	14,506 (-4.8)
March – 2025	35,600 (18.6)	17,475 (5.3)
Notes: (i) Data for January-March are provisional; and (ii) Figures in parentheses are growth rates over the corresponding month of the previous year which have been revised on the basis of balance of payments statistics.

Ajit Prasad
Deputy General Manager
(Communications)

Press Release: 2025-2026/222

MIL OSI Economics –

May 1, 2025

MIL-OSI Africa: African Mining Week 2025 to Feature Women in Leadership Forum

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

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, April 30, 2025/APO Group/ —

As women take on increasingly influential roles in shaping the future of Africa’s mining sector, African Mining Week (AMW) 2025 – taking place from October 1–3 in Cape Town – will host a dedicated Women in Leadership Forum. This platform will bring together female leaders from across the mining value chain, connecting them with global investors, strategic partners and emerging project opportunities.

Women are playing a pivotal role in transforming the continent’s mining industry – championing policy reforms, driving investment, leading major companies,and advancing mineral diversification. Bogolo Kenewendo, Botswana’s Minister of Mining, is spearheading structural reforms aimed at strengthening investor partnerships and expanding the country’s diamond value chain. In February 2025, Botswana signed a landmark diamond sales agreement with De Beers, doubling its share of rough diamonds from the Debswana joint venture from 25% to 50% over the next decade. The agreement also extended Debswana’s mining license by 25 years, reinforcing the continued contribution of diamonds to Botswana’s economy, where the sector accounts for 80% of exports and 25% of GDP.

In Uganda, Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa, is driving strategic partnerships to revitalize the country’s mineral sector. In March 2025, Uganda signed its first-ever Mineral Production Sharing Agreement for the redevelopment of the Kilembe copper mines with Sarrai Group Limited and Nile Fibreboard Limited. Uganda is also progressing toward its first commercial rare earth production at the Makuutu Project, developed in partnership with Ionic Rare Earths, with operations expected to begin in 2026.

Malawi’s Minister of Mining, Monica Chang’anamuno, is leading efforts to diversify the country’s mineral portfolio and enhance sector governance. The World Bank estimates that Malawi could earn up to $30 billion in mineral revenues between 2026 and 2040, driven by uranium, graphite and rare earth developments. Lotus Resources is targeting initial uranium production at the Kayelekera Mine in Q3 2025. Additionally, Malawi established its first-ever Mining Regulatory Authority in late 2024 to streamline approvals and accelerate project development.

Beyond the public sector, female executives are also steering the energy industry’s evolution. Kelly Ayuk Mealia, Chairperson and Co-founder of Energy Capital & Power – the organizer of African Mining Week – is a vocal advocate for investment and project development across the continent. Marie-Chantal Kaninda, President of Glencore DRC, plays a strategic role in maintaining the DRC’s global leadership in cobalt and copper. Nolitha Fakude, Chairperson of Anglo American South Africa, is a prominent voice on ESG and diversity, while Nombasa Tsengwa, CEO of Exxaro Resources, leads one of South Africa’s top coal producers. Other notable women in leadership include Elizabeth Rogo, CEO of Tsavo Oilfield Services (Kenya); Naomi Biney, CEO of Goldridge Ghana Limited (Ghana); and Nneka Ezeigwe, CEO of Eta Zuma Mining and Industries (Nigeria).

The Women in Leadership Forum at AMW 2025 will highlight how women are not only contributing to the industry – but actively redefining it for a more inclusive and sustainable future.

African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

MIL OSI Africa –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Europeans celebrate 75 Years of unity and solidarity on Europe Day 2025

Source: European Parliament 3

The Schuman Declaration laid the foundations for the European Union and paved the way for an unprecedented era of prosperity, peace, democracy, solidarity and cooperation in Europe.

To mark the occasion, many events will take place in EU Member States and around the world, bringing together citizens from all walks of life. The EU institutions will open their doors and invite citizens to visit their premises, discover their work and engage in a wide range of educational and entertaining activities.

Landmark buildings and monuments across the globe will be illuminated in the EU colours, while a special Europe Day programme is planned for Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan.

In times of global uncertainty, Europe remains an anchor of stability – a place of opportunity and protection for its citizens. The EU and its institutions are working towards the common goal of ensuring prosperity and competitiveness, guaranteeing our security and defence, while upholding the fundamental values Europeans care about.

European Parliament

On 4 May, citizens of all ages will be able to attend the official Europe Day opening ceremony and take a seat in the hemicycle of the European Parliament in Strasbourg. The ceremony will begin with a video message from President Roberta Metsola, followed by a speech from Vice-President Younous Omarjee, and a musical performance by the Voix de Stras’ ensemble. Through various exhibits and interactive activities, visitors will learn how the Parliament works, how laws are made, and why European politics matters. Visitors will also be able to visit the “Changemakers” exhibition. On 10 May, the public will once again be given the chance to discover European democracy in action at the Parliament’s hemicycle in Brussels, with day-long activities emphasising the importance of citizen participation. In Luxembourg, special activities will mark the first anniversary of the Visitors’ Centre on 9 May, including the recently inaugurated Europa Experience. The following day, a rich cultural programme is planned in the Echternach Abbey courtyard. Full programme and events organised in the 27 EU countries.

European Council/Council of the European Union

On 10 May, the Council of the European Union will also open its doors, granting citizens an opportunity to follow in EU leaders’ footsteps. Guided tours throughout the day will offer visitors a rare look at where important European decisions are made. Each of the 27 Member States will host a stand, showcasing their culture, traditions, culinary specialties and more. Younger visitors can also expect tailor-made activities, including a treasure hunt and a “fun fact” quest designed specifically for kids. In honour of the Council’s 50th anniversary, the public will even be able to travel back in time and take a selfie with the leaders of 1974.

European Commission

On 10 May, citizens will also have the opportunity to visit the Commission’s iconic Berlaymont building in Brussels. Here, they will have the chance to learn about the Commission’s role and priorities, engage in series of activities, and find out more about initiatives and concrete benefits for their daily lives. Among others, visitors will have an opportunity to learn about the Commission’s efforts to boost European competitiveness both, promote social cohesion, protect democracy and protect fundamental rights, at home and abroad.

European Central Bank

As part of its Europe Day celebrations on 10 May, the European Central Bank (ECB) will bring the vibrant spirit of Europe to its hometown, Frankfurt am Main, by participating in the city’s Europa-Fest. Visitors will find the ECB at the “European Marketplace” on the Römerberg plaza, alongside Frankfurt-based European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority and the Authority for Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism. In such a special year, celebrating 40 years of Schengen and the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, many themed activities have been organised, with the ECB even planning a lightshow, to be projected onto the west wing of the city’s Grossmarkthalle. In Brussels, the ECB will also host its own stand at the Commission’s Europe Day event.

European Investment Bank

The European Investment Bank (EIB) Group will welcome visitors to its stand at the Council of the European Union’s Justus Lipsius building as part of its Open Day on 10 May in Brussels. EIB Group staff will inform visitors of how its financing and advisory services improve lives and advance EU policy goals. This includes anything from innovation, security and defence to social and territorial cohesion, and the transition towards a net-zero economy. The stand itself will be enhanced by various activities and media, such as quizzes, games and audiovisual material showcasing EIB-financed projects.

European Court of Auditors

On 10 May, as part of the Europe Day celebrations in Echternach, EU auditors will host a series of interactive and engaging activities at the European Court of Auditors’ premises. Among other things, visitors will have the chance to partake in an engaging quiz to test their audit skills. Families and people of all ages are welcome to discover how the European Court of Auditors, the guardian of the EU’s finances, helps protect EU citizens’ money.

European External Action Service

The European External Action Service (EEAS) will open its doors to the public on 10 May for its “Travel the World in a Day“. Travel the World in a Day” event. Visitors to the EU’s diplomatic headquarters in Brussels will be given an opportunity to learn about the work of the EEAS and its 144 delegations and offices worldwide. Through interactive exhibits and activities, visitors will discover the EU’s role as a global leader and reliable partner for prosperity, peace, security, multilateralism, democracy, and a rules-based order. The event will also include a digital booth to help explore the EU pavilion at Expo 2025 in Japan, as well as live dance performances, workshops and family-friendly activities that celebrate global diversity.

European Economic and Social Committee

This year, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) will also host a special celebration of the Schuman Declaration’s 75th anniversary. To honour this seminal text, the EESC – the house of European organised civil society – is putting together a range of activities on its premises, through which it will inform and engage with citizens, while offering insights into its various Sections’ and Groups’ advisory work. The day itself will offer entertainment for all, with a real-time voting simulation allowing visitors to step into EESC members’ shoes and discover the process for themselves.

European Committee of the Regions

On 10 May, the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) – ideally located between the European Parliament and Council in Brussels – will open its doors to the public as well, showcasing how it represents regions and cities in the EU, and everything that regional and local elected politicians do for citizens. Visitors will learn how their region voices its interests in the EU, and they will have the chance to meet local and regional elected politicians and discuss European issues in a direct, informal atmosphere. The traditional Festival of Regions and Cities will treat visitors to a showcase of their preferred tourist spots, traditional music and dance, and various culinary specialties.

Background

Europe Day held on 9 May every year celebrates peace and unity in Europe. The date marks the anniversary of the ‘Schuman declaration’, a historic proposal made by Robert Schuman, French Foreign Minister, in 1950 that laid out the foundation of European cooperation. Schuman’s proposal is considered to be the beginning of what is now the European Union.

In 2025, Europe Day is a special occasion, as we are celebrating 75 years since the Schuman declaration. To learn more about each institution’s programme, visit the Europe Day 2025 website.

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: War in Gaza: Sciences Po Mobilises…
Source: Universities – Science Po in English
Since the beginning of the conflict in October 2023, Sciences Po has fully played its role as a major international university, by taking actions in defence of academic freedom and offering a wide range of teaching formats to shed light on the situation in Gaza from the perspective of the humanities and social sciences.

In doing so, Sciences Po is perfectly in line with the doctrine adopted earlier this year according to which positions taken by Sciences Po are considered legitimate if they are linked to the primary missions of the institution and to its activities as a research and educational academic institution.

To protect students and researchers

The ongoing war in Gaza has significantly disrupted the education of all 625,000 students in the region and deeply affected the lives and livelihoods of thousands of teachers. The lack of access to learning not only has immediate consequences but also long-term effects, especially given the widespread damage and destruction of most university buildings.

As a university, Sciences Po’s priority has been the safety of our students impacted by the war. Sciences Po has supported tens of students whose families are directly affected by the conflicts in the region, providing material and financial assistance.

In 2024, Sciences Po signed a partnership agreement with Birzeit University in the West Bank, which allowed 9 exchange students to be hosted this year with full scholarships provided by Sciences Po (flight and living allowance). This funding has been renewed for 2025-2026, with 5 mobility scholarships financed by Sciences Po again. From 2026-2027, the Erasmus MIC programme (international credit mobility) will be providing support to the exchange students.

The partnership with Birzeit University brings to two the number of exchange agreements in place with Palestinian universities, Sciences Po having already signed with Al-Quds University, also located in the West Bank, several years ago. Five Erasmus + scholarships were granted in 2024-25 to students from Al Quds University, and five more are planned for 2025-26.

In Gaza, 90,000 university students have lost access to education. Sciences Po decided last year to participate in the Technical Education Support for Higher Education Students Initiative – TESI. It aims at empowering Gaza students to complete their university education remotely as visiting students in West Bank Universities, with no financial burden on the students or their respective universities.

Sciences Po also recruited Dr. Sanaa AlSarghali from An-Najah University-Nablus (on the West Bank) as a visiting professor to the Law School. Dr. Alsarghali is the first woman to ever earn a Ph.D. in Constitutional Law in Palestinen.

Finally, as part of the PAUSE programme which supports scientists and artists in exile by facilitating their hosting in higher education and research institutions or cultural institutions, Palestinian artist Maha Issa Al-Daya is jointly hosted by the Columbia Institute for Ideas and Imagination, the Columbia Paris Global Center, and Sciences Po for a year. Affiliated to Sciences Po Institute for the Arts & Creation, she already took part in an event titled “Art in times of war” in March. On 14 April, Maha Issa Al-Daya attended the exhibition opening about “the salvaged treasures of Gaza” set by the Institut du Monde Arabe, during which President Emmanuel Macron symbolically held a map of Palestine embroidered by the artist.

To analyse the situation in Gaza and Palestine

As a university, Sciences Po believes it is its role to share knowledge and context regarding the current situation in Gaza. To do so, the institution has been organising many events, classes, conferences, for its students but also for a larger audience, in Paris and on the Menton Campus mainly. A cycle of 12 lessons, designed by the Middle East North Africa Programme, was offered in Paris this year to shed light on the war using the tools of different social sciences: history, political science, sociology, and economics.

Sciences Po Library published a selection of books, articles, reports by discipline (as well as a selection of films and novels), a selection of archival documents and an exhaustive and structured “Israel-Palestine Transverse Fund“, giving access to all the available resources (in French and/or English).

Series of 12 conferences on the Middle East conflict:

– “The emergence of the Palestine question (1897-1947)” by Vincent Lemire, Professor of History at Gustave Eiffel University, 3 October 2024

– “Zionism: why should Israel exist?” by Alain Dieckhoff, CNRS Research Professor at Sciences Po CERI, 17 October 2024

– “Palestinian refugees in the Middle East” by Kemal Doraï, researcher at the CNRS and at the MIGRINTER laboratory of the University of Poitiers, 7 November 2024

– “The making of a nation: Israel” by Denis Charbit, professor of political science at Israel’s Open University, 14 November 2024

– “Palestinians facing Israel” by Laetitia Bucaille, professor of political sociology at INALCO, 28 November 2024

– “Israel, what kind of democracy?’ by Samy Cohen, Emeritus Research Professor at Sciences Po CERI, 5 December 2024

– “Living and taking action in the West Bank and Gaza” by Stéphanie Latte Abdallah, Director of Research at the CNRS, 6 February 2025

– “Israel versus the Palestinians (1948-2025)” by Mark Tessler, Professor of Political Science at the University of Michigan, 20 February 2025

– “The political economy of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict” by Sami Miaari, Professor of Economics at Tel Aviv University and Yale University, 6 March 2025

– “The Hizbullah and Israel, between tension and confrontation” by Joseph Bahout, Director of the Issam Farès Institute for Public Policy and International Affairs at the American University of Beirut, 20 March 2025

– “US policy towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict” by Camille Mansour, editor-in-chief of the Interactive Encyclopaedia of the Palestine Question, 3 April 2025

– “The Gulf monarchies and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict” by Laurence Louër, Deputy Director for Scientific Affairs at Sciences Po CERI and Associate Professor, 17 April 2025

Two-day training organised by Sciences Po Law School and MENA Programme about “Navigating Uncertainty: The Case for Interim Constitutions in Syria and Palestine”, 15-16 May 2025.

Movie cycle on Gaza and Palestine:

– Gaza mon amour (December 2023),

– Voyage à Gaza (November 2024),

– Bye Bye Tibériade (November 2024).

Organisation of a conference with Palestinian artist, photographer and painter Mohamed Abusal, from Gaza (November 2024).

Discussion autour de la guerre entre Israël et le Hamas with Gérard Araud et Ghassan Salamé, PSIA, 12 October,

Israël/ Palestine : le retour de la guerre, et après ? with Karim Bitar, Laetitia Bucaille, Alain Dieckhoff and Stéphane Lacroix, Collège universitaire, 26 October,

Israël/ Palestine : Building spaces for diplomacy with reserachers from CERI et UN representatives (Ariel Colonomos, Bernardino Leon, Julie Trottier, Bruno Stagno Ugarte) PSIA, 7 November,

Discussing the Israel-Hamas Conflict : challenge for political humanities, Cercle des humanités politiques (Ariel Colonomos, Astrid Von Busekist, Rebecca Mignot-Mahdavi and Frederique Leichter-Flack), 13 November,

Religions et nationalismes en Israël/ Palestine with Alain Dieckhoff, Chaire d’étude du fait religieux, 14 November,

Hamas-Israël : quels buts de guerre dans quel contexte international ? Association française de Science Politique, 18 December,

Israël/ Hamas : la guerre, de quel droit ?, with Julia Grignon, Samy Cohen, Étienne Dignat, Sharon Weill, CERI, 7 February,

60 minutes with Filippo Grandi, Haut commissaire aux réfugiés ONU, PSIA, 1 March,

Conflit Israël / Hamas : quel rôle du religieux ?, Mgr Pierre d’Ornellas, Frédéric Gros, Hélène Le Gal, Moshé Lewin, Tareq Oubrou, Emouna, 11 March,

Gaza and our world with Bertrand Badie, Dima Alsajdeya, Jean D’aspremont, Louise Bichet, Sbeih Sbeih, CERI, 30 April,

What is next for Palestinians ? Internal debates vs. external demandes, Sanaa Al Sarghali and Guillaume Tusseau, École de droit.

Crise israélo-palestinienne, tensions au Moyen-Orient : décryptage d’une actualité brûlante et de ses répercussions en France, Masterclass de Gilles Kepel, 4-6 December 2023,

Le processus de rédaction de la constitution palestinienne, conférence de Sanaa Alsarghali, constitutionnaliste palestinienne, 8 December 2023,

Conférence de Clothilde Mraffko, correspondante du journal Le Monde à Jérusalem, 16 février 2024,

Conférence de Denis Charbit, professeur franco-israélien de science politique, 18 avril 2024.

Hamas-Israël : quels buts de guerre dans quel contexte international ? Association française de Science Politique, 18 décembre,

Israel/ Hamas : la guerre, de quel droit ?, avec Julia Grignon, Samy Cohen, Étienne Dignat, Sharon Weill, CERI, 7 février,

What is next for Palestinians ? Internal debates vs. external demandes, Sanaa Al Sarghali, et Guillaume Tusseau, École de droit.
Cover image caption: Earth photo at night, City Lights of Europe, Middle East, Turkey, Italy, Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea from space. Elements of this image furnished by NASA. (credits: GizemG / Shutterstock)
MIL OSI Europe News –
April 30, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: Sectoral Deployment of Bank Credit – March 2025

Source: Reserve Bank of India

Data on sectoral deployment of bank credit for the month¹ of March 2025 collected from 41 select scheduled commercial banks (SCBs), accounting for about 95 per cent of the total non-food credit deployed by all SCBs, are set out in Statements I and II.

On a year-on-year (y-o-y) basis, non-food bank credit² as on the fortnight ended March 21, 2025, grew³ by 12.0 per cent as compared to 16.3 per cent during the corresponding fortnight of the previous year (i.e., March 22, 2024).

Highlights of the sectoral deployment of bank credit³ are given below:

Credit to agriculture and allied activities registered a growth of 10.4 per cent (y-o-y) as on the fortnight ended March 21, 2025 (20.0 per cent in the corresponding fortnight of the previous year).
Credit to industry expanded by 8.0 per cent (y-o-y) as on the fortnight ended March 21, 2025, same as in the corresponding fortnight of the previous year. Among major industries, outstanding credit to ‘petroleum, coal products and nuclear fuels’, ‘basic metal and metal products’, ‘all engineering’ and ‘construction’ recorded an accelerated y-o-y growth. However, credit growth in the infrastructure segment decelerated.
Credit to services sector increased by 13.4 per cent (y-o-y) as on the fortnight ended March 21, 2025 (20.8 per cent in the corresponding fortnight of the previous year), primarily due to decelerated growth in credit to ‘non-banking financial companies’ (NBFCs). Credit growth (y-o-y) to ‘professional services’ and ‘trade’ segments remained robust.
Credit to personal loans segment registered a growth of 14.0 per cent (y-o-y) as on the fortnight ended March 21, 2025, as compared with 17.6 per cent a year ago, largely due to decline in growth in ‘other personal loans’, ‘vehicle loans’ and ‘credit card outstanding’.

Ajit Prasad
Deputy General Manager
(Communications)

Press Release: 2025-2026/217

MIL OSI Economics –

April 30, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Chief Executives appointed to lead TRA
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

New Chief Executives appointed to lead TRA

The UK Trade Remedies Authority has confirmed the appointment of Jessica Blakely and Carmen Suarez as Chief Executives in a jobshare arrangement.
The UK Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) has today confirmed the appointment of Jessica Blakely and Carmen Suarez as Chief Executives in a jobshare arrangement. They will take up the role from 2 June.

The Trade Remedies Authority is the UK’s independent public body responsible for investigating allegations of unfair trading practices and unforeseen surges in imports that cause injury to UK industry. It makes evidence-based recommendations to the Secretary of State for Business and Trade.

The TRA’s Chair Nick Baird recently met with the Secretary of State for Business and Trade to agree how during the current global trade turmoil, the TRA will be stepping up its active data monitoring of emerging trade risks to help the Government spot and tackle the potential dumping of unfairly low-priced goods into the UK.

New leadership on trade remedies

Jessica and Carmen join the TRA from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) and have held a number of senior roles both within and outside government, with a particular focus on trade, investment and regulation.

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: 

“This Government is standing up for our national interest, and as part of our Plan for Change, creating a level playing field where UK businesses can thrive and grow.

The work of the TRA has never been more important in achieving this objective, and I’m delighted to welcome Jessica and Carmen to their new role. Their skills will be vital to ensure the TRA continues to protect British producers from unfairly low-priced imports.”

Jessica and Carmen have jobshared since 2017. Their senior roles together have included: leading the Department for Business’ (BEIS) analytical work on EU Exit and international trade; the coordination of the UK Government work on no-deal business readiness; Senior Responsible Officers (SROs) for the level playing field chapter of the UK/EU trade negotiations (including subsidy control and remedial measures); establishing the UK’s domestic subsidy control regime; leading on Brexit Opportunities and regulatory reform in Cabinet Office; and most recently, leading the delivery of local growth funds and Freeports in MHCLG.

Before joining the Civil Service, Jessica’s career featured 12 years working in Investment Banking, providing strategic and financial advice to CEOs and boards of directors on mergers, acquisitions and capital raisings in London, Singapore and Sydney. After joining the Civil Service in 2010, she led analytical work in BEIS’ Better Regulation Executive and then the Europe Directorate.

Carmen joined the Civil Service in 2017 from the Financial Conduct Authority, where she led on embedding competition in financial regulation. Previously, she worked at the Competition and Markets Authority and Office of Fair Trading. including as lead on a number of market studies and head of evaluation. Before these Civil Service roles, she was Chief Economist at the National Farmers Union of England and Wales.

TRA Chair Nick Baird said: ‘I am delighted that two leaders of Jessica and Carmen’s quality have joined us at this turbulent time in the international trade environment. They have exactly the skills and experience to lead the TRA through the changes that are needed to help UK business navigate this new world.’

New appointees Carmen and Jessica said: “We are thrilled to be joining the TRA and look forward to working with its Board, staff and stakeholders to ensure that trade remedies, particularly at this crucial time, are a cornerstone of the UK’s international standing and growth ambitions.”

Background Information

Trade remedy measures are a trade defence tool to protect domestic industries against injury caused by unfair trade practices or unforeseen increases in imports. They are a specific type of tariffs allowed under World Trade Organization rules when specific criteria are met (evidence of dumping, subsidy or a surge in imports). They usually take the form of an additional duty placed on imports of specific products, which are collected by HMRC prior to a good entering into free circulation.

The TRA has been led by Steve O’Donoghue as interim Chief Executive since March 2025, when the TRA’s previous Chief Executive Oliver Griffiths left to take up a new role – TRA announces interim CEO and confirms board leadership – GOV.UK.

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Published 30 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: New Development Bank President Dilma Rousseff met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Shanghai

Source: New Development Bank

On April 29, 2025, H.E. Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China, visited the New Development Bank (NDB) Headquarters in Shanghai.

President Xi Jinping was warmly welcomed by H.E. Mrs. Dilma Rousseff, NDB President, four Vice-Presidents of the Bank and its staff.

President Xi Jinping congratulated Mrs. Dilma Rousseff on her re-election as President of NDB and noted that the Bank is the world’s first multilateral development institution established and led by emerging markets and developing countries.

In his remarks, President Xi Jinping called the Bank “a pioneering initiative for the unity and self-improvement of the Global South,” and said that it conforms to the historical trend of reforming and improving global governance. During the meeting, President Xi Jinping said that the NDB “is the first multilateral development institution initiated and led by emerging markets and developing countries, and that it has grown over the past decade into an emerging force in the international financial system and a symbol of South-South cooperation.” He added that, “as BRICS cooperation enters a phase of high-quality development, NDB is ready to embark on its second golden decade.”

President Xi Jinping called on NDB to always consider the development needs of the Global South, and to provide more high-quality, low-cost and sustainable infrastructure financing.

The Bank needs to improve its management and operations, implement more technology and green finance projects, and help developing countries bridge the digital divide and accelerate green and low-carbon transformation, said President Xi Jinping.

In discussions on the reform of international financial architecture, NDB should amplify the voice of the Global South, safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the Global South, and support the countries of the Global South in their pursuit of modernization.

President Xi Jinping noted that as the Bank’s host country, China will always support the operations and development of the New Development Bank. China is willing to strengthen project cooperation with the Bank and focus on green, innovative and sustainable development to achieve more results, he added.

China is also willing to share its development experience through the NDB with other member countries and stands ready to provide more international public goods, said President Xi Jinping.

In her remarks, President Dilma Rousseff expressed her gratitude to China for its enduring strong support for the NDB.

NDB President noted the remarkable development achievements under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, highlighting China’s important role in enhancing global governance. She also emphasized that, in a world marked by turbulence, the Chinese Government protects the interests of the Global South, supports multilateralism, and upholds international fairness and justice, setting an example for the international community. She also commended China’s open approach to technology cooperation, offering important opportunities for the Global South.

President Dilma Rousseff emphasized that the NDB remains strongly committed to its guiding principles and mandate, consistently contributing to sustainable development of all member countries.

NDB President stated that the Bank has already approved more than 120 investment projects, totaling USD 40 billion, focused on logistic and digital infrastructure as well as social infrastructure, such as water supply and sanitation, investments in education, health, and housing — “crucial for improving the quality of people’s lives”. She stressed that NDB is committed to action against climate change, support energy transition, prevention and mitigation of natural disasters. Another goal is to transform NDB in a truly 21st century bank by adopting the newest AI, and Big Data technology.

Strengthening the use of local currency has became a distinguishing feature of NDB. Currently, 31% of the financing projects are carried out in member countries’ currencies.

In this sense, NDB President also mentioned that the Bank is the largest issuer of Panda Bonds — the name given to Chinese currency-denominated bonds issued by non-Chinese institutions — which have already totaled 68.5 billion yuan. “We are expanding this strategy to other local capital markets, supporting our partners in reducing currency mismatch risks, strengthening their local capital markets, and utilizing currency swaps,” said NDB President.

MIL OSI Economics –

April 30, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Election Diary: post-election rate cut and phone call from Trump in the pipeline

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

It used to be de rigueur for the prime minister and opposition leader to turn up to the National Press Club in the final week of the election campaign. But now Liberal leaders are not so keen.

Scott Morrison gave it a miss in 2022, although he was there in 2019. Nobody expected Peter Dutton, who has often been reluctant to face the Canberra press gallery in the past three years, to front the club this week.

It’s also happened in the past that a leader has said something significantly newsworthy during the Q&A session on these final big occasions.

Bob Hawke, days away from becoming prime minister in 1983, flagged he would be willing to break election promises if he found, on reaching office, that fiscal circumstances were different from what was anticipated. They were, and he did.

Anthony Albanese on Wednesday made his appearance, but he was not going to grab a headline with anything unexpected.

He delivered a spirited stump speech concentrating on everything Labor is offering voters – improvements to Medicare, tax cuts all round, and much else. He played and replayed his familiar mantra about nobody being left behind or held back. When it came to questions, the prime minister defended and deflected.

Are Australians better off than before he was elected? Well, they’d be worse off if Dutton had had his way.

Will whoever is in government need to increase the tax base in the next decade? “We’ll have not one but two income tax cuts.”

Would he consider a compromise on Labor’s plan to tax unrealised capital gains on some superannuation balances? “We have our policy.”

Is there something he regrets from the last three years? “I don’t pretend to be perfect.” So no regrets? “I’m not saying that at all.”

What he is saying is that the final sprint of the campaign is not the time to enter the confessional.

With the polls, and even most Liberals, at least privately, expecting Albanese to still be PM next week, whether in minority or majority government, he knows he has two challenges in these last days: to avoid being caught on any sticky paper, and to continue to project a sense of momentum by going full tilt (Labor people remember Bill Shorten easing up just before polling day in 2019). He is visiting every state, before he votes in his home electorate of Grayndler where, he indicated, his talisman dog Toto will accompany him to the polling booth on Saturday.

Before his press club appearance, Albanese had encouraging news from the latest consumer price index quarterly figures, which showed underlying inflation falling to 2.9%. This points to another cut in interest rates.

Westpac said, “Inflationary pressures have moderated, and the door is open for a rate cut in May”.

The Reserve Bank doesn’t meet until May 19-20, but the prospect of a cut can be a mood lifter for stretched households – just as the pre-campaign February decrease was.

Also able to be cast positively, US President Donald Trump, who has proved elusive in the face of the government’s attempts to get him to pick up the phone to discuss a tariff deal, confirmed a call would come. Asked whether he would speak to Albanese about trade, the president said, “they are calling, and I will talk to him, yes.”

There is no detail of whether, or what, deal could be in the offing, but Trump, by signalling the call, has given (inadvertently) another bit of help to the government in an election in which the “Trump factor” has played all Albanese’s way.

Instead of the press club, Dutton had done an hour’s “Ask Me Anything” appearance on Tuesday with Paul Murray on Sky, taking around a dozen viewers’ questions. It was an easy, friendly gig, directed squarely at his base. That might be one thing if he’s seeking the preferences of those voting One Nation or Trumpet of Patriots, but it is not where the middle-ground swinging voters are.

In this last week, Dutton has put his anger at a section of the media on display. Earlier in the week he lashed out at the ABC, Guardian and “other hate media”.

On Wednesday he doubled down, in a bit of pointed but embittered humour on FM radio when quizzed on tips for a good election night party. “I think alcohol is the first essential ingredient, I’m sure of that. Responsible drinking as well, but not watching the ABC would be a good start. For any young ones listening at home, forget the ABC.”

Dutton’s disdain for the ABC is long-standing and well-known. But in an election campaign, why he thinks it is a good tactic to expose it so blatantly is a mystery. It shows questionable judgement and a lack of discipline.

Michelle Grattan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Election Diary: post-election rate cut and phone call from Trump in the pipeline – https://theconversation.com/election-diary-post-election-rate-cut-and-phone-call-from-trump-in-the-pipeline-255615

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: SPbPU at the exhibition in Tashkent: how to choose the profession of the future and enter a leading technical university

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

The 27th international exhibition “Education and Profession 2025” was held in Uzbekistan. The largest international educational event of the republic was organized by the Agency for Youth Affairs, the Ministry of Preschool and School Education of Uzbekistan and the company “My Fair” with the support of Rossotrudnichestvo and the National Bank of Uzbekistan. The event, which covered 12 cities of the country, brought together a record 100 universities from 15 countries for Central Asia. Our university was also represented at the exhibition.

The Education and Profession 2025 exhibition is a unique opportunity for applicants, students and young professionals to take a look into the future of their careers. Here you can learn about the requirements for admission to universities and colleges, scholarships and grants that make education more accessible, as well as about the professions that will determine the labor market in a few years – from IT development and bioengineering to sustainable development and digital art. Experts from leading universities reveal right at the exhibition which skills are critically important today. For example, the ability to work with data, adapt to change, manage a team or solve interdisciplinary problems.

Deputy Head of the Agency for Youth Affairs Dilnozahon Kattakhanova emphasized the significance of the event: More than 100 universities are more than 100 opportunities for self-realization, discovering potential and choosing a decent education. Young people will be able to contribute to the development of science, technology and all spheres of life in the country.

Head of Rossotrudnichestvo in Uzbekistan Irina Staroselskaya emphasized the importance of choice: Young people can choose not only a university, but also a country, a direction. The main thing is that education brings pleasure – after all, we spend most of our lives at work. Let the choice be conscious!

Over the course of two days of the exhibition, the stand of the St. Petersburg Polytechnic University was visited by more than 1,700 high school students from Uzbekistan considering the possibility of studying in Russia. The main audience was senior students who studied in detail the prospects of entering Russian universities.

Leading Advertising Manager of the SPbPU Center for International Recruitment and Communications Zhanna Trunkova and specialist of the Department for Work with Foreign Students Evgeniya Borodina held individual consultations for the guests. They explained in detail the conditions of enrollment, the range of available educational programs, as well as scholarship and financial support options for foreign students of the university.

Uzbek schoolchildren received information about scholarships, admission requirements and promising professions. The speakers thanked the partners for their contribution to the organization of the largest educational project in the region.

International educational exhibitions help not only to obtain information, but also to immerse yourself in a dialogue with universities. Personal consultations, career guidance tests and live communication with representatives allow you to compare your interests with the real demands of the economy. This is a chance to rethink career goals, choose an educational trajectory that corresponds to both personal ambitions and global trends, and also to begin building a professional path without gaps in knowledge, – emphasized the head of the International Education Department of SPbPU Evgeniya Satalkina.

You can find out more about the admission procedure at Polytechnic University atSPbPU website, and fill out the form inin the applicant’s personal account.

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

April 30, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Taiwan donates €4 million to EBRD’s Ukraine Recovery and Reconstruction Guarantee Facility to help revitalize Ukrainian insurance market

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

Taiwan donates €4 million to EBRD’s Ukraine Recovery and Reconstruction Guarantee Facility to help revitalize Ukrainian insurance market

Date：2024-12-14
Data Source：Department of European Affairs

December 14, 2024
No. 461

To assist Ukraine in revitalizing its domestic insurance market and to boost international investment interest in Ukraine, Taiwan has agreed to allocate €4 million from the TaiwanBusiness-EBRD Technical Cooperation Fund for the Ukraine Recovery and Reconstruction Guarantee Facility (URGF) initiative led by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). The donation agreement was signed in Taipei on December 2 at a ceremony witnessed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Tien Chung-kwang. It was signed on behalf of Taiwan by Jonathan C. Y. Sun, Director General of the Department of International Organizations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and by Director for Donor Partnerships Camilla Otto on behalf of the EBRD.

The EBRD held a ceremony to launch the URGF in its London headquarters on December 12, which was attended by Taiwan Representative to the United Kingdom Vincent C. H. Yao. In his remarks at the event, Representative Yao said that Taiwan staunchly supported Ukraine and looked forward to working with like-minded democratic allies to assist in Ukraine’s reconstruction through the URGF mechanism.

Due to the Russia-Ukraine war, international reinsurance companies have had reservations about providing coverage for businesses operating in Ukraine. The EBRD thus aims to raise €110 million via the URGF mechanism so as to provide additional guarantees for potential losses incurred by war-related risks. This will increase international investor confidence and, in turn, accelerate economic recovery and improve the lives of the Ukrainian people. France, the United Kingdom, Norway, the European Union, and Switzerland have also pledged to donate to the URGF. (E)

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

April 30, 2025

Category: Banking

Open debate on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinain issue

Notes

Consultation process

Legal basis and next steps

To protect students and researchers

To analyse the situation in Gaza and Palestine

New Chief Executives appointed to lead TRA

New leadership on trade remedies

Background Information

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