Category: Business

  • MIL-OSI: BayFirst Financial Corp. Reports Fourth Quarter 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla., Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BayFirst Financial Corp. (NASDAQ: BAFN) (“BayFirst” or the “Company”), parent company of BayFirst National Bank (the “Bank”) today reported net income of $9.8 million, or $2.27 per common share, or $2.11 per diluted common share, for the fourth quarter of 2024, an increase of 759.8% compared to $1.1 million, or $0.18 per common share and diluted common share, in the third quarter of 2024. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $12.6 million, or $2.68 per common share, or $2.62 per diluted common share, compared to $5.7 million, or $1.16 per common share, or $1.12 per diluted common share for the year ended December 31, 2023.

    “We reported strong fourth quarter 2024 results, highlighted by quarterly net interest margin expansion and improved operating efficiencies,” stated Thomas G. Zernick, Chief Executive Officer. “Net income increased substantially compared to the preceding quarter, led by increases in net interest income, higher gain on sale of government guaranteed loans, and a gain on sale of two branch office properties, which was part of a sale-leaseback transaction. It’s worth noting that we continue to lease these two branch offices, resulting in no impact to our existing branch network. As a result of this transaction, we recorded an after-tax gain on sale of the properties of $8.7 million during the fourth quarter of 2024.”

    “The strength of our community bank business model, which includes serving individuals, families, and small businesses, coupled with results from our government guaranteed banking division, continues to fuel our operating results,” Zernick continued. “Our government guaranteed banking team had a solid quarter, producing $107.8 million in new government guaranteed loans, which was an improvement compared to the third quarter of 2024. Our lenders remain focused on meeting loan origination targets, while also adhering to prudently conservative credit quality metrics.

    “One of the highlights of the full year 2024 was the $1.1 million reduction in noninterest expenses compared to 2023. When we completed our near-term branch expansion plans in early 2024, we focused on reducing operating expenses by leveraging technology investments to better manage headcount and related incentive compensation, while at the same time growing the franchise. As we look to the new year, we will continue initiatives that are designed to further increase our efficiency, lower costs, and maximize the investments we’ve already made in technology and in our banking centers. While we are pleased with the progress during the fourth quarter and the year, we are excited to continue our forward momentum and further boost our results in 2025,” said Zernick.

    “Additionally, the Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program on January 28, 2025. We believe our stock offers an attractive investment and repurchasing stock is a means for building long-term shareholder value,” said Zernick. “We are confident about the growth of our Company, and we believe that when our shares are undervalued, repurchases represent a value-enhancing deployment of capital.”

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Performance Review

    • In December 2024, the Company entered into a sale-leaseback agreement for two branch office properties for an aggregate cash purchase price of $15.0 million. As a result of this transaction, the Company recorded a pre-tax gain on sale of the properties of $11.6 million.
    • The Company’s government guaranteed loan team originated $107.8 million in new loans during the fourth quarter of 2024, an increase from $94.4 million of loans produced in the previous quarter, and a decrease from $144.9 million of loans produced during the fourth quarter of 2023. Since the launch in 2022 of the Company’s Bolt loan program, an SBA 7(a) loan product designed to expeditiously provide working capital loans of $150 thousand or less, the Company has originated 5,726 Bolt loans totaling $741.5 million, of which 495 Bolt loans totaling $64.8 million were originated during the fourth quarter. No newly originated government guaranteed loans were measured at fair value during the fourth quarter of 2024 versus $34 million in the third quarter of 2024 and $53 million in the fourth quarter of 2023.
    • Loans held for investment increased by $24.1 million, or 2.3%, during the fourth quarter of 2024 to $1.07 billion and increased $150.8 million, or 16.5%, over the past year. During the quarter, the Company originated $158.7 million of loans and sold $94.5 million of government guaranteed loan balances.
    • Deposits increased $31.0 million, or 2.8%, during the fourth quarter of 2024 and increased $158.1 million, or 16.0%, over the past year to $1.14 billion.
    • Book value and tangible book value at December 31, 2024 were $22.95 per common share, an increase from $20.86 at September 30, 2024.
    • Net interest margin increased by 26 basis points to 3.60% in the fourth quarter of 2024, from 3.34% in the third quarter of 2024 and 12 basis points from 3.48%in the fourth quarter of 2023.

    Results of Operations

    Net Income

    Net income was $9.8 million for the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $1.1 million in the third quarter of 2024 and $1.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in net income for the fourth quarter of 2024 from the preceding quarter was primarily the result of the pre-tax gain on sale of two branch office properties of $11.6 million, which was part of a sale-leaseback transaction. Also contributing to higher earnings was an increase in net interest income of $1.2 million, an increase in gain on sale of government guaranteed loans of $2.3 million, and a decrease in noninterest expense of $1.7 million, partially offset by an increase in provision for credit losses of $1.4 million, a decrease in government guaranteed loan fair value gains of $3.5 million, and an increase in income tax expense on continuing operations of $2.9 million. The decrease in fair value gains on government guaranteed loans was the result of not measuring any newly originated government guaranteed loans at fair value in the fourth quarter. The increase in net income from the fourth quarter of 2023 was due to the pre-tax gain on sale of two branch office properties of $11.6 million, an increase in net interest income of $1.8 million, an increase in gain on sale of government guaranteed loans of $1.4 million, and lower noninterest expense of $3.1 million. This was partially offset by an increase in provision for credit losses of $1.8 million, a decrease in government guaranteed loan fair value gains of $4.8 million, and an increase in income tax expense on continuing operations of $2.6 million.

    For the year ended December 31, 2024, net income was $12.6 million, an increase from $5.7 million from the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase was primarily due to the pre-tax gain on sale of two branch office properties of $11.6 million, an increase in net interest income of $1.6 million, higher gain on sale of government guaranteed loans of $3.7 million, and lower noninterest expense of $0.9 million, partially offset by higher provision for credit losses of $4.3 million, a decrease in government guaranteed fair value gains of $5.9 million and higher income tax expense on continuing operations of $2.2 million.

    Net Interest Income and Net Interest Margin

    Net interest income from continuing operations was $10.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2024, an increase from $9.4 million during the third quarter of 2024, and an increase from $8.9 million during the fourth quarter of 2023. The net interest margin increased by 26 basis points to 3.60% in the fourth quarter of 2024, from 3.34% in the third quarter of 2024 and 12 basis points from 3.48%in the fourth quarter of 2023.

    The increase in net interest income from continuing operations during the fourth quarter of 2024, as compared to the third quarter of 2024, was mainly due to a decrease in interest cost on deposits of $1.0 million.

    The increase in net interest income from continuing operations during the fourth quarter of 2024, as compared to the year ago quarter, was mainly due to an increase in loan interest income, including fees, of $3.0 million, partially offset by higher interest expense on deposits of $0.9 million.

    Net interest income from continuing operations was $38.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, an increase from $36.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase was mainly due to an increase in loan interest income, including fees, of $15.6 million, partially offset by an increase in interest expense on deposits of $12.1 million.

    Noninterest Income

    Noninterest income from continuing operations was $22.3 million for the fourth quarter of 2024, which was an increase from $12.3 million in the third quarter of 2024 and an increase from $14.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2023. The increase in the fourth quarter of 2024, as compared to the third quarter of 2024, was primarily the result of the pre-tax gain on sale of two branch office properties of $11.6 million, which was part of a sale-leaseback transaction, and an increase in gain on sale of government guaranteed loans of $2.3 million, partially offset by a decrease in government guaranteed loan fair value gains of $3.5 million. The decrease in fair value gains on government guaranteed loans was the result of not measuring any newly originated government guaranteed loans at fair value in the fourth quarter. The increase in the fourth quarter of 2024, as compared to the fourth quarter of 2023, was the result of the pre-tax gain on sale of two branch office properties of $11.6 million and an increase in gain on sale of government guaranteed loans of $1.4 million, partially offset by a decrease in fair value gains on government guaranteed loans of $4.8 million.

    Noninterest income from continuing operations was $60.5 million for the year ended 2024, which was an increase from $49.8 million for the year ended 2023. The increase was primarily the result of the pre-tax gain on sale of two branch office properties of $11.6 million and an increase in gain on sale of government guaranteed loans of $3.7 million, partially offset by a decrease in fair value gains on government guaranteed loans of $5.9 million.

    Noninterest Expense

    Noninterest expense from continuing operations was $15.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to $17.1 million in the third quarter of 2024 and $18.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2023. The decrease in the fourth quarter of 2024, as compared to the prior quarter, was primarily due to a decrease in compensation expense of $0.6 million and a decrease in loan origination and collection expense of $1.2 million. The decrease in the fourth quarter of 2024, as compared to the fourth quarter of 2023, was primarily due to lower compensation expense of $1.2 million and lower loan origination and collection expenses of $2.0 million.

    Noninterest expense from continuing operations was $66.8 million for the year ended 2024 compared to $67.7 million for the year ended 2023. The decrease was the result of decreases in compensation expenses of $1.2 million, loan origination and collection expense of $1.0 million, and marketing and business development expenses of $1.3 million. The decreases were partially offset by increases in data processing expenses of $1.1 million, regulatory assessments of $0.4 million, and other noninterest expenses of $0.8 million.

    Balance Sheet

    Assets

    Total assets increased $43.2 million, or 3.5%, during the fourth quarter of 2024 to $1.29 billion, mainly due to increases in loans held for investment of $24.1 million, cash and cash equivalents of $13.4 million, and right-of-use operating lease assets of $13.8 million, partially offset by a decrease in premises and equipment of $5.5 million. The increase in the right-of-use operating lease asset and decrease in premises and equipment was primarily the result of the fourth quarter 2024 sale-leaseback transaction. Compared to the end of the fourth quarter last year, total assets increased $170.5 million, or 15.3%, driven by growth of loans held for investment of $150.8 million, higher cash and cash equivalents of $19.4 million, and an increase in right-of-use operating lease asset of $13.4 million, partially offset by a decrease in premises and equipment of $5.6 million.

    Loans

    Loans held for investment increased $24.1 million, or 2.3%, during the fourth quarter of 2024 and $150.8 million, or 16.5%, over the past year to $1.07 billion, due to originations in both conventional community bank loans and government guaranteed loans, partially offset by government guaranteed loan sales.

    Deposits

    Deposits increased $31.0 million, or 2.8%, during the fourth quarter of 2024 and increased $158.1 million, or 16.0%, from the fourth quarter of 2023, ending December 31, 2024 at $1.14 billion. During the fourth quarter, there were increases in noninterest-bearing deposit account balances of $5.7 million, interest-bearing transaction account balances of $8.9 million, and savings and money market deposit account balances of $19.1 million, partially offset by a decrease in time deposit balances of $2.7 million. The majority of the deposits are generated through the community bank in the Tampa Bay/Sarasota area. At December 31, 2024, approximately 74% of total deposits were insured by the FDIC. At times, the Bank has brokered time deposit and non-maturity deposit relationships available to diversify its funding sources. At December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, the Company had $112.1 million, $76.7 million, and $0.2 million, respectively, of brokered deposits.

    Asset Quality

    The Company recorded a provision for credit losses in the fourth quarter of $4.5 million, compared to provisions of $3.1 million for the third quarter of 2024 and $2.7 million during the fourth quarter of 2023.

    The ratio of ACL to total loans held for investment at amortized cost was 1.54% at December 31, 2024, 1.48% as of September 30, 2024, and 1.64% as of December 31, 2023. The ratio of ACL to total loans held for investment at amortized cost, excluding government guaranteed loan balances, was 1.79% at December 31, 2024, 1.70% as of September 30, 2024, and 2.03% as of December 31, 2023. To date, we have not learned of a material loss to the Company as a result of the recent hurricanes. Therefore, additional loss reserves have not been deemed necessary.

    Net charge-offs for the fourth quarter of 2024 were $3.4 million, which was an increase from $2.8 million for the third quarter of 2024 and $2.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2023. Annualized net charge-offs as a percentage of average loans held for investment at amortized cost were 1.34% for the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to 1.16% in the third quarter of 2024 and 1.27% in the fourth quarter of 2023. Nonperforming assets to total assets were 1.50% as of December 31, 2024, compared to 1.38% as of September 30, 2024, and 0.92% as of December 31, 2023. Nonperforming assets, excluding government guaranteed loan balances, to total assets were 1.06% as of December 31, 2024, compared to 0.88% as of September 30, 2024, and 0.74% as of December 31, 2023. As we discussed in previous quarters, the Bank developed an express modification program for SBA 7(a) borrowers to help those borrowers who are challenged with larger payments in the higher interest rate environment compared to interest rates at the time the loans were originated. To date, 496 SBA 7(a) borrowers have been offered loan modification options. These efforts have helped and are expected to continue to help reduce the risk of loss.

    Capital

    The Bank’s Tier 1 leverage ratio was 8.82% as of December 31, 2024, compared to 8.41% as of September 30, 2024, and 9.38% as of December 31, 2023. The CET 1 and Tier 1 capital ratio to risk-weighted assets were 10.89% as of December 31, 2024, compared to 10.14% as of September 30, 2024, and 11.77% as of December 31, 2023. The total capital to risk-weighted assets ratio was 12.14% as of December 31, 2024, compared to 11.39% as of September 30, 2024, and 13.03% as of December 31, 2023.

    Liquidity

    The Bank’s overall liquidity position remains strong and stable with liquidity in excess of internal minimums as stated by policy and monitored by management and the Board. The on-balance sheet liquidity ratio at December 31, 2024 was 9.17%, as compared to 9.33% at December 31, 2023. The Bank has robust liquidity resources which include secured borrowings available from the Federal Home Loan Bank, the Federal Reserve, and lines of credit with other financial institutions. As of December 31, 2024, the Bank had no borrowings from the FHLB, the FRB or other financial institutions. This compares to $10.0 million of borrowings from the FHLB and no borrowings from the FRB or other financial institutions at September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

    Recent Events

    Share Repurchase Program

    The Company announced that its Board of Directors has adopted a share repurchase program. Under the repurchase program, the Company may repurchase up to $2.0 million of the Company’s outstanding shares, over a period beginning on January 28, 2025, and continuing until the earlier of the completion of the repurchase, or December 31, 2025, or termination of the program by the Board of Directors.

    First Quarter Common Stock Dividend. On January 28, 2025, BayFirst’s Board of Directors declared a first quarter 2025 cash dividend of $0.08 per common share. The dividend will be payable March 15, 2025 to common shareholders of record as of March 1, 2025. The Company has continuously paid quarterly common stock cash dividends since 2016.

    Conference Call

    BayFirst’s management team will host a conference call on Friday, January 31, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. ET to discuss its fourth quarter results. Interested investors may listen to the call live under the Investor Relations tab at www.bayfirstfinancial.com. Investment professionals are invited to dial (800) 549-8228 to participate in the call using Conference ID 71006. A replay of the call will be available for one year at www.bayfirstfinancial.com

    About BayFirst Financial Corp.

    BayFirst Financial Corp. is a registered bank holding company based in St. Petersburg, Florida which commenced operations on September 1, 2000. Its primary source of income is derived from its wholly owned subsidiary, BayFirst National Bank, a national banking association which commenced business operations on February 12, 1999. The Bank currently operates twelve full-service banking offices throughout the Tampa Bay-Sarasota region and offers a broad range of commercial and consumer banking services to businesses and individuals. It was named the best bank in Florida in 2024, according to Forbes and was the 9th largest SBA 7(a) lender by number of units originated and 16th largest by dollar volume nationwide through the SBA’s quarter ended December 31, 2024. As of December 31, 2024, BayFirst Financial Corp. had $1.29 billion in total assets.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    In addition to the historical information contained herein, this presentation includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of such term in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are subject to many risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, the effects of health crises, global military hostilities, weather events, or climate change, including their effects on the economic environment, our customers and our operations, as well as any changes to federal, state or local government laws, regulations or orders in connection with them; the ability of the Company to implement its strategy and expand its banking operations; changes in interest rates and other general economic, business and political conditions, including changes in the financial markets; changes in business plans as circumstances warrant; risks related to mergers and acquisitions; changes in benchmark interest rates used to price loans and deposits, changes in tax laws, regulations and guidance; and other risks detailed from time to time in filings made by the Company with the SEC, including, but not limited to those “Risk Factors” described in our most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q. Readers should note that the forward-looking statements included herein are not a guarantee of future events, and that actual events may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements.

    Contacts:  
    Thomas G. Zernick Scott J. McKim
    Chief Executive Officer Chief Financial Officer
    727.399.5680 727.521.7085
       

    BAYFIRST FINANCIAL CORP.
    SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA (Unaudited)

      At or for the three months ended
    (Dollars in thousands, except for share data) 12/31/2024   9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023
    Balance sheet data:                  
    Average loans held for investment at amortized cost $ 1,003,867     $ 948,528     $ 902,417     $ 855,040     $ 825,196  
    Average total assets   1,273,296       1,228,040       1,178,501       1,126,315       1,108,550  
    Average common shareholders’ equity   87,961       86,381       84,948       85,385       82,574  
    Total loans held for investment   1,066,559       1,042,445       1,008,314       934,868       915,726  
    Total loans held for investment, excl gov’t gtd loan balances   917,075       885,444       844,659       776,302       698,106  
    Allowance for credit losses   15,512       14,186       13,843       13,906       13,497  
    Total assets   1,288,297       1,245,099       1,217,869       1,144,194       1,117,766  
    Common shareholders’ equity   94,869       86,242       84,911       84,578       84,656  
    Share data:                  
    Basic earnings per common share $ 2.27     $ 0.18     $ 0.12     $ 0.11     $ 0.32  
    Diluted earnings per common share   2.11       0.18       0.12       0.11       0.32  
    Dividends per common share   0.08       0.08       0.08       0.08       0.08  
    Book value per common share   22.95       20.86       20.54       20.45       20.60  
    Tangible book value per common share (1)   22.95       20.86       20.54       20.45       20.60  
    Performance and capital ratios:                  
    Return on average assets(2)   3.07 %     0.37 %     0.29 %     0.29 %     0.60 %
    Return on average common equity(2)   42.71 %     3.48 %     2.26 %     2.06 %     6.37 %
    Net interest margin(2)   3.60 %     3.34 %     3.43 %     3.42 %     3.48 %
    Dividend payout ratio   3.52 %     43.98 %     68.91 %     75.27 %     25.03 %
    Asset quality ratios:                  
    Net charge-offs $ 3,369     $ 2,757     $ 3,261     $ 3,652     $ 2,612  
    Net charge-offs/avg loans held for investment at amortized cost(2)   1.34 %     1.16 %     1.45 %     1.71 %     1.27 %
    Nonperforming loans(3) $ 17,607     $ 15,489     $ 12,312     $ 9,877     $ 9,688  
    Nonperforming loans (excluding gov’t gtd balance)(3) $ 13,570     $ 10,992     $ 8,054     $ 7,568     $ 8,264  
    Nonperforming loans/total loans held for investment(3)   1.75 %     1.62 %     1.34 %     1.15 %     1.18 %
    Nonperforming loans (excl gov’t gtd balance)/total loans held for investment(3)   1.35 %     1.15 %     0.87 %     0.88 %     1.00 %
    ACL/Total loans held for investment at amortized cost   1.54 %     1.48 %     1.50 %     1.62 %     1.64 %
    ACL/Total loans held for investment at amortized cost, excl government guaranteed loans   1.79 %     1.70 %     1.73 %     1.88 %     2.03 %
    Other Data:                  
    Full-time equivalent employees   299       295       302       313       305  
    Banking center offices   12       12       12       12       11  
    (1) See section entitled “GAAP Reconciliation and Management Explanation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for a reconciliation to most comparable GAAP equivalent.
    (2) Annualized
    (3) Excludes loans measured at fair value                  
                       

    GAAP Reconciliation and Management Explanation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Some of the financial measures included in this report are not measures of financial condition or performance recognized by GAAP. These non-GAAP financial measures include tangible common shareholders’ equity and tangible book value per common share. Our management uses these non-GAAP financial measures in its analysis of our performance, and we believe that providing this information to financial analysts and investors allows them to evaluate capital adequacy.

    The following presents these non-GAAP financial measures along with their most directly comparable financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP:

    Tangible Common Shareholders’ Equity and Tangible Book Value Per Common Share (Unaudited)
        As of
    (Dollars in thousands, except for share data)   December
    31, 2024
      September
    30, 2024
      June
    30, 2024
      March
    31, 2024
      December
    31, 2023
    Total shareholders’ equity   $ 110,920     $ 102,293     $ 100,962     $ 100,629     $ 100,707  
    Less: Preferred stock liquidation preference     (16,051 )     (16,051 )     (16,051 )     (16,051 )     (16,051 )
    Total equity available to common shareholders     94,869       86,242       84,911       84,578       84,656  
    Less: Goodwill                              
    Tangible common shareholders’ equity   $ 94,869     $ 86,242     $ 84,911     $ 84,578     $ 84,656  
                         
    Common shares outstanding     4,132,986       4,134,059       4,134,219       4,134,914       4,110,470  
    Tangible book value per common share   $ 22.95     $ 20.86     $ 20.54     $ 20.45     $ 20.60  
                                             
    BAYFIRST FINANCIAL CORP.
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (Dollars in thousands) 12/31/2024 9/30/2024 12/31/2023
    Assets (Unaudited) (Unaudited)  
    Cash and due from banks $ 4,499   $ 4,708   $ 4,099  
    Interest-bearing deposits in banks   73,289     59,675     54,286  
    Cash and cash equivalents   77,788     64,383     58,385  
    Time deposits in banks   2,270     2,264     4,646  
    Investment securities available for sale, at fair value (amortized cost $40,279, $41,104, and $43,597 at December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, respectively)   36,291     37,984     39,575  
    Investment securities held to maturity, at amortized cost, net of allowance for credit losses of $12, $13, and $17 (fair value: $2,346, $2,321, and $2,263 at December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, respectively)   2,488     2,487     2,484  
    Nonmarketable equity securities   4,526     4,997     4,770  
    Government guaranteed loans held for sale       595      
    Government guaranteed loans held for investment, at fair value   60,833     86,441     91,508  
    Loans held for investment, at amortized cost   1,005,726     956,004     824,218  
    Allowance for credit losses on loans   (15,512 )   (14,186 )   (13,497 )
    Net Loans held for investment, at amortized cost   990,214     941,818     810,721  
    Accrued interest receivable   9,155     8,537     7,130  
    Premises and equipment, net   33,249     38,736     38,874  
    Loan servicing rights   16,534     15,966     14,959  
    Right-of-use operating lease assets   15,814     2,018     2,416  
    Bank owned life insurance   26,513     26,330     25,800  
    Other real estate owned   132          
    Other assets   12,490     12,543     16,150  
    Assets from discontinued operations           348  
    Total assets $ 1,288,297   $ 1,245,099   $ 1,117,766  
    Liabilities:      
    Noninterest-bearing deposits $ 101,743   $ 95,995   $ 93,708  
    Interest-bearing transaction accounts   256,793     247,923     259,422  
    Savings and money market deposits   474,425     455,297     373,000  
    Time deposits   310,268     312,981     259,008  
    Total deposits   1,143,229     1,112,196     985,138  
    FHLB borrowings       10,000     10,000  
    Subordinated debentures   5,956     5,954     5,949  
    Notes payable   1,934     2,048     2,389  
    Accrued interest payable   1,036     1,114     882  
    Operating lease liabilities   14,510     2,271     2,619  
    Deferred income tax liabilities   301     1,488     482  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities   10,411     7,735     8,980  
    Liabilities from discontinued operations           620  
    Total liabilities   1,177,377     1,142,806     1,017,059  
    Shareholders’ equity: (Unaudited) (Unaudited)  
    Preferred stock, Series A; no par value, 10,000 shares authorized, 6,395 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023; aggregate liquidation preference of $6,395 each period   6,161     6,161     6,161  
    Preferred stock, Series B; no par value, 20,000 shares authorized, 3,210 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023; aggregate liquidation preference of $3,210 each period   3,123     3,123     3,123  
    Preferred stock, Series C; no par value, 10,000 shares authorized, 6,446 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023; aggregate liquidation preference of $6,446 at December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023   6,446     6,446     6,446  
    Common stock and additional paid-in capital; no par value, 15,000,000 shares authorized, 4,132,986, 4,134,059, and 4,110,470 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, respectively   54,764     54,780     54,521  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net   (2,956 )   (2,312 )   (2,981 )
    Unearned compensation   (752 )   (978 )   (958 )
    Retained earnings   44,134     35,073     34,395  
    Total shareholders’ equity   110,920     102,293     100,707  
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 1,288,297   $ 1,245,099   $ 1,117,766  
                       
    BAYFIRST FINANCIAL CORP.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
      For the Quarter Ended   Year-to-Date
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share data) 12/31/2024   9/30/2024   12/31/2023   12/31/2024   12/31/2023
    Interest income: (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)    
    Loans, including fees $ 20,747     $ 20,442   $ 17,714     $ 78,831     $ 63,189  
    Interest-bearing deposits in banks and other   1,007       1,000     1,140       3,979       5,328  
    Total interest income   21,754       21,442     18,854       82,810       68,517  
    Interest expense:                  
    Deposits   10,600       11,609     9,719       42,872       30,795  
    Other   501       384     258       1,912       1,291  
    Total interest expense   11,101       11,993     9,977       44,784       32,086  
    Net interest income   10,653       9,449     8,877       38,026       36,431  
    Provision for credit losses   4,546       3,122     2,737       14,726       10,445  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses   6,107       6,327     6,140       23,300       25,986  
    Noninterest income:                  
    Loan servicing income, net   582       918     677       3,100       2,826  
    Gain on sale of government guaranteed loans, net   8,425       6,143     6,977       28,252       24,553  
    Service charges and fees   451       447     555       1,794       1,721  
    Government guaranteed loans fair value gain, net   (80 )     3,416     4,697       9,843       15,718  
    Government guaranteed loan packaging fees   773       903     1,588       4,105       3,664  
    Gain on sale of premises and equipment   11,649                 11,649        
    Other noninterest income   476       445     197       1,726       1,273  
    Total noninterest income   22,276       12,272     14,691       60,469       49,755  
    Noninterest Expense:                  
    Salaries and benefits   7,351       7,878     7,446       31,063       30,973  
    Bonus, commissions, and incentives   1,074       1,141     2,211       4,445       5,726  
    Occupancy and equipment   1,217       1,248     1,150       4,848       4,758  
    Data processing   1,749       1,789     1,422       6,745       5,611  
    Marketing and business development   390       532     640       2,050       3,336  
    Professional services   803       853     1,070       3,882       3,657  
    Loan origination and collection   758       1,956     2,728       6,391       7,425  
    Employee recruiting and development   445       595     510       2,186       2,177  
    Regulatory assessments   379       309     266       1,249       881  
    Other noninterest expense   1,169       763     1,023       3,923       3,163  
    Total noninterest expense   15,335       17,064     18,466       66,782       67,707  
    Income before taxes from continuing operations   13,048       1,535     2,365       16,987       8,034  
    Income tax expense from continuing operations   3,272       398     704       4,315       2,119  
    Net income from continuing operations   9,776       1,137     1,661       12,672       5,915  
    Loss from discontinued operations before income taxes             (8 )     (92 )     (283 )
    Income tax benefit from discontinued operations             (2 )     (23 )     (70 )
    Net loss from discontinued operations             (6 )     (69 )     (213 )
                       
    Net income   9,776       1,137     1,655       12,603       5,702  
    Preferred dividends   385       385     341       1,541       965  
    Net income available to common shareholders $ 9,391     $ 752   $ 1,314     $ 11,062     $ 4,737  
    Basic earnings (loss) per common share: (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)    
    Continuing operations $ 2.27     $ 0.18   $ 0.32     $ 2.69     $ 1.21  
    Discontinued operations                   (0.01 )     (0.05 )
    Basic earnings per common share $ 2.27     $ 0.18   $ 0.32     $ 2.68     $ 1.16  
                       
    Diluted earnings (loss) per common share:                  
    Continuing operations $ 2.11     $ 0.18   $ 0.32     $ 2.64     $ 1.17  
    Discontinued operations                   (0.02 )     (0.05 )
    Diluted earnings per common share $ 2.11     $ 0.18   $ 0.32     $ 2.62     $ 1.12  
                                         

    Loan Composition

    (Dollars in thousands) 12/31/2024   9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023
      (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)    
    Real estate:                  
    Residential $ 330,870     $ 321,740     $ 304,234     $ 285,214     $ 264,126  
    Commercial   305,721       292,026       288,185       273,227       293,595  
    Construction and land   32,914       33,784       35,759       36,764       26,272  
    Commercial and industrial   226,522       200,212       192,140       182,264       177,566  
    Commercial and industrial – PPP   941       1,656       2,324       2,965       3,202  
    Consumer and other   93,826       92,546       85,789       63,854       47,287  
    Loans held for investment, at amortized cost, gross   990,794       941,964       908,431       844,288       812,048  
    Deferred loan costs, net   19,499       18,060       17,299       16,233       14,707  
    Discount on government guaranteed loans   (8,306 )     (7,880 )     (7,731 )     (7,674 )     (7,040 )
    Premium on loans purchased, net   3,739       3,860       4,173       4,252       4,503  
    Loans held for investment, at amortized cost, net   1,005,726       956,004       922,172       857,099       824,218  
    Government guaranteed loans held for investment, at fair value   60,833       86,441       86,142       77,769       91,508  
    Total loans held for investment, net $ 1,066,559     $ 1,042,445     $ 1,008,314     $ 934,868     $ 915,726  
                                           

    Nonperforming Assets (Unaudited)

    (Dollars in thousands) 12/31/2024   9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023
    Nonperforming loans (government guaranteed balances), at amortized cost, gross $ 4,037     $ 4,497     $ 4,258     $ 2,309     $ 1,424  
    Nonperforming loans (unguaranteed balances), at amortized cost, gross   13,570       10,992       8,054       7,568       8,264  
    Total nonperforming loans, at amortized cost, gross   17,607       15,489       12,312       9,877       9,688  
    Nonperforming loans (government guaranteed balances), at fair value         24       341       94        
    Nonperforming loans (unguaranteed balances), at fair value   1,490       1,535       1,284       729       648  
    Total nonperforming loans, at fair value   1,490       1,559       1,625       823       648  
    OREO   132             1,633       404        
    Repossessed assets   36       94                    
    Total nonperforming assets, gross $ 19,265     $ 17,142     $ 15,570     $ 11,104     $ 10,336  
    Nonperforming loans as a percentage of total loans held for investment(1)   1.75 %     1.62 %     1.34 %     1.15 %     1.18 %
    Nonperforming loans (excluding government guaranteed balances) to total loans held for investment(1)   1.35 %     1.15 %     0.87 %     0.88 %     1.00 %
    Nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets   1.50 %     1.38 %     1.28 %     0.97 %     0.92 %
    Nonperforming assets (excluding government guaranteed balances) to total assets   1.06 %     0.88 %     0.82 %     0.70 %     0.74 %
    ACL to nonperforming loans(1)   88.10 %     91.59 %     112.44 %     140.79 %     139.32 %
    ACL to nonperforming loans (excluding government guaranteed balances)(1)   114.31 %     129.06 %     171.88 %     183.75 %     163.32 %

    (1) Excludes loans measured at fair value

    Note: Transmitted on Globe Newswire on January 30, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. ET.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Credit Acceptance Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Southfield, Michigan, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Credit Acceptance Corporation (Nasdaq: CACC) (referred to as the “Company”, “Credit Acceptance”, “we”, “our”, or “us”) today announced consolidated net income of $151.9 million, or $12.26 per diluted share, for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to consolidated net income of $93.6 million, or $7.29 per diluted share, for the same period in 2023. Adjusted net income, a non-GAAP financial measure, for the three months ended December 31, 2024 was $126.0 million, or $10.17 per diluted share, compared to $129.1 million, or $10.06 per diluted share, for the same period in 2023. The following table summarizes our financial results:

    (In millions, except per share data)   For the Three Months Ended   For the Years Ended
        December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   December 31, 2023   December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
    GAAP net income   $         151.9    $         78.8    $         93.6    $         247.9    $         286.1 
    GAAP net income per diluted share   $         12.26    $         6.35    $         7.29    $         19.88    $         21.99 
                         
    Adjusted net income   $         126.0    $         109.1    $         129.1    $         478.9    $         535.6 
    Adjusted net income per diluted share   $         10.17    $         8.79    $         10.06    $         38.41    $         41.17 

    Our results for the fourth quarter of 2024 in comparison to the fourth quarter of 2023 included:

    • A smaller decline in forecasted collection rates
      A decline in forecasted collection rates decreased forecasted net cash flows from our loan portfolio by $31.1 million, or 0.3%, compared to a decrease in forecasted collection rates during the fourth quarter of 2023 that decreased forecasted net cash flows from our loan portfolio by $57.0 million, or 0.6%.
    • A decrease in forecasted profitability for Consumer Loans assigned in 2021 through 2024
      Forecasted profitability was lower than our estimates at December 31, 2023, due to both a decline in forecasted collection rates and slower forecasted net cash flow timing since the fourth quarter of 2023. The slower forecasted net cash flow timing was primarily a result of a decrease in Consumer Loan prepayments, which remain below historical averages.
    • Slower growth in Consumer Loan assignment unit volume and an increase in the average balance of our loan portfolio
      Unit volume growth slowed significantly year-over-year, growing 0.3% as compared to 26.7% in the fourth quarter of 2023. The average balance of our loan portfolio, which is our largest-ever, increased 14.0% and 16.5% on a GAAP and adjusted basis, respectively, as compared to the fourth quarter of 2023.
    • An increase in the initial spread on Consumer Loan assignments
      The initial spread increased to 22.4% compared to 21.7% on Consumer Loans assigned in the fourth quarter of 2023.
    • An increase in our average cost of debt
      Our average cost of debt increased from 6.3% to 7.2%, primarily as a result of higher interest rates on recently completed or extended secured financings and recently issued senior notes and the repayment of older secured financings and senior notes with lower interest rates.
    • A decrease in common shares outstanding due to stock repurchases
      Since the fourth quarter of 2023, we have repurchased approximately 590,000 shares, or 4.7% of the shares outstanding as of December 31, 2023.

    Our results for the fourth quarter of 2024 in comparison to the third quarter of 2024 included:

    • A smaller decline in forecasted collection rates
      A decline in forecasted collection rates decreased forecasted net cash flows from our loan portfolio by $31.1 million, or 0.3%, compared to a decrease in forecasted collection rates during the third quarter of 2024 that decreased forecasted net cash flows from our loan portfolio by $62.8 million, or 0.6%.
    • A decrease in forecasted profitability for Consumer Loans assigned in 2022
      Forecasted profitability was lower than our estimates at September 30, 2024, due to the decline in forecasted collection rates.
    • Slower growth in Consumer Loan assignment unit volume and an increase in the average balance of our loan portfolio
      Unit volume growth slowed significantly year-over-year, growing 0.3% as compared to 17.7% in the third quarter of 2024. The average balance of our loan portfolio, which is our largest-ever, increased 1.8% and 1.6% on a GAAP and adjusted basis, respectively, as compared to the third quarter of 2024.
    • An increase in the initial spread on Consumer Loan assignments
      The initial spread increased to 22.4% compared to 21.9% on Consumer Loans assigned in the third quarter of 2024.

    Consumer Loan Metrics

    Dealers assign retail installment contracts (referred to as “Consumer Loans”) to Credit Acceptance. At the time a Consumer Loan is submitted to us for assignment, we forecast future expected cash flows from the Consumer Loan. Based on the amount and timing of these forecasts and expected expense levels, an advance or one-time purchase payment is made to the related dealer at a price designed to maximize economic profit, a non-GAAP financial measure that considers our return on capital, our cost of capital, and the amount of capital invested. 

    We use a statistical model to estimate the expected collection rate for each Consumer Loan at the time of assignment. We continue to evaluate the expected collection rate for each Consumer Loan subsequent to assignment. Our evaluation becomes more accurate as the Consumer Loans age, as we use actual performance data in our forecast. By comparing our current expected collection rate for each Consumer Loan with the rate we projected at the time of assignment, we are able to assess the accuracy of our initial forecast. The following table compares our aggregated forecast of Consumer Loan collection rates as of December 31, 2024, with the aggregated forecasts as of September 30, 2024, as of December 31, 2023, and at the time of assignment, segmented by year of assignment:

        Forecasted Collection Percentage as of (1)   Current Forecast Variance from
     Consumer Loan Assignment Year   December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   December 31, 2023   Initial
    Forecast
      September 30, 2024   December 31, 2023   Initial
    Forecast
    2015           65.3  %           65.3  %           65.2  %           67.7  %           0.0  %           0.1  %           -2.4  %
    2016           63.9  %           63.9  %           63.8  %           65.4  %           0.0  %           0.1  %           -1.5  %
    2017           64.7  %           64.7  %           64.7  %           64.0  %           0.0  %           0.0  %           0.7  %
    2018           65.5  %           65.5  %           65.5  %           63.6  %           0.0  %           0.0  %           1.9  %
    2019           67.2  %           67.2  %           66.9  %           64.0  %           0.0  %           0.3  %           3.2  %
    2020           67.7  %           67.6  %           67.6  %           63.4  %           0.1  %           0.1  %           4.3  %
    2021           63.8  %           63.8  %           64.5  %           66.3  %           0.0  %           -0.7  %           -2.5  %
    2022           60.2  %           60.6  %           62.7  %           67.5  %           -0.4  %           -2.5  %           -7.3  %
    2023           64.3  %           64.3  %           67.4  %           67.5  %           0.0  %           -3.1  %           -3.2  %
         2024 (2)           66.5  %           66.6  %           —              67.2  %           -0.1  %           —               -0.7  %

    (1)   Represents the total forecasted collections we expect to collect on the Consumer Loans as a percentage of the repayments that we were contractually owed on the Consumer Loans at the time of assignment. Contractual repayments include both principal and interest. Forecasted collection rates are negatively impacted by canceled Consumer Loans as the contractual amount owed is not removed from the denominator for purposes of computing forecasted collection rates.
    (2)   The forecasted collection rate for 2024 Consumer Loans as of December 31, 2024 includes both Consumer Loans that were in our portfolio as of September 30, 2024 and Consumer Loans assigned during the most recent quarter. The following table provides forecasted collection rates for each of these segments:

        Forecasted Collection Percentage as of   Current Forecast Variance from
    2024 Consumer Loan Assignment Period   December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   Initial
    Forecast
      September 30, 2024   Initial
    Forecast
    January 1, 2024 through September 30, 2024           66.4  %           66.6  %           67.3  %           -0.2  %           -0.9  %
    October 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024           66.8  %           —              66.9  %           —              -0.1  %

    Consumer Loans assigned in 2018 through 2020 have yielded forecasted collection results significantly better than our initial estimates, while Consumer Loans assigned in 2015, 2016, and 2021 through 2023 have yielded forecasted collection results significantly worse than our initial estimates. For all other assignment years presented, actual results have been close to our initial estimates. For the three months ended December 31, 2024, forecasted collection rates declined for Consumer Loans assigned in 2022 and 2024 and were generally consistent with expectations at the start of the period for all other assignment years presented. For the year ended December 31, 2024, forecasted collection rates improved for Consumer Loans assigned in 2019, declined for Consumer Loans assigned in 2021 through 2024, and were generally consistent with expectations at the start of the period for all other assignment years presented.

    The changes in forecasted collection rates for the three months and years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 impacted forecasted net cash flows (forecasted collections less forecasted dealer holdback payments) as follows:

    (Dollars in millions)   For the Three Months Ended December 31,   For the Years Ended December 31,
    Increase (Decrease) in Forecasted Net Cash Flows     2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Dealer loans   $         (31.6)     $         (36.0)     $         (204.6)     $         (125.3)  
    Purchased loans             0.5                (21.0)               (109.4)               (81.0)  
    Total   $         (31.1)     $         (57.0)     $         (314.0)     $         (206.3)  
    % change from forecast at beginning of period             -0.3  %             -0.6  %             -3.1  %             -2.3  %

    During the second quarter of 2024, we applied an adjustment to our methodology for forecasting the amount of future net cash flows from our loan portfolio, which reduced the forecasted collection rates for Consumer Loans assigned in 2022 through 2024. Consumer Loans assigned in 2022 had continued to underperform our expectations for several quarters. Consumer Loans assigned in 2023 had also begun exhibiting similar trends of underperformance, although not as severe as Consumer Loans assigned in 2022. During the second quarter of 2024, we determined that we had sufficient Consumer Loan performance experience to estimate the magnitude by which we expected Consumer Loans assigned in 2022 through 2024 would likely underperform our historical collection rates on Consumer Loans with similar characteristics. Accordingly, we applied an adjustment to Consumer Loans assigned in 2022 through 2024 to reduce forecasted collection rates to what we believed the ultimate collection rates would be based on these trends. Changes in the amount and timing of forecasted net cash flows are recognized in the period of change as a provision for credit losses. The implementation of this forecast adjustment during the second quarter of 2024 reduced forecasted net cash flows by $147.2 million, or 1.4%, and increased provision for credit losses by $127.5 million.

    During the second quarter of 2023, we adjusted our methodology for forecasting the amount and timing of future net cash flows from our loan portfolio through the utilization of more recent Consumer Loan performance and Consumer Loan prepayment data. We had experienced a decrease in Consumer Loan prepayments to below-average levels and as a result, slowed our forecasted net cash flow timing. Historically, Consumer Loan prepayments have been lower in periods with less availability of consumer credit. Changes in the amount and timing of forecasted net cash flows are recognized in the period of change as a provision for credit losses. The implementation of the adjustment to our forecasting methodology during the second quarter of 2023 reduced forecasted net cash flows by $44.5 million, or 0.5%, and increased provision for credit losses by $71.3 million.

    We have experienced increased levels of uncertainty associated with our estimate of the amount and timing of future net cash flows from our loan portfolio since the beginning of 2020, with realized collections underperforming our expectations during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, outperforming our expectations following the distribution of federal stimulus payments and enhanced unemployment benefits, and underperforming our expectations during the current economic environment. The quarterly changes to our forecast of future net cash flows from our loan portfolio from January 1, 2020 through December 31, 2024 are shown in the following table:

    (Dollars in millions)   Increase (Decrease) in Forecasted Net Cash Flows
    Three Months Ended   Total Loans   % Change from Forecast at Beginning of Period
    March 31, 2020   $         (206.5)             -2.3  %
    June 30, 2020             24.4              0.3  %
    September 30, 2020             138.5              1.5  %
    December 31, 2020             (2.7)             0.0  %
    March 31, 2021             107.4              1.1  %
    June 30, 2021             104.5              1.1  %
    September 30, 2021             82.3              0.9  %
    December 31, 2021             31.9              0.3  %
    March 31, 2022             110.2              1.2  %
    June 30, 2022             (43.4)             -0.5  %
    September 30, 2022             (85.4)             -0.9  %
    December 31, 2022             (41.1)             -0.5  %
    March 31, 2023             9.4              0.1  %
    June 30, 2023             (89.3)             -0.9  %
    September 30, 2023             (69.4)             -0.7  %
    December 31, 2023             (57.0)             -0.6  %
    March 31, 2024             (30.8)             -0.3  %
    June 30, 2024             (189.3)             -1.7  %
    September 30, 2024             (62.8)             -0.6  %
    December 31, 2024             (31.1)             -0.3  %

    The following table presents information on Consumer Loan assignments for each of the last 10 years:

         Average   Total Assignment Volume
     Consumer Loan
    Assignment Year
      Consumer Loan (1)   Advance (2)   Initial Loan Term (in months)   Unit Volume   Dollar Volume (2)
    (in millions)
    2015   $         16,354   $         7,272   50   298,288   $         2,167.0
    2016     18,218     7,976   53   330,710     2,635.5
    2017     20,230     8,746   55   328,507     2,873.1
    2018     22,158     9,635   57   373,329     3,595.8
    2019     23,139     10,174   57   369,805     3,772.2
    2020     24,262     10,656   59   341,967     3,641.2
    2021     25,632     11,790   59   268,730     3,167.8
    2022     27,242     12,924   60   280,467     3,625.3
    2023     27,025     12,475   61   332,499     4,147.8
         2024 (3)     26,497     11,961   61   386,126     4,618.4

    (1)   Represents the repayments that we were contractually owed on Consumer Loans at the time of assignment, which include both principal and interest.
    (2)   Represents advances paid to dealers on Consumer Loans assigned under our portfolio program and one-time payments made to dealers to purchase Consumer Loans assigned under our purchase program. Payments of dealer holdback and accelerated dealer holdback are not included.
    (3)   The averages for 2024 Consumer Loans include both Consumer Loans that were in our portfolio as of September 30, 2024 and Consumer Loans assigned during the most recent quarter. The following table provides averages for each of these segments:

        Average
    2024 Consumer Loan Assignment Period   Consumer Loan   Advance   Initial Loan Term (in months)
    January 1, 2024 through September 30, 2024   $         26,564   $         12,018           61
    October 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024             26,236             11,739           61

    The profitability of our loans is primarily driven by the amount and timing of the net cash flows we receive from the spread between the forecasted collection rate and the advance rate, less operating expenses and the cost of capital. Forecasting collection rates accurately at loan inception is difficult. With this in mind, we establish advance rates that are intended to allow us to achieve acceptable levels of profitability across our portfolio, even if collection rates are less than we initially forecast.

    The following table presents aggregate forecasted Consumer Loan collection rates, advance rates, and spreads (the forecasted collection rate less the advance rate), and the percentage of the forecasted collections that had been realized as of December 31, 2024, as well as forecasted collection rates and spreads at the time of assignment. All amounts, unless otherwise noted, are presented as a percentage of the initial balance of the Consumer Loan (principal + interest). The table includes both dealer loans and purchased loans.

        Forecasted Collection % as of       Spread % as of    
     Consumer Loan Assignment Year   December 31, 2024   Initial Forecast   Advance % (1)   December 31, 2024   Initial Forecast   % of Forecast
    Realized (2)
    2015           65.3  %           67.7  %           44.5  %           20.8  %           23.2  %           99.7  %
    2016           63.9  %           65.4  %           43.8  %           20.1  %           21.6  %           99.5  %
    2017           64.7  %           64.0  %           43.2  %           21.5  %           20.8  %           99.2  %
    2018           65.5  %           63.6  %           43.5  %           22.0  %           20.1  %           98.6  %
    2019           67.2  %           64.0  %           44.0  %           23.2  %           20.0  %           96.9  %
    2020           67.7  %           63.4  %           43.9  %           23.8  %           19.5  %           92.4  %
    2021           63.8  %           66.3  %           46.0  %           17.8  %           20.3  %           83.6  %
    2022           60.2  %           67.5  %           47.4  %           12.8  %           20.1  %           66.0  %
    2023           64.3  %           67.5  %           46.2  %           18.1  %           21.3  %           43.1  %
         2024 (3)           66.5  %           67.2  %           45.1  %           21.4  %           22.1  %           15.1  %

    (1)   Represents advances paid to dealers on Consumer Loans assigned under our portfolio program and one-time payments made to dealers to purchase Consumer Loans assigned under our purchase program as a percentage of the initial balance of the Consumer Loans.  Payments of dealer holdback and accelerated dealer holdback are not included.
    (2)   Presented as a percentage of total forecasted collections.
    (3)   The forecasted collection rate, advance rate and spread for 2024 Consumer Loans as of December 31, 2024 include both Consumer Loans that were in our portfolio as of September 30, 2024 and Consumer Loans assigned during the most recent quarter. The following table provides forecasted collection rates, advance rates, and spreads for each of these segments:

        Forecasted Collection % as of       Spread % as of
    2024 Consumer Loan Assignment Period   December 31, 2024   Initial Forecast   Advance %   December 31, 2024   Initial Forecast
    January 1, 2024 through September 30, 2024           66.4  %           67.3  %           45.3  %           21.1  %           22.0  %
    October 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024           66.8  %           66.9  %           44.5  %           22.3  %           22.4  %

    The risk of a material change in our forecasted collection rate declines as the Consumer Loans age. For 2020 and prior Consumer Loan assignments, the risk of a material forecast variance is modest, as we have currently realized in excess of 90% of the expected collections. Conversely, the forecasted collection rates for more recent Consumer Loan assignments are less certain as a significant portion of our forecast has not been realized.

    The spread between the forecasted collection rate as of December 31, 2024 and the advance rate ranges from 12.8% to 23.8%, on an annual basis, for Consumer Loans assigned over the last 10 years. The spreads with respect to 2019 and 2020 Consumer Loans have been positively impacted by Consumer Loan performance, which has exceeded our initial estimates by a greater margin than the other years presented. The spread with respect to 2022 Consumer Loans has been negatively impacted by Consumer Loan performance, which has been lower than our initial estimates by a greater margin than the other years presented. The higher spread for 2024 Consumer Loans relative to 2023 Consumer Loans as of December 31, 2024 was primarily a result of Consumer Loan performance, as the performance of 2023 Consumer Loans has been lower than our initial estimates by a greater margin than 2024 Consumer Loans. Additionally, 2024 Consumer Loans had a higher initial spread, which was primarily due to a decrease in the advance rate.

    The following table compares our forecast of aggregate Consumer Loan collection rates as of December 31, 2024 with the forecasts at the time of assignment, for dealer loans and purchased loans separately:

        Dealer Loans   Purchased Loans
        Forecasted Collection Percentage as of (1)       Forecasted Collection Percentage as of (1)    
     Consumer Loan Assignment Year   December 31,
    2024
      Initial
    Forecast
      Variance   December 31,
    2024
      Initial
    Forecast
      Variance
    2015           64.6  %           67.5  %           -2.9  %           69.0  %           68.5  %           0.5  %
    2016           63.1  %           65.1  %           -2.0  %           66.1  %           66.5  %           -0.4  %
    2017           64.1  %           63.8  %           0.3  %           66.3  %           64.6  %           1.7  %
    2018           64.9  %           63.6  %           1.3  %           66.8  %           63.5  %           3.3  %
    2019           66.8  %           63.9  %           2.9  %           67.9  %           64.2  %           3.7  %
    2020           67.5  %           63.3  %           4.2  %           67.9  %           63.6  %           4.3  %
    2021           63.5  %           66.3  %           -2.8  %           64.3  %           66.3  %           -2.0  %
    2022           59.5  %           67.3  %           -7.8  %           62.1  %           68.0  %           -5.9  %
    2023           63.1  %           66.8  %           -3.7  %           67.7  %           69.4  %           -1.7  %
    2024           65.4  %           66.3  %           -0.9  %           70.7  %           70.7  %           0.0  %

    (1)   The forecasted collection rates presented for dealer loans and purchased loans reflect the Consumer Loan classification at the time of assignment. The forecasted collection rates represent the total forecasted collections we expect to collect on the Consumer Loans as a percentage of the repayments that we were contractually owed on the Consumer Loans at the time of assignment. Contractual repayments include both principal and interest. Forecasted collection rates are negatively impacted by canceled Consumer Loans as the contractual amount owed is not removed from the denominator for purposes of computing forecasted collection rates.

    The following table presents aggregate forecasted Consumer Loan collection rates, advance rates, and spreads (the forecasted collection rate less the advance rate) as of December 31, 2024 for dealer loans and purchased loans separately.  All amounts are presented as a percentage of the initial balance of the Consumer Loan (principal + interest).

        Dealer Loans   Purchased Loans
     Consumer Loan Assignment Year   Forecasted Collection % (1)   Advance % (1)(2)   Spread %   Forecasted Collection % (1)   Advance % (1)(2)   Spread %
    2015           64.6  %           43.4  %           21.2  %           69.0  %           50.2  %           18.8  %
    2016           63.1  %           42.1  %           21.0  %           66.1  %           48.6  %           17.5  %
    2017           64.1  %           42.1  %           22.0  %           66.3  %           45.8  %           20.5  %
    2018           64.9  %           42.7  %           22.2  %           66.8  %           45.2  %           21.6  %
    2019           66.8  %           43.1  %           23.7  %           67.9  %           45.6  %           22.3  %
    2020           67.5  %           43.0  %           24.5  %           67.9  %           45.5  %           22.4  %
    2021           63.5  %           45.1  %           18.4  %           64.3  %           47.7  %           16.6  %
    2022           59.5  %           46.4  %           13.1  %           62.1  %           50.1  %           12.0  %
    2023           63.1  %           44.8  %           18.3  %           67.7  %           49.8  %           17.9  %
    2024           65.4  %           44.1  %           21.3  %           70.7  %           48.9  %           21.8  %

    (1)   The forecasted collection rates and advance rates presented for dealer loans and purchased loans reflect the Consumer Loan classification at the time of assignment.
    (2)   Represents advances paid to dealers on Consumer Loans assigned under our portfolio program and one-time payments made to dealers to purchase Consumer Loans assigned under our purchase program as a percentage of the initial balance of the Consumer Loans.  Payments of dealer holdback and accelerated dealer holdback are not included.

    Although the advance rate on purchased loans is higher as compared to the advance rate on dealer loans, purchased loans do not require us to pay dealer holdback.

    The spread as of December 31, 2024 on 2024 dealer loans was 21.3%, as compared to a spread of 18.3% on 2023 dealer loans. The increase was primarily due to Consumer Loan performance, as the performance of 2023 dealer loans has been lower than our initial estimates by a greater margin than 2024 dealer loans.

    The spread as of December 31, 2024 on 2024 purchased loans was 21.8%, as compared to a spread of 17.9% on 2023 purchased loans. The increase was primarily a result of a higher initial spread on 2024 purchased loans, due to a higher initial forecast and lower advance rate. Additionally, the performance of 2023 purchased loans has been lower than our initial estimates.

    Consumer Loan Volume

    The following table summarizes changes in Consumer Loan assignment volume in each of the last eight quarters as compared to the same period in the previous year:

        Year over Year Percent Change
    Three Months Ended   Unit Volume   Dollar Volume (1)
    March 31, 2023           22.8  %           18.6  %
    June 30, 2023           12.8  %           8.3  %
    September 30, 2023           13.0  %           10.5  %
    December 31, 2023           26.7  %           21.3  %
    March 31, 2024           24.1  %           20.2  %
    June 30, 2024           20.9  %           16.3  %
    September 30, 2024           17.7  %           12.2  %
    December 31, 2024           0.3  %           -4.9  %

    (1)   Represents advances paid to dealers on Consumer Loans assigned under our portfolio program and one-time payments made to dealers to purchase Consumer Loans assigned under our purchase program.  Payments of dealer holdback and accelerated dealer holdback are not included.

    Consumer Loan assignment volumes depend on a number of factors including (1) the overall demand for our financing programs, (2) the amount of capital available to fund new loans, and (3) our assessment of the volume that our infrastructure can support. Our pricing strategy is intended to maximize the amount of economic profit we generate, within the confines of capital and infrastructure constraints.

    Unit volumes grew 0.3% while dollar volume declined 4.9% during the fourth quarter of 2024 as the number of active dealers grew 4.7% and the average unit volume per active dealer declined 3.7%. Dollar volume declined while unit volume grew modestly during the fourth quarter of 2024 due to a decrease in the average advance paid, resulting from decreases in the average size of Consumer Loans assigned and the average advance rate. Unit volume for the 28-day period ended January 28, 2025 decreased 3.2% compared to the same period in 2024.

    The following table summarizes the changes in Consumer Loan unit volume and active dealers:

      For the Three Months Ended December 31,       For the Years Ended
    December 31,
       
      2024   2023   % Change   2024   2023   % Change
    Consumer Loan unit volume         78,911            78,652            0.3  %           386,126            332,499            16.1  %
    Active dealers (1)         10,149            9,693            4.7  %           15,463            14,174            9.1  %
          Average volume per active dealer         7.8            8.1            -3.7  %           25.0            23.5            6.4  %
                           
    Consumer Loan unit volume from dealers active both periods         61,222            64,393            -4.9  %           339,361            304,779            11.3  %
    Dealers active both periods         6,294            6,294            —              10,637            10,637            —   
    Average volume per dealer active both periods         9.7            10.2            -4.9  %           31.9            28.7            11.3  %
                           
    Consumer loan unit volume from dealers not active both periods         17,689            14,259            24.1  %           46,765            27,720            68.7  %
    Dealers not active both periods         3,855            3,399            13.4  %           4,826            3,537            36.4  %
    Average volume per dealer not active both periods         4.6            4.2            9.5  %           9.7            7.8            24.4  %

    (1)   Active dealers are dealers who have received funding for at least one Consumer Loan during the period.

    The following table provides additional information on the changes in Consumer Loan unit volume and active dealers: 

      For the Three Months Ended December 31,       For the Years Ended
    December 31,
       
      2024     2023     % Change   2024     2023     % Change
    Consumer Loan unit volume from new active dealers         2,733              3,307              -17.4  %           43,985              46,741              -5.9  %
    New active dealers (1)         902              975              -7.5  %           4,330              4,070              6.4  %
    Average volume per new active dealer         3.0              3.4              -11.8  %           10.2              11.5              -11.3  %
                           
    Attrition (2)         -18.1  %           -17.4  %               -8.3  %           -7.3  %    

    (1)   New active dealers are dealers who enrolled in our program and have received funding for their first dealer loan or purchased loan from us during the period.
    (2)   Attrition is measured according to the following formula:  decrease in Consumer Loan unit volume from dealers who have received funding for at least one dealer loan or purchased loan during the comparable period of the prior year but did not receive funding for any dealer loans or purchased loans during the current period divided by prior year comparable period Consumer Loan unit volume.

    The following table shows the percentage of Consumer Loans assigned to us as dealer loans and purchased loans for each of the last eight quarters:

        Unit Volume   Dollar Volume (1)
    Three Months Ended   Dealer Loans   Purchased Loans   Dealer Loans   Purchased Loans
    March 31, 2023           72.1  %           27.9  %           68.1  %           31.9  %
    June 30, 2023           72.4  %           27.6  %           68.6  %           31.4  %
    September 30, 2023           74.8  %           25.2  %           71.7  %           28.3  %
    December 31, 2023           77.2  %           22.8  %           75.0  %           25.0  %
    March 31, 2024           78.2  %           21.8  %           76.6  %           23.4  %
    June 30, 2024           78.5  %           21.5  %           77.3  %           22.7  %
    September 30, 2024           79.5  %           20.5  %           78.4  %           21.6  %
    December 31, 2024           78.7  %           21.3  %           77.7  %           22.3  %

    (1)   Represents advances paid to dealers on Consumer Loans assigned under our portfolio program and one-time payments made to dealers to purchase Consumer Loans assigned under our purchase program.  Payments of dealer holdback and accelerated dealer holdback are not included.

    As of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the net dealer loans receivable balance was 72.3% and 67.7%, respectively, of the total net loans receivable balance.

    Financial Results

    (Dollars in millions, except per share data) For the Three Months Ended December 31,       For the Years Ended December 31,    
        2024     2023   % Change     2024     2023   % Change
    GAAP average debt $         6,202.5   $         4,986.3           24.4  %   $         5,849.7   $         4,785.7           22.2  %
    GAAP average shareholders’ equity           1,712.3             1,734.3           -1.3  %             1,652.1             1,722.9           -4.1  %
    Average capital $         7,914.8   $         6,720.6           17.8  %   $         7,501.8   $         6,508.6           15.3  %
    GAAP net income $         151.9   $         93.6           62.3  %   $         247.9   $         286.1           -13.4  %
    Diluted weighted average shares outstanding   12,388,072     12,837,181           -3.5  %     12,469,283     13,010,735           -4.2  %
    GAAP net income per diluted share $         12.26   $         7.29           68.2  %   $         19.88   $         21.99           -9.6  %

    The increase in GAAP net income for the three months ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the same period in 2023, was primarily a result of the following:

    • An increase in finance charges of 14.7% ($66.6 million), primarily due to an increase in the average balance of our loan portfolio.
    • A decrease in provision for credit losses of 24.6% ($40.3 million), due to:
      • A decrease in provision for credit losses on forecast changes of $31.4 million, due to a smaller decline in Consumer Loan performance.
      • A decrease in provision for credit losses on new Consumer Loan assignments of $8.9 million, primarily due a 13.1% decrease in the average provision per Consumer Loan assignment. The decrease in average provision per new Consumer Loan assignment was primarily due to a decrease in the average advance rate for 2024 Consumer Loans.
      • The following table summarizes each component of provision for credit losses:
    (In millions) For the Three Months Ended December 31,    
    Provision for Credit Losses   2024     2023   Change
    Forecast changes $         62.9    $         94.3    $         (31.4)  
    New Consumer Loan assignments           60.5              69.4              (8.9)  
    Total $         123.4    $         163.7    $         (40.3)  
    • An increase in premiums earned of 14.8% ($3.2 million), primarily due to growth in the size of our reinsurance portfolio, which resulted from growth in new Consumer Loan assignments and an increase in the average premium written per reinsured vehicle service contract in recent periods.
    • An increase in operating expenses of 6.4% ($7.3 million), primarily due to:
      • An increase in salaries and wages expense of 17.4% ($11.5 million), primarily due to increases in (i) the number of team members as we are investing in our business with the goal of increasing the speed at which we enhance our product for dealers and consumers, (ii) stock-based compensation expense, primarily due to equity awards granted to our executive officers and senior leaders, and (iii) fringe benefits, primarily due to higher medical claims.
      • A decrease in general and administrative expenses of 19.7% ($5.4 million), primarily due to a decrease in legal expenses.
    • An increase in provision for income taxes of 75.4% ($17.2 million), primarily due to an increase in pre-tax income.
    • An increase in interest expense of 41.2% ($32.5 million), due to:
      • An increase in our average outstanding debt balance, which increased interest expense by $19.0 million, primarily due to borrowings used to fund the growth of our loan portfolio and stock repurchases.
      • An increase in our average cost of debt, which increased interest expense by $13.5 million, primarily as a result of higher interest rates on recently completed or extended secured financings and recently issued senior notes and the repayment of older secured financings and senior notes with lower interest rates.

    The decrease in GAAP net income for the year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the same period in 2023, was primarily a result of the following:

    • An increase in interest expense of 57.4% ($153.0 million), due to:
      • An increase in our average cost of debt, which increased interest expense by $93.7 million, primarily as a result of higher interest rates on recently completed or extended secured financings and recently issued senior notes and the repayment of older secured financings and senior notes with lower interest rates.
      • An increase in our average outstanding debt balance, which increased interest expense by $59.3 million, primarily due to borrowings used to fund the growth of our loan portfolio and stock repurchases.
    • An increase in provision for credit losses of 10.7% ($78.5 million), primarily due to an increase in provision for credit losses on forecast changes of $80.1 million, due to a greater decline in Consumer Loan performance and slower net cash flow timing during 2024 compared to 2023.

    During 2024, we decreased our estimate of future net cash flows by $314.0 million, or 3.1%, to reflect a decline in forecasted collection rates during the period, and slowed our forecasted net cash flow timing to reflect a decrease in Consumer Loan prepayments, which remain below historical averages. Historically, Consumer Loan prepayments have been lower in periods with less availability of consumer credit. The $314.0 million decrease in forecasted net cash flows for 2024 was composed of an ordinary decrease in forecasted net cash flows of $166.8 million, or 1.7%, and an adjustment applied to our forecasting methodology during the second quarter of 2024, which upon implementation, reduced forecasted net cash flows by $147.2 million, or 1.4%, and increased our provision for credit losses by $127.5 million.

    During 2023, we decreased our estimate of future net cash flows by $206.3 million, or 2.3%, to reflect a decline in forecasted collection rates during the period and slowed our forecasted net cash flow timing to reflect a decrease in Consumer Loan prepayments. The $206.3 million decrease in forecasted net cash flows for 2023 was composed of an ordinary decrease in forecasted net cash flows of $161.8 million, or 1.8%, and an adjustment to our forecasting methodology during the second quarter of 2023, which upon implementation, decreased our estimate of future net cash flows by $44.5 million, or 0.5%, and increased our provision for credit losses by $71.3 million.

    The following table summarizes each component of provision for credit losses:

    (In millions)   For the Years Ended December 31,    
    Provision for Credit Losses     2024     2023   Change
    Forecast changes   $         493.8    $         413.7    $         80.1   
    New Consumer Loan assignments             320.9              322.5              (1.6)  
    Total   $         814.7    $         736.2    $         78.5   
    • An increase in operating expenses of 9.2% ($42.4 million), primarily due to:
      • An increase in salaries and wages expense of 10.3% ($29.0 million), primarily due to increases in (i) the number of team members as we are investing in our business with the goal of increasing the speed at which we enhance our product for dealers and consumers, (ii) fringe benefits, primarily due to higher medical claims, and (iii) stock-based compensation expense, primarily due to equity awards granted to our executive officers and senior leaders.
      • An increase in general and administrative expense of 12.3% ($10.7 million), primarily due to increases in legal and technology systems expenses.
    • A loss on sale of building of $23.7 million related to the sale of one of our two office buildings. The building was sold to reduce excess office space and eliminate the associated annual operating costs of approximately $2.1 million.
    • An increase in premiums earned of 20.7% ($16.5 million), primarily due to growth in the size of our reinsurance portfolio, which resulted from growth in new Consumer Loan assignments and an increase in the average premium written per reinsured vehicle service contract in recent periods.
    • An increase in finance charges of 13.5% ($237.3 million), primarily due to an increase in the average balance of our loan portfolio.

    Adjusted financial results are provided to help shareholders understand our financial performance. The financial data below is non-GAAP, unless labeled otherwise. We use adjusted financial information internally to measure financial performance and to determine certain incentive compensation. We also use economic profit as a framework to evaluate business decisions and strategies, with the objective to maximize economic profit over the long term. In addition, certain debt facilities utilize adjusted financial information for the determination of loan collateral values and to measure financial covenants. The table below shows our results following adjustments to reflect non-GAAP accounting methods. Material adjustments are explained in the table footnotes and the subsequent “Floating Yield Adjustment” and “Senior Notes Adjustment” sections. Measures such as adjusted average capital, adjusted net income, adjusted net income per diluted share, adjusted interest expense (after-tax), adjusted net income plus adjusted interest expense (after-tax), adjusted return on capital, adjusted revenue, operating expenses, adjusted loans receivable, economic profit, and economic profit per diluted share are non-GAAP financial measures. Non-GAAP financial measures should be viewed in addition to, and not as an alternative for, our reported results prepared in accordance with GAAP.

    Adjusted financial results for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same periods in 2023, include the following:

    (Dollars in millions, except per share data) For the Three Months Ended December 31,       For the Years Ended
    December 31,
       
        2024       2023     % Change     2024       2023     % Change
    Adjusted average capital $         8,633.3      $         7,234.3              19.3  %   $         8,140.5      $         6,909.8              17.8  %
    Adjusted net income $         126.0      $         129.1              -2.4  %   $         478.9      $         535.6              -10.6  %
    Adjusted interest expense (after-tax) $         85.7      $         63.4              35.2  %   $         323.0      $         209.5              54.2  %
    Adjusted net income plus adjusted interest expense (after-tax) $         211.7      $         192.5              10.0  %   $         801.9      $         745.1              7.6  %
    Adjusted return on capital           9.8  %             10.6  %           -7.5  %             9.9  %             10.8  %           -8.3  %
    Cost of capital           7.4  %             7.6  %           -2.6  %             7.4  %             7.0  %           5.7  %
    Economic profit $         51.3      $         55.9              -8.2  %   $         200.3      $         260.5              -23.1  %
    Diluted weighted average shares outstanding   12,388,072        12,837,181              -3.5  %     12,469,283        13,010,735              -4.2  %
    Adjusted net income per diluted share $         10.17      $         10.06              1.1  %   $         38.41      $         41.17              -6.7  %
          Economic profit per diluted share $         4.14      $         4.35              -4.8  %   $         16.06      $         20.02              -19.8  %

    Economic profit decreased 8.2% and 23.1% for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the same periods in 2023. Economic profit is a function of the return on capital in excess of the cost of capital and the amount of capital invested in the business. The following table summarizes the impact each of these components had on the changes in economic profit for the three months and year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the same periods in 2023:

    (In millions) Year over Year Change in Economic Profit
      For the Three Months Ended December 31, 2024   For the Year Ended December 31, 2024
    Decrease in adjusted return on capital $         (17.9)     $         (76.0)  
    Decrease (increase) in cost of capital           2.5                (30.5)  
    Increase in adjusted average capital           10.8                46.3   
    Decrease in economic profit $         (4.6)     $         (60.2)  

    The decrease in economic profit for the three months ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the same period in 2023, was primarily a result of the following:

    • A decrease in our adjusted return on capital of 80 basis points, primarily due to:
      • A decrease in the yield used to recognize adjusted finance charges on our loan portfolio decreased our adjusted return on capital by 150 basis points, primarily due to both a decline in forecasted collection rates and slower forecasted net cash flow timing since the third quarter of 2023. The slower forecasted net cash flow timing was primarily a result of a decrease in Consumer Loan prepayments, which remain below historical averages.
      • Slower growth in operating expenses increased our adjusted return on capital by 50 basis points as operating expenses grew by 6.4% while adjusted average capital grew by 19.3%.
    • An increase in adjusted average capital of 19.3%, primarily due to an increase in the average balance of our loan portfolio.

    The decrease in economic profit for the year ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the same period in 2023, was primarily a result of the following:

    • A decrease in our adjusted return on capital of 90 basis points, primarily due to:
      • A decrease in the yield used to recognize adjusted finance charges on our loan portfolio decreased our adjusted return on capital by 140 basis points, primarily due to both a decline in forecasted collection rates and slower forecasted net cash flow timing since the first quarter of 2023. The slower forecasted net cash flow timing was primarily a result of a decrease in Consumer Loan prepayments, which remain below historical averages.
      • Slower growth in operating expenses increased our adjusted return on capital by 40 basis points as operating expenses grew by 9.2% while adjusted average capital grew by 17.8%.
    • An increase in our cost of capital, primarily due to an increase in our cost of debt, primarily as a result of higher interest rates on recently completed or extended secured financings and recently issued senior notes and the repayment of older secured financings and senior notes with lower interest rates.
    • An increase in adjusted average capital of 17.8%, primarily due to an increase in the average balance of our loan portfolio.

    The following table shows adjusted revenue and operating expenses as a percentage of adjusted average capital, the adjusted return on capital, and the percentage change in adjusted average capital for each of the last eight quarters, compared to the same period in the prior year:

        For the Three Months Ended
        Dec. 31, 2024   Sept. 30, 2024   Jun. 30, 2024   Mar. 31, 2024   Dec. 31, 2023   Sept. 30, 2023   Jun. 30, 2023   Mar. 31, 2023
    Adjusted revenue as a percentage of adjusted average capital (1)           18.4  %           18.2  %           19.6  %           19.8  %           20.2  %           20.7  %           21.2  %           20.6  %
    Operating expenses as a percentage of adjusted average capital (1)           5.6  %           6.2  %           6.2  %           6.7  %           6.3  %           6.3  %           6.9  %           7.2  %
    Adjusted return on capital (1)           9.8  %           9.3  %           10.3  %           10.1  %           10.6  %           11.1  %           11.1  %           10.3  %
    Percentage change in adjusted average capital compared to the same period in the prior year           19.3  %           19.4  %           17.6  %           14.6  %           11.5  %           8.8  %           6.2  %           1.0  %

    (1)   Annualized.

    The increase in adjusted return on capital for the three months ended December 31, 2024, as compared to the three months ended September 30, 2024, was primarily due to a decrease in operating expenses, which increased adjusted return on capital by 40 basis points, as operating expenses declined by 6.0% while adjusted average capital grew by 2.9%. The $7.8 million decrease in operating expenses was primarily due to a decrease in legal expenses.

    The following tables provide a reconciliation of non-GAAP measures to GAAP measures.  Certain amounts do not recalculate due to rounding.

    (Dollars in millions, except per share data)   For the Three Months Ended
        Dec. 31, 2024   Sept. 30, 2024   Jun. 30, 2024   Mar. 31, 2024   Dec. 31, 2023   Sept. 30, 2023   Jun. 30, 2023   Mar. 31, 2023
    Adjusted net income                                
    GAAP net income (loss)   $         151.9      $         78.8      $         (47.1)     $         64.3      $         93.6      $         70.8      $         22.2      $         99.5   
    Floating yield adjustment (after-tax)             (116.8)               (115.1)               (96.1)               (92.4)               (83.9)               (76.4)               (73.9)               (75.9)  
    GAAP provision for credit losses (after-tax)             95.0                142.2                246.9                143.2                126.1                142.1                192.9                105.8   
    Loss on sale of building (after-tax) (1)             —                —                18.3                —                —                —                —                —   
    Senior notes adjustment (after-tax)             —                —                —                —                (2.6)               (0.5)               (0.6)               (0.5)  
    Income tax adjustment (2)             (4.1)               3.2                4.4                2.3                (4.1)               3.5                (0.6)               (1.9)  
    Adjusted net income   $         126.0      $         109.1      $         126.4      $         117.4      $         129.1      $         139.5      $         140.0      $         127.0   
                                     
    Adjusted net income per diluted share (3)   $         10.17      $         8.79      $         10.29      $         9.28      $         10.06      $         10.70      $         10.69      $         9.71   
    Diluted weighted average shares outstanding     12,388,072        12,415,143        12,282,174        12,646,529        12,837,181        13,039,638        13,099,961        13,073,316   
                                     
    Adjusted revenue                                
    GAAP total revenue   $         565.9      $         550.3      $         538.2      $         508.0      $         491.6      $         478.6     $         477.9      $         453.8   
    Floating yield adjustment             (151.8)               (149.4)               (124.8)               (120.0)               (108.9)               (99.3)               (96.1)               (98.4)  
    GAAP provision for claims             (17.7)               (18.5)               (20.3)               (17.0)               (16.6)               (16.5)               (19.7)               (17.9)  
    Adjusted revenue   $         396.4      $         382.4      $         393.1      $         371.0      $         366.1      $         362.8      $         362.1      $         337.5   
                                     
    Adjusted average capital                                
    GAAP average debt   $         6,202.5      $         6,071.1      $         5,818.2      $         5,306.8      $         4,986.3      $         4,831.4      $         4,730.3      $         4,594.7   
    Deferred debt issuance adjustment             —                —                —                —                20.9                24.5                24.0                21.2   
    Senior notes debt adjustment             —                —                —                —                2.8                3.4                3.4                3.4   
    Adjusted average debt             6,202.5                6,071.1                5,818.2                5,306.8                5,010.0                4,859.3                4,757.7                4,619.3   
    GAAP average shareholders’ equity             1,712.3                1,594.2                1,623.5                1,678.5                1,734.3                1,731.3                1,752.6                1,673.3   
    Senior notes equity adjustment             —                —                —                —                2.0                2.9                3.4                4.0   
    Income tax adjustment (4)             (118.5)               (118.5)               (118.5)               (118.5)               (118.5)               (118.5)               (118.5)               (118.5)  
    Floating yield adjustment             837.0                840.8                710.1                641.0                606.5                548.9                433.9                373.7   
    Adjusted average equity             2,430.8                2,316.5                2,215.1                2,201.0                2,224.3                2,164.6                2,071.4                1,932.5   
    Adjusted average capital   $         8,633.3      $         8,387.6      $         8,033.3      $         7,507.8      $         7,234.3      $         7,023.9      $         6,829.1      $         6,551.8   
                                     
    Adjusted revenue as a percentage of adjusted average capital (5)             18.4  %             18.2  %             19.6  %             19.8  %             20.2  %             20.7  %             21.2  %             20.6  %
                                     
    Adjusted loans receivable                                
    GAAP loans receivable, net   $         7,850.3      $         7,781.5      $         7,547.7      $         7,345.6      $         6,955.3      $         6,780.5      $         6,610.3      $         6,500.3   
    Floating yield adjustment             1,072.4                1,100.8                1,065.6                869.7                803.8                748.9                663.7                509.2   
    Adjusted loans receivable   $         8,922.7      $         8,882.3      $         8,613.3      $         8,215.3      $         7,759.1      $         7,529.4      $         7,274.0      $         7,009.5   
                                     
    Adjusted interest expense (after-tax)                                
    GAAP interest expense   $         111.3      $         111.2      $         104.5      $         92.5      $         78.8      $         70.5      $         62.8      $         54.4   
    Senior notes adjustment             —                —                —                —                3.5                0.7                0.7                0.7   
    Adjusted interest expense (pre-tax)             111.3                111.2                104.5                92.5                82.3                71.2                63.5                55.1   
    Adjustment to record tax effect (2)             (25.6)               (25.6)               (24.0)               (21.3)               (18.9)               (16.4)               (14.6)               (12.7)  
    Adjusted interest expense (after-tax)   $         85.7      $         85.6      $         80.5      $         71.2      $         63.4      $         54.8      $         48.9      $         42.4   

    (1)   The sale of one of our two office buildings in June 2024 resulted in a loss on the sale of the asset. As this transaction is both unusual and infrequent in nature, we applied this adjustment to remove the impact of the loss on sale of building from our adjusted net income.
    (2)   Adjustment to record taxes at our estimated long-term effective income tax rate of 23%. 
    (3)   Net income per diluted share is computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of quarterly net income per diluted share information may not equal year-to-date net income per diluted share.
    (4)   The enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in December 2017 resulted in the reversal of $118.5 million of provision for income taxes to reflect the new federal statutory income tax rate. This adjustment removes the impact of this reversal from adjusted average capital. We believe the income tax adjustment provides a more accurate reflection of the performance of our business as we are recognizing provision for income taxes at the applicable long-term effective tax rate for the period.
    (5)   Annualized.

    (Dollars in millions)   For the Three Months Ended
        Dec. 31, 2024   Sept. 30, 2024   Jun. 30, 2024   Mar. 31, 2024   Dec. 31, 2023   Sept. 30, 2023   Jun. 30, 2023   Mar. 31, 2023
    Adjusted return on capital (1)                                
    Adjusted net income   $         126.0      $         109.1      $         126.4      $         117.4      $         129.1      $         139.5      $         140.0      $         127.0   
    Adjusted interest expense (after-tax)             85.7                85.6                80.5                71.2                63.4                54.8                48.9                42.4   
    Adjusted net income plus adjusted interest expense (after-tax)   $         211.7      $         194.7      $         206.9      $         188.6      $         192.5      $         194.3      $         188.9      $         169.4   
                                     
    Reconciliation of GAAP return on equity to adjusted return on capital (4)                                
    GAAP return on equity (2)             35.5  %             19.8  %             -11.6  %             15.3  %             21.6  %             16.4  %             5.1  %             23.8  %
    Non-GAAP adjustments             -25.7  %             -10.5  %             21.9  %             -5.2  %             -11.0  %             -5.3  %             6.0  %             -13.5  %
    Adjusted return on capital (1)             9.8  %             9.3  %             10.3  %             10.1  %             10.6  %             11.1  %             11.1  %             10.3  %
                                     
    Economic profit                                
    Adjusted return on capital             9.8  %             9.3  %             10.3  %             10.1  %             10.6  %             11.1  %             11.1  %             10.3  %
    Cost of capital (3) (4)             7.4  %             7.3  %             7.5  %             7.3  %             7.6  %             7.1  %             6.7  %             6.6  %
    Adjusted return on capital in excess of cost of capital             2.4  %             2.0  %             2.8  %             2.8  %             3.0  %             4.0  %             4.4  %             3.7  %
    Adjusted average capital   $         8,633.3      $         8,387.6      $         8,033.3      $         7,507.8      $         7,234.3      $         7,023.9      $         6,829.1      $         6,551.8   
        Economic profit   $         51.3      $         41.4      $         56.2      $         51.4      $         55.9      $         69.1      $         74.1      $         61.4   
                                     
    Reconciliation of GAAP net income (loss) to economic profit                                
    GAAP net income (loss)   $         151.9      $         78.8      $         (47.1)     $         64.3      $         93.6      $         70.8      $         22.2      $         99.5   
    Non-GAAP adjustments             (25.9)               30.3                173.5                53.1                35.5                68.7                117.8                27.5   
    Adjusted net income             126.0                109.1                126.4                117.4                129.1                139.5                140.0                127.0   
    Adjusted interest expense (after-tax)             85.7                85.6                80.5                71.2                63.4                54.8                48.9                42.4   
    Adjusted net income plus adjusted interest expense (after-tax)             211.7                194.7                206.9                188.6                192.5                194.3                188.9                169.4   
    Less: cost of capital             160.4                153.3                150.7                137.2                136.6                125.2                114.8                108.0   
    Economic profit   $         51.3      $         41.4      $         56.2      $         51.4      $         55.9      $         69.1      $         74.1      $         61.4   
                                     
    Economic profit per diluted share (5)   $         4.14      $         3.33      $         4.58      $         4.06      $         4.35      $         5.30      $         5.66      $         4.70   
                                     
    Operating expenses as a percentage of adjusted average capital (4)             5.6  %             6.2  %             6.2  %             6.7  %             6.3  %             6.3  %             6.9  %             7.2  %
                                     
    Percentage change in adjusted average capital compared to the same period in the prior year             19.3  %             19.4  %             17.6  %             14.6  %             11.5  %             8.8  %             6.2  %             1.0  %

    (1)   Adjusted return on capital is defined as adjusted net income plus adjusted interest expense (after-tax) divided by adjusted average capital.
    (2)   Calculated by dividing GAAP net income (loss) by GAAP average shareholders’ equity.
    (3)   The cost of capital includes both a cost of equity and a cost of debt.  The cost of equity capital is determined based on a formula that considers the risk of the business and the risk associated with our use of debt.  The formula utilized for determining the cost of equity capital is as follows: (the average 30-year Treasury rate + 5%) + [(1 – tax rate) x (the average 30-year Treasury rate + 5% – pre-tax average cost of debt rate) x average debt/(average equity + average debt x tax rate)].  For the periods presented, the average 30-year Treasury rate and the adjusted pre-tax average cost of debt were as follows:

        For the Three Months Ended
        Dec. 31, 2024   Sept. 30, 2024   Jun. 30, 2024   Mar. 31, 2024   Dec. 31, 2023   Sept. 30, 2023   Jun. 30, 2023   Mar. 31, 2023
    Average 30-year Treasury rate           4.4  %           4.3  %           4.6  %           4.3  %           4.7  %           4.2  %           3.8  %           3.8  %
    Pre-tax average cost of debt (4)           7.2  %           7.3  %           7.2  %           7.0  %           6.3  %           5.9  %           5.3  %           4.8  %

    (4)   Annualized.
    (5)   Economic profit per diluted share is computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of quarterly economic profit per diluted share information may not equal year-to-date economic profit per diluted share.

    (In millions, except share and per share data)   For the Years Ended December 31,
          2024       2023  
    Adjusted net income        
    GAAP net income   $         247.9      $         286.1   
    Floating yield adjustment (after-tax)             (420.4)               (310.1)  
    GAAP provision for credit losses (after-tax)             627.3                566.9   
    Loss on sale of building (after-tax) (1)             18.3                —   
    Senior notes adjustment (after-tax)             —                (4.2)  
    Income tax adjustment (2)             5.8                (3.1)  
    Adjusted net income   $         478.9      $         535.6   
             
    Adjusted net income per diluted share   $         38.41     $         41.17  
    Diluted weighted average shares outstanding     12,469,283       13,010,735  
             
    Adjusted average capital        
    GAAP average debt   $         5,849.7      $         4,785.7   
    Deferred debt issuance adjustment             —                22.7   
    Senior notes debt adjustment             —                3.2   
    Adjusted average debt             5,849.7                4,811.6   
    GAAP average shareholders’ equity             1,652.1                1,722.9   
    Senior notes equity adjustment             —                3.1   
    Income tax adjustment (3)             (118.5)               (118.5)  
    Floating yield adjustment             757.2                490.7   
    Adjusted average equity             2,290.8                2,098.2   
    Adjusted average capital   $         8,140.5      $         6,909.8   
             
    Adjusted interest expense (after-tax)        
    GAAP interest expense   $         419.5      $         266.5   
    Senior notes adjustment             —                5.6   
    Adjusted interest expense (pre-tax)             419.5                272.1   
    Adjustment to record tax effect (2)             (96.5)               (62.6)  
    Adjusted interest expense (after-tax)   $         323.0      $         209.5   
             
    Adjusted return on capital (5)        
    Adjusted net income   $         478.9      $         535.6   
    Adjusted interest expense (after-tax)             323.0                209.5   
        Adjusted net income plus adjusted interest expense (after-tax)   $         801.9      $         745.1   
             
    Reconciliation of GAAP return on equity to adjusted return on capital        
    GAAP return on equity (4)             15.0  %             16.6  %
    Non-GAAP adjustments             -5.1  %             -5.8  %
    Adjusted return on capital (5)             9.9  %             10.8  %
             
    Economic profit        
    Adjusted return on capital             9.9  %             10.8  %
    Cost of capital (6)             7.4  %             7.0  %
    Adjusted return on capital in excess of cost of capital             2.5  %             3.8  %
    Adjusted average capital   $         8,140.5      $         6,909.8   
        Economic profit   $         200.3      $         260.5   
             
    Reconciliation of GAAP net income to economic profit        
    GAAP net income   $         247.9      $         286.1   
    Non-GAAP adjustments             231.0                249.5   
    Adjusted net income             478.9                535.6   
    Adjusted interest expense (after-tax)             323.0                209.5   
    Adjusted net income plus adjusted interest expense (after-tax)             801.9                745.1   
    Less: cost of capital             601.6                484.6   
    Economic profit   $         200.3      $         260.5   
             
    Economic profit per diluted share (7)   $         16.06      $         20.02   

    (1)   The sale of one of our two office buildings in June 2024 resulted in a loss on the sale of the asset. As this transaction is both unusual and infrequent in nature, we applied this adjustment to remove the impact of the loss on sale of building from our adjusted net income.   
    (2)        Adjustment to record taxes at our estimated long-term effective income tax rate of 23%.
    (3)   The enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in December 2017 resulted in the reversal of $118.5 million of provision for income taxes to reflect the new federal statutory income tax rate. This adjustment removes the impact of this reversal from adjusted average capital. We believe the income tax adjustment provides a more accurate reflection of the performance of our business as we are recognizing provision for income taxes at the applicable long-term effective tax rate for the period.
    (4)   Calculated by dividing GAAP net income by GAAP average shareholders’ equity.
    (5)   Adjusted return on capital is defined as adjusted net income plus adjusted interest expense after-tax divided by adjusted average capital.
    (6)   The cost of capital includes both a cost of equity and a cost of debt.  The cost of equity capital is determined based on a formula that considers the risk of the business and the risk associated with our use of debt.  The formula utilized for determining the cost of equity capital is as follows: (the average 30-year Treasury rate + 5%) + [(1 – tax rate) x (the average 30-year Treasury rate + 5% – pre-tax average cost of debt rate) x average debt/(average equity + average debt x tax rate)].  For the periods presented, the average 30-year Treasury rate and the adjusted pre-tax average cost of debt were as follows:

        For the Years Ended December 31,
        2024     2023  
    Average 30-year Treasury rate           4.4  %           4.1  %
    Pre-tax average cost of debt           7.2  %           5.5  %

    (7)   Economic profit per diluted share is computed independently for each of the quarters presented. Therefore, the sum of quarterly economic profit per diluted share information may not equal year-to-date economic profit per diluted share.

    Floating Yield Adjustment

    The net loan income (finance charge revenue less provision for credit losses expense) that we recognize over the life of a loan equals the cash we collect from the underlying Consumer Loan less the cash we pay to the dealer. We believe the economics of our business are best exhibited by recognizing loan revenue on a level-yield basis over the life of the loan based on expected future net cash flows. The purpose of this non-GAAP adjustment is to provide insight into our business by showing this level yield measure of income. Under GAAP, contractual amounts due in excess of the loan receivable balance at the time of assignment will be reflected as interest income, while contractual amounts due that are not expected to be collected are reflected in the provision for credit losses. Our non-GAAP floating yield adjustment recognizes the net effects of contractual interest income and expected credit losses in a single measure of finance charge revenue, consistent with how we manage our business. The floating yield adjustment recognizes revenue on a level-yield basis based upon expected future net cash flows, with any changes in expected future net cash flows, which are recognized immediately under GAAP as provision for credit losses, recognized over the remaining forecast period (up to 120 months after the origination date of the underlying Consumer Loans) for each individual dealer loan and purchased loan. The floating yield adjustment does not accelerate revenue recognition. Rather, it reduces revenue by taking amounts that are reported under GAAP as provision for credit losses and instead treating them as reductions of revenue over time.

    Under the GAAP methodology we employ, which is known as the current expected credit loss model, or CECL, we are required to recognize:

    • a significant provision for credit losses expense at the time of the loan’s assignment to us for contractual net cash flows we do not expect to realize; and
    • finance charge revenue in subsequent periods that is significantly in excess of our expected yield.

    Due to the GAAP treatment of contractual net cash flows we do not expect to realize at the time of loan assignment (i.e. significant expense at the time of loan assignment, which is offset by higher revenue in subsequent periods), we do not believe the GAAP methodology we employ provides sufficient transparency into the economics of our business, including our results of operations, financial condition, and financial leverage. Our floating yield adjustment enables us to provide measures of income that are not impacted by GAAP’s treatment of contractual net cash flows we do not expect to realize at the time of loan assignment. We believe the floating yield adjustment is presented in a manner which reflects both the economic reality of our business and how the business is managed and provides valuable supplemental information to help investors better understand our business, executive compensation, liquidity, and capital resources.

    Senior Notes Adjustment (applied in periods prior to December 31, 2023)

    This non-GAAP adjustment modifies our GAAP financial results to treat the issuance of certain senior notes as a refinancing of certain previously issued senior notes. Our historical adjusted financial information reflects application of the senior notes adjustment as described below in connection with (i) the issuance by us in 2014 of $300.0 million principal amount of 6.125% senior notes due 2021 (the “2021 senior notes”) and the related retirement of our 9.125% senior notes due 2017 (the “2017 senior notes”) and (ii) the issuance by us in 2019 of $400.0 million principal amount of 5.125% senior notes due 2024 (the “2024 senior notes”) and the related retirement of the 2021 senior notes and our 7.375% senior notes due 2023 (the “2023 senior notes”).

    We issued the 2024 senior notes on December 18, 2019. We used a portion of the net proceeds from the 2024 senior notes to repurchase or redeem all of the $300.0 million outstanding principal amount of the 2021 senior notes, of which $148.2 million was repurchased on December 18, 2019 and the remaining $151.8 million was redeemed on January 17, 2020. We used the remaining net proceeds from the 2024 senior notes, together with borrowings under our revolving credit facility, to redeem in full the $250.0 million outstanding principal amount of the 2023 senior notes on March 15, 2020. Under GAAP, the fourth quarter of 2019 included (i) a pre-tax loss on extinguishment of debt of $1.8 million related to the repurchase of 2021 senior notes in the fourth quarter of 2019 and the redemption of the remaining 2021 senior notes in the first quarter of 2020 and (ii) additional interest expense of $0.3 million on $160.0 million of additional outstanding debt caused by the one month lag from the issuance of the 2024 senior notes and repurchase of 2021 senior notes in the fourth quarter of 2019 to the redemption of the remaining 2021 senior notes in the first quarter of 2020. Under GAAP, the first quarter of 2020 included (i) a pre-tax loss on extinguishment of debt of $7.4 million related to the redemption of 2023 senior notes in the first quarter of 2020 and (ii) additional interest expense of $0.4 million on $160.0 million of additional outstanding debt caused by the one month lag from the issuance of the 2024 senior notes and repurchase of 2021 senior notes in the fourth quarter of 2019 to the redemption of the remaining 2021 senior notes in the first quarter of 2020.

    We issued the 2021 senior notes on January 22, 2014. On February 21, 2014, we used the net proceeds from the 2021 senior notes, together with borrowings under our revolving credit facilities, to redeem in full the $350.0 million outstanding principal amount of the 2017 senior notes. Under GAAP, the first quarter of 2014 included (i) a pre-tax loss on extinguishment of debt of $21.8 million related to the redemption of the 2017 senior notes in the first quarter of 2014 and (ii) additional interest expense of $1.4 million on $276.0 million of additional outstanding debt caused by the one month lag from the issuance of the 2021 senior notes to the redemption of the 2017 senior notes.

    Under our non-GAAP approach, the loss on extinguishment of debt and additional interest expense that were recognized for GAAP purposes were in each case deferred as debt issuance costs to be recognized ratably as interest expense over the term of the newly issued notes. In addition, for adjusted average capital purposes, the impact of additional outstanding debt related to the lag from the issuance of the new notes to the redemption of the previously issued notes was in each case deferred to be recognized ratably over the term of the newly issued notes. Upon the issuance of the 2024 senior notes in the fourth quarter of 2019, the outstanding unamortized balances of the non-GAAP adjustments related to the 2021 senior notes were deferred and were recognized ratably over the term of the 2024 senior notes, until the repurchase and redemption of the 2024 senior notes in December 2023.

    We believe the application of the senior notes adjustment as described above provides a more accurate reflection of the performance of our business, since we were recognizing the costs incurred with these transactions in a manner consistent with how we recognize the costs incurred when we periodically refinance our other debt facilities. We have determined not to apply the senior notes adjustment in connection with the issuance by us in December 2023 of our 9.250% senior notes due 2028 and the related retirement of the 2024 senior notes, because the adjustment would not be material.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

    We claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for all of our forward-looking statements. Statements in this release that are not historical facts, such as those using terms like “may,” “will,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “assume,” “forecast,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “target,” or similar expressions, and those regarding our future results, plans, and objectives, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These forward-looking statements represent our outlook only as of the date of this release. Actual results could differ materially from these forward-looking statements since the statements are based on our current expectations, which are subject to risks and uncertainties. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to, the factors set forth in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on February 12, 2024, and other risk factors discussed herein or listed from time to time in our reports filed with the SEC and the following:

    Industry, Operational, and Macroeconomic Risks

    • Our inability to accurately forecast and estimate the amount and timing of future collections could have a material adverse effect on results of operations.
    • Due to competition from traditional financing sources and non-traditional lenders, we may not be able to compete successfully.
    • Adverse changes in economic conditions, the automobile or finance industries, or the non-prime consumer market could adversely affect our financial position, liquidity, and results of operations, the ability of key vendors that we depend on to supply us with services, and our ability to enter into future financing transactions.
    • Reliance on third parties to administer our ancillary product offerings could adversely affect our business and financial results.
    • We are dependent on our senior management and the loss of any of these individuals or an inability to hire additional team members could adversely affect our ability to operate profitably.
    • Our reputation is a key asset to our business, and our business may be affected by how we are perceived in the marketplace.
    • An outbreak of contagious disease or other public health emergency could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, liquidity, and results of operations.
    • The concentration in several states of automobile dealers who participate in our programs could adversely affect us.
    • Reliance on our outsourced business functions could adversely affect our business.
    • Our ability to hire and retain foreign engineering personnel could be hindered by immigration restrictions.
    • We may be unable to execute our business strategy due to current economic conditions.
    • Natural disasters, climate change, military conflicts, acts of war, terrorist attacks and threats, or the escalation of military activity in response to terrorist attacks or otherwise may negatively affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.
    • Governmental or market responses to climate change and related environmental issues could have a material adverse effect on our business.
    • A small number of our shareholders have the ability to significantly influence matters requiring shareholder approval and such shareholders have interests which may conflict with the interests of our other security holders.

    Capital and Liquidity Risks

    • We may be unable to continue to access or renew funding sources and obtain capital needed to maintain and grow our business.
    • The terms of our debt limit how we conduct our business.
    • A violation of the terms of our asset-backed secured financings or revolving secured warehouse facilities could have a material adverse impact on our operations.
    • Our substantial debt could negatively impact our business, prevent us from satisfying our debt obligations, and adversely affect our financial condition.
    • We may not be able to generate sufficient cash flows to service our outstanding debt and fund operations and may be forced to take other actions to satisfy our obligations under such debt.
    • Interest rate fluctuations may adversely affect our borrowing costs, profitability, and liquidity.
    • Reduction in our credit rating could increase the cost of our funding from, and restrict our access to, the capital markets and adversely affect our liquidity, financial condition, and results of operations.
    • We may incur substantially more debt and other liabilities. This could exacerbate further the risks associated with our current debt levels.
    • The conditions of the U.S. and international capital markets may adversely affect lenders with which we have relationships, causing us to incur additional costs and reducing our sources of liquidity, which may adversely affect our financial position, liquidity, and results of operations.

    Technology and Cybersecurity Risks

    • Our dependence on technology could have a material adverse effect on our business.
    • We depend on secure information technology, and a breach of our systems or those of our third-party service providers could result in our experiencing significant financial, legal, and reputational exposure and could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.
    • Our use of electronic contracts could impact our ability to perfect our ownership or security interest in Consumer Loans.
    • Failure to properly safeguard our proprietary business information or confidential consumer and team member personal information could subject us to liability, decrease our profitability, and damage our reputation.

    Legal and Regulatory Risks

    • Litigation we are involved in from time to time may adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations, and cash flows.
    • Changes in tax laws and the resolution of uncertain income tax matters could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and cash flows from operations.
    • The regulations to which we are or may become subject could result in a material adverse effect on our business.

    Other factors not currently anticipated by management may also materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations. We do not undertake, and expressly disclaim any obligation, to update or alter our statements, whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

    Webcast Details

    We will host a webcast on January 30, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time to discuss our fourth quarter and full year results. The webcast can be accessed live by visiting the “Investor Relations” section of our website at ir.creditacceptance.com or by telephone as described below. Only persons accessing the webcast by telephone will be able to pose questions to the presenters during the webcast. A replay and transcript of the webcast will be archived in the “Investor Relations” section of our website. 

    To participate in the webcast by telephone, you must pre-register at https://register.vevent.com/register/BIa9a65d89cd7e4a4192d3cecb8f0d2b67, or through the link posted on the “Investor Relations” section of our website at ir.creditacceptance.com. Upon registration you will be provided with the dial-in number and a unique PIN to access the webcast by telephone.

    Description of Credit Acceptance Corporation

    We make vehicle ownership possible by providing innovative financing solutions that enable automobile dealers to sell vehicles to consumers regardless of their credit history. Our financing programs are offered through a nationwide network of automobile dealers who benefit from sales of vehicles to consumers who otherwise could not obtain financing; from repeat and referral sales generated by these same customers; and from sales to customers responding to advertisements for our financing programs, but who actually end up qualifying for traditional financing.

    Without our financing programs, consumers are often unable to purchase vehicles or they purchase unreliable ones. Further, as we report to the three national credit reporting agencies, an important ancillary benefit of our programs is that we provide consumers with an opportunity to improve their lives by improving their credit score and move on to more traditional sources of financing. Credit Acceptance is publicly traded on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol CACC. For more information, visit creditacceptance.com.

    CREDIT ACCEPTANCE CORPORATION
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
    (UNAUDITED)
            

    (Dollars in millions, except per share data) For the Three Months Ended December 31,   For the Years Ended December 31,
        2024     2023     2024     2023
    Revenue:              
    Finance charges $         518.2    $         451.6    $         1,992.7    $         1,755.4 
    Premiums earned           24.8              21.6              96.1              79.6 
    Other income           22.9              18.4              73.6              66.9 
    Total revenue           565.9              491.6              2,162.4              1,901.9 
    Costs and expenses:              
    Salaries and wages           77.6              66.1              309.2              280.2 
    General and administrative           22.0              27.4              97.9              87.2 
    Sales and marketing           22.0              20.8              94.4              91.7 
    Total operating expenses           121.6              114.3              501.5              459.1 
                   
    Provision for credit losses on forecast changes           62.9              94.3              493.8              413.7 
    Provision for credit losses on new Consumer Loan assignments           60.5              69.4              320.9              322.5 
    Total provision for credit losses           123.4              163.7              814.7              736.2 
                   
    Interest           111.3              78.8              419.5              266.5 
    Provision for claims           17.7              16.6              73.5              70.7 
    Loss on sale of building           —              —              23.7              — 
    Loss on extinguishment of debt           —              1.8              —              1.8 
    Total costs and expenses           374.0              375.2              1,832.9              1,534.3 
    Income before provision for income taxes           191.9              116.4              329.5              367.6 
    Provision for income taxes           40.0              22.8              81.6              81.5 
    Net income $         151.9    $         93.6    $         247.9    $         286.1 
                   
    Net income per share:              
    Basic $         12.39    $         7.33    $         20.12    $         22.09 
    Diluted $         12.26    $         7.29    $         19.88    $         21.99 
                   
    Weighted average shares outstanding:              
    Basic           12,256,198              12,775,616              12,323,261              12,953,424 
    Diluted           12,388,072              12,837,181              12,469,283              13,010,735 

    CREDIT ACCEPTANCE CORPORATION
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (UNAUDITED)

    (Dollars in millions, except per share data) As of
      December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
    ASSETS:      
    Cash and cash equivalents $         343.7      $         13.2   
    Restricted cash and cash equivalents           501.3                457.7   
    Restricted securities available for sale           106.4                93.2   
           
    Loans receivable           11,289.1                10,020.1   
    Allowance for credit losses           (3,438.8)               (3,064.8)  
    Loans receivable, net           7,850.3                6,955.3   
           
    Property and equipment, net           14.7                46.5   
    Income taxes receivable           4.2                4.3   
    Other assets           34.0                40.0   
    Total assets $         8,854.6      $         7,610.2   
           
    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:      
    Liabilities:      
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $         315.8      $         318.8   
    Revolving secured lines of credit           0.1                79.2   
    Secured financing           5,361.5                3,990.9   
    Senior notes           991.3                989.0   
    Mortgage note           —                8.4   
    Deferred income taxes, net           319.1                389.2   
    Income taxes payable           117.2                81.0   
    Total liabilities           7,105.0                5,856.5   
           
    Shareholders’ Equity:      
    Preferred stock, $.01 par value, 1,000,000 shares authorized, none issued           —                —   
    Common stock, $.01 par value, 80,000,000 shares authorized, 12,048,151 and 12,522,397 shares issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively           0.1                0.1   
    Paid-in capital           335.1                279.0   
    Retained earnings           1,414.7                1,475.6   
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss           (0.3)               (1.0)  
    Total shareholders’ equity           1,749.6                1,753.7   
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $         8,854.6      $         7,610.2   

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Medallion Bank Reports 2024 Fourth Quarter and Full-Year Results and Declares Series F Preferred Stock Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SALT LAKE CITY, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Medallion Bank (Nasdaq: MBNKP, the “Bank”), an FDIC-insured bank specializing in consumer loans for the purchase of recreational vehicles, boats, and home improvements, as well as loan products and services offered through fintech strategic partners, today announced its results for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2024. The Bank is a wholly owned subsidiary of Medallion Financial Corp. (Nasdaq: MFIN).

    2024 Fourth Quarter Highlights

    • Net income of $15.6 million, compared to $21.9 million in the prior year quarter.
    • Net interest income of $53.1 million, compared to $48.9 million in the prior year quarter.
    • Net interest margin of 8.28%, compared to 8.62% in the prior year quarter.
    • Total provision for credit losses was $20.5 million, compared to $9.7 million in the prior year quarter. Total provision for credit losses included $0.9 million of net taxi medallion recoveries, compared to $12.0 million of net taxi medallion recoveries in the prior year quarter.
    • Annualized net charge-offs were 3.28% of average loans outstanding, compared to 1.04% in the prior year quarter.
    • In December 2024, the Bank signed a letter of intent to sell up to $121 million of recreation loans at a premium to par value.

    2024 Full-Year Highlights

    • Net income of $60.6 million, compared to net income of $79.9 million in 2023.
    • Net interest income of $204.7 million, compared to $188.9 million in 2023.
    • Net interest margin of 8.48%, compared to 8.84% in 2023.
    • Total provision for credit losses was $75.8 million, compared to $36.5 million in 2023. Total provision for credit losses included $4.9 million of net taxi medallion recoveries, compared to $18.1 million of net taxi medallion recoveries in 2023.
    • Total net charge-offs were 2.82% of average loans outstanding, compared to 1.52% in 2023.
    • Return on assets and return on equity were 2.52% and 16.62%, respectively, compared to 3.74% and 24.57% in 2023.
    • Total loan portfolio grew 13% to $2.4 billion.
    • Total assets were $2.5 billion, total capital was $382.4 million, and the Tier 1 leverage ratio was 15.68% as of December 31, 2024.

    Donald Poulton, President and Chief Executive Officer of Medallion Bank, stated, “We finished 2024 on a solid note, with quarterly earnings of $15.6 million and net interest income above $53 million. Volumes in our strategic partnership business tripled to $124 million from $40 million in the third quarter. As anticipated, recreation and home improvement loan volumes slowed with the winter season, and loan delinquency and net charge-offs rose in the quarter as is expected. With record recreation loan originations of more than $526 million in 2024, we initiated another loan sale — our fifth since 2016 — in preparation for the projected demand from our customers in 2025. We view loan sales as an efficient method to recycle capital that can also generate earnings when demand exceeds our capacity. Reclassifying these recreation loans as held for sale resulted in a release of $3.9 million in related allowance for credit losses. As we look ahead, our priorities remain constant: loan originations of predictable credit quality and managed growth that continues to deliver increasing net interest income while maintaining or growing our market position.”

    Recreation Lending Segment

    • The Bank’s recreation loan portfolio grew 15% to $1.543 billion as of December 31, 2024, compared to $1.336 billion at December 31, 2023. Loan originations were $72.2 million in the fourth quarter 2024, compared to $62.7 million in the prior year quarter. For the year, loan originations were $526.6 million, compared to $447.0 million in 2023.
    • Net interest income was $39.4 million for the fourth quarter 2024, compared to $36.2 million in the prior year quarter. For the year, net interest income was $153.1 million, compared to $140.3 million in 2023.
    • Recreation loans were 65% of loans receivable as of December 31, 2024, compared to 64% at December 31, 2023.
    • Annualized net charge-offs were 4.35% of average recreation loans outstanding in the fourth quarter 2024, compared to 4.23% in the prior year quarter. For the year, total net charge-offs were 3.72% of average recreation loans outstanding, compared to 3.04% in 2023.
    • The provision for recreation credit losses was $17.7 million in the fourth quarter 2024, compared to $14.8 million in the prior year quarter. For the year, the provision for recreation credit losses was $68.0 million, compared to $44.6 million in 2023. The provisions for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2024 included $3.9 million of allowance for credit losses released as $121 million of recreation loans were reclassified as held for sale.
    • The recreation allowance for credit losses was 5.00% of the outstanding balance as of December 31, 2024, compared to 4.31% of the outstanding balance as of December 31, 2023. The Bank does not record an allowance for loans held for sale, so the allowance as of December 31, 2024 relates only to the remaining recreation loans held for investment.

    Home Improvement Lending Segment

    • The Bank’s home improvement loan portfolio grew 9% to $827.2 million as of December 31, 2024, compared to $760.6 million at December 31, 2023. Loan originations were $82.5 million in the fourth quarter 2024, compared to $66.0 million in the prior year quarter. For the year, loan originations were $298.7 million, compared to $357.4 million in 2023.
    • Net interest income was $13.1 million for the fourth quarter 2024, compared to $12.2 million in the prior year quarter. For the year, net interest income was $50.2 million, compared to $46.6 million in 2023.
    • Home improvement loans were 35% of loans receivable as of December 31, 2024, compared to 36% at December 31, 2023.
    • Annualized net charge-offs were 1.75% of average home improvement loans outstanding in the fourth quarter 2024, compared to 1.67% in the prior year quarter. For the year, total net charge-offs were 1.78% of average home improvement loans outstanding, compared to 1.33% in 2023.
    • The provision for home improvement credit losses was $4.4 million in the fourth quarter 2024, compared to $6.9 million in the prior year quarter. For the year, the provision for home improvement credit losses was $13.5 million, compared to $17.6 million in 2023.
    • The home improvement allowance for credit losses was 2.48% of the outstanding balance at December 31, 2024, compared to 2.76% of the outstanding balance at December 31, 2023.

    Series F Preferred Stock Dividend

    On January 23, 2025, the Bank’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.50 per share on the Bank’s Fixed-to-Floating Rate Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series F, which trades on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the ticker symbol “MBNKP.” The dividend is payable on April 1, 2025, to holders of record at the close of business on March 17, 2025.

    About Medallion Bank

    Medallion Bank specializes in providing consumer loans for the purchase of recreational vehicles, boats, and home improvements, along with loan origination services to fintech strategic partners. The Bank works directly with thousands of dealers, contractors and financial service providers serving their customers throughout the United States. Medallion Bank is a Utah-chartered, FDIC-insured industrial bank headquartered in Salt Lake City and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Medallion Financial Corp. (Nasdaq: MFIN).

    For more information, visit www.medallionbank.com

    Please note that this press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties relating to business performance, cash flow, costs, sales (including loan sales), net investment income, earnings, returns and growth. These statements are often, but not always, made through the use of words or phrases such as “remains,” “anticipated,” “continue,” “may,” “maintain” or the negative versions of these words or other comparable words or phrases of a future or forward-looking nature. These statements may relate to our future earnings, returns, capital levels, sources of funding, growth prospects, asset quality and pursuit and execution of our strategy. Medallion Bank’s actual results may differ significantly from the results discussed in such forward-looking statements. For a description of certain risks to which Medallion Bank is or may be subject, please refer to the factors discussed under the captions “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” included in Medallion Bank’s Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and in its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, filed with the FDIC. Medallion Bank’s Form 10-K, Form 10-Qs and other FDIC filings are available in the Investor Relations section of Medallion Bank’s website. Medallion Bank’s financial results for any period are not necessarily indicative of Medallion Financial Corp.’s results for the same period.  

    Company Contact:
    Investor Relations
    212-328-2176
    InvestorRelations@medallion.com

    MEDALLION BANK
    STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
    (UNAUDITED)
     
      Three Months Ended December 31,   For the Years Ended December 31,
    (In thousands) 2024   2023   2024   2023
    Interest income              
    Loan interest including fees $ 71,577   $ 61,668   $ 268,914   $ 231,496
    Investments   1,564     1,585     6,306     5,171
    Total interest income   73,141     63,253     275,220     236,667
    Interest expense   20,039     14,401     70,509     47,785
    Net interest income   53,102     48,852     204,711     188,882
    Provision for credit losses   20,500     9,717     75,845     36,457
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses   32,602     39,135     128,866     152,425
    Other non-interest income   16     839     2,134     2,102
    Non-interest expense              
    Salaries and benefits   5,014     4,997     19,985     19,001
    Loan servicing   3,173     2,903     12,248     11,626
    Collection costs   1,517     1,492     6,095     5,965
    Regulatory fees   969     692     3,795     3,176
    Professional fees   508     631     1,694     2,243
    Information technology   329     281     1,186     1,031
    Occupancy and equipment   541     206     1,167     830
    Other   938     818     3,624     3,524
    Total non-interest expense   12,989     12,020     49,794     47,396
    Income before income taxes   19,629     27,954     81,206     107,131
    Provision for income taxes   4,040     6,011     20,624     27,279
    Net income $ 15,589   $ 21,943   $ 60,582   $ 79,852
    Less: Preferred stock dividends   1,512     1,512     6,047     6,047
    Net income attributable to common shareholder $ 14,077   $ 20,431   $ 54,535   $ 73,805
                           
    MEDALLION BANK
    BALANCE SHEETS
    (UNAUDITED)
     
    (In thousands) December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
    Assets      
    Cash and federal funds sold $ 126,196     $ 110,043  
    Investment securities, available-for-sale   54,805       54,282  
    Loans held for sale, at the lower of amortized cost or fair value   128,226        
           
    Loan receivables, inclusive of net deferred loan acquisition cost and fees   2,249,613       2,100,338  
    Allowance for credit losses   (91,638 )     (79,283 )
    Loans, net   2,157,975       2,021,055  
    Loan collateral in process of foreclosure   3,326       4,165  
    Fixed assets and right-of-use lease assets, net   9,126       8,140  
    Deferred tax assets   14,036       12,761  
    Accrued interest receivable   15,083       13,439  
    Other assets   40,326       38,171  
    Total assets $ 2,549,099     $ 2,262,056  
    Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity      
    Liabilities      
    Deposits and other funds borrowed $ 2,125,071     $ 1,866,657  
    Accrued interest payable   5,586       4,029  
    Income tax payable   17,951       21,219  
    Other liabilities   17,204       17,509  
    Due to affiliates   910       849  
    Total liabilities   2,166,722       1,910,263  
    Shareholder’s Equity      
    Series E Preferred stock   26,303       26,303  
    Series F Preferred stock   42,485       42,485  
    Common stock   1,000       1,000  
    Additional paid in capital   77,500       77,500  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax   (4,480 )     (4,529 )
    Retained earnings   239,569       209,034  
    Total shareholders’ equity   382,377       351,793  
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 2,549,099     $ 2,262,056  

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Diamondback Energy, Inc. Announces Drop Down Transaction

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIDLAND, Texas, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: FANG) (“Diamondback” or the “Company”) today announced that it has entered into a definitive purchase agreement with Viper Energy, Inc. (“Viper”), a subsidiary of Diamondback, to sell certain mineral and royalty interests from subsidiaries of Diamondback for $1 billion in cash and approximately 69.6 million units of Viper’s operating subsidiary (“OpCo”, and such units the “OpCo Units”) in a drop down transaction (“Drop Down”). The tax advantaged OpCo units, which will be issued together with an equal number of shares of Class B common stock of Viper, are exchangeable for shares of Class A common stock of Viper.

    Based on the volume weighted average sales price of Viper’s common stock for the 30-trading day period ending on January 24, 2025 of $49.55, the transaction is valued at a total of $4.45 billion. Viper expects to fund the cash portion of this transaction through a combination of cash on hand, borrowings under Viper’s credit facility, and proceeds from one or more capital markets transactions, subject to market conditions and other factors.

    “This Drop Down transaction with Viper is a major milestone in the continued synergy capture and execution of corporate development objectives related to the Endeavor transaction,” stated Travis Stice, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Diamondback. “Additionally, the Drop Down will accelerate debt reduction and increase Diamondback’s exposure to Viper’s differentiated growth profile and market-leading minerals position.”

    Timing and Approvals

    Diamondback expects the transaction to close in the second quarter of 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions and approval of the transaction by Viper’s stockholders.

    Advisors

    RBC Capital Markets is serving as financial advisor to Diamondback. Kirkland & Ellis LLP is acting as legal advisor to Diamondback.

    Evercore is acting as financial advisor to the Audit Committee of Viper’s Board of Directors. Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP is acting as legal advisor to Viper’s Audit Committee.

    About Diamondback

    Diamondback is an independent oil and natural gas company headquartered in Midland, Texas focused on the acquisition, development, exploration and exploitation of unconventional, onshore oil and natural gas reserves in the Permian Basin in West Texas. For more information, please visit www.diamondbackenergy.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act, which involve risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, including statements regarding Diamondback’s: future performance; business strategy; future operations (including drilling plans and capital plans); estimates and projections of revenues, losses, costs, expenses, returns, cash flow, and financial position; reserve estimates and its ability to replace or increase reserves; anticipated benefits or other effects of strategic transactions (including the recently completed Endeavor merger, the Drop Down transaction and other acquisitions or divestitures); and plans and objectives of management (including plans for future cash flow from operations) are forward-looking statements. When used in this news release, the words “aim,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “future,” “guidance,” “intend,” “may,” “model,” “outlook,” “plan,” “positioned,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would,” and similar expressions (including the negative of such terms) as they relate to Diamondback are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words. Although Diamondback believes that the expectations and assumptions reflected in its forward-looking statements are reasonable as and when made, they involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and, in many cases, beyond Diamondback’s control. Accordingly, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and Diamondback’s actual outcomes could differ materially from what Diamondback has expressed in its forward-looking statements.

    Factors that could cause the outcomes to differ materially include (but are not limited to) the following: changes in supply and demand levels for oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids, and the resulting impact on the price for those commodities; the impact of public health crises, including epidemic or pandemic diseases and any related company or government policies or actions; actions taken by the members of OPEC and Russia affecting the production and pricing of oil, as well as other domestic and global political, economic, or diplomatic developments, including any impact of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war on the global energy markets and geopolitical stability; instability in the financial markets; inflationary pressures; higher interest rates and their impact on the cost of capital; regional supply and demand factors, including delays, curtailment delays or interruptions of production, or governmental orders, rules or regulations that impose production limits; federal and state legislative and regulatory initiatives relating to hydraulic fracturing, including the effect of existing and future laws and governmental regulations; physical and transition risks relating to climate change; those risks described in Item 1A of Diamondback’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the SEC on February 22, 2024, and those risks disclosed in its subsequent filings on Forms 10-Q and 8-K, which can be obtained free of charge on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov and Diamondback’s website at www.diamondbackenergy.com/investors.

    In light of these factors, the events anticipated by Diamondback’s forward-looking statements may not occur at the time anticipated or at all. Moreover, Diamondback operates in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment and new risks emerge from time to time. Diamondback cannot predict all risks, nor can it assess the impact of all factors on its business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by any forward-looking statements it may make. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this letter or, if earlier, as of the date they were made. Diamondback does not intend to, and disclaims any obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements unless required by applicable law.

    Additional Information about the Drop Down and Where to Find It

    In connection with the Drop Down, Viper expects to file relevant materials with the SEC including a proxy statement on Schedule 14A. Promptly after filing its definitive proxy statement with the SEC, Viper will mail the definitive proxy statement to each Viper stockholder entitled to vote at the special meeting relating to the Drop Down. This document is not a substitute for the proxy statement or for any other document that Viper may file with the SEC and send to its stockholders in connection with the Pending Drop Down. INVESTORS AND STOCKHOLDERS IN VIPER ARE URGED TO CAREFULLY READ THE VIPER PROXY STATEMENT (INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO AND ANY DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE THEREIN) AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH THE DROP DOWN THAT VIPER WILL FILE WITH THE SEC WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE TRANSACTION AND THE PARTIES TO THE TRANSACTION. The definitive proxy statement, the preliminary proxy statement, and other relevant materials in connection with the Drop Down (when they become available) and any other documents filed by Viper with the SEC, may be obtained free of charge at the SEC’s website www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Viper will be available free of charge on Viper’s website at www.viperenergy.com/investors.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    Viper and its directors and executive officers, and Diamondback as its parent and major stockholder, may be deemed, under SEC rules, to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from Viper’s stockholders in connection with the Drop Down. Information about the directors and executive officers of Viper and, as applicable, about Diamondback, is set forth in (i) in Viper’s proxy statement for its 2024 annual meeting, including under the headings “Proposal 1—Election of Directors”, “Executive Officers”, “Compensation Discussion and Analysis”, “Compensation Tables”, “Stock Ownership” and “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions,” which was filed with the SEC on April 25, 2024 and is available at https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1602065/000119312524113976/d796418ddef14a.htm, (ii) Viper’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, including under the headings “Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance”, “Item 11. Executive Compensation”, “Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters” and “Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence”, which was filed with the SEC on February 22, 2024 and is available at https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1602065/000160206524000010/vnom-20231231.htm and (iii) subsequent statements of changes in beneficial ownership on file with the SEC.

    Additional information about Diamondback may be found in Diamondback’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the SEC on February 22, 2024, and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K filed by Diamondback with the SEC. These documents may be obtained free of charge from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and Diamondback’s website at www.diamondbackenergy.com/investors.

    Additional information regarding the participants in the proxy solicitation and a description of their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be contained in the proxy statement and other relevant materials filed by Viper with the SEC when they become available. These documents may be obtained free of charge from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and Viper’s website at www.viperenergy.com/investors.

    No Offer or Solicitation

    This document does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, or a solicitation of any vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

    Diamondback Investor Contact:

    Adam Lawlis
    +1 432.221.7467
    alawlis@diamondbackenergy.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Viper Energy, Inc., A Subsidiary of Diamondback Energy, Inc., Announces Drop Down Transaction and Operations Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIDLAND, Texas, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Viper Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:VNOM) (“Viper” or the “Company”), a subsidiary of Diamondback Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ:FANG) (“Diamondback”), today provided an update on Q4 2024 financial and operating results.

    FOURTH QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS

    • Q4 2024 average daily production of 29,859 bo/d (56,109 boe/d)
    • Q4 2024 average unhedged realized prices of $69.91 per barrel of oil, $0.84 per Mcf of natural gas, and $22.15 per barrel of natural gas liquids
    • During the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company recorded total operating income of $228.7 million
    • Declared Q4 2024 combined base-plus-variable dividend of $0.65 per Class A common share; payable on March 13, 2025 to Class A shareholders of record at the close of business on March 6, 2025

    Additionally, the Company announced today it and its operating subsidiary Viper Energy Partners LLC (“OpCo”) have entered into a definitive purchase and sale agreement to acquire all of the equity interests of certain mineral and royalty-interest owning subsidiaries of Diamondback in exchange for $1.0 billion of cash and approximately 69.6 million OpCo units (along with an accompanying equal amount of Class B common stock of the Company), subject to customary adjustments (the “Drop Down”). The transaction was negotiated for the Company by the Audit Committee of its Board of Directors, which consists solely of independent directors and is appointed by the Board of Directors to oversee all related party transactions. The cash portion of this transaction is expected to be funded through a combination of cash on hand, borrowings under the Company’s credit facility, and proceeds from one or more capital markets transactions, subject to market conditions and other factors. The Company expects the transaction to close in the second quarter of 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including the approval of the transaction by a majority of the Company’s stockholders not affiliated with Diamondback.

    The Company today also announced it and OpCo have entered into a separate definitive purchase and sale agreement to acquire certain mineral and royalty interests from Morita Ranches Minerals LLC in exchange for approximately $211 million of cash and approximately 2.4 million OpCo units (along with an accompanying equal amount of Class B common stock of the Company), subject to customary adjustments (the “Quinn Ranch Acquisition” and together with the Drop Down, the “Pending Acquisitions”). The cash portion of this transaction is expected to be funded through a combination of cash on hand and borrowings under the Company’s credit facility. The Company expects the transaction to close during the first quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions.

    PENDING ACQUISITIONS COMBINED HIGHLIGHTS

    • Approximately 23,100 net royalty acres (“NRAs”) in the Midland Basin; additional acreage in the Delaware and Williston Basins (approximately 1,700 NRAs combined)
    • Diamondback operates >70% of the Midland Basin NRAs with an approximately 5.0% average net revenue interest (“NRI”) across high-quality and largely undeveloped acreage
    • Expected average daily oil production for full year 2025 of approximately 18,000 bo/d (32,000 boe/d); includes contribution from Diamondback’s expected development plan (11.0-12.0 net 100% royalty interest wells) and 6.7 net existing DUCs and permits operated by third party operators
    • Viper currently expects Diamondback to complete roughly 300-325 gross locations on the acquired properties in 2026 with an estimated average ~6.0% NRI; expected to drive an increase in Diamondback-operated production from an average of approximately of 11,000 bo/d in 2025 to approximately 14,000 bo/d in 2026
    • Third party operated acreage located primarily in Martin, Midland, and Reagan counties; ExxonMobil (~35% of third party operated acreage) is the largest operator with diversified exposure to other leading well-capitalized operators in the Midland Basin
    • Substantial near and long-term financial accretion; expected to be >10% accretive to cash available for distribution per Class A share immediately upon closing
    • Each of the Pending Acquisitions has an effective date of January 1, 2025

    PRO FORMA VIPER HIGHLIGHTS

    • Giving effect to only the assumed closing of the Quinn Ranch Acquisition during Q1 2025, initiating average daily production guidance for Q1 2025 of 30,000 to 31,000 bo/d (54,000 to 56,000 boe/d)
    • Upon the assumed closing of the Drop Down during Q2 2025, expect average daily production for the balance of 2025 in the range of 47,000 to 49,000 bo/d (85,000 to 88,000 boe/d); the midpoint is approximately 61% higher than standalone Viper’s Q4 2024 average daily oil production
    • Based on Diamondback’s expected development plans, Viper expects its Diamondback-operated production to increase to approximately 31,000 bo/d in 2026, up from approximately 27,000 bo/d on a pro forma basis in 2025
    • Viper expects to own an interest in approximately 75% of the total amount of gross wells that Diamondback would plan to develop over the next five years at today’s activity levels; expect to own an estimated ~6.0% NRI in these wells
    • Total inventory of Diamondback-operated locations with a greater than 10% IRR at $50 WTI of approximately 334 net locations
    • Approximately 60,200 NRAs in the Permian Basin, approximately 36,300 of which are operated by Diamondback; represents increases of approximately 70% and 90%, respectively
    • Maintaining return of capital commitment of at least 75% of cash available for distribution
    • Conservative leverage of <1.0x expected at year-end 2025 based on current commodity prices

    “We are excited to announce today the highly anticipated, transformative Drop Down transaction between Viper and Diamondback. This transaction, combined with the Quinn Ranch Acquisition, furthers Viper’s alignment with Diamondback’s expected development plan and positions Viper to continue to deliver organic growth driven by the Diamondback drillbit for multiple years ahead. The pro forma size and scale provided to Viper, and the continued support of our parent company, meaningfully enhances the unmatched advantage Viper has in the minerals and royalty market,” stated Travis Stice, Chief Executive Officer of Viper.

    Mr. Stice continued, “In addition to being immediately accretive to all relevant financial metrics, this conservatively financed transaction also reduces Viper’s pro forma leverage to below 1.0x. Looking ahead, Viper’s leading scale and fortress balance sheet will enable the Company to continue to opportunistically consolidate the highly fragmented minerals market through a disciplined and focused approach.”

    Advisors

    Evercore is serving as financial advisor to the Audit Committee of Viper’s Board of Directors and Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP is serving as the Audit Committee’s legal advisor for the Drop Down.

    RBC Capital Markets is serving as financial advisor to Diamondback and Kirkland & Ellis LLP is serving as its legal advisor for the Drop Down.

    For the Quinn Ranch Acquisition, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP is serving as Viper’s legal advisor and Vinson & Elkins LLP is serving as legal advisor for Morita Ranches Minerals LLC.

    About Viper Energy, Inc.

    Viper is a corporation formed by Diamondback to own, acquire and exploit oil and natural gas properties in North America, with a focus on owning and acquiring mineral and royalty interests in oil-weighted basins, primarily the Permian Basin. For more information, please visit www.viperenergy.com.

    About Diamondback Energy, Inc.

    Diamondback is an independent oil and natural gas company headquartered in Midland, Texas focused on the acquisition, development, exploration and exploitation of unconventional, onshore oil and natural gas reserves primarily in the Permian Basin in West Texas. For more information, please visit www.diamondbackenergy.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, which involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause the results to differ materially from those expected by the management of Viper. All statements, other than historical facts, that address activities that Viper assumes, plans, expects, believes, intends or anticipates (and other similar expressions) will, should or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are based on management’s current beliefs, based on currently available information, as to the outcome and timing of future events, including specifically the statements regarding the pending acquisitions discussed in this news release and any potential capital markets transactions and other funding sources for the pending acquisitions, as well as statements regarding the pro forma results for the pending acquisitions and Viper’s operating and financial expectations following those acquisitions, including existing and future production on the mineral and royalty acreage subject to the pending acquisitions and Diamondback’s plans with respect to such Diamondback-operated acreage.

    Factors that could cause the outcomes to differ materially include (but are not limited to) the following: the completion of the pending acquisitions on anticipated terms and timing or at all, including obtaining the requisite regulatory and stockholder approvals for the Pending Drop Down, the satisfaction of other conditions to the pending acquisitions, uncertainties as to whether the pending acquisitions, if consummated, will achieve their anticipated benefits within the expected time periods or at all, and those risks described in Item 1A of Viper’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the SEC on February 22, 2024, subsequent Forms 10-Q and 8-K and other filings Viper makes with the SEC, which can be obtained free of charge on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov and Viper’s website at www.viperenergy.com/investor-overview, as well as those risks that will be more fully described in the definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A that is intended to be filed with the SEC in connection with the Pending Drop Down.

    In light of these factors, the events anticipated by Viper’s forward-looking statements may not occur at the time anticipated or at all. Moreover, Viper conducts its business in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment and new risks emerge from time to time. Viper cannot predict all risks, nor can it assess the impact of all factors on its business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by any forward-looking statements it may make. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this news release or, if earlier, as of the date they were made. Viper does not intend to, and disclaims any obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements unless required by applicable law.

    Additional Information about the Pending Drop Down and Where to Find It

    In connection with the Pending Drop Down, Viper expects to file relevant materials with the SEC including a proxy statement on Schedule 14A. Promptly after filing its definitive proxy statement with the SEC, Viper will mail the definitive proxy statement to each stockholder entitled to vote at the special meeting relating to the Pending Drop Down. This news release is not a substitute for the proxy statement or for any other document that Viper may file with the SEC and send to its stockholders in connection with the Pending Drop Down. INVESTORS AND STOCKHOLDERS ARE URGED TO CAREFULLY READ THE PROXY STATEMENT (INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO AND ANY DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE THEREIN) AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH THE PENDING DROP DOWN THAT VIPER WILL FILE WITH THE SEC WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE TRANSACTION AND THE PARTIES TO THE TRANSACTION. The definitive proxy statement, the preliminary proxy statement, and other relevant materials in connection with the Pending Drop Down (when they become available) and any other documents filed by Viper with the SEC, may be obtained free of charge at the SEC’s website www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Viper will be available free of charge on Viper’s website at www.viperenergy.com/investor-overview.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    Viper and its directors and executive officers, and Diamondback as its parent and major stockholder, may be deemed, under SEC rules, to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from Viper’s stockholders in connection with the Pending Drop Down. Information about the directors and executive officers of Viper and, as applicable, about Diamondback, is set forth in (i) in Viper’s proxy statement for its 2024 annual meeting, including under the headings “Proposal 1—Election of Directors”, “Executive Officers”, “Compensation Discussion and Analysis”, “Compensation Tables”, “Stock Ownership” and “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions,” which was filed with the SEC on April 25, 2024 and is available at https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1602065/000119312524113976/d796418ddef14a.htm, (ii) Viper’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, including under the headings “Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance”, “Item 11. Executive Compensation”, “Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters” and “Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence”, which was filed with the SEC on February 22, 2024 and is available at https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1602065/000160206524000010/vnom-20231231.htm and (iii) subsequent statements of changes in beneficial ownership on file with the SEC.

    Additional information about Diamondback may be found in Diamondback’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the SEC on February 22, 2024, and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K filed by Diamondback with the SEC. These documents may be obtained free of charge from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and Diamondback’s website at www.diamondbackenergy.com/investors.

    Additional information regarding the participants in the proxy solicitation and a description of their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be contained in the proxy statement and other relevant materials filed with the SEC when they become available. These documents may be obtained free of charge from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and Viper’s website at www.viperenergy.com/investor-overview.

    No Offer or Solicitation

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

    Investor Contact:

    Austen Gilfillian
    +1 432.221.7420
    agilfillian@diamondbackenergy.com

    Source: Viper Energy, Inc.; Diamondback Energy, Inc.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Wyden, Finance Democrats Press RFK Jr. to Reject Big Pharma Pause on Medicare Negotiation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Following Noncommittal Answer in Committee and Statement by CMS, Finance Democrats Press for Commitment to Continuing Medicare Drug Price Negotiation on Schedule

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Senate Finance Committee Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), and all Democratic members of the Senate Committee on Finance sent a letter to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. pressing him to answer nearly a dozen questions regarding his views on Medicare drug price negotiation and confirm he will not pause negotiations, as CEOs representing the largest pharmaceutical companies have requested.

    “As a result of the Inflation Reduction Act, which passed without a single Republican vote, Medicare drug price negotiation is a powerful tool available right now to President Trump to make good on his long-standing promise to stand up to Big Pharma,” the Senators wrote. “On behalf of the tens of millions of Americans who count on Medicare, Democrats on the Senate Finance Committee want to know whether the Trump Administration will follow through on negotiating with Big Pharma to deliver the lower costs promised to the American people.” 

    The letter, sent to Kennedy in his capacity as the nominee to be secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), asks whether he will follow the Inflation Reduction Act’s statutory requirements related to Medicare drug price negotiation, whether the Trump administration will continue to defend the law in court against attacks by Big Pharma, and other questions. Yesterday, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a concerning statement that appeared to open the door to Big Pharma’s requests.

    “Contrary to what you suggested in today’s hearing, the Trump Administration’s statement is far from an embrace of drug price negotiation and appears to be opening the door to changes that could undermine Medicare’s ability to get the best price possible on drugs,” the Senators continued.

    The full letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: RBAZ Bancorp, Inc. Announces Unaudited Financial Results For the Quarter and Year Ending December 31, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PHOENIX, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RBAZ Bancorp, Inc. (OTCIQ: RBAZ) (the “Company”), parent company of Republic Bank of Arizona (the “Bank” or “RBAZ”), announced a consolidated net income of $793,000, or $0.44 per share, for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 and $3,379,000, or $1.90 per share, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 as compared to a consolidated net income of $688,000, or $0.38 per share, for the quarter ended December 31, 2023 and $2,460,000, or $1.36 per share, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023.

    President and CEO Brian Ruisinger stated “I am proud to report record earnings for RBAZ in our 17-year history reflecting a 37% year-over-year increase bolstered by Q4 featuring a 15% increase over the same quarter of the prior year. Solid loan growth at higher yields coupled with deposit growth concentrated in non-interest-bearing funds resulted in a 27% net interest income improvement. This was accomplished while managing expenses allowing for an increase of only 11%. However, these expenses included $365,000 of deal costs related to our prior announcement of merging with Pima Federal Credit Union.”

    Mr. Ruisinger continued, “As an update to our May 16, 2024 announcement of our intent to join forces with Pima Federal Credit Union, RBAZ shareholders approved the transaction on August 22, 2024 and regulatory applications were accepted in January 2025 entering into the customary review period to obtain approval. We anticipate a closing date in the second quarter of this year, and additional information will be provided once approvals are obtained.”

    December 31, 2024 Company Highlights Include:

    • Total loans of $222,731,000 increased $20,902,000, or 10.4%, from December 31, 2023. This increase consisted of $51,397,000 in new loan originations and advances on construction lines of credit, offset by $29,397,000 in loan maturities and participations sold. Advances and repayments on commercial lines of credit and normal payment attrition comprised the balance of the loan activity in 2024.
    • Total deposits of $250,201,000 increased $22,029,000, or 9.7%, from December 31, 2023 and related entirely to core deposit generation, in which 74.1% was in non-interest-bearing funds. The increase in core deposits was a mix of deepening of existing relationships and cultivation of new banking relationships.
    • Total interest income increased $800,000 to $4,615,000 for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 outpacing total interest income of $3,815,000 for the same period of the prior year equating to an increase of 21.0%.
    • Cost of deposits was 2.13% for the quarter ended December 31, 2024. After peaking at 2.36% in Q1 2024, this reduction of 23 basis points indicates a turning point in the interest rate environment within the greater Phoenix market following the Federal Reserve’s rate reductions totaling 100 basis points in the second half of 2024.
    • Total non-interest expense increased $239,000 to $2,097,000 for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 compared to $1,858,000 for the same period of the prior year. However, this increase includes $365,000 in non-recurring expenses associated with the pending transaction with Pima Federal Credit Union incurred in 2024. Therefore, core operating expenses decreased $126,000 between comparative quarters resulting primarily from a reduction in professional fees and marketing expenses.

    The Bank remains “Well Capitalized” under the Community Bank Leverage Ratio (CBLR) framework as follows:

      December 31,
    2024 (%)
      Ratio to be Well
    Capitalized (%)
    CBLR ratio 11.06   9.00


    About the Company

    RBAZ Bancorp, Inc. was established on June 10, 2021 as a single-bank holding company for its Arizona state-chartered bank subsidiary, Republic Bank of Arizona. The Company is traded over-the-counter as RBAZ.

    About the Bank
    Republic Bank of Arizona is a locally owned, community bank in Phoenix, Scottsdale and Gilbert, Arizona. RBAZ is a full service, community bank providing deposit and loan products and convenient, online and mobile banking to individuals, businesses and professionals. The Bank was established in April 2007 and is headquartered at 645 E. Missouri Avenue, Suite 108, Phoenix, AZ. Additional branches are located at 7373 N. Scottsdale Road, Suite A-195, Scottsdale, AZ and 1417 W. Elliot Road, Gilbert, AZ. The Bank is the wholly-owned subsidiary of RBAZ Bancorp, Inc. For further information, please visit our web site: www.republicbankaz.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release may include forward-looking statements about the Company and the Bank (collectively referred to herein as the “Company”), for which the Company claims the protection of safe harbor provisions contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s knowledge and belief as of today and include information concerning the Company’s possible or assumed future financial condition and its results of operations and business. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Several important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Those factors include, but are not limited to, fluctuations in interest rates, government policies and regulations (including monetary and fiscal policies), legislation, economic conditions, borrower capacity to repay, operational factors and competition in the geographic and business areas in which the Company conducts its operations. All forward-looking statements included in this press release are based on information available at the time of the release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement.

                      Summary Company Financial Information (unaudited)
        For the three months
    ended December 31,
    For the twelve months
    ended December 31,
        2024 2023 2024 2023
        (dollars in thousands, except per share data)
      Summary Income Data:              
      Interest income $4,615   $3,815   $17,935   $14,208  
      Interest expense 1,457   1,359   5,923   4,742  
      Net interest income 3,158   2,456   12,012   9,466  
      Provision for credit losses 233     627    
      Non-interest income 245   219   967   820  
      Non-interest expense 2,097   1,858   7,907   7,142  
      Income before provision for income tax 1,073   817   4,445   3,144  
      Provision for income tax 280   129   1,066   684  
      Net income $793   $688   $3,379   $2,460  
      Per Share Data:              
      Shares outstanding end-of-period 1,790   1,795   1,790   1,795  
      Earnings per common share $0.44   $0.38   $1.90   $1.36  
      Diluted earnings per common share $0.42   $0.37   $1.77   $1.33  
      Book value per share $13.81   $11.77   $13.81   $11.77  
      Selected Balance Sheet Data:              
      Total assets $282,511   $272,044   $282,511   $272,044  
      Securities available-for-sale, at fair value 32,731   40,998   32,731   40,998  
      Securities held-to-maturity 9,855   10,648   9,855   10,648  
      Loans 222,731   201,829   222,731   201,829  
      Allowance for credit losses 2,428   2,116   2,428   2,116  
      Deposits 250,201   228,172   250,201   228,172  
      Other borrowings 5,958   20,929   5,958   20,929  
      Shareholders’ equity 24,723   21,128   24,723   21,128  
      Performance Ratios:              
      Return on average shareholders’ equity (annualized) (%) 12.83   13.03   13.67   11.64  
      Net interest margin (%) 4.58   3.81   4.32   3.68  
      Average assets $288,408   $265,190   $289,763   $264,488  
      Return on average assets (annualized) (%) 1.10   1.04   1.17   0.93  
      Shareholders’ equity to assets (%) 8.75   7.77   8.75   7.77  
      Efficiency ratio (%) 61.62   69.46   60.92   69.43  
      Asset Quality Data:              
      Nonaccrual loans $418   $209   $418   $209  
      Loan modifications to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty $-   $-   $-   $-  
      Other real estate owned $-   $-   $-   $-  
      Nonperforming loans $418   $209   $418   $209  
      Nonperforming loans to total assets (%) 0.15   0.08   0.15   0.08  
      Nonperforming loans to total loans (%) 0.19   0.10   0.19   0.10  
      Allowance for credit losses to total loans (%) 1.09   1.05   1.09   1.05  
      Allowance for credit losses to nonperforming loans (%) 580.86   1,012.44   580.86   1,012.44  
      Net charge-offs (recoveries) for period $26   $-   $190   ($352 )
      Average loans $221,193   $192,129   $208,799   $176,146  
      Ratio of net charge-offs (recoveries) to average loans (%) 0.01   n/a   0.09   (0.20 )


    Contact:  Brian Ruisinger

    President and Chief Executive Officer
    Phone:  602.280.9404
    Email:  bruisinger@republicaz.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: AI Expert’s Video Presentation on Trump and Musk’s Plan to Rebuild America’s Economy with Artificial Intelligence

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WASHINGTON, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A quiet but powerful revolution is underway in the United States, one that will define global power for the next century. Backed by President Donald Trump and led by Elon Musk, this groundbreaking collaboration represents a bold vision for America’s future: to dominate the global race for artificial intelligence and redefine what economic and technological leadership looks like.

    James Altucher of Paradigm Press Group, a 40-year veteran in AI and emerging technologies, calls this partnership a “game-changing moment in history in his recent video presentation. Altucher explains, “This isn’t just a new development in AI—it’s the foundation for an entirely new way of life. We’re building systems that will not only enhance productivity but also shape how governments, industries, and economies function for decades.”

    A New Kind of Power

    According to Altucher, artificial intelligence is no longer just a tool; it’s becoming the engine of economic and military power. “In the past, wars were won with weapons. Today, they’ll be won with intelligence—real intelligence,” he said.

    While details of this initiative remain closely guarded, Altucher hints that what is being developed has the capacity to disrupt not only industries but also global power structures. “What’s happening now is unlike anything we’ve seen before. This isn’t incremental innovation—it’s a leap forward that will put America ahead in ways the rest of the world can’t catch up to.”

    Altucher describes this as “a national effort” that will integrate AI into every aspect of society, from infrastructure to defense. “Imagine systems that think faster than humans, anticipate problems before they occur, and can adjust to threats in real time. That’s where we’re heading.”

    Why Timing Matters

    With other global powers, like China, heavily investing in artificial intelligence, Altucher emphasizes the importance of the United States taking action now. “This isn’t about keeping up; it’s about staying ahead,” he said. “If we hesitate, the balance of power will shift. But with the right strategy, we can secure America’s leadership for the next 50 years.”

    President Trump’s decision to roll back restrictive AI regulations has already paved the way for private-sector innovation, enabling Musk and his collaborators to take AI development to new heights.

    “This is a rare moment where government and private industry are working hand in hand,” Altucher said. “Trump’s leadership and Musk’s vision are aligning to create something that will define the future.”

    The Shadow Players

    Altucher also notes that while Musk is the face of this effort, an overlooked company is playing a pivotal role in its execution. “Behind every major breakthrough, there’s always an unsung hero,” he said. “This company is the key to making the system work—without it, the entire vision collapses.”

    Shaping the World’s Future

    Altucher concludes that the implications of this AI alliance go far beyond technological advancement. “This isn’t just about making systems smarter. It’s about creating a future where intelligence drives everything—economies, governments, and everyday life,” he said. “It’s a defining moment for the United States, and those paying attention now are witnessing history in the making.”

    With Trump’s administration enabling AI innovation and Musk leading the charge, America is not just preparing for the future—it’s building it.

    About James Altucher

    James Altucher of Paradigm Press Group is a leading authority on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. With over four decades of expertise, Altucher has been at the forefront of identifying technological shifts and their impact on industries and society.

    Media Contact:
    Derek Warren
    Public Relations Manager
    Paradigm Press Group
    Email: dwarren@paradigmpressgroup.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 30.01.2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nokia Corporation
    Stock Exchange Release
    30 January 2025 at 22:30 EET

    Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 30.01.2025

    Espoo, Finland – On 30 January 2025 Nokia Corporation (LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06) has acquired its own shares (ISIN FI0009000681) as follows:

    Trading venue (MIC Code) Number of shares Weighted average price / share, EUR*
    XHEL 872,093 4.53
    CEUX
    BATE
    AQEU
    TQEX
    Total 872,093 4.53

    * Rounded to two decimals

    On 22 November 2024, Nokia announced that its Board of Directors is initiating a share buyback program to offset the dilutive effect of new Nokia shares issued to the shareholders of Infinera Corporation and certain Infinera Corporation share-based incentives. The repurchases in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR), the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 and under the authorization granted by Nokia’s Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024 started on 25 November 2024 and end by 31 December 2025 and target to repurchase 150 million shares for a maximum aggregate purchase price of EUR 900 million.

    Total cost of transactions executed on 30 January 2025 was EUR 3,950,494. After the disclosed transactions, Nokia Corporation holds 235,158,898 treasury shares.

    Details of transactions are included as an appendix to this announcement.

    On behalf of Nokia Corporation

    BofA Securities Europe SA

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    Inquiries:

    Nokia Communications
    Phone: +358 10 448 4900
    Email: press.services@nokia.com
    Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications

    Nokia Investor Relations
    Phone: +358 931 580 507
    Email: investor.relations@nokia.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta Declares a 7.10% Dividend for Fourth Quarter 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATLANTA, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The board of directors of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (FHLBank Atlanta) today approved a cash dividend for the fourth quarter 2024 at an annualized rate of 7.10 percent.

    “Throughout the fourth quarter of 2024, our commitment to helping members through economic uncertainty and advancing our mission remained steadfast,” said FHLBank Atlanta Chair of the Board, Thornwell Dunlap. “Our strong financial performance reflects this dedication, allowing us to return a competitive dividend to our members.”

    The dividend payout will be calculated based on members’ capital stock held during the fourth quarter of 2024 and will be credited to members’ daily investment accounts at the close of business on February 5, 2025.

    If you have questions, please contact FHLBank Atlanta’s Funding Desk at 1.800.536.9650, ext. 8011.

    About FHLBank Atlanta
    FHLBank Atlanta offers competitively-priced financing, community development grants, and other banking services to help member financial institutions make affordable home mortgages and provide economic development credit to neighborhoods and communities. The Bank’s members are commercial banks, credit unions, savings institutions, community development financial institutions, and insurance companies located in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. FHLBank Atlanta is one of 11 district Banks in the Federal Home Loan Bank System. Since 1990, the FHLBanks have awarded approximately $9.1 billion in Affordable Housing Program funds, assisting more than 1.2 million households.

    For more information, visit our website at www.fhlbatl.com.

    To the extent that the statements made in this announcement may be deemed as “forward-looking statements”, they are made within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which include statements with respect to the Bank’s beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, expectations, anticipations, assumptions, estimates, intentions, and future performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which may be beyond the Bank’s control, and which may cause the Bank’s actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on them, since those may not be realized due to a variety of factors, including, without limitation: legislative, regulatory changes; future economic and market conditions (including the housing market); changes in demand for advances or consolidated obligations of the Bank and/or the FHLBank System; changes in interest rates; changes in prepayment speeds, default rates, delinquencies, and losses on mortgage-backed securities; volatility of market prices, rates and indices that could affect the value of financial instruments; changes in credit ratings and/or the terms of derivative transactions; changes in product offerings; political, national, and world events; disruptions in information systems; membership changes; and adverse developments or events affecting or involving other Federal Home Loan Banks or the FHLBank System in general. Additional risk factors that might cause the Bank’s results to differ from these forward-looking statements are provided in detail in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available at www.sec.gov.

    These statements speak only as of the date that they are made, and the Bank has no obligation and does not undertake to publicly update, revise, or correct any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this announcement, or after the respective dates on which such statements otherwise are made, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as may be required by law. New risk factors may emerge, and it is not possible for us to predict the nature of each new factor, or assess its potential impact, on our business and financial condition. Given these uncertainties, we caution you not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

    CONTACT: Sheryl Touchton
    Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta
    stouchton@fhlbatl.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Mission 300: African leaders pledge to advance clean cooking solutions for Africa at milestone Energy Summit

    Source: African Development Bank Group

    African countries have taken bold commitments to implement clean cooking energy solutions to offset the devastating effects of open fire cooking which kills roughly 600,000  women and children annually across the continent.

    In energy compacts signed during the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit, held in Tanzania 27-28 January, 12 African countries signalled their intent to  accelerate the pace of access to electricity and clean cooking solutions on the world’s fastest-growing continent, in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 7 and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

    Commending these countries, Tanzanian President Suluhu Hassan stated in closing remarks: “I understand that the 12 governments have only pioneered, and many others will join us in the future.” Earlier, at the opening speaking about the purpose of the summit she said, “This gathering is a platform to consolidate commitments, announce new partnerships and drive momentum towards the 2030 goal.”

    President Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, global Clean Cooking ambassador at the Africa Energy Summit. January 2025

    The two-day meeting was organized by the Government of Tanzania and Mission 300, an unprecedented collaboration between the African Development Bank Group, the World Bank Group and global partners, to address Africa’s electricity access gap through the use of new technology and innovative financing.

    Moderating a special panel on clean cooking on Monday, Rashid Abdallah, Executive Director of the African Energy Commission (AFREC), noted that whilst 600 million Africans live without access to electricity, one billion -nearly double the number – were without access to clean cooking, relying on biomass fuels such as wood and charcoal, with severe economic, social and environmental impact. Conservative estimates put the cost of this across the continent to $790 billion a year, he noted.

    Abdallah was joined by Dr. Richard Muyungi, Special Envoy to the President of Tanzania, Peter Scott, CEO of Burn Manufacturing, and Martin Kimani, CEO of M-Gas, who each highlighted the significant health, environmental, and economic impacts of relying on polluting fuels for cooking, as well as the innovative approaches being developed to address this crisis.

    Muyungi shared Tanzania’s experience in launching a comprehensive National Clean Cooking Strategy, emphasizing the importance of high-level political commitment, coordinated stakeholder engagement, and the integration of private sector participation. 

    He praised President Hassan’s role as a global champion bringing the issue to the highest level of African governments.

    “It is important to elevate it to the highest level… She is the champion of clean cooking,” he said.  He stressed: “It’s important that there is a champion who can elevate clean cooking in terms of partnerships and partner with others to address this issue. He added that Tanzania is on track to transition 80 percent of its population to clean cooking technologies by 2034, thanks to the efforts of President Hassan.

    Scott, whose company Burn Manufacturing is the largest clean cooking manufacturer in Africa, discussed the diverse range of solutions being deployed across the continent, from fuel-efficient biomass stoves to cutting-edge electric cooking appliances with pay-as-you-go financing models. He stressed the availability of funding for clean cooking projects, pending the approval of carbon credit regulations by governments.

    Panel session on clean cooking at Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit. Tanzania, January 2025. (L-R ) Dr. Richard Muyungi, Special Envoy to the President of Tanzania, Martin Kimani, CEO,M-Gas,   Peter Scott, CEO of Burn Manufacturing, Rashid Abdallah ED, African Energy Commission (AFREC)

    “This is the most exciting time in the history of clean cooking,” Scott declared. “Now, there’s a lot of money standing by to approve carbon credit regulations to allow carbon trading, carbon finance, to grow. “

    Kimani’s pioneering pay-as-you-cook LPG model has provided an innovative and affordable solution to enable households to transition to clean cooking. He shared the success of M-Gas in onboarding half a million households in Kenya and Tanzania within just three years, demonstrating the scalability of this approach. “One of the most important considerations is affordability, how do we close that gap?” he asked.

    M-Gas has found an answer by installing IOT enabled smart meters which are fixed into gas cylinders without upfront payment.

    “We mirror the (pay as you go) environment they can now cook using LPG. With 35 cents they can cook three meals in a day,” he added.

    Tanzania pioneers clean cooking and global awareness

    Tanzania published its clean cooking strategy in 2024-2034 last year in response to its own challenges – 3,000 people dying annually and the effects of a devastating 400 hectares of deforestation annually from the use of charcoal and firewood.

    Championed by President Hassan, the Clean Cooking agenda has embraced everyone and is part of the national agenda, Muyungi said. “This discussion has highlighted the innovative approaches and the political will required to transform the lives of millions of Africans and secure a sustainable future for the continent.”

    In a recognition of national efforts, awards were handed out to winners of a national clean cooking innovation challenge on the first day of the summit. The winners included creators of a biogas production plant and a click gas LPG delivery system.

    Winners of a Tanzania national Clean Cooking Challenge received awards during the Africa Energy Summit held in Tanzania, January 2025. 

    The African Development Bank Group has pledged $2 billion over 10 years towards clean cooking solutions in Africa. The pledge represents an important contribution to the $4 billion per year needed to allow African families to have access to clean cooking by 2030.

    “Why should anybody have to die just for trying to cook a decent meal that is taken for granted in other parts of the world,” African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina asked during a discussion as part of the summit. “Africa must develop with dignity, with pride. Its women, its population must have access to clean energy solutions.”

    Winners of a Tanzania national Clean Cooking Challenge received awards during the Africa Energy Summit held in Tanzania, January 2025. 

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden, Bonamici Reintroduce Bill to Connect Child Care with Affordable Housing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)
    January 30, 2025
    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., with five colleagues in the Senate, reintroduced legislation to help working families access affordable housing and child care. U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici, D-Ore., introduced companion legislation in the House.
    The Build Housing with Care Act would invest $500 million to construct child care centers co-located in affordable housing developments and cover the costs of retrofitting to help family child care providers operate in housing developments. The bill prioritizes projects that are located in child care deserts or rural communities, as well as projects that include qualified Head Start providers and providers primarily serving low-income children.
    “Working families across Oregon are struggling to put food on the table and pay their rent on time. When you add the cost of child care to the equation, families are forced to shoulder an impossible choice,” Wyden said. “Increasing supply of both housing and child care will help lower costs so that caregivers and parents can more easily afford basic necessities and keep their families healthy and safe.”
    “Too many families in Oregon and across the country struggle to find affordable housing and affordable child care,” Bonamici said. “Co-locating child care centers with affordable housing is a proven strategy that increases benefits for children, families, and the economy. I’m pleased to partner with Senator Wyden on this common sense effort that will create more opportunities and a better future for American families.”
    It is estimated that funding from the Build Housing with Care Act could build more than 120 new co-located child care centers, supporting the development of critical care supply in connection with affordable housing. A report from the Low Income Investment Fund, Including Family Child Care in Affordable Housing, highlights the many policy opportunities and benefits of co-location as “an opportunity to respond to severe housing and child care shortages simultaneously.”
    The Senate legislation is cosponsored by Senators Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., and Cory Booker, D-N.J.  
    The Building Housing with Care Act is endorsed by the Low Income Investment Fund; Local Initiatives Support Corporation; Oregon Housing and Community Services; Family Forward Oregon; First Five Years Fund; National Housing Law Project; National Association of Counties; National Partnership for Women & Families; UnidosUS; National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders; Purpose Built Communities Foundation, Inc; National Women’s Law Center; Early Care & Education Consortium; ZERO TO THREE; National Association for County Community and Economic Development; National Children’s Facilities Network; Family Values @ Work; Center for Law and Social Policy; National Association for the Education of Young Children; and the First Focus Campaign on Children.  
    “We all deserve the opportunity to provide for our families,” said Candice Vickers, Executive Director of Family Forward Oregon. “When child care is an afterthought in economic developments and investments, parents and caregivers — and those they care for — suffer. Our future suffers. Child care must be at the forefront of planning, and the Build Housing with Care Act does just that. Ensuring parents and caregivers have access to affordable child care in their neighborhoods allows families to not only survive but thrive.”
    Wyden has been a longtime advocate for increasing affordable housing in Oregon and across the nation. In May 2023, Senator Wyden and his colleagues reintroduced a bipartisan bill to address the housing crisis by building two million affordable homes over the next decade. In July 2024, Wyden and Bonamici wrote a letter to the Biden administration to invest in affordable housing following the criminalization of homelessness in Grants Pass v. Johnson. In March 2023, Wyden reintroduced legislation to solve the housing crisis by increasing supply, and expanding homeownership opportunities, especially for young people, by creating a new down payment tax credit for first-time homebuyers. 
    The Building Housing with Care Act bill text is here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: Kindcard, Inc. to Launch Payments Marketplace

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOCA RATON, Fla., Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kindcard, Inc. (OTC Markets: KCRD) (“Kindcard” and the “Company”), an innovative FinTech and PayTech company which provides alternative payments solutions to businesses across a wide variety of merchant verticals through its wholly owned subsidiary, Deb, Inc. (“DEB”) (www.debpayments.com), today announced that the Company has reviewed its position within the payments industry in light of the significant expansion of technologies which connect payments of all types worldwide.

    Michael Rosen, CEO of Kindcard, stated, “We are excited about our upcoming launch of DEB’s All-In-One Marketplace for payment solutions. DEB’s strategic partnerships and payment solutions integration will cover traditional low to high-risk processing domestically and internationally, as well as provide the ability for merchants to accept all digital currencies for payments, allowing for conversion and settlement to fiat in any currency worldwide.” Mr. Rosen Continued, “In DEB’s All-In-One Marketplace for payment solutions, ISO’s, agents, and merchants will find a compliant and fast way to connect to our payment platforms at a simple fixed cost.”

    To learn more about DEB, please visit: www.debpayments.com

    About Kindcard, Inc.:

    Kindcard, Inc. (OTC Markets: KCRD) (“Kindcard” and the “Company”) is engaged in designing, partnering and taking to market safer, faster, and more competitive and secure ways for businesses and consumers to transact business in the ever-growing world economy. www.kindcard.com

    Kindcard is subject to the information and reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and, in accordance with the Exchange Act, the Company files periodic reports, documents, and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) relating to our business, financial statements, and other matters. These filings are available to the public on the Commission’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

    Safe Harbor Provision

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the safe harbor created thereby. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “will,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “projects,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” or “believes” or the negative thereof or any variation thereon or similar terminology or expressions. These forward-looking statements are based upon current estimates and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from results proposed in such statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can provide no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations include, but are not limited to, those factors set forth in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 31, 2024 and its other filings and submissions with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. This press release includes forward-looking statements concerning the future performance of our business, its operations and its financial performance and condition, and also includes selected operating results presented without the context of accompanying financial results. These forward-looking statements include, among others, statements with respect to our objectives and strategies to achieve those objectives, as well as statements with respect to our beliefs, plans, expectations, anticipations, estimates or intentions. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations. We caution that all forward-looking information is inherently uncertain and actual results may differ materially from the assumptions, estimates or expectations reflected or contained in the forward-looking information, and that actual future performance will be affected by a number of factors, including economic conditions, technological change, regulatory change and competitive factors, many of which are beyond our control. Therefore, future events and results may vary significantly from what we currently foresee. We are under no obligation (and we expressly disclaim any such obligation) to update or alter the forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Contact:
    Kindcard, Inc.
    (888) 888-0708
    Info@kindcard.com

    Investor Relations:
    Info@kindcard.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Banking: 🇮🇱 Zion Oil & Gas Update: January 30, 2025

    Source: Zion Oil and Gas

    Headline: Zion Oil & Gas Update: January 30, 2025

    January 30, 2025

    Dear Zion Shareholders and Supporters,

    We are pleased to bring you the latest update as we continue progressing toward the next critical phase of operations at our Megiddo-Jezreel #1 (MJ-01) well.

    As we have previously shared, logistical and geopolitical challenges necessitated an operational pause at the wellsite over recent months. Thankfully, we are preparing to launch our targeted re-completion work on the MJ-01 well in Q1 as expected. Our rig crew is informed and scheduled to arrive in Israel in the latter part of February to commence rig startup procedures. This includes minor repairs and maintenance, as well as drilling out the temporary plug that has been sealing MJ-01 during the pause. Once this work is complete, the team will focus on preparing both the location and the wellbore for the upcoming recompletion operation.

    While our crew carries out these preparations, the necessary stimulation, well testing, and nitrogen equipment will be transported from various locations in Europe to Israel. Based on current projections, we anticipate receiving this equipment on-site in March, subject to final availability and shipping schedules.

    Following equipment arrival, our plan is to proceed with rigging up, setting a bottom plug, and installing a swell plug, which is an essential step to isolate the targeted zone of interest. Once the plug has properly set, we will run in hole with the stimulation equipment, stimulate the zones, and initiate flowback operations.

    Flowback duration will depend on well response; if all key components come together as expected, we anticipate completing these operations in early Q2.

    While there are always variables in an operation of this nature, our team remains optimistic about the timeline and continues working diligently to achieve success.

    As always, we deeply appreciate your ongoing support and prayers. We remain steadfast in our mission and will continue to provide updates as we progress.

    Warm regards,
    Rob Dunn
    CEO
    Zion Oil & Gas, Inc.

    I waited patiently for the Lord; And He inclined to me and heard my cry.”
    Psalm 40:1 NASB

    “Then they said, “Let us arise and build.” So they put their hands to the good work.”
    Nehemiah 2:18b NASB

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI: Baker Hughes Declares Increased Quarterly Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON and LONDON, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Baker Hughes (NASDAQ: BKR) announced today that the Baker Hughes Board of Directors declared an increased quarterly cash dividend of $0.23 per share of Class A common stock payable on Feb. 21, 2025, to holders of record on Feb. 11, 2025.

    The dividend reflects a 10% increase, or $0.02, compared to the same quarter last year.

    Baker Hughes expects to fund its quarterly cash dividend from cash generated from operations.

    About Baker Hughes:
    Baker Hughes (NASDAQ: BKR) is an energy technology company that provides solutions to energy and industrial customers worldwide. Built on a century of experience and conducting business in over 120 countries, our innovative technologies and services are taking energy forward – making it safer, cleaner and more efficient for people and the planet. Visit us at bakerhughes.com.

    For more information, please contact:

    Investor Relations

    Chase Mulvehill
    +1 346-297-2561
    investor.relations@bakerhughes.com

    Media Relations

    Adrienne M. Lynch
    +1 713-906-8407
    adrienne.lynch@bakerhughes.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Global: International students’ housing challenges call for policy action

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Edward R. Howe, Professor, School of Education, Thompson Rivers University

    Canada is a top destination for international students, with over one million studying at various levels in 2023. International students contribute billions of dollars to the Canadian economy and much more to our social fabric.

    But recent policy changes and increased public scrutiny have created a challenging environment for these students and the higher education institutions that host them.

    After a decade of rapid growth, the federal government has implemented a two-year cap on international student permits, reducing undergraduate admissions by 35 per cent in 2024 and an additional 10 per cent in 2025.

    This controversial decision aims to address growing concerns about the impact of international students and unchecked immigration on Canada’s economy, housing and public services.

    An ongoing longitudinal research study at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) , which engages international students’ views and experiences through both surveys and interviews, sheds light on the lived experiences of international students amid these dramatic policy shifts. I have led this research with international graduate student research assistants.

    Shifts from 2016 to 2024: housing

    The first round of our study drew on a 2016 survey of more than 100 international students at TRU, and interviews with 14 from the same pool. We recently surveyed a further 215 international TRU students and conducted in-depth interviews with 14 more participants from various nations including India and China, across a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

    Our newest research findings revealed major challenges faced by international students, particularly in housing and finances. This echoes other findings that indicate the housing situation for international students has worsened over the past decade.

    Over 55 per cent of students reported difficulties finding suitable accommodations, with many experiencing systemic racial discrimination in the rental market. Financial struggles were also prevalent, with about one-third of participants indicating insufficient financial support or uncertainty about their financial situation.




    Read more:
    International students are not to blame for Canada’s housing crisis


    Racism, concern for post-graduate work

    On a positive note, fewer students reported experiencing racism on campus in 2024 than in 2016.

    In 2016, when students were asked to say to what extent they agreed with the statement “I encountered racism at university,” there were a wide range of statements: 14 per cent strongly agreed and 21 per cent agreed; 25 per cent strongly disagreed; 16 per cent disagreed and 23 per cent were undecided.

    This was the only question that had such a pattern of responses spread evenly across the five-point scale. In 2024, only 13.5 per cent agreed or strongly agreed with this statement.

    But in interviews, many students commented upon encountering racism and exploitation when job hunting or searching for housing accommodations. For example, one student reported that when seeking to renegotiate a lease due to problems with a roommate, the landlord threatened to take action to revoke their student visa.




    Read more:
    International university grads speak about aspirations and barriers


    In surveys and interviews, students lamented the dearth of co-op programs, work-integrated learning and experiential opportunities for their future success in Canada. This aligns with recent data from the Canadian Bureau for International Education, which found that 70 per cent of international students plan to apply for post-graduate work permits, and 57 per cent intend to seek permanent residency.

    Students’ thoughts on ‘internationalization’

    Our recent study also asked students their thoughts on “internationalization,” as universities and government policy have used this term to promote Canada as an international, global and multicultural society with globally focused curricula and opportunities for international study abroad.

    Students’ responses fell into three main themes: cross-cultural exchange, mutual learning and community building, and personal growth through international experiences. These findings were consistent across different nationalities and genders, suggesting a shared understanding of internationalization among diverse student groups.

    A student carrying a backpack walks on campus at Trinity Western University in Langley, B.C., in 2017.

    To address these challenges and support international students, our research recommends that universities continue to diversify their pools of international students by increasing scholarships for students from marginalized regions.

    This matters in the wake of the recent announcement to reduce immigration targets from 485,000 in 2024 to 365,000 by 2027. This policy direction creates uncertainty for many international students hoping to build their futures in Canada.

    This shift comes as public support for immigration has dramatically decreased, reaching an all-time low. Fifty-eight per cent of Canadians now believe the country accepts too many immigrants — a 31-point increase since 2022.

    We also suggest fostering deeper cross-cultural understanding among university staff and domestic students, establishing program-specific student support centres with peer mentoring. The fragile school-to-work transition needs to be better facilitated through co-op education and other work-integrated learning opportunities. Action from policymakers to address systemic barriers in housing and employment is also needed.

    Welcoming destination for global talent

    International students contribute significantly to Canada’s economy, cultural diversity and multicultural society.

    Government, educators, universities and employers have roles to play in reframing the “internationalization” of higher education. There is a need to balance economic rationales with social and academic outcomes, including a focus on global citizenship education for all students.

    In the shadow of Donald Trump’s second presidency in the United States, which is amplifying xenophobic rhetoric and action against migrants, and amid major shifts in Canada’s federal landscape, it is important to take inventory of how changing government immigration policies can have a profound impact on Canada.

    It is crucial to consider the perspectives of international students. Their insights matter for helping to shape policies and practices that affect their educational experiences, future opportunities in Canada and the very social fabric of Canada.

    By addressing students’ challenges and the barriers they encounter, and by supporting their successes, we can ensure that Canada remains a welcoming destination for global talent.

    Surbhi Sagar and Athira Pushpamgathan contributed to this research and co-authored this story.

    Edward R. Howe 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. International students’ housing challenges call for policy action – https://theconversation.com/international-students-housing-challenges-call-for-policy-action-230833

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: Understanding the backlash against corporate DEI — and how to move forward

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Camellia Bryan, Assistant Professor, Organizational Behaviour and Human Resources Division, Sauder School of Business, University of British Columbia

    United States President Donald Trump recently issued an executive order to end federal diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs. In the days since, Trump has even tried to blame a deadly Washington, D.C., plane crash on DEI hiring practices, without citing any evidence. He was swiftly criticized for his statement.

    In the corporate world, DEI programs aimed at addressing systemic barriers that have historically disadvantaged marginalized groups are facing growing resistance, with backlash becoming increasingly visible in workplaces and in public discourse.

    High-profile companies like Amazon, Meta, McDonalds and Target have been cancelling their DEI programs since last year. Although others, like Costco and Apple, have said they’re retaining theirs.

    The backlash against DEI isn’t just about individuals rejecting change; it reveals deeper tensions in how people see themselves and their place in society.

    Our research explores these tensions. We find that while social identity threat — the discomfort people feel when their identity is challenged — can lead to backlash, it can also present an unexpected opportunity for learning and growth. Understanding this dynamic offers a path forward for organizations struggling to balance DEI efforts with employee buy-in.

    What drives DEI backlash?

    Backlash often emerges from employees who belong to dominant social identity groups that hold disproportionate access to power and resources. Examples include white people in North America, men in patriarchal societies or heterosexual individuals in hetero-normative cultures.

    For these employees, DEI initiatives can sometimes feel threatening. Why? Because such efforts highlight inequalities and challenge assumptions about fairness, merit and the status quo. When someone identifies strongly with their group — whether as a white person, a man or a member of another dominant identity — they may see DEI initiatives as attacks on their assumptions. This discomfort is known as social identity threat.

    For instance, when a company introduces a gender equity policy aimed at addressing women’s under-representation in leadership, some men might perceive this as unfair. Their response — whether it’s skepticism, defensiveness or outright resistance — reflects a defensive reaction to that threat.

    Beyond defensiveness: A path to learning

    Traditional approaches to managing DEI backlash often focus on mitigating threat: providing reassurance, avoiding confrontation or encouraging self-affirmation (“DEI isn’t about you; it’s about everyone”). Yet these approaches miss an important point: social identity threat doesn’t have to result in defensiveness or backlash. It can also inspire reflection, learning and growth.

    Our research draws on transformational learning theory, which explains how adults change their understanding of the world in response to disorienting experiences.

    According to this theory, when people encounter information that challenges their assumptions, they can engage in a process of deep reflection. By questioning their beliefs and seeking out new perspectives, individuals can develop more accurate, inclusive interpretations of themselves and others.




    Read more:
    Businesses must stop caving to political pressure and abandoning their EDI commitments


    Real-world examples of transformation

    Consider the story of Caolan Robertson, a former alt-right filmmaker in the United Kingdom.

    For years, Robertson worked with extremist figures to produce anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim content that garnered millions of views online. Then, in 2019, Robertson saw media coverage of mosque shootings, where 51 people were killed by a white supremacist. The tragedy rattled him.

    In Robertson’s own words, the event forced him to confront his assumptions about white identity and how it can be involved in violence and extremism. What began as an overwhelming sense of disorientation turned into a period of deep reflection. Robertson eventually rejected his old beliefs, began speaking out against extremism, and co-founded an organization to help others de-radicalize.

    Similar learning occurs on smaller scales in workplaces every day. For example, a male manager who initially feels threatened by gender equity policies might, over time, come to recognize the barriers women face at work and become an advocate for change. Or a white employee who feels uncomfortable during discussions about racism might come to see how privilege has shaped their experiences.

    Creating conditions for growth

    So how can organizations turn social identity threat into an opportunity for learning rather than backlash? We propose three strategies:

    1. Foster a “learning-oriented” DEI climate
    Organizations must shift how they frame DEI initiatives. Instead of treating these efforts as compliance-driven checkboxes, companies should position DEI as a chance for employees to learn, grow and contribute to a more inclusive workplace. A strong diversity climate — where differences are valued, and conversations about identity are encouraged — creates a safe space for reflection. Our research shows that when employees feel that diversity is part of their organization’s mission, they’re more likely to approach identity threats as a learning opportunity.

    2. Encourage dialogue across perspectives
    One of the most effective ways to challenge harmful assumptions is through dialogue across perspectives — open conversations where employees with different lived experiences share their perspectives and provide feedback. This kind of dialogue requires psychological safety: employees need to feel secure enough to express their views, even when those views are incomplete or flawed. Importantly, these conversations don’t always have to occur between dominant and marginalized group members. Dialogue with other dominant-group colleagues who have already reflected on their identities can also provide valuable insights.

    3. Support incremental progress
    Transformational learning doesn’t happen overnight. Employees may initially engage in surface-level reflection, revising specific assumptions without challenging deeper systems of inequality. Over time, they may progress to deep-level reflection, critically analyzing the foundational beliefs that shape their identity. Organizations can support this incremental progress by recognizing small steps and encouraging continued learning.

    Discomfort: A powerful motivator for change

    The backlash to DEI efforts is often framed as evidence that the initiative is failing, but it can also be understood as a natural part of the learning process.

    Social identity threat is uncomfortable, but it can serve as a powerful motivator for change when organizations provide the right tools and support.

    Companies that ignore backlash risk deepening resistance and undermining their DEI goals. However, organizations that embrace discomfort as an opportunity for growth can transform their workplaces into spaces where employees are not only more inclusive but also more reflective, empathetic and engaged.

    Backlash isn’t the end of the story — it’s the beginning of a conversation.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    ref. Understanding the backlash against corporate DEI — and how to move forward – https://theconversation.com/understanding-the-backlash-against-corporate-dei-and-how-to-move-forward-246117

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2 Disaster Recovery Centers Remain Open This Week

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: 2 Disaster Recovery Centers Remain Open This Week

    2 Disaster Recovery Centers Remain Open This Week

    COLUMBIA, S.C. – Although the deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance has passed, the Disaster Recovery Centers in Chester and Greenwood counties remain open until Jan. 31. Chester County Gateway Conference Center, 3200 Commerce Drive, Suite A, Richburg, SC 29729Open Jan. 30-31, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.Greenwood CountyUnited Way of the Lakelands, 929 Phoenix St., Greenwood, SC 29646Open Jan. 30-31, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. FEMA is encouraging South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene to visit these centers for in-person assistance as soon as possible. You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the state of South Carolina and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed. Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation can apply for federal assistance.The quickest way to receive updates is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center, or use the FEMA App for mobile devices or by calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day, and the help is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 
    martyce.allenjr
    Thu, 01/30/2025 – 19:17

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: DBEDT NEWS RELEASE: VISITOR INDUSTRY CONTINUED IMPROVEMENT IN DECEMBER 2024

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    DBEDT NEWS RELEASE: VISITOR INDUSTRY CONTINUED IMPROVEMENT IN DECEMBER 2024

    Posted on Jan 30, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM

    KA ʻOIHANA HOʻOMOHALA PĀʻOIHANA, ʻIMI WAIWAI A HOʻOMĀKAʻIKAʻI

     

    RESEARCH AND ECONOMIC ANALYSIS DIVISION

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.
    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    JAMES KUNANE TOKIOKA

    DIRECTOR

    KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

     

    1. EUGENE TIAN

    CHIEF STATE ECONOMIST

     

    VISITOR INDUSTRY CONTINUED IMPROVEMENT IN DECEMBER 2024

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    January 30, 2025

     

    HONOLULU – According to preliminary statistics from the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), there were 910,055 visitors to the Hawaiian Islands in December 2024, a 5.5 percent growth compared to the same month last year. Total visitor spending measured in nominal dollars was $2.04 billion, up 4.7 percent from December 2023. December marked the fifth straight month with year-over-year growth in both visitor arrivals and expenditures. Total visitor arrivals in December 2024 represent a 95.5 percent recovery rate from pre-pandemic December 2019 (952,441, -4.5%) and total nominal visitor spending increased compared to December 2019 ($1.75 billion, +16.6%).

    In December 2024, 892,000 visitors arrived by air service, mainly from the U.S. West and U.S. East. Additionally, 18,055 visitors arrived via out-of-state cruise ships. In comparison, 847,257 visitors (+5.3%) arrived by air and 15,191 visitors (+18.9%) came by cruise ships in December 2023, and 941,128 visitors (-5.2%) came by air and 11,313 visitors (+59.6%) came by cruise ships in December 2019.

    The average length of stay by all visitors in December 2024 was 9.10 days, which was shorter than December 2023 (9.34 days, -2.7%) and December 2019 (9.27 days, -1.9%). The statewide average daily census was 267,000 visitors in December 2024, compared to 259,938 visitors (+2.7%) in December 2023 and 284,924 visitors (-6.3%) in December 2019.

    In December 2024, 452,023 visitors arrived from the U.S. West, an increase from December 2023 (424,808 visitors, +6.4%) and December 2019 (418,520 visitors, +8.0%). U.S. West visitor spending of $922.4 million grew compared to December 2023 ($856.3 million, +7.7%) and was much higher than December 2019 ($697.6 million, +32.2%). Daily spending by U.S. West visitors in December 2024 ($230 per person) increased compared to December 2023 ($226 per person, +1.9%) and was considerably more than December 2019 ($180 per person, +27.7%).

    In December 2024, 228,169 visitors arrived from the U.S. East, up from December 2023 (209,574 visitors, +8.9%) and from December 2019 (215,358 visitors, +5.9%). U.S. East visitor spending of $609.4 million increased from December 2023 ($557.6 million, +9.3%) and December 2019 ($488.3 million, +24.8%). Daily spending by U.S. East visitors in December 2024 ($264 per person) was higher than December 2023 ($259 per person, +2.1%) and December 2019 ($217 per person, +21.5%).

    There were 70,825 visitors from Japan in December 2024, a slight growth from December 2023 (70,348 visitors, +0.7%), but significantly fewer than December 2019 (136,635 visitors,
    -48.2%). Although there were slightly more visitors in December 2024, their shorter length of stay (6.19 days, -5.5%) and lower daily spending ($238 per person, -4.0%) resulted in decreased total Japanese visitor spending ($104.4 million, -8.7%) compared to December 2023. Total Japanese visitor spending ($210.9 million, -50.5%) was down considerably and daily spending ($260 per person, -8.5%) was less compared to December 2019.

    In December 2024, 53,203 visitors arrived from Canada, a decrease from December 2023 (57,885 visitors, -8.1%) and December 2019 (64,182 visitors, -17.1%). Visitors from Canada spent $129.9 million in December 2024, compared to $158.6 million (-18.1%) in December 2023 and $129.6 million (+0.2%) in December 2019. Daily spending by Canadian visitors in December 2024 ($225 per person) was slightly lower compared to December 2023 ($227 per person, -0.8%), but significantly more than December 2019 ($159 per person, +41.7%).

    There were 87,779 visitors from all other international markets in December 2024, comprising visitors from Oceania, Other Asia, Europe, Latin America, Guam, the Philippines, the Pacific Islands and other regions. In comparison, there were 84,643 visitors (+3.7%) from all other international markets in December 2023 and 106,434 visitors (-17.5%) in December 2019.

    Air capacity to the Hawaiian Islands in December 2024 (5,366 transpacific flights with 1,194,302 seats) increased compared to December 2023 (5,121 flights, +4.8% with 1,127,084 seats, +6.0%), but declined from December 2019 (5,676 flights, -5.5% with 1,252,958 seats,
    -4.7%).

    Calendar Year 2024

     

    A total of 9,689,113 visitors arrived in calendar year 2024, a slight growth from 9,657,607 visitors (+0.3%) in 2023. Total arrivals decreased 6.7 percent when compared to 10,386,673 visitors in 2019.

    In 2024, total visitor spending was $20.68 billion, down slightly from $20.73 billion (-0.2%) in 2023, but higher than $17.72 billion(+16.7%) in 2019.

    VIEW FULL NEWS RELEASE AND TABLES

     

    Statement by DBEDT Director James Kunane Tokioka

     

    Hawai‘i’s tourism industry in 2024 continued to recover from the August 2023 Maui wildfires. Data from August to December 2024, which shows year-over-year growth in both arrivals and visitor spending, is encouraging. For calendar year 2024, total arrivals (9,689,113 visitors, +0.3%) rose slightly while total visitor expenditures ($20.68 billion, -0.2%) were just shy by 0.3 percent of the 2023 level.

    The cruise industry performed exceptionally well in 2024 with 168,035 visitor arrivals to Hawai‘i by cruise ships, surpassing 2023 (157,612 visitors, +6.6%) and pre-pandemic 2019 (143,508 visitors, +17.1%) and became the second-highest annual arrivals by cruise ship since the cruise visitor data were recorded in 1999 (the highest cruise visitor arrivals occurred in 2013 when 170,987 visitors came).

    Looking forward into 2025, we expect visitor arrivals to be impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires. Los Angeles is Hawai‘i’s largest source market, accounting for 9.1 percent of all visitor arrivals in 2024 and 30.2 percent of all visitors from California. Our hearts go out to everyone who lost a loved one, home or place of business in the fires. Governor Green has reached out in support and aloha to California Governor Newsom to offer relief for Los Angeles wildfire survivors and first responders.

    # # #

     

     

    Media Contacts:

     

    Laci Goshi 

    Communications Officer

    Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism

    Cell: 808-518-5480

    Email: [email protected]

     

    Jennifer Chun

    Director of Tourism Research

    Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism

    Phone: 808-973-9446

    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cybercrime websites selling hacking tools to transnational organized crime groups seized

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HOUSTON – A total of 39 domains and their associated servers have been seized in a coordinated effort involving an international disruption of a Pakistan-based network of online marketplaces selling hacking and fraud-enabling tools a group known as Saim Raza (aka HeartSender) operated, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei along with Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams of the FBI.

    The seizures occurred Jan. 29 and were conducted in coordination with the Dutch National Police.

    According to the affidavit filed in support of these seizures, Saim Raza has used these cybercrime websites since at least 2020 to sell phishing toolkits and other fraud-enabling tools to transnational organized crime groups who used them to target numerous victims in the United States, resulting in over $3 million in victim losses. 

    “Almost everyone has a friend or loved one that has been affected by these types of computer hacks,” said Ganjei. “These scams not only target businesses but individuals as well and cause significant hardship to the victims. Even though these people reside abroad, the use of these websites made it easy for them to spread their malicious hacking tools for a fee. However, today we have significantly disrupted their ability to harm others.”

    The Saim Raza-run websites operated as marketplaces that advertised and facilitated the sale of tools such as phishing kits, scam pages and email extractors often used to build and maintain fraud operations. Not only did Saim Raza make these tools widely available on the open internet, it also trained end users on how to use the tools against victims by linking to instructional YouTube videos on how to execute schemes using these malicious programs, making them accessible to criminal actors that lacked this technical criminal expertise. The group also advertised its tools as “fully undetectable” by antispam software.

    The transnational organized crime groups and other cybercrime actors who purchased these tools primarily used them to facilitate business email compromise schemes wherein the cybercrime actors tricked victim companies into making payments to a third party. Those payments would instead be redirected to a financial account the perpetrators controlled, resulting in significant losses to victims. These tools were also used to acquire victim user credentials and utilize those credentials to further these fraudulent schemes. The seizure of these domains is intended to disrupt the ongoing activity of these groups and stop the proliferation of these tools within the cybercriminal community.

    The FBI Houston Field Office is conducting the investigation. The Justice Department appreciates the cooperation and significant assistance law enforcement partners in the Netherlands have provided.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Rodolfo Ramirez and Trial Attorney Gaelin Bernstein of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lexington Attorney Indicted for Embezzling at Least $2.5 Million

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – An attorney working as a bookkeeper for three Massachusetts companies has been indicted by a federal grand jury for embezzling at least $2.5 million from the companies.    

    David Smerling, 74, of Lexington, was indicted on three counts of wire fraud and two counts of money laundering. He was previously charged by criminal complaint on Jan. 13, 2025.  

    According to the indictment, between January 2016 and May 2020, Smerling embezzled more than $2.5 million from the companies by transferring funds first to a bank account owned by one of the victims that Smerling controlled before moving the money to bank accounts in his own name, or directly from the companies’ accounts to bank accounts in his own name. The indictment also alleges that Smerling concealed his scheme by changing the mailing address on the victims’ bank statements to his home address and refusing to share the online banking password for the victims’ accounts.  

    The charge of wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of money laundering provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $500,000 or twice the value of the property involved in the transaction, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen A. Kearney of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Oak Ridge Financial Services, Inc. Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year of 2024 Results, Quarterly Cash Dividend of $0.12 Per Share

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OAK RIDGE, N.C., Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oak Ridge Financial Services, Inc. (“Oak Ridge”; or the “Company”) (OTCPink: BKOR), the parent company of Bank of Oak Ridge (the “Bank”), announced unaudited financial results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2024, and a quarterly cash dividend of $0.12 per share.

    Full Year 2024 Highlights

    • Earnings per share of $2.06 for 2024, compared to $2.10 for 2023.
    • Return on equity of 9.27% for 2024, compared to 10.38% for 2023.
    • Dividends declared per common share of $0.44 for 2024, compared to $0.30 for 2023.
    • Tangible book value per common share of $23.02 as of year-end 2024, compared to $22.78 at the end of the prior quarter-end, and $21.36 as of year-end 2023.
    • Net interest margin of 3.83% for 2024, compared to 3.86% for 2023.
    • Efficiency ratio of 67.7% for 2024, compared to 68.8% for 2023.
    • Loans receivable of $508.4 million as of December 31, 2024, up 6.9% (annualized) from $500.2 million as of the prior quarter-end, and up 10.2% from $461.9 million as of December 31, 2023.
    • Nonperforming assets to total assets of 0.53% as of December 31, 2024, compared to 0.45% as of the prior quarter-end end and 0.07% as of December 31, 2023.
    • Nonperforming assets were $3.5 million as of December 31, 2024, compared to $2.9 million as of the prior quarter-end end and $461,000 as of December 31, 2023. $2.8 million of the $3.0 million increase in nonperforming assets from the prior year end to the current year end were due to the guaranteed and nonguaranteed balances of six Small Business Administration (“SBA”) 7(a) loans that moved to nonaccrual status during the third and fourth quarters of 2024. The balances as of December 31, 2024, of SBA nonperforming loans guaranteed and unguaranteed by the SBA were $2.1 million and $700,000, respectively.
    • Securities available-for-sale and held-to maturity of $104.4 million as of year-end 2024, up 7.5% (annualized) from $102.4 million as of the prior quarter-end, and down 5.6% from $110.6 million as of year-end 2023.
    • Total deposits of $531.3 million at quarter-end end, up 16.2% (annualized) from $510.5 million as of the prior quarter-end, and up 7.7% from $493.1 million as of year-end 2023.
    • Total short and long-term borrowings, junior subordinated notes, and subordinated debentures of $58.2 million at quarter-end end, down 67.96% (annualized) from $70.2 million as of the prior quarter-end, and unchanged from $58.2 million as of year-end 2023.
    • Total stockholders’ equity of $63.0 million as of year-end 2024, up 0.6% (annualized) from $62.9 million as of the prior quarter-end, and up 8.0% from $58.3 million as of year-end 2023. At December 31, 2024, the Bank’s Community Bank Leverage Ratio (CBLR) was 11.04%, down slightly from 11.18% as of December 31, 2023. A bank or savings institution electing to use the CBLR will generally be considered well-capitalized and to have met the risk-based and leverage capital requirements of the applicable capital regulations if it has a leverage ratio greater than 9.0%.
    • Ranked #8 in 2024 North Carolina Small Business Administration (SBA) 7(a) loan production.
    • Recognized as one of American Banker’s Top 100 Publicly Traded Community Banks under $2 billion in assets. The rankings were based on three-year return on average equity (ROAE), a key measure of shareholder return, for 2021 to 2023.

    Tom Wayne, Chief Executive Officer, announced, “While our full-year earnings per share for 2024 decreased slightly to $2.06 compared to $2.10 for 2023, we saw significant positive developments. In 2024, we achieved loan growth of 10.2%, alongside strong deposit growth of 7.7%. Our tangible book value per common share increased to $23.02, up from $21.36 at the previous year-end. We declared cash dividends of $0.44 per common share, up from $0.30 in 2023. We implemented a 50,000 share repurchase program and repurchased 25,100 shares during 2024. Our net interest margin remained stable at 3.83% for 2024, and our capital and liquidity positions remained strong. Despite an increase in nonperforming assets to $3.5 million at the end of 2024, $2.8 million of this was due to six SBA loans moving to nonaccrual status, with $2.1 million guaranteed by the SBA. We are pleased to be ranked #8 in North Carolina for SBA 7(a) loan production and recognized among American Banker’s Top 100 Publicly Traded Community Banks under $2 billion in assets. We owe these accomplishments to our dedicated employees and the invaluable support of our Board of Directors. I am thankful for their continued commitment to serving our clients and ensuring the Bank’s enduring strength and success.”

    A quarterly cash dividend of $0.12 per share of common stock will be paid on March 3, 2025, to stockholders of record as of the close of business on February 18, 2025, which represents the 25th consecutive quarterly dividend paid by the Company. “We are pleased to pay another quarterly cash dividend to our stockholders,” said Mr. Wayne. “Paying stockholders a portion of our earnings reflects our continuing commitment to enhance stockholder value.”

    The Company adopted and implemented a share repurchase program in the third quarter of 2024. There were no shares repurchased during the third quarter of 2024. During the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company repurchased a total of 25,100 shares for $321,000.

    For 2024 and 2023, net interest income was $23.7 million and $22.1 million, respectively, and the net interest margin was 3.83% in 2024 compared to 3.86% in 2023, a decrease of three basis points. For the three months ending December 31, 2024 and 2023, net interest income was $6.3 million and $5.7 million, respectively. For the three months ending December 31, 2024, the net interest margin increased 13 basis points to 3.92%, compared to 3.79% in 2023.

    For 2024, the Company recorded a provision for credit losses of $1.4 million, compared to a provision for credit losses of $727,000 in 2023. For the three months ending December 31, 2024, the Company recorded a provision for credit losses of $514,000, compared to a provision for credit losses of $432,000 in the same period in 2023. The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans was 1.05% on December 31, 2024 and 2023. Nonperforming assets represented 0.53% of total assets on December 31, 2024, compared to 0.07% on December 31, 2023. The recorded balances of nonperforming loans were $3.5 million on December 31, 2024, compared to $461,000 on December 31, 2023. The $3.0 million increase in nonperforming loans from December 31, 2023 to December 31, 2024, was primarily attributable to six SBA 7(a) loans totaling $2.8 million moving to nonaccrual status during the third quarter of 2024, of which $2.1 million is guaranteed by the SBA. The SBA loans are also secured by real estate and personal guarantees.

    Noninterest income totaled $3.2 million and $3.9 million for 2024 and 2023, respectively. There were increases and decreases in components of noninterest income from 2023 to 2024, with the following categories significantly contributing to the overall net decrease: Service charges on deposit accounts were $234,000 for 2024 compared to $169,000 in 2023. The increase was due to a new deposit account fee established in 2024 that was not in effect during 2023. Income from Small Business Investment Company investments were $211,000 for 2024 compared to $395,000 in 2023. The Company received fewer income distributions from Small Business Investment Company investments in 2024 compared to 2023. Other service charges and fees were $380,000 for 2024 compared to $524,000 in 2023. The decrease is due to fees realized on a sold deposit relationship in 2023 with no comparable fees in 2024.

    Noninterest income totaled $784,000 and $918,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. There were increases and decreases in components of noninterest income from 2023 to 2024, with the following categories significantly contributing to the overall net decrease: Service charges on deposit accounts were $836,000 for the quarter ended December 31, 2024, compared to $628,000 in the 2023 quarter. The increase was due to a new deposit account fee established in 2024. Income from Small Business Investment Company investments was $209,000 for the quarter ended December 31, 2023, with no comparable income in 2024. The Company received fewer income distributions from Small Business Investment Company investments in 2024 compared to the 2023 quarter.

    Noninterest expense totaled $18.3 million and $17.9 million for 2024 and 2023, respectively. There were increases and decreases in components of noninterest expense from 2023 to 2024, with the following categories significantly contributing to the overall net increase of $409,000: Occupancy expense was $1.3 million for 2024 compared to $1.1 million in 2023. The increase in occupancy expense is mostly due to higher property maintenance expenses in 2024 compared to 2023. Equipment expense was $595,000 for 2024 compared to $872,000 for 2023. The decrease in equipment expense is mostly due to lower equipment depreciation expense in 2024 compared to 2023. Data and items processing expense was $2.3 million for 2024 compared to $2.0 million for 2023. The increase in data and items processing expense is mostly due to higher software licensing fees paid or payable to our core processing vendor. Professional and advertising expenses were $1.2 million for 2024 compared to $1.4 million for 2023. The decrease in professional and advertising expenses is mostly due to decreases in information technology contracted services in 2024 compared to 2023. Telecommunications expense was $278,000 for 2024 compared to $438,000 for 2023. The decrease in telecommunications expense is mostly due to the reduction in unnecessary or redundant telecommunications expenses.

    Noninterest expense totaled $4.7 million and $4.3 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. There were increases and decreases in components of noninterest expense from 2023 to 2024, with the following categories significantly contributing to the overall net increase of $267,000: Salaries were $2.2 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $2.1 million for 2023. The increase in salaries is mostly due to higher salaries and incentive payments to employees for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. Employee benefits were $370,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $270,000 for 2023. The increase in employee benefits is mostly due to higher expenses related to the Bank’s employee stock ownership plan and employee benefits for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. Occupancy expenses were $321,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to $274,000 for 2023. The increase in occupancy expense is mostly due to higher property maintenance expenses in the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Equipment expense was $134,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to $214,000 for 2023. The decrease in equipment expense is mostly due to lower equipment depreciation expense in the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to 2023. Data and items processing expense was $602,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to $494,000 for 2023. The increase in data and items processing expense is mostly due to higher software licensing fees paid or payable to our core processing vendor.

    About Oak Ridge Financial Services, Inc., and Bank of Oak Ridge
    At Bank of Oak Ridge, we pride ourselves on knowing your name when you walk through our door. Whether in-person or through our digital offerings, managing your financial well-being is easy, safe, and convenient. We are the longest-running employee-owned community bank in the Triad and have served community members, local businesses, and non-profit organizations since 2000. Learn more about what makes Bank of Oak Ridge the Triad’s community bank by visiting one of our convenient locations in Greensboro, High Point, Summerfield, and Oak Ridge.

    Oak Ridge Financial Services, Inc. (OTC Pink: BKOR) is the holding company for Bank of Oak Ridge. Bank of Oak Ridge is a member of the FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender.

    Awards & Recognitions | Best Bank in the Triad | Triad’s Top Workplace Finalist | 2016 Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Business Ethics | Triad’s Healthiest Employer Winner

    Banking for Business & Personal | Mobile & Online Banking | Worldwide ATM | Debit, Credit + Rewards | Checking, Savings & Money Market | Loans + SBA | Mortgage | Insurance | Wealth Management

    Let’s Talk | 336.644.9944 | www.BankofOakRidge.com | Extended Interactive Teller Machine Hours at all Triad Locations

    Forward-looking Information This earnings release contains certain forward-looking statements with respect to the financial condition, results of operations and business of the Company. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and are based on the beliefs and assumptions of the management of the Company and on the information available to management at the time that these disclosures were prepared. These statements can be identified by the use of the words “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate” and “believe,” variations of these words and other similar expressions. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, (1) competition in the Company’s markets, (2) changes in the interest rate environment, (3) general national, regional or local economic conditions may be less favorable than expected, resulting in, among other things, a deterioration in credit quality and the possible impairment of collectability of loans, (4) legislative or regulatory changes, including changes in accounting standards, (5) significant changes in the federal and state legal and regulatory environment and tax laws, and (6) the impact of changes in monetary and fiscal policies, laws, rules and regulations. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

               
    OAK RIDGE FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (Dollars in thousands, except share data)
      December 31,
      September 30,
      December 31,
         
      2024   2024   2023      
    ASSETS (unaudited)   (unaudited)   (audited)      
    Cash and due from banks $ 8,075     $ 10,522     $ 7,792        
    Interest-bearing deposits with banks   13,102       11,308       12,633        
    Total cash and cash equivalents   21,177       21,830       20,425        
    Securities available-for-sale   85,714       83,769       91,849        
    Securities held-to-maturity, net of allowance for credit losses   18,662       18,668       18,706        
    Restricted stock, at cost   3,439       4,006       2,404        
    Loans receivable   514,292       505,521       466,796        
    Allowance for credit losses   (5,388 )     (5,354 )     (4,920 )      
    Net loans receivable   508,904       500,167       461,876        
    Property and equipment, net   8,664       8,827       8,366        
    Accrued interest receivable   3,135       3,098       2,580        
    Bank owned life insurance   6,268       6,244       6,178        
    Right-of-use assets – operating leases   2,166       2,242       2,466        
    Other assets   5,553       4,613       4,544        
    Total assets $ 663,682     $ 653,464     $ 619,394        
    LIABILITIES          
    Noninterest-bearing deposits $ 119,851     $ 114,152     $ 99,702        
    Interest-bearing deposits   411,464       396,346       393,442        
    Total deposits   531,315       510,498       493,144        
    Federal Funds purchased   1,725                    
    Short-term borrowings   18,000       52,000       40,000        
    Long-term borrowings   22,000                    
    Junior subordinated notes – trust preferred securities   8,248       8,248       8,248        
    Subordinated debentures, net of discount   9,983       9,973       9,943        
    Lease liabilities – operating leases   2,166       2,242       2,466        
    Accrued interest payable   709       1,021       1,154        
    Other liabilities   6,546       6,579       6,091        
    Total liabilities   600,692       590,561       561,046        
    STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
    Common stock   26,733       27,100       26,736        
    Retained earnings   37,771       36,575       33,365        
    Net unrealized loss on debt securities, net of tax   (1,771 )     (412 )     (1,580 )      
    Net unrealized gain (loss) on hedging derivative instruments, net of tax   257       (360 )     (173 )      
    Total accumulated other comprehensive loss   (1,514 )     (772 )     (1,753 )      
    Total stockholders’ equity   62,990       62,903       58,348        
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 663,682     $ 653,464     $ 619,394        
    Common shares outstanding   2,736,770       2,732,720       2,732,020        
    Common shares authorized   50,000,000       50,000,000       50,000,000        
               
               
    OAK RIDGE FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
    (Dollars in thousands, except share data)
      Three Months Ended
      For the year ended
      December 31,
      September 30,
      December 31,
      December 31,
      December 31,
      2024   2024   2023   2024   2023
    Interest and dividend income:          
    Loans and fees on loans $ 8,212     $ 7,971     $ 6,999     $ 31,076     $ 25,150  
    Interest on deposits in banks   217       275       240       887       903  
    Restricted stock dividends   64       67       45       241       186  
    Interest on investment securities   1,279       1,402       1,493       5,578       5,215  
    Total interest and dividend income   9,772       9,715       8,777       37,782       31,454  
    Interest expense          
    Deposits   2,700       2,758       2,168       10,268       6,242  
    Short-term and long-term debt   786       961       925       3,777       3,155  
    Total interest expense   3,486       3,719       3,093       14,045       9,397  
    Net interest income   6,286       5,996       5,684       23,737       22,057  
    Provision for credit losses   514       261       432       1,361       727  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses   5,772       5,735       5,252       22,376       21,330  
    Noninterest income:          
    Service charges on deposit accounts   234       231       169       836       628  
    Gain on sale of securities   19                   19       77  
    Brokerage commissions on mortgage loans                           43  
    Insurance commissions   125       169       121       553       462  
    Gain on sale of Small Business Administration loans                           475  
    Debit and credit card interchange income   285       292       301       1,174       1,225  
    Income from Small Business Investment Company investments         111       209       211       395  
    Income earned on bank owned life insurance   23       23       23       90       82  
    Other Service Charges and Fees   98       98       95       380       524  
    Total noninterest income   784       924       918       3,263       3,911  
    Noninterest expenses:          
    Salaries   2,198       2,287       2,112       8,962       8,777  
    Employee Benefits   370       310       270       1,294       1,177  
    Occupancy   321       358       274       1,325       1,092  
    Equipment   134       143       214       595       872  
    Data and Item Processing   602       607       494       2,255       1,959  
    Professional & Advertising   298       332       295       1,249       1,377  
    Stationary and Supplies   21       32       36       131       129  
    Telecommunications   65       71       48       278       438  
    FDIC Assessment   118       118       110       460       418  
    Other expense   441       438       448       1,711       1,612  
    Total noninterest expenses   4,568       4,696       4,301       18,260       17,851  
    Income before income taxes   1,988       1,963       1,869       7,379       7,390  
    Income tax expense   461       460       392       1,706       1,648  
    Net income and income available to common shareholders $ 1,527     $ 1,503     $ 1,477     $ 5,673     $ 5,742  
    Basic income per common share $ 0.56     $ 0.54     $ 0.54     $ 2.06     $ 2.10  
    Diluted income per common share $ 0.56     $ 0.54     $ 0.54     $ 2.06     $ 2.10  
    Basic weighted average shares outstanding   2,744,609       2,761,870       2,732,720       2,752,991       2,728,094  
    Diluted weighted average shares outstanding   2,744,609       2,761,870       2,732,720       2,752,991       2,728,094  
               
               
    OAK RIDGE FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
    Selected Financial Data
      As Of Or For The Three Months Ended,
      December 31,
      September 30,
      June 30,
      March 31,
      December 31,
      2024   2024   2024   2024   2023
    Return on average common stockholders’ equity1   9.63 %     9.56 %     8.57 %     9.31 %     10.44 %
    Tangible book value per share $ 23.02     $ 22.78     $ 21.95     $ 21.56     $ 21.36  
    Return on average assets1   0.91 %     0.91 %     0.80 %     0.88 %     0.95 %
    Net interest margin1   3.92 %     3.81 %     3.81 %     3.79 %     3.79 %
    Efficiency ratio   64.6 %     67.9 %     70.0 %     68.3 %     65.2 %
    Nonperforming assets to total assets   0.53 %     0.45 %     0.08 %     0.06 %     0.07 %
    Allowance for credit losses to total loans   1.05 %     1.06 %     1.06 %     1.03 %     1.05 %
    1Annualized                                      
                                           

    Contact: Skylar Mearing, Marketing Director
    Phone: 336.662.4840

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: AI Visionary James Altucher: Elon Musk’s ‘Project Colossus’ Marks the Beginning of America’s AI Renaissance [Video Presentation]

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WASHINGTON, Jan. 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Renowned AI expert James Altucher has declared Elon Musk’s Project Colossus to be the “single most transformative leap forward in technology since the invention of the Internet.” In a video presentation, he explains that as the United States accelerates its efforts to maintain global dominance in artificial intelligence, Project Colossus stands as the cornerstone of this strategy. Developed by Musk’s xAI and headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, the supercomputer’s immense computational power is driving innovation across medicine, energy, and national defense.

    Altucher, a 40-year veteran of emerging technologies, sees Project Colossus as a defining project of the decade. “This isn’t just about AI; this is about leveraging technology to solve humanity’s greatest challenges,” Altucher said. “From extending human lifespans to addressing global energy shortages, this project is putting the United States back on the map as the leader in technological innovation.”

    The Powerhouse of Innovation: Inside Project Colossus
    Located in an unassuming facility in Memphis, Project Colossus boasts over 100,000 Nvidia H100 GPUs, making it the most powerful supercomputer in the world. It has already surpassed global competitors in computational power, including projects from Google, OpenAI, and Microsoft. Plans are underway to double its capacity in 2025, further cementing its role as the foundation for America’s technological resurgence.

    The Hidden Powerhouse: The Role of a Critical Partner
    While Elon Musk and xAI take center stage, Altucher notes the importance of an often-overlooked technology company that powers Project Colossus. “This company provides the critical infrastructure that allows all of these advanced AI chips to function as a single, unified system,” Altucher revealed. “Without it, Musk’s vision for Project Colossus wouldn’t be possible. It’s the silent enabler behind this revolution.”

    Applications Across Industries
    Altucher highlights Project Colossus’s role in tackling some of America’s most urgent challenges:

    • Healthcare: Accelerating medical research and improving disease detection.
    • Energy: Optimizing energy grids to create sustainable systems.
    • Manufacturing: Boosting efficiency and reducing supply chain bottlenecks.
    • Defense: Strengthening national security through advanced AI-powered analytics.

    “This project is more than just an achievement in computing—it’s a foundation for solving problems that impact everyday Americans,” Altucher said.

    About James Altucher
    James Altucher of Paradigm Press Group is a leading authority on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. With over four decades of expertise, Altucher has helped shape public understanding of transformative trends, making him one of the most trusted voices in the AI space.

    Media Contact:
    Derek Warren
    Public Relations Manager
    Paradigm Press Group
    Email: dwarren@paradigmpressgroup.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Spain’s secure communications satellite SpainSat NG I successfully launched

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Spain’s secure communications satellite SpainSat NG I successfully launched

    • Starting in the second half of this year, SpainSat NG I will provide services to Spain’s Armed Forces, international organizations such as the European Commission or NATO, and governments of allied countries.
    • Thales Alenia Space, together with Airbus Defence and Space, has led the construction of this satellite and its twin, SpainSat NG II, which is also scheduled for launch in 2025.
    • The company has been responsible, among other activities, for the integration of the Communication Module for both satellites along with Airbus in a clean room built for this purpose at its facilities in Tres Cantos, Madrid. To date, this has been the largest satellite system ever integrated in Spain.

    Madrid, January 30, 2025 – The secure communications satellite SpainSat NG I has been successfully launched early this morning by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral (Florida). An unprecedented milestone for the Spanish space sector.

    The SPAINSAT NG program, owned and operated by Hisdesat Servicios Estratégicos S.A., comprises two satellites, SpainSat NG I and II. Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), together with Airbus Defence & Space, has led the execution and construction of both satellites, SpainSat NG I and its twin, SpainSat NG II, which will be launched this fall. The two satellites will be positioned in different geostationary positions to operate in X-band, military Ka-band, and UHF, providing coverage to two-thirds of the Earth’s surface, from the United States of America to Singapore. It will provide services for the next 15 years.

    Thales Alenia Space in Spain has been responsible for the UHF and military Ka-band payloads and the integration of the Communication Module for the two satellites along with Airbus. The Communication Module is the main body of the satellite, which embarks the communication payloads that give purpose to the mission.

    © Airbus

    Specifically for this mission, the company built an assembly and integration clean room at its site in Tres Cantos, Madrid, inaugurated in 2021, where the Communication Modules of the two satellites have been integrated. These advanced cutting-edge facilities represent a qualitative leap in Spain’s space industry capabilities for the assembly and integration of large space systems, something within the reach of a few space powers worldwide.

    Being the largest satellite system ever integrated in Spain, the SpainSat NG I Communication Module weights more than 2 tons and measures 6 meters high, and is fully equipped with cutting-edge technology in the field of space communications, comprising hundreds of sophisticated electronic units.

    The company has also designed and manufactured in Spain, France, Italy, and Belgium over 200 of electronic and radiofrequency units that are an integral part of the communications payloads and the satellite’s telecommand and telemetry system. Among them are the UHF processor, the heart of the UHF-band payload; the Transparent Digital Processor (DTP) that interconnects the X-band and military Ka-band payloads; and the Hilink unit, responsible for providing a high-speed service link that will facilitate a quick reconfiguration of the payloads.

    The SPAINSAT NG program

    SpainSat NG I is one of the most advanced secure communications satellites in Europe and ranks among the most innovative in the world. It is expected to begin to provide services early in the second half of 2025 to the Spanish Armed Forces, international organizations such as the European Commission in the GOVSATCOM program, NATO, and other allied governments.

    Its mission is to ensure effective command and control of Armed Forces operations over a large portion of the Earth’s surface, guarantee communication capability in theatres of operations lacking communication infrastructure, ensure secure governmental communications in any operational environment (air, maritime, land), and provide strategic space capabilities to third nations.

    The SpainSat NG satellites, which will replace the current Hisdesat communications satellites, Spainsat and XTAR-EUR, will be capable of providing secure satellite communications with maximum protection against interference or other threats, including a high-altitude nuclear event, with maximum flexibility thanks to its real-time software-defined payload.
     

    About Thales Alenia Space

    Drawing on over 40 years of experience and a unique combination of skills, expertise and cultures, Thales Alenia Space delivers cost-effective solutions for telecommunications, navigation, Earth observation, environmental management, exploration, science and orbital infrastructures. Governments and private industry alike count on Thales Alenia Space to design satellite-based systems that provide anytime, anywhere connections and positioning, monitor our planet, enhance management of its resources and explore our Solar System and beyond. Thales Alenia Space sees space as a new horizon, helping to build a better, more sustainable life on Earth. A joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), Thales Alenia Space also teams up with Telespazio to form the parent companies’ Space Alliance, which offers a complete range of services. Thales Alenia Space posted consolidated revenues of approximately €2.2 billion in 2023 and has around 8,600 employees in 8 countries, with 16 sites in Europe.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-Evening Report: Make a noise or work with the system? New research reveals 4 ways to create real change for nature

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lily van Eeden, Lecturer, RMIT University

    Ecosystems and species across the natural world are in serious trouble. The vast majority of Australians want more government action, but it’s not being delivered.

    Take, for example, the federal government commitment to end extinctions via its Nature Positive plan. Or consider its promise to overhaul Australia’s environmental legislation and create a new independent regulator. Progress on both has faltered.

    The biodiversity crisis calls for systemic change in humanity’s relationship with nature. This requires bold policy action from governments. Our new research examined how everyday people can help achieve this.

    We mined the insider knowledge of politicians, senior public servants and environmental advocates. The participants were Victoria-based, but their advice applies more broadly.

    Here, we present a recipe for achieving real, lasting change for the natural world.

    1. Be prepared for a long haul

    Change can take a long time. Be willing and able to see out the process. As one government interviewee told us:

    [Change] is not going to happen by one research paper, one meeting, one event, it’s gonna be a whole range of things over a sustained period of time.

    Also, find support. Our interviewees told us the most successful campaigns often happen when like-minded individuals band together. This provides the social support needed to stay the course.

    Remember, change is possible. As one government interviewee told us, this is especially true in marginal seats, where “constant ongoing campaigning at every level” can shift the dial.

    There is very likely a community group advocating for nature near you. These groups sometimes link up with larger, better-funded environment groups, to access their resources and networks.

    Change happens when like-minded people band together.
    Yuri A/Shutterstock

    2. Know the system

    Identify who you need to influence. The person holding the lever might not be a politician, but a public servant. Or public servants might rally for a cause internally, sometimes partnering with community groups.

    So how do you find this key person? Build your networks. Start talking to people in your community and get to know your local elected representatives. Find out what they care about and pitch your message to appeal to their values and concerns.

    One interviewee told us community groups would benefit from knowing more about how the system works:

    What are the bits that can actually change? […] Community members can be a bit aggressive in trying to drive through their challenge without understanding why they’ve been ignored in the past, or feel that they’ve been ignored.

    As another government interviewee told us:

    People don’t see how much power they have if they just use their voice and use it in a constructive way.

    3. Be strategic

    Choose whether to work with the government, or challenge it publicly.

    Environmental advocates can work alongside government to design solutions together. For example, a community group might work with their local council to design and implement management of a bush reserve. Big non-government environment groups often work in this way, relying on strong relationships with government insiders to achieve change.

    The opposite strategy is an “outsider” approach, which, at the extreme end, might include physically disrupting industry. Think chaining yourself to a tree in a forest pegged for logging or ramming a ship into a commercial whaling vessel.

    A less extreme outsider approach might be seeking to get your issue into the media to build public interest to get something on the political agenda.

    Both approaches have their merits in the right context. As one staff member of an environment group told us:

    We’re going to put on the suits […] and we’re not going to scale their buildings and release confidential information that they’ve given us to the media […] I don’t judge those that have that theory of change, because we need both, we need the really extreme advocacy to make us look mainstream and medium and reasonable.

    4. Seize the moment

    Identify when your advocacy might be most effective. It might be an upcoming election or budget, or when a policy is being reviewed.

    Or it might be something less predictable, such as a bushfire, flood or other environmental disaster. In those cases, nature conservation issues are suddenly all over the media. It might be a chance for real change.

    Effective advocates know how to identify, create, and be prepared for these windows. As one staff member at an environmental group told us:

    Some organizations talk about making change. But that’s a harder exercise. Often it’s a sort of a
    catching a wave of something else, or waiting for the opportunity.

    The upcoming federal election is one such opportunity. The lead up is a good time to advocate for nature. Speak with your local politician and their competitors about the change you want to see.

    If not us, who?

    These are well-tested, effective actions you can use to achieve positive policy change for the environment. But remember, the system is dynamic. New methods and approaches will emerge as technologies, modes of communication and other factors evolve.

    Governments, however, are a permanent fixture in the system. They stand to benefit politically by engaging with community and advocacy groups. So there is enormous potential for everyday people to genuinely make a difference.

    Environmental crises can seem overwhelming, but we can – and must – try to make a difference. Because, as the old adage goes: if not us, who? And if not now, when?


    The authors acknowledge Fern Hames and Kim Lowe for their contributions to this article.

    Lily van Eeden receives funding from the Australian Research Council. Lily was previously employed by the Victorian government.

    Liam Smith is a Councillor on the Biodiversity Council.

    Sarah Bekessy receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the National Health and Medical Research Council, the Ian Potter Foundation and the European Commission. She is a Lead Councillor with The Biodiversity Council, a board member of Bush Heritage Australia, a member of the WWF Eminent Scientists Group and an advisor to ELM Responsible Investment, the Living Building Challenge and Wood for Good.

    ref. Make a noise or work with the system? New research reveals 4 ways to create real change for nature – https://theconversation.com/make-a-noise-or-work-with-the-system-new-research-reveals-4-ways-to-create-real-change-for-nature-248226

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Problems with the security company responsible for EUPOL COPPS – E-000270/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-000270/2025
    to the Council
    Rule 144
    Özlem Demirel (The Left)

    The employees of the security company responsible for the European Union Police Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EUPOL COPPS) have temporarily stopped working because they have not been paid. The security company’s tasks include monitoring the movements of mission members.

    • 1.Which security company is responsible for EUPOL COPPS and what specific tasks does it perform?
    • 2.For how long and for what reason did the employees stop work?
    • 3.How and for how long exactly have the security tasks been covered in the meantime?

    Submitted: 22.1.2025

    Last updated: 30 January 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CIL supports 3rd Coal India Ranchi Marathon 2025

    Source: Government of India

    CIL supports 3rd Coal India Ranchi Marathon 2025

    CIL believe in empowering communities not just through energy but also by promoting health and well-being – Dr. Ranjan

    Posted On: 30 JAN 2025 9:45PM by PIB Delhi

    Coal India Ltd (CIL) under the aegis of Ministry of Coal (MoC) is promoting sports activities among the professional runners of the country who will propel the country towards Vikshit Bharat. For the 3rd consecutive year, CIL, the holding company, is supporting Coal India Ranchi Marathon 2025 with sponsorship support of Rs. 1 Crore from the Coal India Sports Promotion Association (CISPA) fund for conducting a mega event through its subsidiary Central Coalfields Limited (CCL) in Ranchi, Jharkhand on 9th February, 2025.

    As a responsible Corporate Entity, CIL and its subsidiaries has continuously contributing to social upliftment by implementing impactful Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR) new initiatives across the nation in alignment with the government’s vision and setting new benchmarks in the CSR domain for others.

    The upcoming marathon, open exclusively to the runners (male and female), who are staying in any part of the country can participate in any of the four categories i.e, Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10 Km and 5 Km. 

    Registrations are currently open online (https://centralcoalfields.in/cilranchimarathon) and enthusiastic runners from across the country are encouraged to participate in this exhilarating upcoming event, which is aimed at inspiring a culture of health and wellness among the youths. The said website was inaugurated by Shri Nilendu Kr.  Singh, CMD, CCL in presence of dignitaries including Directors in Ranchi.

    Dr. Vinay Ranjan, Director (P &IR), CIL said: “We believe in empowering communities not just through energy but also by promoting health and well-being of an individual. This marathon symbolizes endurance, perseverance and values that resonate with our corporate ethos.” He further emphasized that this upcoming marathon is not just a race but a celebration of fitness, resilience and unity.

    Shri Amitabh Kumar Singh, HOD, Welfare, CIL said that the company is promoting sports and other activities within and outside the company for collective commitment to a healthy lifestyle and social responsibility. “Through this type of marathon, we aim to promote physical fitness, mental well-being, and a spirit of camaraderie among participants, which is important for the young population,”  he said.

    The upcoming CIL Marathon 2025 not only celebrates athletic excellence but also reinforces the company’s dedication to nation-building beyond energy production.

    ****

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    (Release ID: 2097760) Visitor Counter : 33

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister for Coal and Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy reviewed the Progress of NLCIL Projects at Chennai

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 30 JAN 2025 9:43PM by PIB Delhi

    The  Union Minister for Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, held a review meeting of NLC India Limited (NLCIL) projects at Chennai today along with Smt. VismitaTej, Additional Secretary to Government of India, Ministry of Coal. Shri Prasanna Kumar Motupalli, CMD, NLCIL, Functional Directors and Senior officials of NLC India Limited were present in the review meeting.

    In his address Union Minister of Coal and Mines, Shri Kishan Reddy, highlighted the larger vision of the Prime Minister in creating a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047 as a part of which, reforms were being undertaken in the mining sector. He lauded NLCIL as one of the best performing Public Sector Companies in India. He appreciated the diversification of the company into renewable energy sector on a large scale, stating that it is the first PSU in the country to cross one(1) GW of renewable energy.

    The Minister appreciated the NLCIL’s foray into capacity addition in coal mining through its coal mines at Talabira, South Pachwara, North Dhadu, Machhakata and Patrapara. He also lauded NLCIL’s efforts in constructing 3 x 800 MW Thermal Power Project at Talabira which was inaugurated by Prime Minister. Coal Minister has also expressed his appreciation on NLCIL’s sincere efforts in Renewable Energy Capacity addition in large scale in states of Rajasthan, Assam and Andaman & Nicobar Islands and in other green initiatives. 

    The Minister pointed out that NLCIL was one of the oldest PSUs in the country, patronized and visited by several past National leaders including Presidents, Prime Ministers, VIPs, which continued even today.   He called upon NLCIL to explore avenues to boost tourism which had a lot of potential and scope for creating awareness among children and students.

    The Union Minister of Coal & Mines further informed that NLCIL management has been asked to explore the possibilities for implementation of enhanced Accident Insurance Cover scheme for the workers and employees of NLC India Limited, in a period of two months. The  Minister assured NLCIL of the fullest support and co-operation from the Coal Ministry and called upon the NLCIL family to continue its remarkable journey in its energy production, in line with vision of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Noting that NLCIL was a pioneer in several CSR activities, he said that, NLCIL had a big, sprawling township in Neyveli consisting of more than one lakh population and three crore trees.

    On the occasion, the  Minister for Coal & Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, virtually inaugurated a museum, aptly named “Parampariyam”, created at Neyveli by NLC India Limited. He also inaugurated a new Mobile App “NLCIL WINGS” and a new version of NLCIL Internet Website virtually.

    In line with the Special Campaign 4.0’s “Waste to Wealth” initiative by the Government of India, NLCIL had conceptualized, planned and created a Museum depicting the journey of NLCIL over the years since its inception in 1956. The museum, located in the heart of Neyveli Township, was created by transforming the erstwhile Doordarshan Kendra TV Relay Station building, constructed in the 1980s. The building, which was kept unused for years, was originally inaugurated by the legendary singer Bharat Ratna Late Smt. M.S.Subbulakshmi in 1984.The “Parampariyam” NLCIL Museum showcases vivid images, exhibits, photographs and artefacts chronicling the company’s history – from the discovery of peat in 1828, to the formation of NLCIL in 1956, and its remarkable growth over the decades.

    Speaking on the occasion, NLCIL CMD Shri Prasanna Kumar Motupalli said that the review of NLCIL’s projects and future plans was comprehensive with valuable guidance and inputs offered by the Union Minister on behalf of the Ministry of Coal. The unwavering support from the  Minister and the Ministry of Coal would help NLCIL in its future endeavours for a brighter, sustainable future.

    ****

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    (Release ID: 2097759) Visitor Counter : 32

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy Shri Shripad Yesso Naik chairs the 1st meeting of Group of Ministers constituted for addressing issues related to viability of distribution utilities in the country

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy Shri Shripad Yesso Naik chairs the 1st meeting of Group of Ministers constituted for addressing issues related to viability of distribution utilities in the country

    Smart Meters to be the game changers

    SERCs/ State Government to ensure timely & cost reflective tariff – DISCOMs should get fair cost of electricity

    New technologies to be adopted by DISCOMs for optimising Power Purchase Cost & Demand forecasting

    Need for innovative financing and out of the box solutions from members

    Posted On: 30 JAN 2025 9:23PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, as chairperson of the Group of Ministers, held a virtual meeting here today with Group of Ministers constituted for addressing issues related to viability of distribution utilities. 

    Shri A. K Sharma, Energy Minister, Uttar Pradesh, Shri Gottipati Ravi Kumar, Energy Minister, Andhra Pradesh, Shri Pradyuman Singh Tomar, Energy Minister, Madhya Pradesh, Shri V Senthil Balaji, Minister of Electricity, Tamil Nadu, Smt Meghana Deepak Sakore Bordikar, Minister of State for Energy, Maharashtra and Shri Heeralal Nagar, Minister of State for Energy, Rajasthan who are the members of the Group attended the meeting. The meeting was also attended by senior officials from Central and State Government and officials from Power Finance Corporation Ltd.

    In his welcome address Energy Minister, Government of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Arvind Kumar Sharma, convenor of the Group, commended the measures taken by the Government of India for improving the operational efficiency and financial viability of the Distribution Utilities. He remarked that pro-active measures by Ministry of Power will have far reaching impact on making country’s distribution sector stronger and healthier. He advocated for adopting and investing in technology in the distribution sector. He emphasised on the need for timely and adequate payment of Government Department Dues and subsidy by the State Governments and effective redressal of consumer grievances.

    In his opening remarks, Union Minister highlighted that the financial viability of electricity distribution utilities, or DISCOMs lies at the heart of India’s energy sector and is very critical for the entire value chain. These entities are the lifeline of our electricity supply chain, connecting power generation to millions of homes, businesses, and industries. However, they face significant challenges that affect not only their financial health but also the sustainability of entire Power Sector value chain. He mentioned that year on year gap between the average cost of supply (ACS) and the average revenue realized (ARR) is eroding the financial stability of the Utilities which needs to be brought down. This gap is largely due to under-recovery of costs esp. power purchase costs, non-cost reflective tariffs, distribution losses, etc. He expressed concern about the AT&C losses which are far above the global average of 6–8% and the need to improve it by improving network, adopting new technologies and improving the billing and collection efficiency. He mentioned about the roles that each stakeholder should play in improving the viability of these utilities especially in the context of the investment required to cater to growing energy demand in the country. He further mentioned about the Gujarat DISCOMs and suggested to understand the steps taken by Gujarat distribution utilities to improve their financial performance.  

    Energy Minister, Government of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Gottipati Ravi Kumar mentioned about priority being given by the State Government for development of Renewable Energy. He also highlighted the progress made by the State under PM KUSUM and PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana.

    Energy Minister, Government of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Pradyuman Singh Tomar emphasised on the need for accurate energy accounting and auditing for reducing line losses and the need to have effective consumer grievance redressal mechanism at each level of Government.

    Electricity Minister, Government of Tamil Nadu, Thiru V.Senthil Balaji highlighted the reforms undertaken by the State Government and the role of Smart Metering in improving the revenues of the distribution utilities. 

    Minister of State (Energy), Government of Maharashtra, Smt. Meghana Deepak Sakore Bordikar mentioned about the initiative taken by the State under Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Vahini Yojana which would help in improving quality of supply of power to farmers and reduce power purchase costs for utilities.

     Minister of State (Energy), Government of Rajasthan Shri Heeralal Nagar highlighted the rich renewable energy potential of the State and the projects taken by State under Hybrid Annuity Model for providing low cost day time supply of power for agricultural purposes.

    It was agreed that with rich experience of the group, innovative and out of the box solutions will be explored to steer the distribution sector on the path of financial viability. Also, it was agreed to convene further meetings in the member States.

    Group of Ministers on Viability of Distribution Utilities

    The Constitution of the GoM is as follows:

    1. Hon’ble Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy, Govt. of India – Chairman
    2. Energy Minister, Uttar Pradesh- member-cum-convenor
    3. Energy Minister, Andhra Pradesh- member
    4. Energy Minister, Rajasthan- member
    5. Energy Minister, Tamil Nadu- member
    6. Energy Minister, Madhya Pradesh- member
    7. Energy Minister, Maharashtra- member

    The Terms of Reference (ToR) for the GoM are as under:

    1. Analyze debt scenario in key States
    2. Identify parameters that need to be monitored to ensure borrowings are productive
    3. Identify States that are in urgent need for liquidity support and design a fiscal discipline program to enable them to avoid a debt trap.
    4. Recommend guidelines for investment plan with respect to capital expenditure targeted at overall improvement – ensure adequate technical and financial due-diligence, equity investment by State Government, suitable mechanism for realization through tariff.
    5. Suggest measures for improvement in the overall health of the distribution sector to attract further investment from private participants in the value chain

    The GoM would submit its report in three months.

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    JN/ SK

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Meeting of Government with Leaders of Political Parties held today

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Meeting of Government with Leaders of Political Parties held today

    Meeting  attended by 52 Leaders from 36 political parties 

    Posted On: 30 JAN 2025 7:59PM by PIB Delhi

    A meeting was  held under the Chairmanship of Shri Raj Nath Singh, Union Minister of Defence with Leaders of political parties today (30th January, 2025) in Parliament House Complex, New Delhi to discuss issues relating to ensuing Budget Session of Parliament, 2025. The meeting was called by Shri Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs. The meeting was also attended by Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, who is also Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha, Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Law & Justice and Minister of State in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal and Minister of State in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Minister of State in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Dr. L. Murugan.  In total, the meeting was attended by 52 Leaders from 36 political parties including Ministers.

    At the outset, Shri Rajnath Singh, Minister of Defence made introductory remarks and welcomed all the Leaders attending the meeting and thereafter, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs conducted the meeting. He informed the leaders that the Budget Session, 2025 of Parliament will commence on Friday the 31st January, 2025 and subject to exigencies of Government Business, the session may conclude on Friday the 4th April, 2025. During this period, both the Houses will be adjourned for recess on Thursday, the 13th of February, 2025 to reassemble on Monday, the 10th of March, 2025 to enable the Standing Committees to examine the Demands for Grants of various Ministries/Departments and make their Reports thereon. The Session will provide a total of 27 sittings (09 sittings in first part and 18 sittings in second part) spread over a period of 64 days.

    Shri Rijiju further stated that Session will mainly be devoted to the Financial Business relating to Union Budget for 2025-26 and discussion on the Motion of Thanks on President’s Address. However, essential Legislative and other Business will also be taken up during the Session. He mentioned that Economic survey of India and Union Budget for 2025-26 will be presented to Parliament on Friday, the 31st of January, 2025 and the Saturday, 1st February, 2025 respectively. He also informed that tentatively 16 items of legislative business and 3 items of financial business have been identified for being taken up during this session.

    The Minister of Parliamentary Affairs also stated that the Government is prepared and ready to discuss any other important issue on the floors of the Houses as per rules of both Houses. Leaders of different political parties expressed their views on various issues likely to be raised by them during the forthcoming Budget Session of Parliament and assured the Government to provide full co-operation. He also thanked all the Hon’ble Leaders for attending the meeting, expressing their views and for their active and effective participation.

    LIST OF BILLS LIKELY TO BE TAKEN UP DURING BUDGET SESSION, 2025

    I – LEGISLATIVE BUSINESS

    1. The Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024
    2. The Railways (Amendment) Bill, 2024
    3. The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024
    4. The Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill, 2024
    5. The Boilers Bill, 2024
    6. The Readjustment of Representation of Scheduled Tribes in Assembly Constituencies of the State of Goa Bill, 2024
    7. The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024
    8. The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024
    9. The Bills of Lading Bill, 2024
    10. The Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2024
    11. The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024
    12. The Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024
    13. The Finance Bill, 2025
    14. The Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025
    15. The “Tribhuvan” Sahkari University Bill, 2025
    16. The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025

    II – FINANCIAL BUSINESS

    1. Discussion and voting on Demands for Grants for the year 2025-26 and introduction, consideration and passing/return of the related Appropriation Bill.
    2. Discussion and voting on Second and Final Batch of Supplementary Demands for Grants for the year 2024-25 and introduction, consideration and passing/return of the related Appropriation Bill.
    3. Discussion and voting on Demands for Excess Grants for the year 2021-22 and introduction, consideration and passing/return of the related Appropriation Bill.

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    SS/NSK

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