MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Additional funding for independent hospices

Source: Scottish Government

Support for pay parity with NHS staff.

The Scottish Government is to distribute £5 million of funding in 2025-26 to support independent hospices with pay parity for clinical staff with their NHS counterparts.

Hospices have now had their funding allocations confirmed and the investment, set out in the 2025-26 Budget, will ensure that frontline staff providing essential palliative and end-of-life care in independent hospices are fairly paid in line with NHS pay scales.

The funding aims to help hospices recruit and retain skilled healthcare professionals during a time of rising workforce pressures and increasing demand for palliative care services.

Health Secretary Neil Gray, said:

“Independent hospices provide vital care and support to people and families across Scotland at the most difficult times in their lives. I am pleased we are able to support these organisations in supporting pay parity for their clinical staff.

“This funding recognises the skilled, compassionate care that hospice staff deliver every day, and helps ensure their pay reflects the immense value of their work.”

Chair of the Scottish Hospice Leadership Group Jacki Smart, said:

“This is a welcome first step in recognising the needs of the hospice sector, which plays a key role in delivering specialist palliative care for Scotland. It is right for patients and staff that hospices can pay skilled professionals fairly and in line with NHS colleagues, and we need to keep pace on this.”

Background

Independent hospices across Scotland are independent charitable organisations providing care tailored to local needs. Integration Joint Boards (IJBs) are responsible for the planning and commissioning of independent hospices to meet the needs of their local population. Hospices work closely with a wide variety of health and social care services, including NHS Boards, to deliver high quality care and support.

The Scottish Government is committed to developing a new national framework to support more effective planning and commissioning between hospices and IJBs. This work will continue alongside discussions about long-term pay parity and funding arrangements.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: President Trump to visit Scotland

Source: Scottish Government

First Minister says United States remains one of Scotland’s closest partners.

Scotland will have “a platform to make its voice heard” during the visit of the President of the United States, First Minister John Swinney has said.

Speaking ahead of President Trump’s arrival, Mr Swinney said the global attention the visit will receive provides Scotland with an opportunity to respectfully demonstrate the principles of freedom and justice for all, while also promoting Scotland’s tourism sector and economic investment potential.

First Minister John Swinney said:

“Scotland shares a strong friendship with the United States that goes back centuries. That partnership remains steadfast through economic, cultural and ancestral links – including of course, with the President himself.

“As we welcome the President of the United States, Scotland will be showcased on the world stage. This provides Scotland with a platform to make its voice heard on the issues that matter, including war and peace, justice and democracy.

“It also includes the millions of Americans – many of them potential future tourists or investors in Scotland – who will watch their elected President as he visits our country.

“As First Minister it is my responsibility to advance our interests, raise global and humanitarian issues of significant importance, including the unimaginable suffering we are witnessing in Gaza, and ensure Scotland’s voice is heard at the highest levels of government across the world. That is exactly what I will do when I meet with President Trump during his time in Scotland.

“We are a proud democratic nation, a country that stands firm on the principles of equality and freedom for all, and a society that stands up for a fair and just world. The right to peaceful demonstration is something we cherish, and everyone has the democratic right to protect and express their views in a peaceful, and democratic manner. That is right and proper.

“I am confident the vast majority of people protesting will do Scotland proud and demonstrate as they should – peacefully and lawfully. I am also confident that Scotland’s police service can handle the challenge of keeping all our communities safe and, as they must, in maintaining the appropriate security any US President requires.

“This weekend is a landmark moment in our relationship with the United States, and I am certain it will be remembered for Scotland showing the world the very best of itself.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: GLP1 weight loss injections may reduce asthma symptoms GLP1 agonist drugs, commonly known by brand names such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, reduce asthma symptoms in obese people according to a new study from the University of Aberdeen and The Observational and Pragmatic Research Institute (OPRI), Singapore.

Source: University of Aberdeen

GLP1 agonist drugs, commonly known by brand names such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, reduce asthma symptoms in obese people according to a new study from the University of Aberdeen and The Observational and Pragmatic Research Institute (OPRI), Singapore.
This is the latest reported benefit of GLP1s, originally prescribed for diabetes management and now prescribed widely for obesity.
An international team of scientists led by University of Aberdeen Chair in Primary Care Respiratory Medicine, Professor David Price, analysed the medical records of more than 60,000 patients. Using the OPCRD database – a primary care patient database containing over 28 million patients, they compared measures of asthma severity between those who had been prescribed GLP1s and those who hadn’t over an entire year.
They found that as well as the expected weight loss in people who were taking GLP1s, the asthma measures such as steroid and medication prescriptions, were also reduced.
GLP1s, mimic the naturally occurring hormone GLP1 and help regulate blood sugar, insulin and control appetite. The drug is also known to reduce inflammatory cells through multiple signalling pathways, and it is this mechanism that may be instigating this beneficial effect on the airway disease.
The author suggests that their findings mean that GLP1s should be considered as a potential treatment for respiratory diseases.
Professor David Price explains: “People with obesity and asthma are unique in that they are often resistant to steroid treatments.

We found compelling evidence that GLP1s, as well as increasing weight loss, also improved asthma symptoms.” Professor David Price

“We know that GLP1s work on inflammatory responses in the airways in a different way to traditionally used steroids.
“We found compelling evidence that GLP1s, as well as increasing weight loss, also improved asthma symptoms.
“In addition, it is important to note that the benefits to asthma symptoms occurred despite fairly modest weight loss of around 0.9kg over the course of the year.
“Our findings suggest that GLP1s may have beneficial effects on asthma control for people with obesity and this should be explored further.”
Professor Alan Kaplan, Chairperson of the Family Physician Airways Group of Canada and the Observational and Pragmatic Research Institute, added: “Our findings suggest that GLP1-RAs have benefits on asthma control in people with obesity, and this information should contribute to the discussions around the decision to use these drugs.”
The full paper is published in Advances in Therapy

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Objects of all kinds causing obstructions on state highways

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Glass, spare tyres, metal sheets and poles, building materials, furniture, hay bales – these are just some of the objects causing obstruction on South Island state highways and needing to be cleared daily by contractors.

Reports of the obstructions come into New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) each day as contractors are dispatched to remove these items that can cause a hazard by blocking or interfering with traffic flows.

“Sometimes it is as simple as tree branches falling onto the highway, or road cones having been shifted; but often we are talking about heavy items that have fallen from vehicles that weren’t properly secured or became dislodged in accidents,” says NZTA system manager Mark Pinner.

“It underlines the need for vehicles such as trucks, or lighter vehicles towing trailers, to ensure that any loads are well secured. The Road Code does state that motorists must not drive an unsafe vehicle or a vehicle with an unsafe load which isn’t tied down, could fall from the vehicle, or is dragging on the ground.”

“Sometimes the reports that come in from road users about items on the road are quite vague and we don’t really know what we are dealing with until the contractors arrive onsite to deal with them.”

“The risk is not only that items or material that fall onto the roads may disrupt traffic, but it can also potentially lead to injury if there is a collision or evasive action is taken by drivers. This is why we act fast to clear the obstruction, or we may put in place closures or traffic management if needed to keep people safe while the object is cleared.”

People can report objects and obstructions 24/7 on the state highway network by calling 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49).

More about securing loads safely

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – General Practice training programme to be fully funded is a win for the future of the general practice workforce

Source: Royal NZ College of General Practitioners

The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners welcomes the Minister of Health’s announcement today at GP25: Conference for General Practice of significant additional funding for registrars across the General Practice Education Programme (GPEP).

This announcement will go a long way to strengthen the training and grow the next generation of the specialist GP workforce, and includes:

In 2025, training fees for doctors in their second, third, and post-third year of GPEP to encourage completion of their training.

Fellowship assessment costs for around 200 GPEP trainees to enable them to complete their training and become Fellows.

From 2026, full ongoing training and education costs for an estimated 400 GPEP year 2 and 3 trainees each year.

Currently, GP registrars only have their first year of GPEP funded with the second and third years having to be self-funded. This funding approach is different to all the other medical training programmes (in New Zealand and Australasian medical colleges) that are fully funded for their entirety.

College President Dr Samantha Murton says, “This funding will be a gamechanger for current and future trainees. This is a significant acknowledgement for the specialism of the general practice workforce and the vital role we play in healthcare being as important as those of our peers in secondary hospital settings.

“Not only will this funding offer the necessary financial support our GP registrars need throughout their training, but we are optimistic that the news will encourage medical graduates who have an interest in general practice but have been put off by the financial barriers to make the step to train as a specialist GP. To them, I say welcome and you won’t regret your decision.

The College has been a strong and vocal advocate for the current and future general practice workforce and is enthusiastic that the funding for primary care is heading in the right direction to ensure that it is sustainable.

College Chief Executive Toby Beaglehole says, “We are focused on building a sustainable workforce for the future, which starts with training and the equitability of our program costs to other specialist medical training.

“This funding s

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 541

Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
SEL1

URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 541
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
705 PM EDT Thu Jul 24 2025

The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Southeast Lower Michigan
Far Northwest Ohio
Lake Erie

* Effective this Thursday night from 705 PM until Midnight EDT.

* Primary threats include…
Isolated damaging wind gusts to 65 mph possible

SUMMARY…A line of strong to occasionally severe thunderstorms is
moving eastward across central Lower MI, near the MI/IN/IL border
intersection. This line is expected to continue eastward into the
warm, moist, and strongly unstable airmass downstream across
southeast Lower MI and adjacent far northwest OH. Strong to severe
gusts will be possible with this line. Additional more cellular
development is possible ahead of this line, which could also pose a
risk for damaging water-loaded downbursts.

The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 40
statute miles east and west of a line from 15 miles west northwest
of Mount Clemens MI to 10 miles south southwest of Toledo OH. For a
complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU1).

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.

&&

OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 540…

AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 55 knots. A few
cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
24035.

…Mosier

SEL1

URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 541
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
705 PM EDT Thu Jul 24 2025

The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
Southeast Lower Michigan
Far Northwest Ohio
Lake Erie

* Effective this Thursday night from 705 PM until Midnight EDT.

* Primary threats include…
Isolated damaging wind gusts to 65 mph possible

SUMMARY…A line of strong to occasionally severe thunderstorms is
moving eastward across central Lower MI, near the MI/IN/IL border
intersection. This line is expected to continue eastward into the
warm, moist, and strongly unstable airmass downstream across
southeast Lower MI and adjacent far northwest OH. Strong to severe
gusts will be possible with this line. Additional more cellular
development is possible ahead of this line, which could also pose a
risk for damaging water-loaded downbursts.

The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 40
statute miles east and west of a line from 15 miles west northwest
of Mount Clemens MI to 10 miles south southwest of Toledo OH. For a
complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU1).

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
tornadoes.

&&

OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 540…

AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 55 knots. A few
cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean storm motion vector
24035.

…Mosier

Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW1
WW 541 SEVERE TSTM MI OH LE 242305Z – 250400Z
AXIS..40 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
15WNW MTC/MOUNT CLEMENS MI/ – 10SSW TOL/TOLEDO OH/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 35NM E/W /31NNE DXO – 51SSW DXO/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1 INCH. WIND GUSTS..55 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 24035.

LAT…LON 42688232 41448310 41448465 42688389

THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
FOR WOU1.

Watch 541 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

Low (

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: First Savings Financial Group, Inc. Reports Financial Results for the Third Fiscal Quarter Ended June 30, 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind., July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — First Savings Financial Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSFG – news) (the “Company”), the holding company for First Savings Bank (the “Bank”), today reported net income of $6.2 million, or $0.88 per diluted share, for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, compared to net income of $4.1 million, or $0.60 per diluted share, for the quarter ended June 30, 2024. Excluding nonrecurring items, the Company reported net income of $5.7 million (non-GAAP measure)⁽¹⁾ and net income per diluted share of $0.81 (non-GAAP measure)⁽¹⁾ for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 compared to $3.5 million, or $0.52 per diluted share for the quarter ended June 30, 2024.

Commenting on the Company’s performance, Larry W. Myers, President and CEO, stated “We are pleased with the third fiscal quarter performance, including the continued improvement in the net interest margin, which has increased 32 basis points from June of 2024 to June of 2025, solid growth in deposits, expense containment, and meaningful efficiency ratio improvement. The SBA Lending segment posted its second consecutive profitable quarter, which included a solid level of loans originations and sales. Additionally, the SBA Lending pipeline for the fourth fiscal quarter remains robust. We are optimistic regarding the remainder of fiscal 2025 as we anticipate further expansion of the net interest margin, continued profitability from the SBA Lending segment, additional sales of home equity lines of credit, and stable and strong asset quality. We will continue our focus on customer deposit growth, select loan growth opportunities, preservation of asset quality, and prudent capital and liquidity management. We will also continue to evaluate options and strategies that we believe will maximize shareholder value.”

(1) Non-GAAP net income and net income per diluted share exclude certain nonrecurring items. A reconciliation to GAAP and discussion of the use of non-GAAP measures is included in the table at the end of this release.

Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2025 and 2024

Net interest income increased $2.2 million, or 15.1%, to $16.7 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025 as compared to the same period in 2024. The tax equivalent net interest margin for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was 2.99% as compared to 2.67% for the same period in 2024. The increase in net interest income was due to an increase of $871,000 in interest income and a decrease of $1.3 million in interest expense. A table of average balance sheets, including average asset yields and average liability costs, is included at the end of this release.

The Company recognized a provision for credit losses for loans and unfunded lending commitments of $347,000 and $77,000, respectively, and a reversal of provision for credit losses on securities of $1,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2025, compared to a provision for credit losses for loans, unfunded lending commitments and securities of $501,000, $158,000 and $84,000, respectively, for the same period in 2024. The Company recognized $309,000 in net charge-offs recognized during the three months ended June 30, 2025, of which $216,000 was related to unguaranteed portions of SBA loans. During the three months ended June 30, 2024, the Company recognized net charge-offs of $105,000, of which $49,000 was related to unguaranteed portions of SBA loans. Nonperforming loans, which consist of nonaccrual loans and loans over 90 days past due and still accruing interest, decreased $1.7 million from $16.9 million at September 30, 2024 to $15.2 million at June 30, 2025.

Noninterest income increased $1.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025 as compared to the same period in 2024. The increase was due primarily to increases in other income and net gain on sales of SBA loans of $565,000 and $351,000, respectively, and net gain on sales of home equity lines of credit (“HELOC”) of $617,000, partially offset by a $404,000 decrease in net unrealized gains on equity securities. The increase in other income was primarily due to a $487,000 gain recognized in connection with a lease termination. The was no gain on sales of HELOC in the 2024 period as the sale of this product commenced in fiscal 2025.

Noninterest expense increased $1.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025 as compared to the same period in 2024. The increase was due primarily to an increase in compensation and benefits of $904,000, which was due to routine salary increases and increases in bonus and incentive accruals in 2025 related to stronger Company performance.

The Company recognized income tax expense of $963,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2025 compared to $483,000 for the same period in 2024. The increase is due primarily to higher taxable income in 2025 as compared to 2024. The effective tax rate for 2025 was 13.5% compared to 10.6% for 2024. The effective tax rate is well below the statutory tax rate primarily due to the recognition of investment tax credits related to solar projects in both the 2025 and 2024 periods.

Results of Operations for the Nine Months Ended June 30, 2025 and 2024

The Company reported net income of $17.9 million, or $2.57 per diluted share, for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 compared to net income of $9.9 million, or $1.45 per diluted share, for the nine months ended June 30, 2024. Excluding nonrecurring items, the Company reported net income of $15.1 million (non-GAAP measure)⁽¹⁾ and net income per diluted share of $2.16 (non-GAAP measure)⁽¹⁾ for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 compared to net income of $9.4 million and net income per diluted share of $1.37 for the nine months ended June 30, 2024. The core banking segment reported net income of $17.2 million, or $2.46 per diluted share for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 compared to net income of $13.3 million and net income per diluted share of $1.92 for the nine months ended June 30, 2024. Excluding nonrecurring items, the core banking segment reported net income of $14.4 million (non-GAAP measure)⁽¹⁾, or $2.05 per diluted share (non-GAAP measure)⁽¹⁾ for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 compared to net income of $12.9 million and net income per diluted share of $1.89 for the nine months ended June 30, 2024.

Net interest income increased $5.2 million, or 12.1%, to $48.2 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 as compared to the same period in 2024. The tax equivalent net interest margin for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 was 2.89% as compared to 2.67% for the same period in 2024. The increase in net interest income was due to a $5.5 million increase in interest income, partially offset by a $279,000 increase in interest expense. A table of average balance sheets, including average asset yields and average liability costs, is included at the end of this release.

The Company recognized a reversal of provision for credit losses for loans and securities of $501,000 and $8,000, respectively, and a provision for unfunded lending commitments of $246,000 for the nine months ended June 30, 2025, compared to a provision for credit losses for loans and securities of $1.7 million and $107,000, respectively, and reversal of provision for unfunded lending commitments of $159,000 for the same period in 2024. The reversal of provisions during the 2025 period was due primarily to the bulk sale of approximately $87.2 million of HELOC during the period and a decrease in qualitative reserves. The Company recognized net charge-offs totaling $271,000 for the nine months ended June 30, 2025, of which $52,000 was related to unguaranteed portions of SBA loans, compared to net charge-offs of $224,000 in 2024, of which $15,000 was related to unguaranteed portions of SBA loans.

Noninterest income increased $4.5 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 as compared to the same period in 2024. The increase was due primarily to a $3.1 million net gain on sales of HELOC, a $403,000 net gain on sales of equity securities in 2025, and the aforementioned $487,000 gain recognized in connection with a lease termination in the 2025 period with no corresponding gain amounts for the 2024 period.

Noninterest expense increased $2.1 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 as compared to the same period in 2024. The increase was due primarily to increases in compensation and benefits and other operating expenses of $1.4 million and $1.1 million, respectively, partially offset by a decrease in professional fees of $412,000. The increase in compensation and benefits is primarily due to routine salary increases and increases in bonus and incentive accruals in 2025 related to stronger Company performance. The increase in other operating expenses was due primarily to a $721,000 reversal of accrued loss contingencies for SBA-guaranteed loans in the 2024 period with no corresponding amount for the 2025 period and a $405,000 accrued contingent liability associated with employee benefits recognized in the 2025 period with no corresponding amount in the 2024 period. The decrease in professional fees is primarily due to the cessation of national mortgage banking operations in the quarter ended December 31, 2023.

The Company recognized income tax expense of $2.4 million for the nine months ended June 30, 2025 compared to $873,000 for the same period in 2024. The increase is due primarily to higher taxable income in the 2025 period. The effective tax rate for 2025 was 11.8% compared to 8.1%. The effective tax rate is well below the statutory tax rate primarily due to the recognition of investment tax credits related to solar projects in both the 2025 and 2024 periods.

Comparison of Financial Condition at June 30, 2025 and September 30, 2024

Total assets decreased $33.7 million, from $2.45 billion at September 30, 2024 to $2.42 billion at June 30, 2025. Net loans held for investment decreased $68.0 million during the nine months ended June 30, 2025, due primarily to $109.1 million of sales of HELOC during the nine months ended June 30, 2025, and residential mortgage loans held for sale increased $42.1 million during the same period.

Total liabilities decreased $40.4 million due primarily to a decrease in total deposits and other borrowings of $144.7 and $19.9 million, respectively, partially offset by an increase in FHLB borrowings of $133.3 million. The decrease in total deposits was due to a decrease in brokered deposits of $229.1 million, which was due primarily to proceeds from the aforementioned sales of HELOC and greater utilization of FHLB borrowings, partially offset by an increase in customer deposits of $84.4 million. The decrease in other borrowings is due to the redemption of $20.0 million of subordinated notes during the quarter ended June 30, 2023. As of June 30, 2025, deposits exceeding the FDIC insurance limit of $250,000 per insured account were 35.0% of total deposits and 14.3% of total deposits when excluding public funds insured by the Indiana Public Deposit Insurance Fund.

Total stockholders’ equity increased $6.7 million, from $177.1 million at September 30, 2024 to $183.8 million at June 30, 2025, due primarily to a $14.6 million increase in retained net income, partially offset by a $8.9 million increase in accumulated other comprehensive loss. The increase in accumulated other comprehensive loss was due primarily to increasing long-term market interest rates during the nine months ended June 30, 2025, which resulted in a decrease in the fair value of securities available for sale. At June 30, 2025 and September 30, 2024, the Bank was considered “well-capitalized” under applicable regulatory capital guidelines.

First Savings Bank is an entrepreneurial community bank headquartered in Jeffersonville, Indiana, which is directly across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky, and operates fifteen depository branches within Southern Indiana. The Bank also has two national lending programs, including single-tenant net lease commercial real estate and SBA lending, with offices located predominately in the Midwest. The Bank is a recognized leader, both in its local communities and nationally for its lending programs. The employees of First Savings Bank strive daily to achieve the organization’s vision, We Expect To Be The BEST community BANK, which fuels our success. The Company’s common shares trade on The NASDAQ Stock Market under the symbol “FSFG.”

This release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements are not historical facts; rather, they are statements based on the Company’s current expectations regarding its business strategies and their intended results and its future performance. Forward-looking statements are preceded by terms such as “expects,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “intends” and similar expressions.

Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Numerous risks and uncertainties could cause or contribute to the Company’s actual results, performance and achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause or contribute to these differences include, without limitation, changes in general economic conditions; changes in market interest rates; changes in monetary and fiscal policies of the federal government; legislative and regulatory changes; and other factors disclosed in the Company’s periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Because of the risks and uncertainties inherent in forward-looking statements, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on them, whether included in this release or made elsewhere from time to time by the Company or on its behalf. Except as may be required by applicable law or regulation, the Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

Contact:
Tony A. Schoen, CPA
Chief Financial Officer
812-283-0724


FIRST SAVINGS FINANCIAL GROUP, INC.
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
(Unaudited)


	Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
OPERATING DATA:	June 30,						June 30,
(In thousands, except share and per share data)		2025			2024			2025			2024

Total interest income	$	31,965		$	31,094		$	95,237		$	89,765
Total interest expense		15,240			16,560			47,059			46,780

Net interest income		16,725			14,534			48,178			42,985

Provision (credit) for credit losses – loans		347			501			(501	)		1,684
Provision (credit) for unfunded lending commitments		77			158			246			(159	)
Provision (credit) for credit losses – securities		(1	)		84			(8	)		107

Total provision (credit) for credit losses		423			743			(263	)		1,632

Net interest income after provision (credit) for credit losses		16,302			13,791			48,441			41,353

Total noninterest income		4,520			3,196			14,183			9,688
Total noninterest expense		13,693			12,431			42,334			40,248

Income before income taxes		7,129			4,556			20,290			10,793
Income tax expense		963			483			2,400			873

Net income	$	6,166		$	4,073		$	17,890		$	9,920

Net income per share, basic	$	0.90		$	0.60		$	2.60		$	1.45
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic		6,881,077			6,832,452			6,867,734			6,829,490

Net income per share, diluted	$	0.88		$	0.60		$	2.57		$	1.45
Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted		6,977,674			6,834,784			6,967,742			6,851,145


Performance ratios (annualized)
Return on average assets		1.02	%		0.69	%		0.99	%		0.57	%
Return on average equity		13.66	%		9.86	%		13.32	%		8.23	%
Return on average common stockholders’ equity		13.66	%		9.86	%		13.32	%		8.23	%
Net interest margin (tax equivalent basis)		2.99	%		2.67	%		2.89	%		2.67	%
Efficiency ratio		64.45	%		70.11	%		67.89	%		76.41	%


							QTD						FYTD
FINANCIAL CONDITION DATA:	June 30,			March 31,			Increase			September 30,			Increase
(In thousands, except per share data)		2025			2025		(Decrease)				2024		(Decrease)

Total assets	$	2,416,675		$	2,376,230		$	40,445		$	2,450,368		$	(33,693	)
Cash and cash equivalents		52,123			28,683			23,440			52,142			(19	)
Investment securities		244,284			244,084			200			249,719			(5,435	)
Loans held for sale		60,970			61,239			(269	)		25,716			35,254
Gross loans		1,916,343			1,900,660			15,683			1,985,146			(68,803	)
Allowance for credit losses		20,522			20,484			38			21,294			(772	)
Interest earning assets		2,260,099			2,219,504			40,595			2,277,512			(17,413	)
Goodwill		9,848			9,848			–			9,848			–
Core deposit intangibles		275			316			(41	)		398			(123	)
Noninterest-bearing deposits		202,649			185,252			17,397			191,528			11,121
Interest-bearing deposits (customer)		1,253,525			1,207,159			46,366			1,180,196			73,329
Interest-bearing deposits (brokered)		280,020			396,770			(116,750	)		509,157			(229,137	)
Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings		434,924			325,310			109,614			301,640			133,284
Subordinated debt and other borrowings		28,722			48,682			(19,960	)		48,603			(19,881	)
Total liabilities		2,232,853			2,197,041			35,812			2,273,253			(40,400	)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(20,061	)		(19,385	)		(676	)		(11,195	)		(8,866	)
Total stockholders’ equity		183,822			179,189			4,633			177,115			6,707

Book value per share	$	26.35		$	25.90			0.45		$	25.72			0.63
Tangible book value per share (non-GAAP) (1)		24.90			24.43			0.47			24.23			0.67

Non-performing assets:
Nonaccrual loans – SBA guaranteed	$	2,713		$	123		$	2,590		$	5,036		$	(2,323	)
Nonaccrual loans		12,502			12,597			(95	)		11,906			596
Total nonaccrual loans	$	15,215		$	12,720		$	2,495		$	16,942		$	(1,727	)
Accruing loans past due 90 days		–			–			–			–			–
Total non-performing loans		15,215			12,720			2,495			16,942			(1,727	)
Foreclosed real estate		1,113			444			669			444			669
Total non-performing assets	$	16,328		$	13,164		$	3,164		$	17,386		$	(1,058	)

Asset quality ratios:
Allowance for credit losses as a percent of total gross loans		1.07	%		1.08	%		(0.01	%)		1.07	%		(0.00	%)
Allowance for credit losses as a percent of nonperforming loans		134.88	%		161.04	%		(26.16	%)		125.69	%		9.19	%
Nonperforming loans as a percent of total gross loans		0.79	%		0.67	%		0.12	%		0.85	%		(0.06	%)
Nonperforming assets as a percent of total assets		0.68	%		0.55	%		0.13	%		0.71	%		(0.03	%)

(1) See reconciliation of GAAP and non-GAAP financial measures for additional information relating to calculation of this item.


RECONCILIATION OF GAAP AND NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (UNAUDITED):
The following non-GAAP financial measures used by the Company provide information useful to investors in understanding the Company’s performance. The Company believes the financial measures presented below are important because of their widespread use by investors as a means to evaluate capital adequacy and earnings. The following table summarizes the non-GAAP financial measures derived from amounts reported in the Company’s consolidated financial statements and reconciles those non-GAAP financial measures with the comparable GAAP financial measures.

	Three Months Ended						Fiscal Year Ended
Net Income	June 30,						June 30,
(In thousands)		2025			2024			2025			2024

Net income attributable to the Company (non-GAAP)	$	5,691		$	3,534		$	15,057		$	9,381
Plus: Gain on bulk sale of loans, home equity lines of credit, net of tax effect		–			–			1,869			–
Plus: Gain on life insurance, net of tax effect		110			–			110			–
Plus: Gain on lease termination, net of tax effect		365			–			365			–
Plus: Gain on sale of equity securities, net of tax effect		–			–			302			–
Plus: Decrease in loss contingency for SBA-guaranteed loans, net of tax effect		–			212			–			212
Plus: Gain on sale of premises and equipment, net of tax effect		–			–			186			–
Plus: Recording of Visa Class C shares, net of tax		–			327			–			327
Net income attributable to the Company (GAAP)	$	6,166		$	4,073		$	17,890		$	9,920

Net Income per Share, Diluted

Net income per share attributable to the Company, diluted (non-GAAP)	$	0.81		$	0.52		$	2.16		$	1.37
Plus: Gain on bulk sale of loans, home equity lines of credit, net of tax effect		–			–			0.27			–
Plus: Gain on life insurance, net of tax effect		0.02			–			0.02			–
Plus: Gain on lease termination, net of tax effect		0.05			–			0.05			–
Plus: Gain on sale of equity securities, net of tax effect		–			–			0.04			–
Plus: Decrease in loss contingency for SBA-guaranteed loans, net of tax effect		–			0.03			–			0.03
Plus: Gain on sale of premises and equipment, net of tax effect		–			–			0.03			–
Plus: Recording of Visa Class C shares, net of tax		–			0.05			–			0.05
Net income per share, diluted (GAAP)	$	0.88		$	0.60		$	2.57		$	1.45

Core Bank Segment Net Income
(In thousands)

Net income attributable to the Core Bank (non-GAAP)	$	5,299		$	4,176		$	14,379		$	12,947
Plus: Gain on bulk sale of loans, home equity lines of credit, net of tax effect		–			–			1,869			–
Plus: Gain on life insurance, net of tax effect		110			–			110			–
Plus: Gain on lease termination, net of tax effect		365			–			365			–
Plus: Gain on sale of equity securities, net of tax effect		–			–			302			–
Plus: Gain on sale of premises and equipment, net of tax effect		–			–			186			–
Plus: Recording of Visa Class C shares, net of tax		–			327			–			327
Net income attributable to the Core Bank (GAAP)	$	5,774		$	4,503		$	17,212		$	13,274

Core Bank Segment Net Income per Share, Diluted

Core Bank net income per share, diluted (non-GAAP)	$	0.75		$	0.64		$	2.05		$	1.89
Plus: Gain on bulk sale of loans, home equity lines of credit, net of tax effect		–			–			0.27			–
Plus: Gain on life insurance, net of tax effect		0.02			–			0.02			–
Plus: Gain on lease termination, net of tax effect		0.05			–			0.05			–
Plus: Gain on sale of equity securities, net of tax effect		–			–			0.04			–
Plus: Gain on sale of premises and equipment, net of tax effect		–			–			–			0.03
Plus: Recording of Visa Class C shares, net of tax		–			0.05			0.03			–
Core Bank net income per share, diluted (GAAP)	$	0.82		$	0.69		$	2.46		$	1.92


RECONCILIATION OF GAAP AND NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED):	Three Months Ended						Fiscal Year Ended
Efficiency Ratio	June 30,						June 30,
(In thousands)		2025			2024			2025			2024

Net interest income (GAAP)	$	16,725		$	14,534		$	48,178		$	42,985

Noninterest income (GAAP)		4,520			3,196			14,183			9,688

Noninterest expense (GAAP)		13,693			12,431			42,334			40,248

Efficiency ratio (GAAP)		64.45	%		70.11	%		67.89	%		76.41	%

Noninterest income (GAAP)	$	4,520		$	3,196		$	14,183		$	9,688
Less: Gain on bulk sale of loans, home equity lines of credit		–			–			(2,492	)		–
Less: Gain on life insurance		(147	)		–			(147	)		–
Less: Gain on lease termination		(487	)		–			(487	)		–
Less: Gain on sale of equity securities		–			–			(403	)		–
Less: Gain on sale of premises and equipment		–			–			(140	)		–
Less: Recording of Visa Class C shares		–			(245	)		–			(245	)
Noninterest income (Non-GAAP)		3,886			2,951			10,515			9,443

Noninterest expense (GAAP)	$	13,693		$	12,431		$	42,334		$	40,248
Plus: Decrease in loss contingency for SBA-guaranteed loans		–			283			–			283
Noninterest expense (Non-GAAP)	$	13,693		$	12,714		$	42,334		$	40,531

Efficiency ratio (excluding nonrecurring items) (non-GAAP)		66.44	%		72.71	%		72.13	%		77.31	%

							QTD						FYTD
Tangible Book Value Per Share	June 30,			March 31,			Increase			September 30,			Increase
(In thousands, except share and per share data)		2025			2025		(Decrease)				2024		(Decrease)

Stockholders’ equity (GAAP)	$	183,822		$	179,189		$	4,633		$	177,115		$	6,707
Less: goodwill and core deposit intangibles		(10,123	)		(10,164	)		41			(10,246	)		123
Tangible stockholders’ equity (non-GAAP)	$	173,699		$	169,025		$	4,674		$	166,869		$	6,830

Outstanding common shares		6,976,558			6,919,136		$	57,422			6,887,106		$	89,452

Tangible book value per share (non-GAAP)	$	24.90		$	24.43		$	0.47		$	24.23		$	0.67

Book value per share (GAAP)	$	26.35		$	25.90		$	0.45		$	25.72		$	0.63



SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED):	As of
Summarized Consolidated Balance Sheets	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
(In thousands, except per share data)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Total cash and cash equivalents	$	52,123		$	28,683		$	76,224		$	52,142		$	42,423
Total investment securities		244,284			244,084			242,634			249,719			238,785
Total loans held for sale		60,970			61,239			24,441			25,716			125,859
Total loans, net of allowance for credit losses		1,895,821			1,880,176			1,884,514			1,963,852			1,826,980
Loan servicing rights		2,869			2,744			2,661			2,754			2,860
Total assets		2,416,675			2,376,230			2,388,735			2,450,368			2,393,491

Customer deposits	$	1,456,174		$	1,392,411		$	1,395,766		$	1,371,724		$	1,312,997
Brokered deposits		280,020			396,770			437,008			509,157			399,151
Total deposits		1,736,194			1,789,181			1,832,774			1,880,881			1,712,148
Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings		434,924			325,310			295,000			301,640			425,000

Common stock and additional paid-in capital	$	30,090		$	28,650		$	28,382		$	27,725		$	27,592
Retained earnings – substantially restricted		187,969			182,918			178,526			173,337			170,688
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(20,061	)		(19,385	)		(17,789	)		(11,195	)		(17,415	)
Unearned stock compensation		(2,005	)		(862	)		(973	)		(901	)		(999	)
Less treasury stock, at cost		(12,171	)		(12,132	)		(12,119	)		(11,851	)		(11,866	)
Total stockholders’ equity		183,822			179,189			176,027			177,115			168,000

Outstanding common shares		6,976,558			6,919,136			6,909,173			6,887,106			6,883,656


	Three Months Ended
Summarized Consolidated Statements of Income	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
(In thousands, except per share data)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Total interest income	$	31,965		$	30,823		$	32,449		$	32,223		$	31,094
Total interest expense		15,240			14,832			16,987			17,146			16,560
Net interest income		16,725			15,991			15,462			15,077			14,534
Provision (credit) for credit losses – loans		347			(357	)		(491	)		1,808			501
Provision (credit) for unfunded lending commitments		77			123			46			(262	)		158
Provision (credit) for credit losses – securities		(1	)		(1	)		(6	)		(86	)		84
Total provision (credit) for credit losses		423			(235	)		(451	)		1,460			743

Net interest income after provision for credit losses		16,302			16,226			15,913			13,617			13,791

Total noninterest income		4,520			3,560			6,103			2,842			3,196
Total noninterest expense		13,693			13,698			14,943			12,642			12,431
Income before income taxes		7,129			6,088			7,073			3,817			4,556
Income tax expense (benefit)		963			589			848			145			483
Net income		6,166			5,499			6,225			3,672			4,073


Net income per share, basic	$	0.90		$	0.80		$	0.91		$	0.54		$	0.60
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic		6,881,077			6,875,826			6,851,153			6,832,626			6,832,452

Net income per share, diluted	$	0.88		$	0.79		$	0.89		$	0.53		$	0.60
Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted		6,977,674			6,960,020			6,969,223			6,894,532			6,842,336


SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED):	Three Months Ended
Noninterest Income Detail	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
(In thousands)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Service charges on deposit accounts	$	537		$	541		$	567		$	552		$	538
ATM and interchange fees		648			632			665			642			593
Net unrealized gain on equity securities		15			47			78			28			419
Net gain on equity securities		–			–			403			–			–
Net gain on sales of loans, Small Business Administration		932			1,078			711			647			581
Net gain on sales of loans, home equity lines of credit		617			–			2,492			–			–
Mortgage banking income		96			104			78			6			49
Increase in cash surrender value of life insurance		358			380			361			363			353
Gain on life insurance		147			–			108			–			–
Commission income		184			255			210			294			220
Real estate lease income		132			122			121			122			154
Net gain (loss) on premises and equipment		–			–			45			(4	)		–
Other income		854			401			264			192			289
Total noninterest income	$	4,520		$	3,560		$	6,103		$	2,842		$	3,196


	Three Months Ended
	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
Consolidated Performance Ratios (Annualized)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Return on average assets		1.02	%		0.93	%		1.02	%		0.61	%		0.69	%
Return on average equity		13.66	%		12.24	%		14.07	%		8.52	%		9.86	%
Return on average common stockholders’ equity		13.66	%		12.34	%		14.07	%		8.52	%		9.86	%
Net interest margin (tax equivalent basis)		2.99	%		2.93	%		2.75	%		2.72	%		2.67	%
Efficiency ratio		64.45	%		70.06	%		69.29	%		70.55	%		70.11	%


	As of or for the Three Months Ended
	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
Consolidated Asset Quality Ratios		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Nonperforming loans as a percentage of total loans		0.79	%		0.67	%		0.87	%		0.85	%		0.91	%
Nonperforming assets as a percentage of total assets		0.68	%		0.55	%		0.71	%		0.71	%		0.72	%
Allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans		1.07	%		1.08	%		1.09	%		1.07	%		1.07	%
Allowance for credit losses as a percentage of nonperforming loans		134.88	%		161.04	%		124.85	%		125.69	%		118.12	%
Net charge-offs to average outstanding loans		0.02	%		-0.01	%		0.01	%		0.02	%		0.01	%


SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED):	Three Months Ended
Segmented Statements of Income Information	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
(In thousands)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Core Banking Segment:
Net interest income	$	15,086		$	14,259		$	13,756		$	14,083		$	13,590
Provision (credit) for credit losses – loans		420			(540	)		(745	)		1,339			320
Provision (credit) for unfunded lending commitments		32			35			(75	)		78			64
Provision (credit) for credit losses – securities		(1	)		(1	)		(7	)		(86	)		84
Total provision (credit) for credit losses		451			(506	)		(827	)		1,331			468
Net interest income after provision (credit) for credit losses		14,635			14,765			14,583			12,752			13,122
Noninterest income		3,340			2,242			5,253			2,042			2,474
Noninterest expense		11,366			11,486			12,574			10,400			10,192
Income before income taxes		6,609			5,521			7,262			4,394			5,404
Income tax expense		835			452			893			301			689
Net income	$	5,774		$	5,069		$	6,369		$	4,093		$	4,715

SBA Lending Segment (Q2):
Net interest income	$	1,639		$	1,732		$	1,706		$	994		$	944
Provision (credit) for credit losses – loans		(73	)		183			255			469			181
Provision (credit) for unfunded lending commitments		45			88			121			(340	)		94
Total provision (credit) for credit losses		(28	)		271			376			129			275
Net interest income after provision for credit losses		1,667			1,461			1,330			865			669
Noninterest income		1,180			1,318			850			800			722
Noninterest expense		2,327			2,212			2,369			2,242			2,239
Income (loss) before income taxes		520			567			(189	)		(577	)		(848	)
Income tax expense (benefit)		128			137			(45	)		(156	)		(206	)
Net income (loss)	$	392		$	430		$	(144	)	$	(421	)	$	(642	)


SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED):	Three Months Ended
Segmented Statements of Income Information	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
(In thousands, except percentage data)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Net Income (Loss) Per Share by Segment
Net income per share, basic – Core Banking	$	0.84		$	0.74		$	0.93		$	0.60		$	0.69
Net income (loss) per share, basic – SBA Lending (Q2)		0.06			0.06			(0.02	)		(0.06	)		(0.09	)
Total net income (loss) per share, basic	$	0.90		$	0.80		$	0.91		$	0.54		$	0.60

Net Income (Loss) Per Diluted Share by Segment
Net income per share, diluted – Core Banking	$	0.82		$	0.73		$	0.91		$	0.59		$	0.69
Net income (loss) per share, diluted – SBA Lending (Q2)		0.06			0.06			(0.02	)		(0.06	)		(0.09	)
Total net income per share, diluted	$	0.88		$	0.79		$	0.89		$	0.53		$	0.60

Return on Average Assets by Segment (annualized) (3)
Core Banking		1.01	%		0.90	%		1.09	%		0.71	%		0.83	%
SBA Lending		1.36	%		1.58	%		(0.55	%)		(1.71	%)		(2.91	%)

Efficiency Ratio by Segment (annualized) (3)
Core Banking		61.68	%		69.61	%		66.15	%		64.50	%		63.45	%
SBA Lending		82.55	%		72.52	%		92.68	%		124.97	%		134.39	%


	Three Months Ended
Noninterest Expense Detail by Segment	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
(In thousands)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Core Banking Segment:
Compensation	$	6,470		$	6,637		$	7,245		$	5,400		$	5,587
Occupancy		1,533			1,648			1,577			1,554			1,573
Advertising		437			429			338			399			253
Other		2,926			2,772			3,414			3,047			2,779
Total Noninterest Expense	$	11,366		$	11,486		$	12,574		$	10,400		$	10,192

SBA Lending Segment (Q2):
Compensation	$	1,914		$	1,892		$	1,931		$	1,854		$	1,893
Occupancy		92			50			59			55			51
Advertising		17			10			14			17			12
Other		304			260			365			316			283
Total Noninterest Expense	$	2,327		$	2,212		$	2,369		$	2,242		$	2,239


SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED):	Three Months Ended
SBA Lending (Q2) Data	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
(In thousands, except percentage data)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024

Final funded loans guaranteed portion sold, SBA	$	18,019		$	15,716		$	10,785		$	10,880		$	7,515

Gross gain on sales of loans, SBA	$	1,548		$	1,508		$	1,141		$	1,029		$	811
Weighted average gross gain on sales of loans, SBA		8.59	%		9.60	%		10.58	%		9.46	%		10.79	%

Net gain on sales of loans, SBA (2)	$	932		$	1,078		$	711		$	647		$	581
Weighted average net gain on sales of loans, SBA		5.17	%		6.86	%		6.59	%		5.95	%		7.73	%


(2) Inclusive of gains on servicing assets and net of commissions, referral fees, SBA repair fees and discounts on unguaranteed portions held-for-investment.


SUMMARIZED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED):	Three Months Ended
Summarized Consolidated Average Balance Sheets	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
(In thousands)		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024
Interest-earning assets
Average balances:
Interest-bearing deposits with banks	$	15,889		$	11,851		$	21,102		$	16,841		$	26,100
Loans		1,992,567			1,946,338			2,010,082			1,988,997			1,943,716
Investment securities – taxable		104,169			102,744			101,960			99,834			101,350
Investment securities – nontaxable		162,017			161,579			160,929			158,917			157,991
FRB and FHLB stock		24,993			24,986			24,986			24,986			24,986
Total interest-earning assets	$	2,299,635		$	2,247,498		$	2,319,059		$	2,289,575		$	2,254,143

Interest income (tax equivalent basis):
Interest-bearing deposits with banks	$	145		$	168		$	210		$	209		$	324
Loans		29,214			27,998			29,617			29,450			28,155
Investment securities – taxable		947			921			914			910			918
Investment securities – nontaxable		1,733			1,719			1,715			1,685			1,665
FRB and FHLB stock		416			511			493			471			519
Total interest income (tax equivalent basis)	$	32,455		$	31,317		$	32,949		$	32,725		$	31,581

Weighted average yield (tax equivalent basis, annualized):
Interest-bearing deposits with banks		3.65	%		5.67	%		3.98	%		4.96	%		4.97	%
Loans		5.86	%		5.75	%		5.89	%		5.92	%		5.79	%
Investment securities – taxable		3.64	%		3.59	%		3.59	%		3.65	%		3.62	%
Investment securities – nontaxable		4.28	%		4.26	%		4.26	%		4.24	%		4.22	%
FRB and FHLB stock		6.66	%		8.18	%		7.89	%		7.54	%		8.31	%
Total interest-earning assets		5.65	%		5.57	%		5.68	%		5.72	%		5.60	%

Interest-bearing liabilities
Interest-bearing deposits	$	1,537,248		$	1,653,058		$	1,671,156		$	1,563,258		$	1,572,871
Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings		437,371			266,975			315,583			378,956			351,227
Subordinated debt and other borrowings		35,070			48,656			48,616			48,576			48,537
Total interest-bearing liabilities	$	2,009,689		$	1,968,689		$	2,035,355		$	1,990,790		$	1,972,635

Interest expense:
Interest-bearing deposits	$	10,601		$	12,069		$	13,606		$	12,825		$	12,740
Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings		4,149			2,001			2,617			3,521			3,021
Subordinated debt and other borrowings		489			762			764			800			799
Total interest expense	$	15,239		$	14,832		$	16,987		$	17,146		$	16,560

Weighted average cost (annualized):
Interest-bearing deposits		2.76	%		2.92	%		3.26	%		3.28	%		3.24	%
Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings		3.79	%		3.00	%		3.32	%		3.72	%		3.44	%
Subordinated debt and other borrowings		5.58	%		6.26	%		6.29	%		6.59	%		6.58	%
Total interest-bearing liabilities		3.03	%		3.01	%		3.34	%		3.45	%		3.36	%

Net interest income (taxable equivalent basis)	$	17,216		$	16,485		$	15,962		$	15,579		$	15,021
Less: taxable equivalent adjustment		(491	)		(494	)		(500	)		(502	)		(487	)
Net interest income	$	16,725		$	15,991		$	15,462		$	15,077		$	14,534

Interest rate spread (tax equivalent basis, annualized)		2.62	%		2.56	%		2.34	%		2.27	%		2.24	%

Net interest margin (tax equivalent basis, annualized)		2.99	%		2.93	%		2.75	%		2.72	%		2.67	%

The MIL Network –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Confirmation Hearing on Chief of Naval Operations Nominee Admiral Daryl Caudle

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
Watch Video Here
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today led a hearing to consider the nomination of Admiral Daryl Caudle to be Chief of Naval Operations.
In his opening remarks, Chairman Wicker praised Admiral Caudle’s extensive experience and highlighted the challenges facing the Navy amid rising demands in the maritime domain.
Read Senator Wicker’s hearing opening statement as delivered.
I welcome Admiral Daryl Caudle, and his family are here, thank you for being here today. As Commander of United States Fleet Forces Command for the past four years, Admiral Caudle has been responsible for the readiness, training, and deployment of naval forces. He is uniquely suited to guide the Navy through today’s complex challenges.
The U.S. Navy handles critical maritime missions that no other nation could shoulder. Our Navy is unmatched in its capabilities. No other navy can operate complex naval exercises in the Pacific, defend Israel from Iranian ballistic missile attacks, and prosecute a campaign against the Houthi terrorists in Yemen – executing all of these missions nearly simultaneously.
Accomplishing all these objectives is no easy feat. Admiral Caudle has championed a ready fleet, targeting a goal of 80 percent surge combat readiness to ensure forces are prepared for rapid deployment. He also started the important task of rethinking force generation models to consider how we can more efficiently generate combat power. We must start addressing the global demand for United States naval presence by increasing the supply of ready ships, personnel, and equipment.
Last week, this committee released the text of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026. In addition to reforms proposed by the FORGED Act, our bill seeks to address maintenance challenges faced by the Navy’s surface fleet. The Senate’s plan adjusts the contracting strategy for ship repair. We would like to see the Navy give a clear demand signal to each shipyard and bring them into the planning process much earlier. Additionally, we proposed authorities that are meant to reverse inefficiencies in current processes by empowering the fleet to oversee maintenance. I would like to hear from our witness about these reforms and his strategies for boosting readiness to meet global demands.
The committee’s NDAA would help correct serious deficiencies in the Navy’s budget by proposing additional support for the service. Billions of dollars are misaligned between the Navy’s budget request and the recently enacted reconciliation law. If confirmed, Admiral Caudle must navigate these fiscal realities in order to keep readiness and modernization on track. I am hopeful that Congress will unite to raise the defense topline, closing these gaps to ensure our Navy remains the world’s preeminent maritime force.
Fortunately, the reconciliation law gives the Navy a transformative opportunity. It includes $18 billion for shipbuilding, $5 billion for unmanned systems, $5 billion for rebuilding the maritime industrial base, $5 billion for munitions and missiles, and $2 billion for ship spare parts.
These investments are necessary, but they are no substitute for good management. Leadership starts at the top, and I hope that our nominee and Secretary Phelan will build an immediate partnership. The next Chief of Naval Operations will lead our Navy into the most dangerous threat window our country has faced in generations.
Let me quote Admiral Hyman Rickover, “In everything we do, we must ask ourselves: Does this directly advance our preparation for war?” We all seek peace, but the surest path to preserving peace is by building unmatched strength. I look forward to hearing from our witness how he will strengthen our Navy to meet the challenges we need.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Warren on Trump Administration Approving Paramount Megamerger: “Bribery Is Illegal No Matter Who Is President”

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
July 24, 2025
Washington, D.C. – Today, in response to the news that the Trump administration approved Paramount Global’s (Paramount) $8 billion merger with Skydance Media (Skydance), U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) released the following statement:
“Bribery is illegal no matter who is president. It sure looks like Skydance and Paramount paid $36 million to Donald Trump for this merger, and he’s even bragged about this crooked-looking deal. I’ve been ringing the alarm bell for months, launching a Senate investigation into possible corruption, and this merger must be investigated for any criminal behavior. It’s an open question whether the Trump administration’s approval of this merger was the result of a bribe.”
Senator Warren has led the charge to determine if Paramount bribed President Trump in exchange for approval of its multi-billion-dollar megamerger with Skydance, and has fought relentlessly against President Trump’s corruption:
On July 23, Senator Warren published an op-ed in Variety: “Elizabeth Warren on Colbert ‘Late Show’ Cancellation: Is the Paramount Trump Payoff a Bribe?”
On July 21, Senators Warren, Sanders (I-Vt.), and Wyden (D-Ore.) pressed David Ellison, CEO of Skydance, about reports of a secret deal between Skydance and President Trump — and how it may be related to Paramount’s recent multi-million-dollar settlement agreement with Trump.
On July 17, Senators Warren and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), along with Representatives Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.), Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), Melane Stansbury (D-N.M.), and lawmakers in Congress unveiled the Presidential Library Anti-Corruption Act to close loopholes that allow presidential libraries to be used as tools for corruption and bribery.
On July 2, Senator Warren called for an investigation into Paramount’s settlement with Trump.
On May 19, Senators Warren, Sanders, and Wyden wrote to Shari Redstone, Chair of Paramount, with concerns regarding whether Paramount may be engaging in potentially illegal conduct involving the Trump Administration in exchange for approval of its megamerger with Skydance.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI China: Chinese women’s federations urged to advance institutional reform

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

BEIJING, July 24 — Chinese State Councilor and All-China Women’s Federation (ACWF) President Shen Yiqin on Thursday called for continued reform of women’s federations.

Speaking at an expanded meeting of the ACWF Standing Committee, Shen said advancing reform of women’s federations is both a key mandate from the third plenary session of the 20th Communist Party of China Central Committee and essential to mobilizing women’s strength in advancing Chinese modernization.

Shen highlighted actions to strengthen political orientation and grassroots presence of women’s organizations, and maintain their progressive nature.

She urged the federations to reinforce organizational networks, expand diverse working teams, improve cadre competence, and facilitate a shift in working style.

MIL OSI China News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI China: China, EU should expand trade, investment ties to cope with external uncertainties: Chinese premier

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

China, EU should expand trade, investment ties to cope with external uncertainties: Chinese premier

Chinese Premier Li Qiang and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen attend the China-EU Business Leaders Symposium at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, July 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

BEIJING, July 24 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Thursday called on China and the European Union (EU) to expand trade and investment ties to enhance their economic resilience and vitality, and to increase their ability to negotiate external uncertainties.

Li made the remarks at the China-EU Business Leaders Symposium, which was also attended by President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

Speaking to some 60 business leaders, Li said that cooperation is the only correct choice for China and the EU, and that bilateral trade ties have demonstrated strong internal dynamism over the five decades since the establishment of these diplomatic relations.

In the face of rising protectionism and unilateralism, China and the EU can play pivotal roles in economic globalization, and in the stability of international industrial and supply chains, by working together to uphold free trade and multilateralism, and through closer economic and trade cooperation, he said.

He proposed that both sides focus on areas such as trade in services, sci-tech innovation, the green economy and third-party cooperation, and that they foster a good competitive and cooperative relationship.

He encouraged enterprises from both sides to hold an open attitude, align their needs and deepen cooperation in the fields of industrial investment, market expansion, and joint research and development.

Li noted that China will continue expanding its high-level opening-up, shorten its negative list for foreign investment, strengthen intellectual property protection and safeguard fair competition.

“We welcome more European businesses to invest and pursue long-term operations in China,” he said, also calling on the EU to provide a fair, equitable and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese enterprises investing in Europe.

Von der Leyen said that China is not only an industrial powerhouse but also a top performer in innovation.

The EU stands ready to use the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations as an opportunity to deepen its long-term, stable and mutually beneficial partnership with China, she said.

She noted that the EU will enhance cooperation with China in such fields as trade and investment, work with China to promote industrial and supply chain stability, manage differences in a proper manner, and foster a favorable environment for cooperation and business.

The EU has no intention to decouple from China and welcomes Chinese enterprises to invest in Europe, she added.

MIL OSI China News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI China: China has invited high-level representatives from over 40 countries, intl’ organizations to attend 2025 World AI Conference: spokesperson

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

China has invited high-level representatives from over 40 countries, intl’ organizations to attend 2025 World AI Conference: spokesperson

BEIJING, July 24 — China has invited high-level representatives from over 40 countries and international organizations to attend the 2025 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Thursday.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang will attend and address the opening ceremony of the 2025 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance in Shanghai on July 26, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson announced on the same day.

Speaking at a regular news briefing, Guo said artificial intelligence is developing rapidly and becoming an important driving force for the new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation, adding that holding the 2025 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance is an important step to implement the Global AI Governance Initiative proposed by China, with the aim of making the conference a technology leader, application showcase, industry accelerator, and governance council in the field of AI.

The theme of this year’s conference is “Global Solidarity in the AI Era”, according to Guo.

“We hope that participating parties will have in-depth discussions on three major topics, namely deepening innovation cooperation and unleashing the intelligence dividend, promoting inclusive development and bridging the digital divide, and strengthening collaborative governance and ensuring AI for good,” Guo said.

China looks forward to enhanced solidarity, joint pursuit for development and concerted actions to promote the sound and orderly development of AI and make sure it is a force for good, safety, and fairness, he added.

MIL OSI China News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI China: 9 Chinese cities accredited as int’l wetland cities

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

VICTORIA FALLS, Zimbabwe, July 24 — A total of nine Chinese cities were accredited as international wetland cities on Thursday during the opening of the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (COP15) held in Zimbabwe’s resort city of Victoria Falls, bringing the total number of such cities in China to 22, the highest in the world.

The nine newly accredited cities are Chongming in Shanghai, Dali in Yunnan Province, Fuzhou in Fujian Province, Hangzhou in Zhejiang Province, Jiujiang in Jiangxi Province, Lhasa in the Xizang Autonomous Region, Suzhou in Jiangsu Province, Wenzhou in Zhejiang Province, and Yueyang in Hunan Province.

Johane Chenjekwa, mayor of Kasane in Botswana, commended China for promoting wetland conservation, noting that Africa can benefit from cooperation with China in wetland management.

“We will see, as we interact, what we can learn from them. They are also willing to learn from how we do things here, so it’s really a (great) experience to be mingling (together),” he said.

Chenjekwa added that as the world faces the common challenge of wetland degradation, joint efforts with China can help tackle its impacts.

In his opening remarks, Jay Aldous, deputy secretary-general of the Convention on Wetlands, noted that while urbanization brings tangible development progress, there is a need to ensure that it does not interfere with wetland preservation.

“Unplanned or poorly managed urban expansion has emerged as a global concern, contributing to the degradation of wetlands, loss of biodiversity, disruption of ecological balance, rising greenhouse gas emissions, worsening air and water pollution, and escalating the impacts of climate change,” he said.

In response to these challenges and recognizing the pivotal role of cities and urban wetlands, the Convention on Wetlands launched the Wetland City Accreditation scheme to encourage the protection of urban wetlands and their integration into sustainable urban planning, Aldous said.

“By embracing the convention’s principles of wise use, cities can harness the ecological, social, and economic benefits that wetlands provide, including climate adaptation and mitigation, flood regulation, cultural value, and improved human well-being,” he said.

Held under the theme of “Protecting Wetlands for our Common Future”, the COP15, which will conclude on July 31, has brought together contracting parties to strengthen international commitments to wetland protection.

MIL OSI China News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Representative Nadler Delivers Remarks at Rally in Support of Brooklyn Container Port

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jerrold Nadler (10th District of New York)

Today, Representative Jerrold Nadler (NY-12) delivered the following remarks, as prepared for delivery, at a community rally in Red Hook in support of the Brooklyn container port:

“Thank you for inviting me here today. As many of you know, I have advocated for the Port of New York and New Jersey for more than forty years. For many of those years, I represented the Red Hook waterfront in Congress and fought for this vital facility, the community, and the jobs that depend on the port.

Red Hook is the only remaining container port facility on the eastern side of the Hudson River, making it immensely important for our city, state, and region. We gather today to address a critical decision facing our community regarding the future of the Brooklyn Marine Terminal and Red Hook’s working waterfront.

Red Hook has served as an active working waterfront for 150 years. While the port may be smaller than terminals in New Jersey and Staten Island, its location in the heart of America’s largest consumer market provides unique value. Red Hook connects our region to vital supply chains, bringing fresh produce from Latin America and the Caribbean directly to grocery stores throughout the city and Long Island.

The recent Baltimore bridge collapse reminded us how vulnerable our supply chains can be. We need redundancy and resilient alternatives. The Blue Highway barge service operating since 1991 employs skilled long-shore workers representing generations of maritime expertise. This infrastructure deserves our investment and protection.

Unfortunately, the city in acquiring the facility made a bad deal with the Port Authority and inherited a facility with significant challenges from decades of underinvestment. But now that the city owns Brooklyn Marine Terminal, it must repair the facility without any conditions. The current proposal from EDC is deeply flawed. To save the port, they propose developing thousands of market-rate housing units to finance improvements. I believe there is a better path forward, because their plan would have the opposite effect—shrinking and killing the very port they claim to want to save.

I fully recognize the city’s housing crisis requires urgent attention. However, adding 8,000 housing units to an area with narrow streets, aging infrastructure, and limited transit raises serious concerns about community impact and quality of life.
I propose a more thoughtful approach. First, preserve the Red Hook Port with no reduction in its footprint. Second, the city should invest in port stabilization and improvements as a public infrastructure priority, similar to investments in ferry lines, roads, and bridges. New York State should contribute as well, since the terminal serves the broader region including Long Island and the Hudson Valley.

Finally, housing decisions should be addressed through the established ULURP process, designed for complex land use decisions requiring maximum community input. This same process recently delivered the City of Yes housing plan through proper democratic engagement.

The fact that EDC keeps postponing the Task Force vote shows they lack support for their deeply flawed plan. It is profoundly undemocratic for EDC to delay the vote simply because they know their plan will be rejected. I urge the Task Force to approve necessary port improvements immediately while deferring housing decisions for later consideration through the ULURP process. This approach respects both the community’s voice and the democratic processes that ensure good governance.

The future of Red Hook deserves careful deliberation, not rushed decisions. We can protect our working waterfront while addressing housing needs through proper planning and community engagement.”

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Congressman Castro Testifies at Texas Capitol to Stand Against Governor Abbott’s Gerrymandering Efforts

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joaquin Castro (20th District of Texas)

July 24, 2025

AUSTIN, TX — Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) testified before the Texas House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting to stand up to Governor Greg Abbott and President Trump for subverting the will of all Texans and disenfranchising the voting power of minority voters.

Congressman Castro Delivers 2 Minute Testimony

Congressman Castro’s testimony below:

Thank you, Chairman and Members of the Committee.

I am proud to represent my hometown of San Antonio, Texas, the 20^th Congressional District.

I was a freshman in 2003, when as Democrats, we left the state for Ardmore, Oklahoma, to stop mid-decade redistricting more than 20 years ago.

It was wrong then, and it’s wrong now.

And you all are being used. You’re being used by the White House and by Donald Trump. You’re being used because he doesn’t want Democrats to control the majority of the Congress so that there’ll be no investigations.

There has been no discussion in Congress about the floods that occurred in Kerr County and the loss of so many lives. There has been no discussion on the Epstein files, no discussions on the Iran leaks and all those messages by the Secretary of Defense and others.

There literally is no accountability right now in Congress and the people that are going to pay for this are the folks in Black and Brown communities in our cities. They’re going to have their districts cracked and packed and un-Blacked because of this effort.

That’s what’s at stake here, whether you all are going to work for the people of Texas, as we used to do, or try to do, or whether you’re going to take your commandments from Donald Trump and the White House.

I hope that you all will choose to do the business of the people of Texas as this body has a history of being independent from the federal government, not a stooge for it.

I yield back.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Pressley Slams DHS Stealing Immigrants’ DNA and Giving it to FBI Criminal Database

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

Pressley Also Condemns GOP Inhumane Treatment of Immigrant Children

“This administration is turning childhood trauma into a permanent record. Republicans on this committee claim to be focused on protecting children, yet ignore actual threats to their safety.”

Video (YouTube)

WASHINGTON – In a House Oversight Federal Law Enforcement Subcommittee hearing, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) condemned Trump’s DHS policy to steal the DNA of immigrants – including children as young as four years old – and handing it over to an FBI criminal database to surveil them like suspects in waiting.

In her remarks, Rep. Pressley made clear that the stealing of children’s genetic information is a direct violation of their civil rights and civil liberties and slammed Trump and Republicans for traumatizing children while claiming to protect them.

A full transcript of her remarks as delivered is available below, and the full video is available here.

Transcript: Pressley Slams DHS Stealing Immigrants’ DNA and Giving it to FBI Criminal Database

House of Representatives

July 23, 2025

REP. PRESSLEY: Thank you. First, let me begin by saying this: Republicans, you sound absolutely absurd. Stop calling children “aliens.” This intentional – I mean, the cruelty is the point – this intentional, dehumanizing, and persistent persecution through your rhetoric is shameful.

You are literally attacking children. I cannot take seriously anyone who’s using othering language to bully babies and toddlers.

Republicans don’t want us to see the humanity of immigrants. That’s why they like saying “aliens” and even put it in the title of the hearing. And that inhumane approach is consistent with the actions of the Department of Homeland Security.

Dr. Cuffari, have you heard about the DHS policy of collecting the DNA of children and storing it into the FBI criminal database? Yes or no?

DR. CUFFARI: I believe there is not a policy to do children.

REP. PRESSLEY: There absolutely is. Mr. Chair, I ask unanimous consent to enter into the record this report from July 2025, titled ‘Rating the Genome: How the United States Government is Abusing its Immigration Powers to Amass DNA for Future Policing.’

CHAIR HIGGINS: Without objection.

REP. PRESSLEY: This policy began under Donald Trump. In his first term, he authorized DHS to begin mass DNA data collection from immigrants – including children – and hand that data over to an FBI database designed to track violent offenders.

Now that he’s back, Trump is taking this policy to new extremes, adding more than a quarter million people to the database in just four months. A quarter million people, okay, in four months.

This committee recently held a hearing on genetic data, and there was bipartisan agreement that DNA is highly sensitive and its misuse is a violation of people’s rights, because children as young as four years old could not possibly consent to DNA collection.

So I want to know what your office is doing about it, Dr. Cuffari-

DR. CUFFARI: We actually wrote a report –

REP. PRESSLEY: One moment, let me ask the question.

DR. CUFFARI: Certainly.

REP. PRESSLEY: Is it the responsibility of your office to investigate abuses of civil rights and civil liberties? Yes or no?

DR. CUFFARI: Yes.

REP. PRESSLEY: Has your office ever investigated concerns about DHS agents stealing genetic information from children and uploading it to the FBI criminal database?

DR. CUFFARI: Not to my knowledge, during my tenure.

REP. PRESSLEY: Well, for an Inspector General worthy of the title, it should be a priority investigation. Do you agree?

DR. CUFFARI: I agree that we did a report –

REP. PRESSLEY: Thank you.

DR. CUFFARI: Thank you.

REP. PRESSLEY: You agree?

DR. CUFFARI: I agree –

REP. PRESSLEY: There should be a priority investigation?

DR. CUFFARI: – On the matter you’re discussing.

REP. PRESSLEY: For the record, I want to be clear. Do you agree this should be a priority investigation by your office to look into agents stealing genetic information from children and uploading it to the FBI criminal database – yes or no? Yes or no?

DR. CUFFARI: We have done the report –

REP. PRESSLEY: Let me just this –

DR. CUFFARI: We have done the report you’re mentioning –

REP. PRESSLEY: Let me just say this – your office, according to Title Five of the US Code, Chapter Four, Section 417 – this is the responsibility you are charged with, to investigate abuses of civil rights and civil liberties.

Children as young as four years old have not consented to the collection of their DNA. That is a violation of their civil rights and civil liberties.

So this is not a trick question. Do you believe, given the charge and jurisdiction of your office, that this should be a priority investigation, as their rights have been violated?

DR. CUFFARI: Unless the adult consented on the child –

REP. PRESSLEY: Yes or no? Yes or no, Dr. Cuffari?

DR. CUFFARI: We just got done writing a report.

REP. PRESSLEY: On what?

DR. CUFFARI: On the DNA collection within the Department of Homeland Security.

REP. PRESSLEY: I thought you said you weren’t even aware that it was a policy. I’m very confused.

DR. CUFFARI: There’s not a policy.

REP. PRESSLEY: Dr. Cuffari, I’m not going to, you know, play these games here – because we’re talking about children, so I don’t want to circle the drain.

But this should be a priority investigation, because we have children whose civil rights have been violated with the collection of their DNA.

This administration is turning childhood trauma into a permanent record.

Republicans on this committee, you claim to be focused on protecting children, yet you’re ignoring actual threats to their safety.

You traumatize children with the threat of disappearing their parents. You traumatize children by disappearing their parents. You traumatize children by conducting their DNA without their consent and criminalizing them. You traumatize children by denying them food when they’re hungry. You traumatize children by denying them essential health care, which is their human right.

You traumatize them so much that they’re afraid to show up to school, afraid to show up to church, afraid to go to doctor’s appointments.

Mr. Chair, I ask unanimous consent to enter into the record this July 2025 article from the Boston Globe, titled, ‘I Want Daddy: As ICE Detains Parents and Children –

CHAIR HIGGINS: Without objection and the gentlelady’s time has expired.

REP. PRESSLEY: Stop using children as pawns. This is the real child abuse.

Thank you, I yield.

###

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH1B Telephone Road rail crossing to reopen next week

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

The rail crossing on State Highway 1B Telephone Road, east of Hamilton, is set to reopen to traffic next week, more than 3 years after it was closed.

The signals and barriers at the crossing are in the final stages of KiwiRail’s testing and commissioning process. Pending final approval, the crossing is expected to open Wednesday afternoon, 30 July.

“This is a big milestone for the Puketaha community who have been living with the lengthy detour,” says Andrew Corkill, Director of Regional Relationships for Waikato/Bay of Plenty at NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).

“It’s been a long process to reopen this rail crossing and we’d like to thank the community, Waikato District Council and KiwiRail who have all worked constructively with NZTA to get us to this point.”

Since early 2025, work has been ongoing at the crossing to address the 2 main safety concerns which led to the rail crossing being closed in April 2022.

The first was the height of the rail tracks above the road on either side of the crossing, which led to low vehicles hitting and dislodging sections of the rail track; the second was the short distance from the crossing to the intersection with Holland Road.

To mitigate these, the road height has been raised by up to 410mm for a distance of 90 metres either side of the rail crossing and escape lanes have been built on Holland Road to ensure that vehicles can clear the rail crossing while the train is approaching.

Siva Sivapakkiam, KiwiRail’s Acting Chief Infrastructure Officer says; “We are pleased to see the SH1B Telephone Road rail crossing open again, and safer than before with newly installed active safety protection. This is a good outcome for the community, and we thank everyone for their patience. This has not been a straightforward project, but strong collaboration with NZTA and others has led to this good result.”

New signals and barriers have been installed at the rail crossing and additional warning signs for approaching trains have been installed on SH1B Telephone Road and at the Holland Road intersection.

Background

The rail crossing on SH1B Telephone Road was previously considered one of the most dangerous in New Zealand.

As a result of an incident in April 2022 KiwiRail and NZTA decided to immediately close the rail crossing until it could safely reopen.

Following the closure, NZTA commissioned a detailed report on the future options for the crossing from consultants WSP. The report explored a range of options from low-cost interventions such as barrier arms, limited access to light vehicles and judder bars, to more complex options that involved significant engineering work to reconfigure the rail crossing and adjacent intersection.

NZTA remained committed to investigating practical and affordable solutions to allow the SH1B Telephone Road rail crossing to reopen and continued to work with KiwiRail. This led to the new design which met KiwiRail requirements to allow the rail crossing to reopen.

Another important factor in the new design meeting safety requirements is the reduction in traffic volumes, particularly the lower number of trucks, using SH1B following the completion of the Hamilton section of the Waikato Expressway.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Safer intersection ahead – new roundabout SH5 & SH28/Harwoods Road

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

The busy intersection of State Highway 5 and State Highway 28-Harwoods Road east of Tīrau will be made safer with work starting next month on a roundabout.

The T-intersection has a poor safety record which NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) says can be improved with a 3-leg roundabout.

Work will start on 18 August with traffic expected to be flowing on the roundabout by March 2026. Schick Construction has been awarded the physical works contract and will monitor and manage traffic through the site during the construction period.

Some closures of SH28-Harwoods Road at the works site may be needed later in the build, with dates and detours to be advised when confirmed.

In the past 10 years there has been one death and 17 serious injury crashes at the SH5 Harwoods Road intersection.

“This roundabout is one of several safety improvements planned for the stretch of SH5 between Tīrau and Tārukenga Marae Road,” says Regional Manager Infrastructure Delivery, Darryl Coalter.

A right-turn bay was built at Waimakariri Road earlier this year, while funding has been allocated to complete design for a roundabout at SH5/SH28-Whites Road.

NZTA is also undertaking general widening works between Whites and Harwoods roads to allow for wide centrelines. The first section between Whites and Waimakariri roads will be done this spring.

The maintenance programme this spring/early summer will see a rebuild of 400m of Whites Road from south of the SH5 intersection. The intersection itself will receive a new asphalt surface.

No changes are proposed for the road through Tūkorehe Reserve/Fitzgerald Glade.

SH5 Tīrau to Tārukenga safety improvements project page

View larger/downloadable map [PDF, 366 KB]

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Clamping down on overdue court fines

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is trialling new technology which will help clamp and seize cars of people evading paying court fines, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says.

“If you haven’t paid your court fines, you may soon find yourself walking home or needing a lift.

“Bailiffs are now trialling handheld devices which scan the number plates of parked cars, and determine whether the owners have overdue court fines or reparations.

“If they do, the car may be clamped or towed away. It’s that simple.

“This is first being trialled throughout streets nationwide, and will be present at some breath testing stations this weekend alongside police.

“We promised to find new effective ways to force people to pay their court fines. That’s exactly what we’re delivering. We know wheel clamping is already a successful enforcement tool and we want to build on that.

“Those who have suffered emotional harm or have had their property lost or damaged by an offender’s actions should not be left out of pocket.

“Victims are our priority, and their needs underpin all our work to restore law and order, which we know is working.

“There’s been a long-standing slackness when it comes to bringing in fines and I’ve given very strong instructions to the Ministry of Justice to find ways to collect them.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Politics – What the heck Winston? Greenpeace queries NZ First support for Seymour’s Overseas Investment Bill

Source: Greenpeace

Greenpeace is asking NZ First leader Winston Peters what the heck his party is doing supporting an amendment Bill which could lead to greater corporate control of Aotearoa.

NZ First has supported ACT leader David Seymour’s amendment Bill to the Overseas Investment Act, through its first reading. Submissions on the Bill closed this week.

Greenpeace spokesperson Gen Toop says: “ACT is trying to change the Overseas Investment law to make it easier for multinational corporations to buy up and exploit conservation land, lakebeds, coastal zones, wāhi tapu sites and other sensitive land across Aotearoa.”

“Shockingly, ACT is even trying to remove the mandatory requirement that the Government check whether a corporation has been involved in serious criminal activity before giving them access to New Zealand’s sensitive land and natural resources.”

The Act currently mandates that the Government apply the Benefit to New Zealand test and Investor Test before giving consent to the sale of land that is classified as “sensitive” and allows them to decline consent if either of these tests are failed.

Sensitive land is outlined in the Act and includes conservation areas, lake beds, marine and coastal zones, offshore islands, wāhi tapu and other culturally significant sites, as well as land adjoining these areas.

The Bill proposes that instead of applying a public benefit and investor test, the Government applies a narrower “national interest” test which Greenpeace says completely fails to guarantee any meaningful consideration of environmental, cultural, or public interest values.

“NZ First currently supports a Bill that would make it easier for multinational corporations to loot and destroy Aotearoa and funnel the profits to offshore shareholders leaving New Zealanders to deal with the mess – polluted rivers, drained aquifers and degraded ecosystems,” Toop says.

The Bill also scraps the requirement that water quality and sustainability be assessed before allowing overseas interests to extract, bottle and sell New Zealand’s freshwater.

“NZ First claims to put New Zealand first. But this ACT party Bill firmly puts offshore corporations first and New Zealanders last. Winston Peters should withdraw his party’s support for the Bill before it’s too late.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI Australia: Fatal crash at Merseylea

Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

Fatal crash at Merseylea

Friday, 25 July 2025 – 8:25 am.

Sadly, a man has died following a crash at Merseylea overnight.
Police and emergency services were called to the scene about 3am, after a cement truck crashed while travelling along Railton Road.
Initial inquiries indicate the prime mover was travelling in a north westerly direction, approaching a slight bend, when it has veered off the road and crashed into a bank.
Members of the public stopped and contacted emergency services.
Medical attention was provided to the truck driver and his passenger, but sadly the passenger died at the scene.
The driver was taken to the Launceston General Hospital. His injuries are not believed to be life threatening.
The crash is under investigation and anyone with information or relevant dash cam footage, is asked to contact police on 131 444 and quote ESCAD 21-25072025.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of both men. A report will be prepared for the coroner.

MIL OSI News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: Remittix Announces Wallet Beta Launch As Interest From XRP and ADA Communities Grows

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

KOSICE, Slovakia, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With hype building across the crypto community, Remittix, the low-fee crypto disrupting traditional remittance infrastructures, has announced the beta launch date of its new multi-chain crypto wallet, to cater to Ethereum, Solana, and more.

This comes on the heels of overwhelming interest from both the XRP and Cardano (ADA) communities, both of which are known for their passion for utility-led blockchain projects.

With over $17 million raised in its presale and 563 million tokens sold, Remittix continues to drive the attention of savvy investors, DeFi enthusiasts, and blockchain developers looking for the subsequent high-income crypto with real-world utility.

Wallet Beta Release – Q3 2025

Remittix Wallet is envisioned for the next-generation global crypto user, especially in the emerging markets where high remittance fees and slow transactions are a constant frustration. Beta testers will get to experience:

Secure transfers and storage on Ethereum and Solana
Forward-looking architecture for XRP and Cardano integration
Early exposure to Remittix staking and passive yield features
An opportunity to win a share of the $250,000 Remittix Giveaway
A 50% token reward for current presale participants

This wallet will be the foundation of Remittix’s bigger picture: making it possible for users to make lightning-fast, low-cost crypto payments across borders, without banks or middlemen.

XRP and ADA Users Fuel Remittix Momentum

Remittix quotes a sharp rise in waitlist signups and presale purchases from users across XRP and ADA Telegram and Reddit communities. Why? A good, chain-agnostic wallet that provides the value that most networks promise but few deliver—availability, affordability, and actual utility.

Our infrastructure is talking the same language as XRP and Cardano users—technology that performs, not hype that expires. This beta wallet is for them, said a Remittix product lead.

Real-World Utility: The Crypto-to-Fiat Vision Behind Remittix

While the Remittix Wallet beta will focus on multi-chain crypto transactions and staking, the broader mission is much bigger: creating a bridge between crypto and real-world fiat use. In future updates, Remittix plans to add local off-ramp solutions, allowing users to easily cash out stablecoins for local currency.

That is, not just holding crypto—but spending it.

The future vision involves:

Crypto-to-fiat payout rails for underbanked users
Support for mobile money platforms and local payment agents
Faster settlements than traditional banks
Borderless, bankless payments with real value in daily life

It’s a future where users in Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America can receive USDT or ETH—and instantly convert it to local currency, skipping high fees and slow processes.

Presale Momentum Builds

Remittix’s ongoing presale hasn’t only surpassed the $17 million mark but is accelerating as word gets out through crypto staking forums and altcoin investor groups. As it offers low gas fee support, DeFi hardware, and multi-chain support, the token is picking up speed as one of 2025’s hottest new crypto launches.

Investors can join the presale and receive their bonus tokens using the official Remittix website. The Q3 2025 introduction of beta wallets will mark the beginning, and the support for additional blockchains such as Cardano and XRP is in planning.

About Remittix

Remittix is a DeFi protocol working towards simplifying cross-border payments using low-gas-cost crypto networks. It is built to scale on Ethereum, Solana, Cardano, and more, and its functionalities include staking, simple transfers, and a multi-chain wallet, designed for the billions of underbanked and unbanked users around the world.

For media inquiries:
Visit Remittix Whitepaper & Presale Info
Follow Remittix on X for official updates

Contact:
Andy Černý
andy@remittix.io

Disclaimer: This content is provided by Remittix. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a4985626-8264-4a9f-b209-b5730f1c9673

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/26741d00-d2cb-4fbb-a4c6-7fc60ccc90d2

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d1af55ca-828a-4c8d-9051-9b147f99cfdb

The MIL Network –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: UPDATE–Brag House Announces $15 Million Private Placement

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brag House Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: TBH) (“Brag House” or the “Company”) the Gen Z engagement platform operating at the intersection of gaming, college sports, and digital media, announces today that it has entered into a securities purchase agreement with twelve accredited investors (not one as previously reported) for a private investment in public equity (“PIPE”) financing that is expected to result in gross proceeds to the Company of approximately $15 million, before deducting placement agent fees and offering expenses.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes, including working capital.

Pursuant to the terms of the securities purchase agreement, the Company is selling an aggregate of 15,000 shares of its Series B Convertible Preferred Stock convertible into 15,923,567 shares of common stock, at a conversion price of $0.942 per share of Series B Convertible Stock and an aggregate of 15,923,567 warrants to acquire up to 15,923,567 shares of common stock. The purchase price for one unit (consisting of one share of Series B Convertible Preferred Stock convertible into approximately 1,061 shares and the same number of warrants) was $1,000. The warrants issued in the offering are exercisable immediately upon issuance at an exercise price of $0.817 per share and will expire five years from the date of issuance.

Revere Securities LLC acted as the sole placement agent for the PIPE financing.

The securities being offered and sold by the Company in the private placement have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements. The securities were offered only to accredited investors. The Company has agreed to file one or more registration statements with the SEC covering the resale of the unregistered shares issuable upon the conversion of the Series B Preferred Stock and the shares issuable upon exercise of the unregistered warrants.

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

About Brag House Holdings, Inc.

Brag House is a leading media technology platform dedicated to transforming casual college gaming into a vibrant, community-driven experience. By merging gaming, social interaction, and collegiate culture, Brag House enables brands to authentically connect with the influential Gen Z demographic through gamified experiences, live-streaming content, and scalable data insights. For more information, visit www.braghouse.com.

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “is/are likely to,” “potential,” “continue” or other similar expressions. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the risk factors discussed in the Risk Factors and in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations sections of our Forms 10-K, 10-Q and other reports filed with the SEC and available at www.sec.gov. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations that arise after the date hereof, except as may be required by law.

Investor Relations Contact
Adele Carey
VP, Investor Relations
ir@thebraghouse.com

Media Contact
Fatema Bhabrawala
Director of Media Relations
fbhabrawala@allianceadvisors.com

The MIL Network –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Development Minister sets out new UK approach to development at G20 meeting in South Africa

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Development Minister sets out new UK approach to development at G20 meeting in South Africa

The UK is resetting its relationship with countries in the Global South and helping countries exit the need for aid, as Baroness Chapman attends the G20 Development Ministerial Meeting in South Africa.

Development Minister Baroness Chapman will reset the UK’s approach to international development at the G20 Development Meeting in South Africa today (Friday, 25 July).
Economic development underpins the UK’s new approach, as the Minister visits a South African food producer supported by the FCDO’s development arm BII.
The UK is supporting countries to transition from traditional aid to innovative financing for development, as the Minister visits a centre for survivors of gender-based violence funded by both the UK and the private sector.

The UK is resetting its relationship with countries in the Global South and helping countries exit the need for aid, as Baroness Chapman attends the G20 Development Ministerial Meeting in South Africa today (Friday 25 July 2025).

This follows the publication of ODA allocations earlier this week (Tuesday 22 July 2025), which indicate how the UK is going to spend its aid budget for the next year.

The UK will move from being a donor to a genuine partner and investor, ensuring every pound spent on aid delivers for the UK taxpayer and the people we support.

Economic development underpins the UK’s new approach, to help countries grow fairer, more resilient economies and ultimately exit the need for aid, in support of the government’s Plan for Change.

The Minister saw this in action yesterday (Thursday 24 July 2025) as she visited an Agristar farm which produces macadamia nuts in Mbombela, eastern South Africa. British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution, is supporting Agristar to expand – supporting jobs and growth and helping to stock British supermarket shelves.

The Minister also visited a UK supported care centre for survivors of gender-based violence in Mbombela, alongside South African Minister for Women, Youth and Persons with Disability, Sindisiwe Lydia Chikunga. The centre is supported by a multi-donor fund which has seen increased backing from South African and international private investors. The innovative funding approach has supported over 200 community-based organisations in South Africa working to prevent violence in schools and communities and provide response services for survivors of gender-based violence. This demonstrates the UK and South Africa’s shared commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment.

By mobilising private finance and empowering partners to take charge of their own development, the UK is moving away from a paternalistic approach to aid.

Minister for Development, Baroness Chapman said:

We want to help countries move beyond aid. In South Africa, I’ve seen the impact we can have with genuine partnerships, rather than paternalism. Our work is supporting jobs and generating global economic growth – and bringing high quality South African produce to UK shops.

At the G20 in South Africa, I have one simple message: the world has changed and so must we. The UK is taking a new approach to development, responding to the needs of our partners and delivering real impact and value for money for UK taxpayers.

At the G20, the Minister is due to discuss the UK’s new approach to international development with counterparts from Egypt, India and Germany.

The Agristar farm in Mbombela, which the Minister visited yesterday, has benefitted from UK investment as part of the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP). BII support has enabled the macadamia nut producer to expand its operations across Africa, invest in measures to mitigate climate risks, and support nearly 400 jobs. BII is also supporting Agristar’s expansion into Malawi.

BII, which aims to make a return on its investments, has so far supported 92 companies in South Africa and over 35,000 jobs.

Its success highlights how the UK’s investment in international development is driving green growth and jobs, boosting global prosperity and stability to help create the conditions to deliver the government’s Plan for Change at home.

The Minister will also announce today a new £2 million commitment to support local agribusiness projects by partnering with South African investment funds to drive more private finance for the farming sector.

In G20 talks on tackling illicit financial flows, the Minister will highlight how money and assets siphoned away as part of criminal activity deprive lower-income countries of vital resources which could otherwise support growth and development. The Foreign Secretary is leading a campaign against illicit finance, mobilising the best UK expertise and international partnerships, so dirty money has nowhere to hide. This is also vital to deterring threats to the safety and security of Britain, as part of the government’s Plan for Change.

Media enquiries

Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

Telephone 020 7008 3100

Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

Published 25 July 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister Carney and Inuit leadership meet as the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee

Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, the President of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, Natan Obed, federal Cabinet ministers, and elected Inuit leadership from the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, Makivvik, and the Nunatsiavut Government gathered for a meeting of the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee (ICPC) in Inuvik, Northwest Territories.

Since the signing of the Inuit Nunangat Declaration in 2017, the Government of Canada and Inuit leaders have continued to meet three times annually and work together through the ICPC to advance shared priorities, strengthen the Inuit-Crown partnership, and create a more prosperous Inuit Nunangat.

During today’s meeting, the leaders discussed the Building Canada Act and how to implement it effectively and consistently with Inuit Modern Treaties and in partnership with Inuit.

In addition to the Building Canada Act, federal and Inuit leaders discussed the infrastructure needs in Inuit Nunangat, Canada’s Arctic Foreign Policy, and the need to further protect the security and sovereignty of the Arctic and Inuit Nunangat. They also addressed other urgent priorities, including health care and social issues such as housing in Inuit Nunangat. The leaders underscored opportunities to build together to address these challenges and deliver meaningful economic prosperity.

In Inuvik, the Prime Minister announced the appointment of Virginia Mearns as Canada’s Arctic Ambassador, effective September 15, 2025. The Ambassador’s mandate will focus on reinforcing Canada’s Arctic engagement with like-minded partners and multilateral forums, bolstering Arctic sovereignty, and advancing opportunities for security and growth.

Inuit leaders and the federal government reaffirmed their shared commitment to working together on priorities through the ICPC.

Quotes

“Today’s Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee meeting was about building our shared future and Inuit Nunangat’s full economic potential. In partnership, Inuit and the federal government will build major projects that connect and transform our economy, create greater prosperity and opportunities, and build a stronger Canada.”

“Now in its ninth year, the Inuit-Crown Partnership Committee remains an essential tool for advancing shared priorities. This includes increasing investment in Inuit Nunangat through implementation of the Building Canada Act in a way that is consistent with Inuit treaties and in partnership with Inuit. We welcome the opportunity to continue this important work with Mark Carney, to strengthen our partnership and build lasting prosperity for Inuit in Inuit Nunangat and across Canada. We also celebrate today’s announcement of Virginia Mearns as Canada’s Arctic Ambassador, a position that was developed through the ICPC.”

“In order to build stronger, healthier communities and a thriving economy, we must work together. For that reason, projects that move forward in Inuit Nunangat will do so in partnership with Inuit. We’re committed to engaging, listening, and working with local communities and Inuit leadership to ensure their priorities and perspectives are reflected in the work ahead. Today’s meeting is an important step forward in making sure the Building Canada Act supports a better future for Inuit across Inuit Nunangat.”

“Canada will build major projects in true partnership with Inuit, and we’ll be guided by equity, inclusion, and shared prosperity. Through consultation and collaboration, Inuit voices are shaping the future of infrastructure, sovereignty, and economic opportunity across Inuit Nunangat.”

“Canada is an Arctic nation, and we are at a critical moment, when it is imperative that we safeguard our sovereignty and defend our Arctic interests. Serving as Canada’s senior Arctic official, Ambassador Mearns will advance Canada’s polar interests in multilateral forums, engage with counterparts in Arctic and non-Arctic states, and serve as a representative in our diplomatic corps.”

Quick facts

Inuit Nunangat is the Inuit homeland in Canada. It encompasses the land, water, and ice of four treaty regions represented by the Inuvialuit Settlement Region of the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Nunavik in Northern Québec, and Nunatsiavut in Northern Labrador.
The Building Canada Act ensures consultation with Inuit and other Indigenous Peoples is built into the implementation process for determining whether a project is in the national interest and for the development of the conditions for permits and authorizations.
The Building Canada Act ensures respect for treaty rights, including modern treaties with Inuit Treaty Organizations. It does not alter processes established under modern treaties or the Government of Canada’s modern treaty obligations. It also respects treaty-based environmental assessment processes.
Canada’s new Arctic Ambassador, Virginia Mearns, is a respected Inuit leader with a long-standing commitment to advancing Inuit self-determination and community well-being in Nunavut. She currently serves as Senior Director of Inuit Relations at the Qikiqtani Inuit Association and has held senior roles in the Government of Nunavut and with Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. An active member of her community, she was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her exceptional contributions.
Since the signing of the Inuit Nunangat Declaration in 2017, Inuit leadership and the Government of Canada have continued to work together through the ICPC toward a renewed Inuit-Crown relationship based on the recognition of rights, respect, and co-operation.
The Inuit Nunangat Policy promotes Inuit self-determination and supports community and individual well-being throughout Inuit Nunangat, with the goal of achieving socio-economic equity between Inuit and all other people living in Canada. It provides a minimum standard for what can be expected from the relationship between Inuit and all federal departments and agencies, and includes guidance to federal departments and agencies on how to deliver programs, policies, and services in Inuit Nunangat.

Biographical note

MIL OSI Canada News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Employment and Equity – Not Done Yet: Women’s Day of Action for Pay Equity – CTU

Source: NZCTU

On Saturday 20 September communities across Aotearoa will unite for a Women’s Day of Action for Pay Equity – taking place 132 years after New Zealand women secured the right to vote. This mobilisation responds directly to the Government’s gutting of pay equity.

“This week, alongside our affiliated unions, we handed the Government a petition with 93,924 signatures demanding they stop this attack on workers. But we’re not done. The Women’s Day of Action is another opportunity for women to show the Government that this issue is not going to go away,” said NZCTU Secretary Melissa Ansell-Bridges.

“These changes have hurt Māori, Pacific, migrant, and low-paid women – nurses, teachers, care and support workers and more who are the backbone of Aotearoa. We will keep fighting until pay equity is restored, and workers’ rights are respected.

“Over 180,000 workers have already had their pay equity claims scrapped. The changes make it nearly impossible to lodge new claims and allow employers to opt out entirely.

“Pay equity isn’t just the right thing to do – for many workers, it’s the difference between working one job or two, between feeding their kids or going without.

“The Women’s Day of Action is both a protest and a celebration of women’s legacy, honouring the suffrage movement while amplifying collective power. The event is family-friendly and community-led, with kai, performances, and opportunities to hold politicians accountable. Participants are encouraged to wear purple, green, and white in honour of suffragists.

“A range of actions all over the country are being planned. Whether you march in Auckland, gather in Porirua or Christchurch, raise your voice in Wellington, have a crafternoon in Invercargill or show support online – you are part of this movement.

“On September 20, we are sending a clear message: pay equity is not optional, and we will not back down,” said Ansell-Bridges.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI New Zealand: Aviation – Unqualified pilot sentenced for dangerous and unlawful flying

Source: Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)

25 July 2025 – The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) welcomes the sentencing of a man who was fined $14,475 for multiple serious breaches of aviation safety rules, including flying without a pilot licence, flying an aircraft without a certificate of airworthiness, and operating in a manner that caused unnecessary danger.

The defendant was on his own piloting the amateur-built Jodel D.11 aircraft when it took off from Feilding Aerodrome on 23 March 2024 and crash landed in a field approximately 1 kilometre south of the Marton township. The aircraft, which he had been rebuilding since it was involved in an earlier crash, was damaged beyond repair in the crash and the defendant sustained serious injuries.

The investigation found the defendant had operated the aircraft on several occasions despite not holding a pilot licence, and while the aircraft was not certified as airworthy. This undermines the safety and integrity of the aviation system, and breaches New Zealand’s Civil Aviation Rules.

“This case is a stark reminder that aviation safety rules exist for a reason — to protect people in the air and on the ground,” said CAA Deputy Chief Executive, Dean Winter.

“The ‘pilot’ made a series of reckless choices that could have had significant consequences for other people, in addition to the serious injuries he suffered.”

The Court considered the seriousness of the offending and the potential for harm when imposing the fine, noting the danger the public under the aircraft flightpath, emergency services personnel attending the crash site, and other airspace users – in addition to the pilot himself.

“Flying without proper qualifications or approvals is not just a paperwork issue — it’s a safety issue,” Winter said.

“Proper training, aircraft maintenance, licensing and certification are fundamental to ensuring safe skies. When individuals choose to ignore those responsibilities, they put lives at risk, as the defendant did in this case when he flew across State Highways, numerous farms and occupied houses.”

The CAA will continue to investigate and take action appropriate against serious breaches of aviation law where safety is compromised.

“People should have confidence that those operating aircraft in New Zealand are qualified and compliant, prioritising safety above all else,” Winter said.

Details of charges

The defendant was sentenced in the Marton District court on 16 July 2025 for the following charges:

Under Section 46 of the Civil Aviation Act 1990:

Operating aircraft without necessary aviation document (PPL-A)
Operating aircraft without necessary aviation document (COA)

Under Section 44 of the Civil Aviation Act 1990:

Operating aircraft in a manner that caused unnecessary danger.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen Touts Historic Income Tax Relief

Source: US State of Nebraska

. Pillen Touts Historic Income Tax Relief

LINCOLN, NE – Governor Jim Pillen released the following statement after the Tax Rate Review Committee met to review the State’s fiscal position. The Committee has again supported the established tax rates.

“It’s pretty simple: Nebraskans should be able to keep more of what they earn,” said Gov. Pillen. “By signing historic income tax relief into law, we’re giving families and seniors in our state a boost. When we shrink government and cut spending, we can focus on providing better outcomes and improving services for everyone in our state. There’s more work to do to drive down taxes in this state, but our goal is to keep fighting to make Nebraska – for generations to come – the best place to live, work, and raise a family.”

The Committee review is great news for Nebraska families and businesses who will see income tax rates fall from 5.2% to 4.55% this coming January, and down again to 3.99% beginning 2027. The reduced tax rates were set in motion in 2023 by legislation introduced on behalf of Governor Pillen.

Today, the Committee reviewed end of year numbers for fiscal year 2025 and projections for the next two fiscal years. The July financial status report includes assumptions which will be updated prior to the October meeting of the Nebraska Economic Forecasting Advisory Board. State spending was under budget last year by $362 million. Some of this will be used for prior year obligations and $36 million is projected to lapse back to the General Fund. Compared with current projections, we are likely to see a higher lapse of unspent prior year funds, less mid-biennium spending, and higher reserve balances.

The Committee also acknowledged a calculated variance from the required $337 million surplus reserve. The $47.7 million needed in each year to shore up the variance is equivalent to less than a percent of annual revenue and is well below Governor Pillen’s targeted budget reductions. The total reserve, including the surplus reserve, is expected to remain above $1 billion. The impact of the Governor’s spending reductions will be finalized during the 2026 legislative session.

MIL OSI USA News –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: Chang Development Company Founder Featured in Washington Times Editorial on Taiwan’s “Great Recall”

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Taiwan undergoes a historic wave of civic action known as the “Great Recall,” U.S.-based investment firm Chang Development Company and its founder Orina Chang are gaining recognition for championing democratic values through cross-border investment and thought leadership.

In a July 22 Washington Times editorial titled “Why the U.S. Should Heed Taiwan’s Citizen-Led Recall Movement”, Chang framed the recall as “a public immune response to constitutional erosion,” emphasizing that “defense begins not at the border, but in the legislature, in the constitution, and in the resolve of ordinary citizens.”

Chang, a former Wall Street investment manager turned civic entrepreneur, leads Chang Development Company with a dual focus: supporting democracy and advancing investment in frontier markets aligned with U.S. and Taiwan interests — including energy security and critical minerals. The firm is currently leading a strategic initiative in Somaliland with backing from international partners.

This is not the first time Chang has used her financial platform to engage policy. Earlier this year, she penned another Washington Times editorial, “Building Taiwan’s Sovereign Wealth Fund”, which laid out a roadmap for Taiwan to secure its economic future through responsible and globally integrated investment mechanisms.

“We don’t just invest in assets — we invest in resilience, institutions, and values,” said Chang. “What’s happening in Taiwan today isn’t just domestic news; it’s a global signal that democracies must act early to defend themselves from within.”

About Chang Development Company

Chang Development Company (CDC) is a cross-border investment firm based in New York. The firm focuses on critical minerals, economic diplomacy, and frontier market partnerships that align capital with democratic governance and long-term resilience.

Contact:

Orina Chang
orinachang@me.com
orinachang.com

The MIL Network –

July 25, 2025

MIL-OSI Submissions: Tech Research – Artificial Intelligence Adoption in S&P 500 Firms Brings New Security Challenges, Study Finds

Source: Cybernews

July 24, 2025, Vilnius, Lithuania – As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly central to the operations of America’s largest corporations, recent research reveals potential security vulnerabilities that could affect both organizations and their customers.

An analysis by cybersecurity experts at Cybernews examined AI deployments across the S&P 500 and uncovered close to 1,000 potential weak points that may lead to data exposure, theft of proprietary information, and erroneous AI actions.

The study found that 327 S&P 500 companies publicly report using AI tools in their operations in sectors including finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and energy.

While these tools have accelerated innovation and efficiency, safety measures have yet to fully catch up, leaving systems open to misuse or failure. This includes AI outputs that may be inaccurate or misleading, unintended disclosure of confidential data, and risks of corporate secrets being compromised.

Žilvinas Girėnas, head of product at nexos.ai, emphasized, “It’s not enough to deploy AI and hope for the best. Businesses need to develop AI with the same safety standards as airplanes: constant oversight, clear guardrails, and a zero-trust approach. Every AI decision must be considered potentially wrong until proven correct, and every input must be monitored to prevent sensitive data from leaking or trade secrets from escaping.”

The potential vulnerabilities extend across multiple industries. Technology and semiconductor companies are especially vulnerable to data leaks and intellectual property risks. Financial institutions might face challenges protecting client data while ensuring AI does not reinforce unfair bias in lending.

Healthcare providers carry the added responsibility of protecting patients from flawed AI-driven recommendations. Meanwhile, industrial and infrastructure sectors must guard against disruptions that could affect critical services, such as power supply or supply chain operations.

For consumers, the consequences are tangible. Unsecured AI systems risk leaking private details – ranging from medical histories to financial records – while flawed AI judgments could influence decisions that directly affect people’s health and finances.

As AI tools play a larger role in retail, banking, transportation, and other areas, protecting these technologies becomes essential for public protection.

The report highlights past incidents that illustrate these dangers. IBM’s Watson once offered unsafe cancer treatment suggestions. Apple’s credit system faced scrutiny after allegations of gender bias. Zillow’s AI-driven pricing led to substantial financial losses. Additionally, Samsung experienced unintended source code disclosures due to inappropriate use of AI chatbots by employees.

“AI is becoming more deeply embedded in business operations, and the risks are multiplying. The lessons from all these incidents are clear: unchecked deployment without robust security and oversight leads to real-world failures,” said Martynas Vareikis, Security Researcher at Cybernews.

As AI further transforms businesses, past incidents and potential threats show how crucial it is to improve security strategies in parallel.

ABOUT CYBERNEWS

Cybernews is a globally recognized independent media outlet where journalists and security experts debunk cyber by research, testing, and data. Founded in 2019 in response to rising concerns about online security, the site covers breaking news, conducts original investigations, and offers unique perspectives on the evolving digital security landscape. Through white-hat investigative techniques, Cybernews research team identifies and safely discloses cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities, while the editorial team provides cybersecurity-related news, analysis, and opinions by industry insiders with complete independence.

Cybernews has earned worldwide attention for its high-impact research and discoveries, which have uncovered some of the internet’s most significant security exposures and data leaks. Notable ones include:

Cybernews researchers discovered multiple open datasets comprising 16 billion login credentials from infostealer malware, social media, developer portals, and corporate networks – highlighting the unprecedented risks of account takeovers, phishing, and business email compromise.
Cybernews researchers analyzed 156,080 randomly selected iOS apps – around 8% of the apps present on the App Store – and uncovered a massive oversight: 71% of them expose sensitive data.
Recently, Bob Dyachenko, a cybersecurity researcher and owner of SecurityDiscovery.com, and the Cybernews security research team discovered an unprotected Elasticsearch index, which contained a wide range of sensitive personal details related to the entire population of Georgia.
The team analyzed the new Pixel 9 Pro XL smartphone’s web traffic, and found that Google’s latest flagship smartphone frequently transmits private user data to the tech giant before any app is installed.
The team revealed that a massive data leak at MC2 Data, a background check firm, affects one-third of the US population.
The Cybernews security research team discovered that 50 most popular Android apps require 11 dangerous permissions on average.
They revealed that two online PDF makers leaked tens of thousands of user documents, including passports, driving licenses, certificates, and other personal information uploaded by users.
An analysis by Cybernews research discovered over a million publicly exposed secrets from over 58 thousand websites’ exposed environment (.env) files.
The team revealed that Australia’s football governing body, Football Australia, has leaked secret keys potentially opening access to 127 buckets of data, including ticket buyers’ personal data and players’ contracts and documents.
The Cybernews research team, in collaboration with cybersecurity researcher Bob Dyachenko, discovered a massive data leak containing information from numerous past breaches, comprising 12 terabytes of data and spanning over 26 billion records.
The team analyzed NASA’s website, and discovered an open redirect vulnerability plaguing NASA’s Astrobiology website.
The team investigated 30,000 Android Apps, and discovered that over half of them are leaking secrets that could have huge repercussions for both app developers and their customers.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

July 25, 2025

Category: CTF

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Source: Royal NZ College of General Practitioners

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Background

Source: Greenpeace

Development Minister sets out new UK approach to development at G20 meeting in South Africa

Minister for Development, Baroness Chapman said:

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