Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI Global: How proposed changes to higher education accreditation could impact campus diversity efforts

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jimmy Aguilar, PhD Candidate in Urban Education Policy, University of Southern California

    An executive order seeks to remove ‘discriminatory ideology’ in universities. Critics contend it politicizes the accreditation process. Abraham Gonzalez Fernandez via Getty Images

    President Donald Trump on April 23, 2025, signed an executive order that aims to change the higher education accreditation process. It asks accrediting agencies to root out “discriminatory ideology” and roll back diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives on college campuses.

    The Conversation asked Jimmy Aguilar, who studies higher education at the University of Southern California, to explain what accreditation is, why it matters and how the Trump order seeks to change it.

    What is accreditation and how does it work?

    Accreditation is a process that evaluates whether colleges and universities meet standards of academic rigor, institutional integrity and financial stability.

    In the United States, there were 88 accrediting agencies during the 2022-23 school academic year.

    The agencies are formally recognized by the Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

    Accreditation is not a one-time stamp of approval, but a continuous process.

    At its core, accreditation is a guarantor of quality in higher education.

    The process involves self-assessment and peer review visits.

    Colleges typically undergo a full review every five to 10 years, depending on the accrediting agency.

    Institutions must meet standards for curriculum, faculty, student services and outcomes, and provide documentation.

    Then, federally recognized accrediting agencies review the documentation.

    Teams, often comprised of peer reviewers from other colleges, conduct campus visits and evaluations before granting or reviewing accreditation.

    Why do universities need to be accredited?

    Accreditation assures students, employers and the public that an institution meets basic academic standards.

    It also signals credibility and secures federal financial support.

    Without it, colleges cannot access key funding sources such as Pell Grants and federal student loans.

    The funding is essential for college budgets and students’ access to higher education.

    Accreditation is also required for professional licensure in fields such as teaching, nursing, medicine and law.

    It also helps ensure that students can transfer credits between institutions.

    What does Trump’s executive order do?

    President Donald Trump displays a signed executive order in the Oval Office at the White House on April 23, 2025, in Washington.
    Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

    The executive order would reshape the college accreditation system, aligning it with the administration’s political priorities. Those priorities include the rollback of DEI initiatives.

    The order seeks to use federal oversight to weaken institutional DEI policies and priorities. It also promotes new standards aligned with the administration’s interpretation of “merit-based” education.

    The executive order also directs the Department of Education to penalize agencies that require colleges to implement DEI-related standards.

    The Trump administration claims that such standards amount to “unlawful discrimination.”

    Penalties may include increased oversight or loss of federal recognition. This would render the accreditation seal meaningless, according to the executive order.

    The order also proposes a broad overhaul of the accreditation process, including:

    • Promoting “intellectual diversity” in faculty hiring. The executive order argues that promoting a broader range of viewpoints among faculty will enhance academic freedom. Critics often interpret this language as an effort to increase conservative ideological representation.

    • Streamlining the process for institutions to switch accreditors. During Trump’s first term, his administration removed geographic restrictions, giving colleges more flexibility to choose. The new executive order goes further. It makes it easier for schools to leave agencies whose standards they disagree with.

    • Expanding recognition of new accrediting agencies to increase competition.

    • Linking accreditation more directly to student outcomes. This would shift focus to metrics such as graduation rates and earnings, rather than commitments to diversity or equity.

    A 2023 Supreme Court ruling that outlawed affirmative action in university admissions has been a point of contention in the debate over diversity, equity and inclusion in higher education.
    Joe Daniel Price/Getty Images

    The executive order singles out accreditors for law schools, such as the American Bar Association, and for medical schools, such as the Liaison Committee on Medical Education.

    The order accuses them of enforcing DEI standards that conflict with a 2023 Supreme Court ruling that outlawed affirmative action in university admissions.

    However, the ruling was limited to race-conscious admissions. It did not directly address faculty hiring or accreditation standards.

    That raises questions about whether the order’s interpretation extends beyond the scope of the court’s decision.

    The ruling has nonetheless been a point of contention in the debate over diversity, equity and inclusion.

    The American Association of University Professors and the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law have denounced the executive order.

    The groups argue that it threatens to politicize accreditation and suppress efforts to promote equity and inclusion.

    Nevertheless, the order represents a push by the federal government to influence higher education governance.

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

    ref. How proposed changes to higher education accreditation could impact campus diversity efforts – https://theconversation.com/how-proposed-changes-to-higher-education-accreditation-could-impact-campus-diversity-efforts-255309

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘Grit’ and relentless perseverance can take a toll on brain health − particularly for people facing social stresses like racism

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Darlingtina Esiaka, Assistant Professor of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky

    Persistence without rest may tax brain health. ljubaphoto/E+ via Getty Images

    For many people, grit – the perseverance and passion for long-term goals – is a virtue. It is also a key ingredient in overcoming challenges, achieving success and maintaining resilience.

    Studies have linked grit with success in goal attainment, improved psychological well-being and increased life satisfaction.

    But despite conventional narratives equating this type of psychological persistence with well-being, brain research is beginning to show that mustering grit in the face of adversity may also have some unexpected detrimental effects – particularly for communities that are already under chronic stress.

    As a behavioral scientist studying Alzheimer’s disease and brain health in Black communities, I use techniques such as brain activity monitoring to examine risk factors and early signs of cognitive decline. My research along with other work is beginning to uncover that pushing through can create a level of stress that actually taxes brain health.

    The paradox of grit, active coping and brain health

    Grit has become a central idea in psychology. Researchers have mainly focused on its positive features, describing it as a quality that helps people work hard, stay strong during tough times and keep trying even when things are difficult. Active coping is a similar concept defined as addressing problems directly and actively seeking solutions. Studies have linked it to lower stress, better health and feeling more in control.

    Traits such as grit and active coping are strategies used to manage stress, and they are traditionally seen as protective factors for well-being.

    But perseverance may also come with risks that can contribute to poor brain health outcomes. Consider the concept of John Henryism, developed by an epidemiologist named Sherman James in the 1970s.

    John Henryism is a coping strategy characterized by persistent, high-effort striving in response to chronic stressors, particularly among marginalized groups. It is named after the legendary African American folk hero John Henry, who worked himself to death in a contest against a steam-powered drill. In the folk tale, John Henry exemplifies how people may engage in prolonged, high-effort coping, often at the expense of their health. James used the folklore to symbolize the relentless effort to overcome structural and systemic barriers.

    For example, imagine someone in their early 40s who works two physically demanding jobs to support their family and prevent homelessness. They believe relentless effort is the only path to stability, despite experiencing chronic fatigue and pain. Over time, this sustained strain may lead to high blood pressure, stroke and depression – all of which have been linked to cognitive decline.

    This statue of John Henry stands in Talcott, W.Va., above the Big Bend Tunnel on the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway. Many people believe the events described in the folktale took place here.
    Ken Thomas via Wikimedia Commons

    John Henryism has been linked to negative health outcomes, including increased risks of hypertension, cardiovascular disease and early mortality. It has also been linked to the risk of poor brain health.

    Perseverance and the risk of cognitive impairment

    My colleagues’ and my recent work supports the idea that high-effort coping such as grit can contribute to neurocognitive wear and tear. Being constantly under stress can essentially overwork certain parts of the brain. This damage can build up to make it harder for the brain to learn new things, remember information and stay sharp as a person gets older.

    In our study published in January 2025, we asked 158 Black men living in the U.S. to participate in an online survey. The survey measured grit by asking how much participants agreed with statements like “I finish whatever I begin.” It also asked participants to report how often they experienced episodes of memory loss and confusion and to rank whether these episodes were becoming more frequent.

    We found that men with higher levels of grit reported greater cognitive difficulties such as trouble concentrating, forgetfulness and feeling mentally fatigued, despite their strong motivation to persevere. While our study couldn’t determine whether grit causes these difficulties, it raises important questions about whether sustained, high-effort coping might come at a cognitive cost over time.

    A concept called allostatic load provides one possible explanation for the link between perseverance and the cognitive decline we observed in our study. Allostatic load is the wear and tear on the body that builds up over time due to dealing with stress.

    I believe individuals who push through adversity against all odds may experience allostatic load more acutely. Their persistent coping could intensify physiological strain over time, contributing to earlier onset of cognitive decline. This explanation aligns with previous work, which has shown that prolonged exposure to stress can accelerate cognitive decline and negatively affect memory and executive function.

    Facing frequent stressors such as racism, discrimination, economic challenges and limited access to health care with intense levels of perseverance may encourage people to push through these challenges without adequate recovery. That can cause chronic stress that damages brain health.

    Continuously exerting mental and emotional effort without relief may also result in cognitive overload and diminish people’s ability to sustain mental resilience. This burden accelerates brain aging and increases the risk of cognitive decline.

    Unlike the occasional stress of meeting a deadline or completing a difficult project, this type of overexertion is more like waking up every day already exhausted, yet pushing through multiple jobs, financial worries and family responsibilities with little rest or support. Over time, this constant mental strain may wear down the brain’s ability to recover and maintain clarity, even when the person appears outwardly resilient.

    Rethinking perseverance

    Researchers are beginning to build a more nuanced understanding of perseverance that challenges the conventional wisdom that it is always beneficial. This perspective also redefines the notion of strength in the face of adversity.

    In this more realistic definition, perseverance can include self-care and rest. Knowing when to take a break or prioritize self-care is a practical strategy for maintaining cognitive health in the face of challenges.

    Also, practices such as meditation, deep breathing and guided relaxation can help regulate stress responses and reduce cognitive strain. And beyond personal resilience, leaning on social support and meaningful connections can be just as crucial for long-term brain health.

    Darlingtina Esiaka receives funding from National Institute on Aging and Alzheimer’s Association. She is the founder of Black in Gerontology and Geriatrics Network.

    ref. ‘Grit’ and relentless perseverance can take a toll on brain health − particularly for people facing social stresses like racism – https://theconversation.com/grit-and-relentless-perseverance-can-take-a-toll-on-brain-health-particularly-for-people-facing-social-stresses-like-racism-251585

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: FDR united Democrats under the banner of ‘liberalism’ − but today’s Democratic Party has nothing to put on its hat

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Kevin M. Schultz, Professor of History, University of Illinois Chicago

    President Franklin D. Roosevelt, left, popularized the term ‘liberal’; President Lyndon Johnson may have caused its demise. FDR: AFP/Getty; LBJ: Bettmann/Getty

    If Donald Trump has taught Americans anything, it’s that political parties can shift positions on any number of issues and retain strong support. Republicans had once been aggressive Cold Warriors, standing shoulder to shoulder with allies against Russia, but now they are isolationists. They once favored so-called “free markets,” but now they support tariffs. And they once supported cutting budget deficits, but now they balloon those deficits with tax cuts.

    Same party, different policies.

    This accords with recent scholarship showing that American political parties don’t have much ideological coherence around concepts such as “freedom” or “equality” but instead are more like social groups with strong communal bonds such as common sympathies and common enemies.

    It turns out that political parties are mostly just people rooting for their side, the way you might support a sports team. It doesn’t matter whether your team changes tactics. You still root for them.

    People do switch allegiances, but it often takes a traumatic event to stop seeing fellow partisans as good, reasonable people.

    Republicans right now have strong tribal belonging that begins and ends with a single question: Do you support President Trump? They have a banner to march under: MAGA. And a song: “God Bless the U.S.A.” They live, laugh and love to own the libs. Their signs and symbols are simple and amusing. And they are effective.

    The Democrats have nothing. No leader, no banner to march under, no signs and no symbols.

    They used to.

    In 1960, scholar Charles Frankel dived into the meaning of the politically important word ‘liberal’ in a commentary for The New York Times.
    New York Times archive

    The liberal past

    In the past, Democrats had a word to describe their sensibility: “liberal.” But now: RIP, liberal. No one, it seems, wants to be a liberal anymore.

    In my research on uses and abuses of the word liberal, I discovered that liberalism is a relatively new word in American politics, really starting only in 1932.

    That year, presidential candidate Franklin D. Roosevelt was searching for a way to fend off Republican accusations that his New Deal was “socialism,” a word with radical connotations.

    Liberalism as a word predates FDR’s usage, but he redefined it to signify the government regulation of capitalism and the use of the state to provide citizens with basic economic security.

    When in 1932 FDR accepted the nomination for president, he declared the Democratic Party “the bearer of liberalism,” by which he meant undertaking “planned action” while fighting for “the greatest good to the greatest number of our citizens.”

    FDR pitted his liberalism against his opponents, whom he labeled “conservatives.” The U.S. has had the liberal-conservative divide ever since.

    FDR’s successor, Democrat Harry Truman, recognized the power of the term, extravagantly claiming, “The liberal faith is the political faith of the great majority of Americans.”

    President John F. Kennedy gloried in the word, too, defining a liberal as “someone who welcomes new ideas without rigid reactions, someone who cares about the welfare of the people.”

    In 1960, philosopher Charles Frankel argued that liberalism as defined by FDR was a banner under which every Democrat marched, concluding that “anyone who today identifies himself as an unmitigated opponent of liberalism … cannot aspire to influence on the national political scene.”

    Shifting meanings

    Not for long.

    For one thing, in the 1950s the word shifted meaning to better accord with the times, as it had done several times in the past. During the post-World War II economic expansion, “a large part of the New Deal public,” historian Richard Hofstadter wrote in 1954, “have become home-owners, suburbanites and solid citizens.”

    Liberals therefore shifted liberalism. No longer were liberals solely about providing jobs and Social Security. They also demanded increased access to higher education, medical care and civil rights, and the elevation of popular culture.

    In 1956, future presidential adviser Arthur Schlesinger Jr. called this shift one from “quantitative” to “qualitative liberalism.”

    President Lyndon Johnson put this into effect in the mid-1960s. Johnson developed anti-poverty programs such as Head Start, but he also created cultural programs such as PBS, expanded civil rights and passed Medicare and Medicaid.

    “We are a great and liberal and progressive democracy,” Johnson declared in 1966.

    But Johnson’s qualitative liberalism came with costs. The programs expanded the federal bureaucracy, which by the late 1960s became noted for being ineffective and overly regulatory.

    Civil rights laws were perceived as threatening to the white working class. And Johnson’s liberalism became wedded to the war in Vietnam, where by 1969 more than 500,000 Americans were fighting to protect liberalism from the supposedly creeping arms of communism.

    Soon, the knives were out for liberals.

    3 lines of attack

    First, right-wing thinkers had already begun to portray liberals as little more than quasi-communists pushing for civil rights beyond most Americans’ desires.

    In 1955, conservative impresario William F. Buckley Jr. founded the magazine National Review to create “a responsible dissent from the Liberal orthodoxy.” He titled his 1959 book “Up from Liberalism” and spent 217 of the book’s 229 pages attacking liberals.

    Then leftist thinkers took their shot, imagining liberals as little more than beards for capitalism and foreign policy hawks.

    Left-wing novelist Norman Mailer summed up this sentiment in 1962, writing, “I don’t care if people call me a radical, a rebel, a red, a revolutionary, an outsider, an outlaw, a Bolshevik, an anarchist, a nihilist or even a left conservative, but please don’t ever call me a liberal.”

    Left-wing author Norman Mailer said in 1962 that people could call him a Bolshevik, an anarchist, a nihilist, ‘but please don’t ever call me a liberal.’
    Fred Stein Archive/Archive Photos/Getty Images

    Civil rights advocates took their turn, seeing liberals as halfway friends, unwilling to fully embrace equality. Historian Lerone Bennett Jr. wished liberals “a fond farewell” in 1964. In that same year, writer James Baldwin called white liberals an “affliction.”

    With attacks coming from multiple sides, by the 1970s Democrats ran from the label. And without defenders, enemies redefined liberals, first as out-of-touch elitists, then as allies of corporations ignoring the demands of working people, and eventually, today, as woke snowflakes.

    In 2009, political scientists examining a hundred years of polling data found that, starting in the mid-1960s, decreasing numbers of Americans referred to themselves as liberal. And because partisanship is a social dynamic, when the club began to shrink, the researchers wrote, it turned into “a spiral in which ‘liberal’ not only is unpopular, but becomes ever more so.”

    The researchers also found that most Americans still supported “‘liberal’ public policies” such as “redistribution, intervention in the economy, and aggressive governmental action to solve social problems.” Americans, apparently, just hated the label.

    Owning the libs” has been the glue keeping together the Republican Party ever since.

    From ‘abundance’ to ‘Waymo’

    Democrats are now searching for a new label. What can replace liberalism?

    New York Times columnist Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson, who writes for The Atlantic, have proposed “abundance liberalism.” Other New York Times writers have also been busy envisioning this future. Reporter and editor David Leonhardt suggested “democratic capitalism.” Columnist Thomas Friedman improbably went with “Waymo Democrat,” referring to self-driving Waymo cars as a placeholder for an embrace of technological innovation.

    More realistically, political analyst E.J. Dionne and historian James Kloppenberg are writing a history of “social democracy” as a potential rallying cry for Democrats, pointing to its use by the most popular politician in America, Bernie Sanders.

    Whatever emerges, it’s helpful to remember that before 1932, hardly anyone in the U.S. used the word “liberal” to describe any kind of politics. Now, without finding a new emblem to rally behind, Democrats may be doing little more than battling that other neologism: MAGA.

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

    ref. FDR united Democrats under the banner of ‘liberalism’ − but today’s Democratic Party has nothing to put on its hat – https://theconversation.com/fdr-united-democrats-under-the-banner-of-liberalism-but-todays-democratic-party-has-nothing-to-put-on-its-hat-255362

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI USA: Opening Remarks at the SEC Town Hall

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    Thank you very much for coming to our first “town hall” meeting together. To those of you here with me at our headquarters in Washington, it is so great to see you. And, let me add an especial welcome to you who are joining from our regional offices around the country.

    I am pleased that we can meet today to discuss the SEC; our important mission on behalf of our fellow citizens, investors, and taxpayers; as well as some of my priorities as your new Chairman.

    First and foremost, I take great pride in saying that it is a new day here at the SEC. We are returning to our core mission that Congress set for us. All of us can recite the familiar three-part mission enunciated by Congress in the Exchange Act:  protecting investors; furthering capital formation; and safeguarding fair, orderly, and efficient markets. We see these phrases on our website, on the walls of this building, in our public pronouncements. They are at the core of what brings us to work every day.

    Investor protection is the cornerstone of our mission—to hold accountable those who lie, cheat, and steal. Capital formation is at the root of what we do. Otherwise, why have the financial markets? Capital formation—building a direct, economical route for investors’ capital to find its way to entrepreneurs and industry that put capital to work to create products and services that people value and willingly pay for, because these products and services make their lives some combination of better, healthier, safer, longer, more fun. This engine of growth employs people, helping them to work and save to achieve their dreams. It is responsible for lifting them out of the poverty that unfortunately has been the traditional state of humanity for millennia.

    We should not overlook the part about fair, orderly, and efficient markets. Congress calls on us to ensure that our regulations balance costs and benefits, that they do not become too burdensome that they add needless friction to the marketplace, undermining the capital formation that yields so much benefit.

    But, what if the SEC’s leadership has directed the agency, which oversees and is responsible for the markets, to lose its own fairness, orderliness, and efficiency? Does that undermine the markets’ own approach if their policeman comports itself with inconsistent values? Predictability, due process, rule of law, integrity are all part of what create respect and project a sense that one can get a fair shake without vindictiveness or ulterior motives.

    Unfortunately, in the last four years until January, the SEC’s long-held reputation has suffered in that vein.

    Two weeks ago today, I was sworn in by Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent in the Oval Office with President Trump; my family was by my side. It was an optimistic moment in the Oval.

    I am honored by the trust and confidence that the President and the Senate placed in me to lead the SEC.

    There are so many people to whom I am thankful for helping make my appointment by President Trump even possible.

    As you know by now, I was a Commissioner from 2002 to 2008, after serving on the staff of two chairmen – Richard Breeden and Arthur Levitt. My time in public service and the private sector, both earlier in my career and more recently, have allowed me to see firsthand how regulations affect markets and investors. They can stoke innovation, facilitate investment goals, and create opportunities—or burdens—on businesses’ ability to compete and serve their customers.

    So, how we implement regulations at the SEC is crucial; it is one thing to write a regulation, quite another for it to achieve its intended goal. Regulation ideally should be smart, effective, and appropriately tailored within the confines of our statutory authority.

    It takes market experience and focused application to ensure that customers and investors of financial services firms benefit from efficient, effective, and well-designed regulation. Our goal at the SEC should be to facilitate those efforts, analyze their effectiveness, and use our enforcement power to cure and rectify wayward actions.

    In short, clear rules of the road benefit all market participants.

    Returning to this agency has been a pleasure. I have very much enjoyed seeing all the friendly faces, meeting with staff, and reconnecting with many colleagues I remember from years ago.

    I know from my own experience that the SEC’s longstanding reputation for its dedicated and highly skilled professionals is justly deserved. Your knowledge and expertise continue to impress me. I want you to know that I value and appreciate you.

    It is a high calling to work every day to protect investors, facilitate capital formation, and maintain, fair, orderly, and efficient markets. Thank you for your commitment to our mission.

    I am grateful to Commissioner Uyeda—who once upon a time was my counsel—for his stewardship of the agency from January to April, a very productive three months. Thank you, Commissioner Uyeda.

    As we look ahead, I am confident in the direction of our work. My experience over the decades will naturally inform my approach as Chairman. I told the press—who were peppering me with questions during the last crypto roundtable—that I have a list of priorities as long as my arm that I would like to achieve.

    It should be no surprise that high on that list is a sensible approach toward crypto. From 2017 until my nomination, I worked to help develop best practices for the digital assets industry and saw firsthand how ambiguous or nonexistent regulations in this space created uncertainty and inhibited innovation. That lack of regulatory framework also invites fraud.

    A top priority for me will be to tackle regulatory treatment of digital assets and distributed ledger technologies, providing a firm regulatory foundation through a rational, coherent, principled approach.

    I thank Commissioner Peirce, our own “Crypto Mom,” who is working hard on this issue.  I am proud to say that she also was once upon a time my counsel when I was Commissioner. She is known for her principled and tireless advocacy for common-sense policy. I am confident that she is the right person to lead this effort to come up with a rational regulatory framework for crypto asset markets.

    I am pleased with the efforts of the Crypto Task Force and the three roundtables it has held so far on defining security status, tailoring regulation for crypto trading, and custody considerations. I look forward to the input from industry and additional public feedback we will get during the next two roundtables on the topics of tokenization and decentralized finance.

    This is important work. Entrepreneurs across the United States and around the world are harnessing blockchain technology to modernize aspects of our financial system. I expect huge benefits from this market innovation for efficiency, cost reduction, transparency, and risk mitigation.

    This is a pivotal moment for our economy. Entrepreneurs, businesses, and individuals here at home and across the globe are eager to invest in America.

    We will work together to protect investors from fraud, keep politics out of how our securities laws and regulations are applied, and advance clear rules of the road that encourage investment in our economy to the benefit of all Americans.

    We will work together to ensure that regulations promote capital formation rather than stifle it. We will work together to ensure American investors get disclosures that actually help them understand the true risks of an investment.

    Together, we will make every effort to ensure that the U.S. is the best and most secure place in the world to invest and do business. Americans should always feel utmost confidence when investing their hard-earned dollars to save and provide for their future and the future of their families.

    I cannot say that the current times are not without uncertainty. Many of you have expressed your uncertainty to me. What will the course of the agency be? Will there be further cuts in headcount? Will we maintain regional offices?

    I am in my third week at the SEC—my 10th working day is today. I thank Commissioner Uyeda for his work during the transition time to straighten out some urgent policy issues that we faced in the courts and some organizational issues as the new Administration came into office.

    As we look forward, I am counting on Commissioner Peirce’s continued leadership of the Crypto Task Force. I would like Commissioner Uyeda to be an ambassador to IOSCO since I have enough to focus on at home. I also am happy to say that Commissioner Crenshaw has agreed to take on the SEC’s administrative law framework and procedure in light of the two Supreme Court rulings that in effect oblige us to rethink and reform this area. It is high time that we take that task to heart.

    We have had departures—many of our former colleagues accepted retirement or separation offers. I count many of them as old friends, and I salute their service over many years.  The Offices and Divisions have decreased headcount by 15% since the beginning of the current fiscal year. These departures leave vacancies that in many cases need to be filled. When I left the agency in 2008, we had approximately 3,600 employees. At our height a year ago, we had approximately 5,000 employees plus 2,000 contractors. Today we are at approximately 4,200 employees and 1,700 contractors.

    Tomorrow we will begin a process to review our technology infrastructure and our contractual obligations. This review is long overdue—call it a spring cleaning and reassessment of contracts, especially regarding information technology. We need to see what we have, where our vulnerabilities are, and how we can shore up and improve our systems.

    We will work on optimizing our efficiency. There will be targeted, common-sense reorganization to come. We also have leasing issues to be resolved—notably in Los Angeles and Philadelphia. I am working on those issues and share your concerns. Unfortunately, about 11 years ago, the agency precipitously surrendered to the General Services Administration its control over leasing, which Congress specifically granted the SEC in the Exchange Act. That action puts me in a weaker position today.

    Let me say unequivocally that I firmly believe in our regional office concept. We cannot and should not have everyone in Washington and New York. Risk management, human resource development, and practicality for our examination teams (to focus on one example) provide ample reinforcement for that position.

    I also want to salute our regional teams for their expertise and collaboration across offices to find the best resources to assign to matters. At least one direct experience that I had in the past year in which my firm was an independent compliance consultant indicates that the SEC has advanced quite a bit in this coordination over the past couple of decades. Two of our SEC colleagues from the Miami office with necessary, specific expertise played a key role in uncovering problematic activity of a Philadelphia asset manager by meticulously analyzing trades—going back to the trade blotters—to build a case.

    As I said at the outset of my remarks today, it is a new and brighter day for the SEC.

    I am here to work, with each of you, on behalf of American markets and investors. We will work with our colleagues in the Administration, especially other financial services regulators, notably the CFTC and banking regulators, and, of course, with Congress to bolster the economy and build on U.S. leadership of the global markets.

    Thank you for all that you do each and every day to advance our mission.

    If you are joining us remotely today, thank you for participating. I look forward to interacting with you in person in the near future. For those of you here at headquarters, please join me for some refreshments right outside.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Afreximbank extends EUR15-million factoring line of credit to Banque Postale du Congo

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

    CAIRO, Egypt, May 8, 2025/APO Group/ —

    African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) has signed a EUR 15 million Factoring line of credit agreement with Banque Postale du Congo (BPC) in Cairo. The facility will provide liquidity to BPC for factoring supplier invoices accepted by eligible buyers, as well as  for engaging in cross-border factoring.

    Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development at Afreximbank, explained that the dual-tranche factoring facility would support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Republic of Congo and enable BPC to expand its cross-border factoring activities.  

    She noted that the facility would significantly boost SME financing in Congo, where BPC is currently the only institution offering factoring. It is expected that the facility will be revolved severally over the next year, resulting in cumulative financing of up to EUR 60 million for SMEs.

    Mrs. Awani highlighted that the transaction is part of a broader strategic partnership between Afreximbank and BPC aimed at promoting factoring in the Republic of Congo and across the Central Africa region. The partnership is also designed to improve access to finance for SMEs, which are vital contributors to job creation and economic growth as well as strengthen capacity building and legal and regulatory framework

    “Factoring has been identified as a key instrument to facilitate the implementation of Afreximbank’s current strategy, Impact 2026 – Extending Frontiers, by providing financing to SMEs that may not meet the criteria for traditional bank lending,” said Mrs. Awani. “This facility will support SMEs and improve their competitiveness by enabling them to trade on open account terms, thereby expanding trade frontiers.”

    Mr. Calixte Tabangoli, Chief Executive Officer of BPC, who signed on behalf of his organisation commented: “We are honoured to once again partner with Afreximbank through this expanded facility. Over the past two years, the Bank’s support has enabled us to provide vital working capital to more than 100 SMEs in Congo. This new EUR 15 million facility will further strengthen our ability to promote financial inclusion and economic development. We deeply appreciate the unwavering commitment of Mrs. Kanayo Awani and her team, whose leadership continues to demonstrate that factoring is a powerful instrument for SME growth across Africa.”

    The facility builds on a strong and evolving partnership between Afreximbank and BPC, which began in 2018 with an initial EUR 5million facility. That support was subsequently increased to EUR 10million in 2022. Since then, BPC’s factoring volumes have grown from EUR 1.5 million in 2018 to EUR 30.5 million in 2024.

    In addition to financing, the partnership has included key capacity-building and policy initiatives. Notably, Afreximbank supported the Republic of Congo’s adoption of a Model of Law on Factoring in 2021. The Bank has also provided technical assistance, including a week-long secondment of three BPC staff members to Afreximbank in June 2024, and has collaborated with BPC in promoting awareness and developing the factoring ecosystem across the region.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI: Occupancy Analytics Leader Lambent Adds Two Higher Ed Veterans to its Board of Advisors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Occupancy analytics software company Lambent today announced the addition of two new members to its Board of Advisors. Robert Wynkoop, Vice President of Operations and Finance at Covenant College, and Maria O’Callaghan-Cassidy, former Senior Associate Vice President, Campus Operations at the University of Richmond, join Lambent’s advisory board to help build on the company’s success working with higher education institutions and corporations. Both bring an invaluable perspective on how occupancy analytics can help optimize organizations’ approaches to real estate investment and space management while also providing employees, students and visitors with the best possible experiences in those spaces.

    “Rob and Maria both bring a great mix of operational and finance experience across higher education, government and corporate real estate,” said Julie Roberts, Lambent’s Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer. “Rob also has first-hand experience and success with the Lambent Spaces platform. That combination provides a really valuable perspective as we look to expand the value and footprint of our solutions across corporate and higher ed campuses.”

    In his role as Vice President of Operations and Finance at Covenant College, Wynkoop oversees finance and accounting, business operations, facilities and maintenance, human resources, and technology services. Before joining Covenant in 2024, he spent 11 years at Purdue University, where his team managed space administration, real estate and development, logistics and procurement services on campus and at the Purdue University Airport, the Purdue Memorial Union, and Purdue Conferences. While at Purdue, Wynkoop oversaw the implementation of the Lambent Spaces occupancy analytics platform that currently helps manage over one million square feet on its West Lafayette campus. That implementation has assisted Purdue in avoiding approximately $30 million in operating expenses through better space utilization. Earlier in his career, Wynkoop served at the Indiana Department of Administration (IDOA) under Governor Mitch Daniels, holding the position of commissioner from 2010 to 2013.

    O’Callaghan-Cassidy brings extensive experience in higher education facilities management and campus operations. Most recently as Senior Associate Vice President of Campus Operations at the University of Richmond, she led a team of 400+ professionals across dining services, campus business services, facilities operations, architecture and campus operations budget and finance. Previously, she spent 25 years at The Wharton School where she rose through the ranks from Manager of Scheduling and Facilities Services to Senior Director of Operations to Executive Director of Design & Construction and Facilities Planning and Operations.

    About Lambent
    Lambent is an occupancy analytics software company helping corporate and higher ed campuses optimize space utilization, facilities operations and real estate investments. Its SaaS platform, Lambent Spaces, leverages existing data sources such as Wi-Fi and sensors to provide anonymous and predictive analytics to inform decisions related to utilization, workplace experiences, planning, scheduling, and maintenance. The software delivers actionable intelligence so facilities professionals and space planners can make better use of the spaces they have. For more information, visit https://lambentspaces.com/.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Allied Energy Corporation Advances Gas Supply Infrastructure to Support Bitcoin Mining Partner at Thiel Site

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • AGYP advances gas-to-power site for sustainable Bitcoin mining operations
    • Trapped gas converted to energy for off-grid AI & data infrastructure
    • Thiel site prepares final testing and computing equipment delivery
    • Natural gas solutions support decentralized computing and edge centers

    CARROLLTON, Texas, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Allied Energy Corporation (OTC: AGYP) (”AGYP”), a Texas-based energy company focused on revitalizing underutilized domestic oil and gas resources, is pleased to provide a project update from the Thiel site where AGYP and its partner, Louis Energy Inc., are building out the infrastructure to deliver natural gas to support off-grid computing applications for Louis Energy Inc.

    Key Infrastructure Achievements: Turning Trapped Gas into a Strategic Asset

    AGYP and Louis Energy Inc. have been actively preparing the Thiel site to safely and efficiently channel natural gas to mobile containers for high-density computing. Completed milestones include:

    • Delivery of second modular computing container
    • Installation of on-site mobile office
    • Electrical installation preparation between Generator 2 and Container 2
    • Perimeter security fencing underway
    • Gas supply systems under validation
    • Generator test scheduled (pending P-5 approval)
    • On-site technicians conducting diagnostics and testing

    Planned Operational Advancements: Preparing for Final Integration

    AGYP is entering the final phase of its infrastructure buildout at Thiel, including:

    • Final cable installations and system optimization
    • Delivery of 10 pallets of computing equipment scheduled for next week
    • Wi-Fi connectivity via Starlink
    • Generator testing and operational clearance
    • Surveillance system installation
    • Gas system gauges and fittings to be pressure tested

    Once regulatory approvals are received, the site will begin formal gas-to-power operations.

    The Bigger Picture: Trapped Gas – An Untapped National Resource

    Stranded and flared gas—once considered a waste byproduct—is rapidly gaining traction as a sustainable, low-cost power source for decentralized infrastructure. AGYP’s work at the Thiel site is part of a broader push to transform U.S. energy usage:

    Use Cases for Trapped Gas Beyond Data Mining:

    • AI & Machine Learning Compute Farms – Powering high-density GPU systems
    • Agritech – Supporting controlled-environment agriculture in remote areas
    • Hydrogen Production – Fueling clean hydrogen from hydrocarbon sources
    • Remote & Emergency Operations – Delivering mobile energy to military and disaster response sites
    • Rural Electrification – Bringing energy to underserved communities through microgrids
    • Data & Edge Centers – Supporting low-latency applications with local infrastructure

    National Opportunity:

    • Over 1.4 billion cubic feet/day of gas is flared or vented in the U.S.
      (Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, 2024)
    • Enough trapped gas exists to power over 10,000 MW of digital infrastructure
      (Source: Digital Wildcatters & Giga Energy)

    States like Texas, North Dakota, New Mexico, and Wyoming are seeing regulatory and ESG-driven momentum to utilize this untapped energy source.

    Were positioning AGYP at the center of a new energy economywhere natural gas isnt wasted but redirected toward powering real-world innovation, said George Montieth, CEO of AGYP.

    What’s Next for AGYP?

    With Thiel nearing full operational status, AGYP is actively exploring additional partnerships and deployment models to expand its gas-to-power strategy to other high-potential sites. In addition, further updates regarding the company’s carbon capture, gas monetization, and off-grid computing ventures will be provided in the coming months, as previously outlined in AGYP’s February 27, 2025 update.

    AGYP remains committed to turning America’s trapped gas into a strategic energy advantage.

    About AGYP:

    Allied Energy Corp. is an energy development and production company acquiring oil & gas reserves in some of the most prolific hydrocarbon bearing regions of the United States. The Company specializes in the business of reworking & re-completing ‘existing’ oil & gas wells located in the thousands of mature oil & gas producing fields across the United States. The Company applies its knowledge, experience, and effective well-remediation technologies to achieve higher production volumes, longer well life, and more efficient recovery of the proven and available oil and gas reserves in the fields/projects in which it has acquired an ownership interest. The Company will utilize updated technologies such as hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”), drilling of lateral (“horizontal”) legs in productive zones, and utilizing new cased hole electric logging to locate bypassed pays, all to enhance daily rates and oil & gas recoveries. By acquiring interests in a growing number of selected projects in various regions, Allied Energy Corp. is diversifying its exposure and effectively minimizing risk as it pursues corporate growth, top line & bottom-line revenues to the benefit of all stakeholders. There are proven, recoverable reserves contained in the many aging oil & gas fields that have been bypassed by companies moving away from these fields in search of deeper, more plentiful, but more costly reserves. The Company plans to concentrate on bypassed oil and gas as there is less competition and, as mentioned above, the costs are considerably less. Additionally, the company will acquire interests in marginal wells that can be acquired at minimal cost, of which there are 420,000 wells in the U.S. Quoting Barry Russell, President of the Independent Petroleum Association of America (“IPAA”) – “With approximately 20 percent of American oil production and 10 percent of American natural gas production coming from marginal wells, they are America’s true strategic petroleum reserve.”

    Safe Harbor Statement:

    This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements that are within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company has tried, whenever possible, to identify these forward-looking statements using words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “potential” and similar expressions. These statements reflect the Company’s current beliefs and are based upon information currently available to it. Accordingly, such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which could cause the Company’s actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by such statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or advise in the event of any change, addition or alteration to the information catered in this Press Release, including such forward-looking statements.

    Contact:

    Allied Energy Corporation
    Phone: 972-632-2393
    Email: info@alliedengycorp.com
    X: https://x.com/AlliedEnergyCo1

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/805afac9-47b6-422a-a74e-41ed9df311b3

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bf09204b-baac-49fe-974f-47b7e199e3a5

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/11283726-53b0-48cf-9160-09bcd53a59ec

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2a26cbf3-3990-4f81-8304-8e79d831567a

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: MicroAlgo Inc. Develops a Blockchain Storage Optimization Solution Based on the Archimedes Optimization Algorithm (AOA)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHENZHEN, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MicroAlgo Inc. Develops a Blockchain Storage Optimization Solution Based on the Archimedes Optimization Algorithm (AOA)

    Shenzhen, May. 08, 2025/––MicroAlgo Inc. (the “Company” or “MicroAlgo”) (NASDAQ: MLGO), announced a focus on addressing the efficiency bottlenecks in blockchain storage by introducing the Archimedes Optimization Algorithm (AOA) into distributed storage architecture. Through intelligent algorithmic restructuring of data storage and node collaboration mechanisms, they aim to provide an innovative solution for large-scale blockchain applications.
    The Archimedes Optimization Algorithm (AOA) is a metaheuristic algorithm that simulates the force-driven motion of objects in a fluid. Its core concept is derived from the principle of Archimedean buoyancy: the buoyant force exerted on an object immersed in a fluid equals the weight of the fluid displaced. By dynamically adjusting parameters such as density, volume, and acceleration, the algorithm models the iterative motion of an object from a random initial position toward an optimal “equilibrium point.” MicroAlgo has deeply integrated this algorithm into blockchain storage scenarios. By targeting core issues such as data sharding strategies, node resource allocation, and consensus efficiency optimization, the company has constructed a multi-objective optimization model. AOA adaptively switches between global search and local exploitation to solve for optimal storage solutions under complex constraints, achieving multiple goals including reduced data redundancy, balanced node load, and enhanced storage performance. This injects intelligent and dynamic adjusting ability into blockchain storage systems.
    MicroAlgo’s blockchain storage optimization solution uses AOA as its core engine and spans the entire data-on-chain lifecycle. The technical workflow is divided into five key stages:data Preprocessing, sharding Strategy Optimization, node Resource Allocation, consensus Mechanism Enhancement and security Strategy Tuning.
    Data Feature Analysis and Preprocessing: Multi-dimensional feature extraction is performed on data destined for the blockchain. Depending on the characteristics of different data units, differentiated preprocessing strategies are applied: lightweight serialized encoding for structured transaction data; chunk-based hashing for unstructured file data; and homomorphic encryption or zero-knowledge proof preprocessing for privacy-sensitive data. The feature vectors generated during preprocessing, along with storage constraints (such as maximum node storage capacity, network latency thresholds, and data redundancy safety margins), collectively form the input parameter space for AOA.
    Dynamic Sharding Strategy Optimization: AOA models the data sharding problem as an optimal partitioning task in multi-dimensional space. During initialization, storage nodes in the blockchain network are abstracted as “virtual objects,” where each object’s “density” corresponds to the node’s storage cost coefficient, “volume” to its remaining available storage space, and “buoyancy” to its network transmission efficiency. In the iterative process, AOA performs a global exploration phase simulating the random movement of objects in fluid, traversing various shard combinations and employing collision detection to avoid local optima. In the local exploitation phase, the algorithm converges toward the current optimal sharding plan based on gradient information and dynamically adjusts the storage node allocation for each data block. For example, frequently accessed “hot data” is preferentially stored with multiple replicas on nodes with low latency and strong computational performance to ensure fast response, while infrequently accessed “cold data” is stored using erasure coding on nodes with lower cost and larger capacity, thereby reducing redundancy while ensuring availability. Through adjustment of the adaptive Transfer Factor, the algorithm dynamically balances exploration and exploitation, ultimately producing a sharding strategy that optimizes both storage efficiency and access performance.
    Node Load Balancing and Resource Scheduling: At the node level, AOA builds a real-time load monitoring model, collecting dynamic status data such as storage utilization, CPU usage, and network bandwidth consumption, which serve as input for the algorithm’s “force analysis.” When node load exceeds a threshold (e.g., storage utilization surpasses 90%), the load balancing mechanism is triggered: by adjusting the “density” parameter (i.e., storage priority) of adjacent nodes, new data is guided toward underloaded nodes. Simultaneously, migration of low-frequency data from overloaded nodes is initiated, following a “minimum transmission cost” principle that evaluates migration paths based on network latency, data volume, and current node loads to generate the optimal migration sequence. Additionally, to accommodate heterogeneous nodes (e.g., full nodes, light nodes, edge nodes), AOA adopts a layered resource scheduling strategy: light nodes store only essential index information, edge nodes handle local data caching, and full nodes take charge of core data validation and long-term storage—thus forming a tiered storage architecture based on core-edge collaboration.
    Consensus Efficiency Enhancement and Block Optimization: At the consensus layer, AOA is deeply integrated with blockchain consensus mechanisms to optimize block generation and validation. Taking PBFT-like consensus as an example, the algorithm reformulates block packaging as a multi-objective optimization problem: it seeks balance between block size limits (e.g., 1MB maximum) and transaction throughput by analyzing transaction type (transfer vs. smart contract), priority (urgent vs. regular), and correlation (cross-contract vs. independent transactions). Based on this analysis, it dynamically adjusts transaction sorting and grouping within blocks. During node election, AOA calculates each node’s “trust density” in real time, based on historical performance (e.g., participation in consensus, data validation accuracy, and network stability), and prioritizes high-trust nodes to participate in consensus, reducing the risk of malicious interference. For PoW-based consensus, AOA predicts hash power distribution and network load to dynamically adjust mining difficulty targets, thereby shortening block intervals and reducing energy waste while maintaining decentralization.
    Adaptive Security Strategy Optimization: To meet blockchain storage demands for privacy protection and data security, AOA builds an encryption parameter optimization model. In homomorphic encryption scenarios, the algorithm automatically selects optimal parameters (e.g., modulus size, key length) based on data sensitivity and computational complexity, reducing overhead while maintaining cryptographic strength. In zero-knowledge proof contexts, AOA enhances efficiency by optimizing randomness selection and constraint composition in proof generation, minimizing on-chain storage demands. To mitigate risks of data tampering and node failure, AOA monitors anomalies in on-chain data hash values in real time, and uses cross-verification across multiple node replicas to quickly identify compromised nodes and trigger recovery workflows. During recovery, the algorithm selects the optimal replica node for synchronization based on node trust level and network connectivity, ensuring rapid system consistency restoration.
    Compared to traditional approaches, MicroAlgo’s AOA-based blockchain storage optimization solution offers significant advantages. Conventional storage strategies often rely on fixed rules—such as uniform sharding or round-robin allocation—which are prone to falling into the pitfalls of local optima. In contrast, AOA leverages a global search mechanism inspired by fluid dynamics, enabling it to rapidly explore over a million sharding combinations within a complex network of tens of millions of nodes. Its solution efficiency surpasses that of Genetic Algorithms (GA) by 40%, and reduces the number of iterations needed by 25% compared to Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), effectively avoiding the blindness of static strategies.
    The node status and data characteristics of blockchain networks are in constant flux. The AOA transfer factor mechanism dynamically switches search modes based on real-time load data: during network congestion, it enhances local exploitation to quickly stabilize system performance; during low load, it activates global exploration to discover optimal resource allocation solutions. Empirical data shows this approach controls the standard deviation of node storage utilization within 15%, reducing load imbalance by 60% compared to traditional methods.
    As blockchain penetrates deeper into Web3.0, the metaverse, and other fields, on-chain data volume will experience explosive growth. MicroAlgo’s AOA technology will continue to evolve in the following directions: at the algorithmic level, it plans to introduce quantum computing acceleration to boost AOA’s iteration speed by over 100 times, addressing optimization needs for exabyte-scale data; at the architectural level, it will explore “algorithm-hardware” co-design, developing dedicated ASIC chips for AOA hardware acceleration to reduce energy costs of blockchain nodes; at the ecosystem level, it will promote deep integration of AOA with cross-chain protocols (e.g., Polkadot, Cosmos) to build a cross-chain storage resource scheduling network, achieving the ultimate goal of “one-point on-chain, network-wide intelligent storage.”
    In the future, AOA is poised to become the “intelligent hub” of blockchain storage, driving distributed storage from “rule-driven” to “algorithmic autonomy,” laying the technical foundation for unlocking data value in the digital economy era.

    About MicroAlgo Inc.
    MicroAlgo Inc. (the “MicroAlgo”), a Cayman Islands exempted company, is dedicated to the development and application of bespoke central processing algorithms. MicroAlgo provides comprehensive solutions to customers by integrating central processing algorithms with software or hardware, or both, thereby helping them to increase the number of customers, improve end-user satisfaction, achieve direct cost savings, reduce power consumption, and achieve technical goals. The range of MicroAlgo’s services includes algorithm optimization, accelerating computing power without the need for hardware upgrades, lightweight data processing, and data intelligence services. MicroAlgo’s ability to efficiently deliver software and hardware optimization to customers through bespoke central processing algorithms serves as a driving force for MicroAlgo’s long-term development.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains statements that may constitute “forward-looking statements.” Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of MicroAlgo, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of MicroAlgo’s periodic reports on Forms 10-K and 8-K filed with the SEC. Copies are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. Words such as “expect,” “estimate,” “project,” “budget,” “forecast,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “believes,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue,” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, MicroAlgo’s expectations with respect to future performance and anticipated financial impacts of the business transaction.

    MicroAlgo undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as may be required by law.
    Contact
    MicroAlgo Inc.
    Investor Relations
    Email: ir@microalgor.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Brag House Holdings, Inc. Files Form 10-K and Reaffirms Strategic Vision for Gen Z Engagement Through Gaming

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brag House Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: TBH) (“Brag House” or the “Company”), a media-tech company at the intersection of gaming, college sports, and digital brand engagement, today announced the filing of its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024.

    The Company reaffirmed its confidence in the execution of its strategic plan to redefine digital engagement for casual college gamers and brands seeking to connect with the Gen Z demographic. As outlined in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis of its Annual Report on Form 10-K, Brag House continues to develop a first-of-its-kind digital platform where casual college gamers can compete, support their schools, engage in spirited banter, and win prizes in a safe, inclusive environment.

    “We are creating more than a platform—we are building a new sports medium,” said Lavell Juan Malloy II, CEO and Co-Founder of Brag House. “By merging gameplay with school spirit, our student-led tournaments, proprietary Bragging Functionality, and interactive experiences offer Gen Z an entirely new way to engage with college rivalries.”

    The Company highlighted its landmark strategic partnership with Learfield, which launched in April 2025 in collaboration with Florida Gators Athletics. The partnership represents a significant revenue-generating opportunity and marks the first step in a nationwide rollout designed to scale across Learfield’s network of over 200 collegiate institutions.

    The Company reaffirmed its strategic focus by highlighting the launch of a landmark initiative with Florida Gators Athletics and Learfield’s Florida Gators Sports Properties, as announced in its April 28, 2025 press release titled “Brag House, Florida Gators Athletics, and Learfield Announce Strategic Partnership to Create New Digital Sports Medium for Gen Z.” This innovative collaboration introduces a new digital sports medium for Gen Z—merging school spirit, gaming, and live sports into immersive experiences, as detailed below.

    The debut activation, known as the Brag Gator Gauntlet, kicks off in May 2025 at the University of Florida. This flagship series introduces:

    • Live and digital gaming activations aligned with real-world sporting events;
    • NIL-integrated content featuring student-athletes to amplify authenticity and school pride;
    • Branded loyalty tokens and cross-channel sponsorship opportunities across digital and on-campus platforms.

    By uniting Brag House’s gamified platform with Learfield’s nationwide network of collegiate institutions, this initiative redefines how fans and students engage with college sports. It also opens up high-impact, measurable opportunities for brands to reach Gen Z through student-led tournaments, influencer-driven campaigns, and serialized content. The Company believes this model will generate high-ROI advertising opportunities and serve as a foundation for future data-driven insights, enabling brands to engage Gen Z with greater precision, authenticity, and scale.

    “Our development and marketing strategy is laser-focused on high-impact, revenue-producing milestones,” added Malloy. “We are investing strategically in infrastructure while maintaining disciplined cost controls expected of a public company.”

    The Company’s near-term strategic goals include:

    • Scaling Learfield-based activations across multiple universities;
    • Deploying digital rewards through Loyalty Tokens and Bragging Functionality;
    • Advancing key platform technology modules to operational beta;
    • Leveraging proprietary data for brand-focused SaaS revenue generation.

    Brag House remains confident in its long-term growth trajectory and will continue providing shareholders with updates as key milestones are reached.

    About Brag House
    Brag House is a leading media technology gaming platform dedicated to transforming casual college gaming into a vibrant, community-driven experience. By seamlessly merging gaming, social interaction, and cutting-edge technology, the Company provides an inclusive and engaging environment for casual gamers while enabling brands to authentically connect with the influential Gen Z demographic. The platform offers live-streaming capabilities, gamification features, and custom tournament services, fostering meaningful engagement between users and brands. For more information, please visit www.braghouse.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined within Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements in this press release, include, but are not limited to statements relating to the ability to generate revenue from strategic partnership with Learfield; the ability to generate any revenue, return on investment, or any specific outcomes related to scheduled or unscheduled activations or immersive experiences; the ability to deliver anticipated platform growth, including through anticipated development roadmap or scalable model; the timeliness of any anticipated beta versions; the ability to generate revenue from anonymized behavioral insights or other proprietary data; the effectiveness of marketing strategies and strategic investments on revenue; the availability or value of any digital rewards and functionality; the feasibility of near-term strategic goals; or the impact on growth of near or long-term trajectories. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as “may,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “could,” “intends,” “target,” “projects,” “forecasts,” “believes,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “potential,” “continue,” “assumption” or “judgment” or the negative of these words or other similar terms or expressions that concern our expectations, strategy, plans or intentions. These statements relate to future events or our future financial performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.

    Although the Company believes the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable when made, the Company cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements. There are a number of important factors that could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from the results anticipated by the Company’s forward-looking statements, which include, but are not limited to: the Company’s history of recurring losses and anticipated expenditures raises substantial doubts about its ability to continue as a going concern; the Company’s loss of or a substantial reduction in activity by one or more of its largest clients, vendors and/or sponsors could materially and adversely affect its business, financial condition and results of operations; the Company’s revenue model may not remain effective, and the Company cannot guarantee that its future monetization strategies will be successfully implemented or generate sustainable revenues and profit; technology changes rapidly in the Company’s business and if it fails to anticipate or successfully implement new technologies or adopt new business strategies, technologies or methods, the quality, timeliness and competitiveness of the Company’s amateur tournaments or competitions may suffer; the Company relies on information technology and other systems and platforms, and any failures, errors, defects or disruptions in the Company’s systems or platforms could diminish its brand and reputation, subject it to liability, disrupt its business, affect its ability to scale its technical infrastructure and adversely affect its operating results and growth prospects..

    Additional factors include those described in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, including under the captions “Risk Factors,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and “Business,” in the Company’s subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, including under the captions “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and in our subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    A forward-looking statement is neither a prediction nor a guarantee of future events or circumstances. You should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. Unless required by federal securities laws, the Company assumes no obligation to update any of these forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated, to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the statements are made.

    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

  • MIL-OSI: Alarum to Release First Quarter 2025 Results on May 29, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Conference call scheduled for Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. ET

    Tel Aviv, Israel, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alarum Technologies Ltd. (Nasdaq, TASE: ALAR), a global provider of web data collection solutions, will release its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, before the Nasdaq market opens on Thursday, May 29, 2025.  

    Mr. Shachar Daniel, Chief Executive Officer, and Mr. Shai Avnit, Chief Financial Officer, will host a conference call on May 29, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. ET to discuss the financial results and business outlook, followed by a Q&A session.

    To join the live call, please dial one of the numbers below and connect five minutes before the call begins. Please note that participants will be asked to state their name and company upon joining the call.

    If you are unable to connect via the toll-free numbers, please use the international dial-in number:

    US toll-free: 1-877-407-0789, international dial-in: +1 201 689 8562; Israel Toll Free: 1 809 406 247.

    Date:

    Thursday, May 29, 2025

    Time:

    08:30 a.m. ET/05:30 a.m. PT/12:30 p.m. IL

    A replay of the call will be available after 11:30 a.m. ET on May 29, 2025.

    To access the replay, visit the Company’s website at alarum.io/events/ or here.

    About Alarum Technologies Ltd.
      
    Alarum Technologies Ltd. (Nasdaq, TASE: ALAR) is a global provider of web data collection solutions. The solutions by NetNut, Alarum’s Enterprise Internet Access arm, are based on its world’s fastest and most advanced and secured hybrid proxy network, enabling its customers to collect data anonymously at any scale from any public sources over the web. Alarum’s network comprises both exit points based on its proprietary reflection technology and hundreds of servers located at its ISP partners around the world. The infrastructure is optimally designed to guarantee privacy, quality, stability, and the speed of the service. For more information about Alarum, please visit www.alarum.io

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other Federal securities laws. Words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates” and similar expressions or variations of such words are intended to identify forward-looking statements. For example, Alarum is using forward-looking statements in this press release when it discusses the timing of releasing financial results and the timing of the respective conference call. Because such statements deal with future events and are based on Alarum’s current expectations, they are subject to various risks and uncertainties and actual results, performance or achievements of Alarum could differ materially from those described in or implied by the statements in this press release. The forward-looking statements contained or implied in this press release are subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in Alarum’s annual report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 20, 2025, and in any subsequent filings with the SEC. Except as otherwise required by law, Alarum undertakes no obligation to publicly release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.   

    INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT:

    investors@alarum.io  

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Siebert Financial Appoints Industry Veteran Fredrick Scuteri as Chief Operating Officer of its Broker-Dealer Subsidiary

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Siebert Financial Corp. (NASDAQ: SIEB), announced the appointment of Fredrick Scuteri as Chief Operating Officer of its broker-dealer subsidiary Muriel Siebert & Co., LLC. In this role, Scuteri will oversee day-to-day operational functions, trading infrastructure, and platform modernization efforts as the firm continues to scale its brokerage services.

    Scuteri brings nearly three decades of experience across institutional trading, asset management, and broker-dealer operations. Prior to joining Siebert, he served as Chief Operating Officer of DriveWealth Institutional, following the firm’s acquisition of Cuttone & Co. He also held the role of Vice President and Head of Trading Operations and Treasury at AQR Capital Management, where he led operations team proving global, multi-asset class coverage for over 250 trading accounts.

    “Siebert Financial has a legacy of resilience and reinvention,” said Scuteri. “I look forward to building on that foundation by bringing scalable, tech-forward solutions to our operations. My focus will be on streamlining workflows, increasing transparency, and applying automation and AI to help future-proof the business, without compromising the firm’s commitment to client service and regulatory excellence.”

    Under Scuteri’s leadership, Siebert will expand its operational capabilities and continue investing in infrastructure to support growth across institutional and retail channels.

    “Fred brings both depth and range to this role,” said John J. Gebbia, CEO of Siebert Financial. “He understands the intricacies of capital markets and, more importantly, he knows how to execute. His ability to turn complexity into clarity is exactly what we need at this stage for the growth of Siebert.”

    “Having someone with Fred’s operational rigor and fintech expertise is a significant advantage,” added John M. Gebbia, Principal at Siebert Financial. “He’s already thinking several steps ahead, whether it’s about optimizing capital, improving workflows integrating AI-automation, or preparing our systems for scale. We’re excited to have him on board.”

    Scuteri is a FINRA-registered Financial Operations Principal (Series 27) with degrees in Finance, an MBA from St. John’s University, and, lately, certifications in Generative AI and Advanced Prompt Engineering from Vanderbilt University.

    About Siebert Financial Corp.
    Siebert is a diversified financial services company and has been a member of the NYSE since 1967 when Muriel Siebert became the first woman to own a seat on the NYSE and the first to head one of its member firms.

    Siebert operates through its subsidiaries Muriel Siebert & Co., LLC, Siebert AdvisorNXT, LLC, Park Wilshire Companies, Inc., RISE Financial Services, LLC, Siebert Technologies, LLC, and StockCross Digital Solutions, Ltd, and Gebbia Media LLC. Through these entities, Siebert provides a full range of brokerage and financial advisory services, including securities brokerage, investment advisory and insurance offerings, securities lending, and corporate stock plan administration solutions, in addition to entertainment and media productions. For over 55 years, Siebert has been a company that values its clients, shareholders, and employees. More information is available at www.siebert.com.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    The statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts, including statements about our beliefs and expectations, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements preceded by, followed by, or that include the words “may,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “estimate,” “target,” “project,” “intend” and similar words or expressions. In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections, or other characterizations of future events or circumstances are forward-looking statements.

    These forward-looking statements, which reflect beliefs, objectives, and expectations as of the date hereof, are based on the best judgment of the management of Siebert. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in such statements, including, without limitation, the following: economic, social and political conditions, global economic downturns resulting from extraordinary events; securities industry risks; interest rate risks; liquidity risks; credit risk with clients and counterparties; risk of liability for errors in clearing functions; systemic risk; systems failures, delays and capacity constraints; network security risks; competition; reliance on external service providers; new laws and regulations affecting Siebert’s business; net capital requirements; extensive regulation, regulatory uncertainties and legal matters; failure to maintain relationships with employees, customers, business partners or governmental entities; the inability to achieve synergies or to implement integration plans; and other consequences associated with risks and uncertainties detailed in Part I, Item 1A – Risk Factors of Siebert’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and Siebert’s filings with the SEC.

    Siebert cautions that the foregoing list of factors is not exclusive, and new factors may emerge, or changes to the foregoing factors may occur that could impact its business. Siebert undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except to the extent required by the federal securities laws.

    Media Contact
    Deborah Kostroun, Zito Partners
    deborah@zitopartners.com
    +1 (201) 403-8185

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5ec79525-8910-4122-a10b-0e856542cab0

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: HomeTrust Bank Further Recognized for Strong Financial Performance and as a Most Loved Workplace

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ASHEVILLE, N.C., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE: HTB) (“Company”), the holding company of HomeTrust Bank (“HomeTrust” or the “Bank”), announced today that the Bank has been named one of Forbes’ America’s Best Banks for 2025 and recognized as a Top 50 Community Bank in the 2024 S&P Global Market Intelligence annual rankings. These awards are based on key metrics assessing the overall financial performance and strength of financial institutions. This is the second consecutive year that HomeTrust has been recognized in each of these publications.

    The Company was also recently included in the coveted 2025 KBW Bank Honor Roll. Only 5% of eligible banks were named to this elite group of 16 financial institutions based on their best-in-class earnings growth over the past ten years.

    In addition, HomeTrust has been re-certified as a Most Loved Workplace® by Best Practice Institute (BPI) and received recognition over the past two years as a Best Place to Work by Best Companies Group in all five states they serve.

    “Receiving these prestigious rankings is a continued testament to how we manage the Bank and the engagement and excitement of our HTB teammates,” said C. Hunter Westbrook, President & Chief Executive Officer. “HomeTrust set a goal to be a consistently high-performing regional community bank that is a regionally and nationally recognized ‘Best Place to Work.’ This isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. We’ll continue to create a higher standard by being relentless about improvement, embodying our fundamentals, and fostering a workplace and culture where our team members are engaged and belong.”

    www.htb.com

    About HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc.

    HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc. is the holding company for the Bank. As of March 31, 2025, the Company had assets of $4.6 billion. The Bank, founded in 1926, is a North Carolina state chartered, community-focused financial institution committed to providing value added relationship banking with over 30 locations as well as online/mobile channels. Locations include: North Carolina (the Asheville metropolitan area, the “Piedmont” region, Charlotte and Raleigh/Cary), South Carolina (Greenville and Charleston), East Tennessee (Kingsport/Johnson City, Knoxville and Morristown), Southwest Virginia (the Roanoke Valley) and Georgia (Greater Atlanta).

    HomeTrust Bank’s recent Q1 2025 earnings release is available here: HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc. Announces Financial Results for the First Quarter of the Year Ending December 31, 2025 and Declaration of a Quarterly Dividend | HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact, but instead are based on certain assumptions including statements with respect to the Company’s beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, expectations, assumptions and statements about future economic performance and projections of financial items. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results anticipated or implied by forward-looking statements. The factors that could result in material differentiation include, but are not limited to, natural disasters, including the effects of Hurricane Helene; expected revenues, cost savings, synergies and other benefits from merger and acquisition activities might not be realized to the extent anticipated, within the anticipated time frames, or at all, costs or difficulties relating to integration matters, including but not limited to customer and employee retention, might be greater than expected, and goodwill impairment charges might be incurred; increased competitive pressures among financial services companies; changes in the interest rate environment; changes in general economic conditions, both nationally and in our market areas; legislative and regulatory changes; and the effects of inflation, a potential recession, and other factors described in the Company’s latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission – which are available on the Company’s website at www.htb.com and on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Any of the forward-looking statements that the Company makes in this press release or in the documents the Company files with or furnishes to the SEC are based upon management’s beliefs and assumptions at the time they are made and may turn out to be wrong because of inaccurate assumptions, the factors described above or other factors that management cannot foresee. The Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to revise any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements. 

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Live Ventures Reports Fiscal Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAS VEGAS, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Live Ventures Incorporated (Nasdaq: LIVE) (“Live Ventures” or the “Company”), a diversified holding company, today announced financial results for its fiscal second quarter 2025 ended March 31, 2025. 

    Fiscal Second Quarter 2025 Key Highlights:

    • Revenue was $107.0 million, compared to $118.6 million in the prior year period
    • Operating income increased $2.9 million to $2.1 million, compared to an operating loss of $0.8 million in the prior year period
    • Successfully negotiated a $19 million reduction on the balance owed under the Flooring Liquidators, Inc. (“Flooring Liquidators”) seller note, which, when including the cancellation of accrued interest and other items, resulted in a $22.8 million net gain for Live Ventures
    • Income before provision for income taxes was $21.1 million, compared to the prior year period loss before benefit from income taxes of $4.5 million. Income before provision for income taxes for the second quarter of 2025 includes the $22.8 million gain as described above
    • Adjusted EBITDA¹ increased $2.0 million to $6.4 million, compared to $4.5 million in the prior year period
    • Repurchased 31,323 shares of the Company’s common stock at an average price of $8.28 per share
    • Total assets of $393.6 million and stockholders’ equity of $88.9 million as of March 31, 2025
    • Approximately $26.6 million of cash and availability under the Company’s credit facilities as of March 31, 2025

    “Continuing the trend from the first quarter of fiscal year 2025, our Retail-Entertainment and Steel Manufacturing segments delivered improved operating performance in the second quarter, with higher operating income and operating margin compared to the same period last year. At the same time, ongoing softness in the new home construction and home refurbishment markets continued to pressure our Retail-Flooring and Flooring Manufacturing segments, where reduced consumer demand impacted performance,” commented David Verret, Chief Financial Officer of Live Ventures.

    “We are pleased with the operational improvements in our Retail-Entertainment and Steel Manufacturing segments during the first half of the year,” stated Jon Isaac, President and Chief Executive Officer of Live Ventures. “In response to our flooring businesses’ industry-specific challenges, we are implementing measures to enhance efficiency. In the second quarter, we initiated large cost-reduction initiatives in the Retail-Flooring segment, which have already resulted in significant savings. We remain focused on operational excellence and are confident in the long-term fundamentals of our businesses.”

     
    Second Quarter FY 2025 Financial Summary (in thousands except per share amounts)
      For the three months ended March 31,
        2025     2024     % Change
    Revenue $ 107,013   $ 118,626     -9.8 %
    Operating income (loss) $ 2,092   $ (838 )   N/A
    Income (loss) before provision for income taxes $ 21,103   $ (4,498 )   N/A
    Net income (loss) $ 15,866   $ (3,281 )   N/A
    Diluted earnings (loss) per share $ 5.05   $ (1.04 )   N/A
    Adjusted EBITDA¹ $ 6,446   $ 4,457     44.6 %
                       

    Revenue decreased approximately $11.6 million, or 9.8%, to approximately $107.0 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, compared to revenue of approximately $118.6 million in the prior year period. The decrease is attributable to the Retail-Flooring, Flooring Manufacturing, and Steel Manufacturing segments, which decreased by approximately $13.2 million in the aggregate.

    Operating income increased approximately $2.9 million, to approximately $2.1 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, compared with an operating loss of approximately $0.8 million in the prior year period. Operating income increased primarily due to lower general and administrative expenses and sales and marketing expenses resulting from cost reduction initiatives at the Retail-Flooring segment and lower general and administrative expenses in the Corporate and Other segment.

    For the quarter ended March 31, 2025, income before provision for income taxes was $21.1 million, compared to the prior year period loss before benefit from income taxes of $4.5 million. The increase in income before provision for income taxes is primarily attributable to a $22.8 million gain on a modification of the Flooring Liquidators seller note.

    Adjusted EBITDA¹ for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $6.4 million, an increase of approximately $2.0 million, or 44.6%, compared to the prior year period Adjusted EBITDA of $4.5 million. Adjusted EBITDA increased primarily due to lower operating expenses at the Retail-Flooring segment resulting from cost reduction initiatives.

    As of March 31, 2025, the Company had total cash availability of $26.6 million, consisting of cash on hand of $6.9 million and availability under its various lines of credit of $19.7 million.

    Second Quarter FY 2025 Segment Results (in thousands)

      For the three months ended March 31,
        2025       2024     % Change
    Revenue          
    Retail – Entertainment $ 18,467     $ 16,842     9.6 %
    Retail – Flooring   27,399       32,032     -14.5 %
    Flooring Manufacturing   29,820       34,180     -12.8 %
    Steel Manufacturing   31,321       35,488     -11.7 %
    Corporate & Other   6       84     -92.9 %
    Total Revenue $ 107,013     $ 118,626     -9.8 %
               
      For the three months ended March 31,
        2025       2024     % Change
    Operating Income (loss)          
    Retail – Entertainment $ 2,498     $ 1,784     40.0 %
    Retail – Flooring   (2,741 )     (3,023 )   9.3 %
    Flooring Manufacturing   1,483       1,978     -25.0 %
    Steel Manufacturing   2,196       872     151.8 %
    Corporate & Other   (1,344 )     (2,449 )   45.2 %
    Total Operating Income $ 2,092     $ (838 )   N/A
               
      For the three months ended March 31,
        2025       2024     % Change
    Adjusted EBITDA¹          
    Retail – Entertainment $ 2,755     $ 2,153     28.0 %
    Retail – Flooring   (1,778 )     (1,849 )   3.8 %
    Flooring Manufacturing   2,272       2,897     -21.6 %
    Steel Manufacturing   3,742       2,331     60.5 %
    Corporate & Other   (545 )     (1,075 )   49.3 %
    Total Adjusted EBITDA¹ $ 6,446     $ 4,457     44.6 %
               
    Adjusted EBITDA¹ as a percentage of revenue          
    Retail – Entertainment   14.9 %     12.8 %    
    Retail – Flooring   -6.5 %     -5.8 %    
    Flooring Manufacturing   7.6 %     8.5 %    
    Steel Manufacturing   11.9 %     6.6 %    
    Corporate & Other N/A   N/A    
    Total Adjusted EBITDA¹   6.0 %     3.8 %    
    as a percentage of revenue          
               

    Retail – Entertainment

    The Retail-Entertainment segment revenue for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $18.5 million, an increase of approximately $1.6 million, or 9.6%, compared to prior year period revenue of approximately $16.8 million. Revenue increased primarily due to changes in product mix toward new products, which generally have higher selling prices. Gross margin increased to 59.1% for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, compared to 58.4% for the prior year period. The change in product mix contributed to the increase in gross margin. Operating income for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $2.5 million, compared to operating income of approximately $1.8 million for the prior year period.

    Retail – Flooring

    The Retail-Flooring segment revenue for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $27.4 million, a decrease of approximately $4.6 million, or 14.5%, compared to the prior year period revenue of approximately $32.0 million. The decrease in revenue was primarily attributable to the disposition of certain Johnson Floor & Home Carpet One stores in May 2024. Gross margin for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 was 34.4%, compared to 36.5% for the prior year period. The decrease in gross margin was primarily driven by a change in product mix. Operating loss for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $2.7 million, compared to an operating loss of approximately $3.0 million for the prior year period.

    Flooring Manufacturing

    The Flooring Manufacturing segment revenue for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $29.8 million, a decrease of approximately $4.4 million, or 12.8%, compared to prior year period revenue of approximately $34.2 million. The decrease in revenue was primarily due to reduced consumer demand, as a result of the ongoing weakness in the housing market and uncertainty about the current economic outlook. Gross margin was 27.5% for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, compared to 25.6% for the prior year period. The increase in gross margin was primarily due to changes in product mix. Operating income for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $1.5 million, compared to approximately $2.0 million in the prior year period.

    Steel Manufacturing

    The Steel Manufacturing segment revenue for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $31.3 million, a decrease of approximately $4.2 million, or 11.7%, compared to prior year period revenue of approximately $35.5 million. The decline was primarily driven by lower sales volumes at certain business units, partially offset by incremental revenue of $3.8 million at Central Steel Fabricators, LLC (“Central Steel”), which was acquired in May 2024. Gross margin was 21.2% for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, compared to 14.3% for the prior year period. The increase in gross margin was primarily due to strategic price increases as well as the acquisition of Central Steel. Operating income for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $2.2 million, compared to approximately $0.9 million in the prior year period.

    Corporate and Other

    The Corporate and Other segment operating loss was approximately $1.3 million and $2.4 million for the quarters ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

    Six Months FY 2025 Financial Summary (in thousands except per share amounts)
      For the six months ended March 31,
        2025     2024     % Change
    Revenue $ 218,521   $ 236,219     -7.5 %
    Operating income $ 2,854   $ 2,703     5.6 %
    Income (loss) before provision for income taxes $ 21,676   $ (5,404 )   N/A
    Net income (loss) $ 16,358   $ (3,963 )   N/A
    Diluted earnings (loss) per share $ 5.20   $ (1.25 )   N/A
    Adjusted EBITDA¹ $ 12,191   $ 13,153     -7.3 %
                       

    Revenue decreased approximately $17.7 million, or 7.5%, to approximately $218.5 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025, compared to revenue of approximately $236.2 million in the prior year period. The decrease is attributable to the Flooring Manufacturing, Retail-Flooring, and Steel Manufacturing segments, which decreased by approximately $20.0 million in the aggregate.

    Operating income increased approximately 5.6% to approximately $2.9 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025, compared with operating income of approximately $2.7 million in the prior year period. The increase in operating income is primarily attributable to lower sales and marketing expenses in the Retail-Flooring segment and lower general and administrative expenses in the Corporate and Other segment.

    For the six months ended March 31, 2025, income before provision for income taxes was approximately $21.7 million, compared with a loss before benefit from income taxes of approximately $5.4 million. The increase in income before provision for income taxes is primarily attributable to the $22.8 million gain on the modification of the Flooring Liquidators seller note and the $2.8 million gain on the settlement of the earnout liability related to the Precision Metal Works, Inc. (“PMW”) acquisition and a $0.7 million gain on the settlement of the PMW seller notes, both in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025.

    Adjusted EBITDA¹ for the six months ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $12.2 million, a decrease of approximately $1.0 million, or 7.3%, compared to the prior year period Adjusted EBITDA of $13.2 million. The decrease in adjusted EBITDA is primarily due to a decrease in gross profit.

    Six Months FY 2025 Segment Results (in thousands)

      For the six months ended March 31,
        2025       2024     % Change
    Revenue          
    Retail – Entertainment $ 39,740     $ 37,428     6.2 %
    Retail – Flooring   59,146       66,351     -10.9 %
    Flooring Manufacturing   55,815       63,425     -12.0 %
    Steel Manufacturing   63,757       68,841     -7.4 %
    Corporate & Other   63       174     -63.8 %
    Total Revenue $ 218,521     $ 236,219     -7.5 %
               
      For the six months ended March 31,
        2025       2024     % Change
    Operating Income (loss)          
    Retail – Entertainment $ 5,905     $ 4,973     18.7 %
    Retail – Flooring   (4,914 )     (2,935 )   -67.4 %
    Flooring Manufacturing   1,401       2,923     -52.1 %
    Steel Manufacturing   3,362       1,855     81.2 %
    Corporate & Other   (2,900 )     (4,113 )   29.5 %
    Total Operating Income $ 2,854     $ 2,703     5.6 %
               
      For the six months ended March 31,
        2025       2024     % Change
    Adjusted EBITDA¹          
    Retail – Entertainment $ 6,565     $ 5,867     11.9 %
    Retail – Flooring   (2,749 )     (546 )   N/A
    Flooring Manufacturing   3,023       4,774     -36.7 %
    Steel Manufacturing   6,543       5,133     27.5 %
    Corporate & Other   (1,191 )     (2,075 )   42.6 %
    Total Adjusted EBITDA¹ $ 12,191     $ 13,153     -7.3 %
               
    Adjusted EBITDA¹ as a percentage of revenue          
    Retail – Entertainment   16.5 %     15.7 %    
    Retail – Flooring   -4.6 %     -0.8 %    
    Flooring Manufacturing   5.4 %     7.5 %    
    Steel Manufacturing   10.3 %     7.5 %    
    Corporate & Other N/A   N/A    
    Total Adjusted EBITDA¹   5.6 %     5.6 %    
    as a percentage of revenue          
               

    Retail – Entertainment

    The Retail-Entertainment segment revenue for the six months ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $39.7 million, an increase of approximately $2.3 million, or 6.2%, compared to prior year period revenue of approximately $37.4 million. Revenue increased primarily due to changes in product mix toward new products, which generally have higher selling prices. Gross margin increased to 57.8% for the six months ended March 31, 2025, compared to 57.1% for the prior year period. The change in product mix contributed to the increase in gross margin. Operating income for the six months ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $5.9 million, compared to operating income of approximately $5.0 million for the prior year period.

    Retail – Flooring

    The Retail-Flooring segment revenue for the six months ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $59.1 million, a decrease of approximately $7.2 million, or 10.9%, compared to the prior year period revenue of approximately $66.4 million. The decrease was primarily attributable to the disposition of certain Johnson Floor & Home Carpet One stores in May 2024. Gross margin for the six months ended March 31, 2025 was 35.9%, compared to 37.3% for the prior year period. The decrease in gross margin was primarily driven by a change in product mix. Operating loss for the six months ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $4.9 million, compared to an operating loss of approximately $2.9 million for the prior year period. The increase in operating loss was primarily due to the decrease in revenues and gross margin, partially offset by cost reduction initiatives implemented during the second quarter of fiscal 2025.

    Flooring Manufacturing

    The Flooring Manufacturing segment revenue for the six months ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $55.8 million, a decrease of approximately $7.6 million, or 12.0%, compared to prior year period revenue of approximately $63.4 million. The decrease in revenue was primarily due to reduced consumer demand as a result of the ongoing weakness in the housing market and uncertainty about the current economic outlook. Gross margin was 24.6% for the six months ended March 31, 2025, compared to 23.9% for the prior year period. The increase in gross margin was primarily due to changes in product mix. Operating income for the six months ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $1.4 million, compared to operating income of approximately $2.9 million for the prior year period.

    Steel Manufacturing

    The Steel Manufacturing segment revenue for the six months ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $63.8 million, a decrease of approximately $5.0 million or 7.4%, compared to prior year period revenue of approximately $68.8 million. The decline was primarily driven by lower sales volumes at certain business units partially offset by incremental revenue of $6.9 million at Central Steel, which was acquired in May 2024. Gross margin was 19.7% for the six months ended March 31, 2025, compared to 15.0% for the prior year period. The increase in gross margin was primarily due to strategic price increases, as well as the acquisition of Central Steel. Operating income for the six months ended March 31, 2025 was approximately $3.4 million, compared to operating income of approximately $1.9 million in the prior year period.

    Corporate and Other

    The Corporate and Other segment operating loss was approximately $2.9 million and $4.1 million for the six months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.

    Non-GAAP Financial Information

    Adjusted EBITDA

    We evaluate the performance of our operations based on financial measures, such as “Adjusted EBITDA,” which is a non-GAAP financial measure. We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income (loss) before interest expense, interest income, income taxes, depreciation, amortization, stock-based compensation, and other non-cash or nonrecurring charges. We believe that Adjusted EBITDA is an important indicator of the operational strength and performance of the business, including the business’s ability to fund acquisitions and other capital expenditures and to service its debt. Additionally, this measure is used by management to evaluate operating results and perform analytical comparisons and identify strategies to improve performance. Adjusted EBITDA is also a measure that is customarily used by financial analysts to evaluate a company’s financial performance, subject to certain adjustments. Adjusted EBITDA does not represent cash flows from operations, as defined by generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), should not be construed as an alternative to net income or loss, and is indicative neither of our results of operations, nor of cash flow available to fund our cash needs. It is, however, a measurement that the Company believes is useful to investors in analyzing its operating performance. Accordingly, Adjusted EBITDA should be considered in addition to, but not as a substitute for, net income, cash flow provided by operating activities, and other measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. As companies often define non-GAAP financial measures differently, Adjusted EBITDA, as calculated by Live Ventures Incorporated, should not be compared to any similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

    Forward-Looking and Cautionary Statements

    The use of the word “Company” refers to Live Ventures and its wholly owned subsidiaries. Certain statements in this press release contain or may suggest “forward-looking” information within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended, that are intended to be covered by the “safe harbor” created by those sections. Words such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” and similar statements are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Live Ventures may also make forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Forms 10-K and 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, in its annual report to stockholders, in press releases and other written materials, and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and there are a number of important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by the Company, including, but not limited to, plans and objectives of management for future operations or products, the market acceptance or future success of our products, and our future financial performance. The Company cautions that these forward-looking statements are further qualified by other factors including, but not limited to, those set forth in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2024. Additionally, new risk factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all such risk factors, or to assess the impact such risk factors might have on our business. Live Ventures undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    About Live Ventures Incorporated

    Live Ventures is a diversified holding company with a strategic focus on value-oriented acquisitions of domestic middle-market companies. Live Ventures’ acquisition strategy is sector-agnostic and focuses on well-run, closely held businesses with a demonstrated track record of earnings growth and cash flow generation. The Company looks for opportunities to partner with management teams of its acquired businesses to build increased stockholder value through a disciplined buy-build-hold long-term focused strategy. Live Ventures was founded in 1968. In late 2011, Jon Isaac, Chief Executive Officer and strategic investor, joined the Company’s Board of Directors and later refocused it into a diversified holding company. The Company’s current portfolio of diversified operating subsidiaries includes companies in the textile, flooring, tools, steel, and entertainment industries.

    Contact:
    Live Ventures Incorporated
    Greg Powell, Director of Investor Relations
    725.500.5597
    gpowell@liveventures.com
    www.liveventures.com

    Source: Live Ventures Incorporated

     
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (UNAUDITED)
    (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
     
      March 31, 2025   September 30, 2024
      (Unaudited)    
    Assets      
    Cash $ 6,931     $ 4,601  
    Trade receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $2.1 million at March 31, 2025 and $1.5 million at September 30, 2024   41,205       46,861  
    Inventories, net   122,304       126,350  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   3,754       4,123  
    Total current assets   174,194       181,935  
    Property and equipment, net   80,540       82,869  
    Right of use asset – operating leases   53,547       55,701  
    Deposits and other assets   1,557       787  
    Intangible assets, net   22,591       25,103  
    Goodwill   61,152       61,152  
    Total assets $ 393,581     $ 407,547  
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity      
    Liabilities:      
    Accounts payable $ 28,368     $ 31,002  
    Accrued liabilities   31,164       31,740  
    Income taxes payable   211       948  
    Current portion of lease obligations – operating leases   13,203       12,885  
    Current portion of lease obligations – finance leases   553       368  
    Current portion of long-term debt   41,423       43,816  
    Current portion of notes payable related parties   10,070       6,400  
    Current portion of seller notes – related parties         2,500  
    Total current liabilities   124,992       129,659  
    Long-term debt, net of current portion   53,687       54,994  
    Lease obligation long term – operating leases   44,942       50,111  
    Lease obligation long term – finance leases   42,236       41,677  
    Notes payable related parties, net of current portion   6,894       4,934  
    Seller notes – related parties   18,143       40,361  
    Deferred tax liability   10,607       6,267  
    Other non-current obligations   3,149       6,655  
    Total liabilities   304,650       334,658  
    Commitments and contingencies      
    Stockholders’ equity:      
    Series E convertible preferred stock, $0.001 par value, 200,000 shares authorized, 47,840 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2025 and September 30, 2024, with a liquidation preference of $0.30 per share outstanding          
    Common stock, $0.001 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized, 3,084,351 and 3,131,360 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2025 and September 30, 2024, respectively   2       2  
    Paid in capital   69,792       69,692  
    Treasury stock common 741,696 and 694,687 shares as of March 31, 2025 and September 30, 2024, respectively   (9,488 )     (9,072 )
    Treasury stock Series E preferred 80,000 shares as of March 31, 2025 and September 30, 2024   (7 )     (7 )
    Retained earnings   28,632       12,274  
    Total stockholders’ equity   88,931       72,889  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 393,581     $ 407,547  
                   
     
    LIVE VENTURES, INCORPORATED
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
    (dollars in thousands, except per share)
     
      For the Three Months Ended March 31,   For the Six Months Ended March 31,
        2025       2024       2025       2024  
    Revenue $ 107,013     $ 118,626     $ 218,521     $ 236,219  
    Cost of revenue   71,865       83,159       148,011       164,425  
    Gross profit   35,148       35,467       70,510       71,794  
                   
    Operating expenses:              
    General and administrative expenses   28,321       29,824       58,392       57,503  
    Sales and marketing expenses   4,735       6,481       9,264       11,588  
    Total operating expenses   33,056       36,305       67,656       69,091  
    Operating income (loss)   2,092       (838 )     2,854       2,703  
    Other expense:              
    Interest expense, net   (3,933 )     (4,167 )     (8,095 )     (8,330 )
    Gain on extinguishment of debt               713        
    Gain on settlement of earnout liability               2,840        
    Gain on modification of seller note   22,784             22,784        
    Other income   160       507       580       223  
    Total other income (expense), net   19,011       (3,660 )     18,822       (8,107 )
    Income (loss) before provision for income taxes   21,103       (4,498 )     21,676       (5,404 )
    Provision for (benefit from) income taxes   5,237       (1,217 )     5,318       (1,441 )
    Net income (loss) $ 15,866     $ (3,281 )   $ 16,358     $ (3,963 )
                   
    Income (loss) per share:              
    Basic $ 5.10     $ (1.04 )   $ 5.25     $ (1.25 )
    Diluted $ 5.05     $ (1.04 )   $ 5.20     $ (1.25 )
                   
    Weighted average common shares outstanding:              
    Basic   3,109,362       3,154,771       3,113,864       3,159,180  
    Diluted   3,138,717       3,154,771       3,143,219       3,159,180  
                                   
     
    LIVE VENTURES INCORPORATED
    NON-GAAP MEASURES RECONCILIATION
     
    Adjusted EBITDA

    The following table provides a reconciliation of Net (loss) income to total Adjusted EBITDA¹ for the periods indicated (dollars in thousands):

     
      For the Three Months Ended   For the Six Months Ended
      March 31, 2025   March 31, 2024   March 31, 2025   March 31, 2024
    Net income (loss) $ 15,866     $ (3,281 )   $ 16,358     $ (3,963 )
    Depreciation and amortization   4,401       4,188       8,816       8,483  
    Stock-based compensation   49       50       100       100  
    Interest expense, net   3,933       4,167       8,095       8,330  
    Income tax expense (benefit)   5,237       (1,217 )     5,318       (1,441 )
    Gain on extinguishment of debt               (713 )      
    Gain on modification of seller note   (22,784 )           (22,784 )      
    Gain on settlement of earnout liability               (2,840 )      
    Acquisition costs         468             874  
    Debt acquisition costs                     183  
    Other non-recurring charges   (256 )     82       (159 )     587  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 6,446     $ 4,457     $ 12,191     $ 13,153  
     

    1 Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure. A reconciliation of the non-GAAP measures is included below.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Runway Growth Finance Corp. Announces Second Quarter Regular Dividend of $0.33 and $0.02 Supplemental Distribution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MENLO PARK, Calif., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Runway Growth Finance Corp. (Nasdaq: RWAY) (“Runway Growth” or the “Company”), a leading provider of flexible capital solutions to late- and growth-stage companies seeking an alternative to raising equity, today announced that its Board of Directors has declared a second quarter 2025 regular cash distribution of $0.33 per share. In addition, the Board of Directors declared a supplemental dividend of $0.02 per share, for the second quarter of 2025.

    The following shows the key dates of the second quarter 2025 dividend, including the supplemental dividend:

    Declaration Date: May 7, 2025
    Record Date: May 19, 2025
    Payment Date: June 3, 2025

    Runway Growth generally intends to distribute, out of assets legally available for distribution, substantially all of its available earnings, on a quarterly basis, subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors. Any distribution by the Company will depend on the Company’s earnings, financial condition, maintenance of regulated investment company status for income tax purposes, compliance with applicable business development company regulations and such other factors as the Board of Directors may deem relevant from time to time. The Company also maintains an “opt out” dividend reinvestment plan, as amended, for its stockholders. As a result, if the Company declares a distribution, then stockholders who have not opted out of the dividend reinvestment plan will have their cash dividends automatically reinvested in additional shares of the Company’s common stock.

    About Runway Growth Finance Corp.
    Runway Growth is a growing specialty finance company focused on providing flexible capital solutions to late- and growth-stage companies seeking an alternative to raising equity. Runway Growth is a closed-end investment fund that has elected to be regulated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. Runway Growth is externally managed by Runway Growth Capital LLC, an established registered investment adviser that was formed in 2015 and led by industry veteran David Spreng. For more information, please visit www.runwaygrowth.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    Statements included herein may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements and are not guarantees of future performance, condition or results and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including those described from time to time in Runway Growth’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Runway Growth undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statement made herein. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release.

    IR Contacts:
    Taylor Donahue, Prosek Partners, rway@prosek.com
    Thomas B. Raterman, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, tr@runwaygrowth.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: GAMCO Investors, Inc. Reports Results for the First Quarter 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Quarter End AUM of $31.2 billion
    • Operating Margin of 32.4% for the First Quarter
    • First Quarter Earnings of $0.81 per Share versus $0.64 per Share in the First Quarter of 2024
    • $175.4 million in Cash, Cash Equivalents, Seed Capital, and Investments, and No Debt
    • Entered Partnership with Keeley on May 1st of 4 Open-End Funds and ~500 Separately Managed Accounts from Keeley-Teton, Adding Close to $1.0 billion in AUM
    • Opened an office in Zurich, Switzerland

    GREENWICH, Conn., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GAMCO Investors, Inc. (“Gabelli”) (OTCQX: GAMI) today reported its operating results for the quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    Financial Highlights

    (In thousands, except percentages and per share data)
        Three Months Ended  
        March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024   March 31, 2024  
    U.S. GAAP              
    Revenue   $ 57,328     $ 59,262     $ 56,945    
    Expenses     38,735       42,130       41,597    
    Operating income     18,593       17,132       15,348    
    Non-operating income     1,220       3,452       4,372    
    Net income     18,271       15,269       15,810    
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 0.81     $ 0.64     $ 0.64    
    Operating margin     32.4 %     28.9 %     27.0 %  
                   


    Giving Back to Society – $80 million since IPO

    Since our initial public offering in February 1999, our firm’s combined charitable donations total approximately $80 million, including $48 million through the shareholder designated charitable contribution program. Based on the program created by Warren Buffett at Berkshire Hathaway, our corporate charitable giving is unique in that the recipients of Gabelli’s charitable contributions are chosen directly by our shareholders, rather than by our corporate officers. Since its inception in 2013, Gabelli shareholders have designated charitable gifts to approximately 350 charitable organizations.

    On August 6, 2024, Gabelli’s board of directors authorized the creation of a private foundation, headquartered in Reno, Nevada, to continue our charitable giving program with an initial contribution of $5 million.

    Revenue

    (In thousands) Three Months Ended  
      March 31, 2025   March 31, 2024  
    Investment advisory and incentive fees        
    Funds $ 38,681     $ 37,270    
    Institutional and Private Wealth Management   15,101       15,196    
    SICAV   4       6    
    Total $ 53,786     $ 52,472    
    Distribution fees and other income   3,542       4,473    
    Total revenue $ 57,328     $ 56,945    
             

    The year over year increase in Funds revenues was primarily the result of higher average assets under management. The decrease in Institutional and Private Wealth Management revenues was primarily the result of lower beginning of the quarter equity assets under management, which are generally used to calculate the revenues. The decrease in distribution fees and other income was primarily the result of a decrease in equity mutual funds AUM that pay distribution fees.

    Expenses

    (In thousands) Three Months Ended  
      March 31, 2025   March 31, 2024  
    Compensation $ 26,616     $ 28,554    
    Management fee   2,202       2,191    
    Distribution costs   5,138       5,950    
    Other operating expenses   4,779       4,902    
    Total expenses $ 38,735     $ 41,597    
             
    • The lower compensation expense in the first quarter of 2025 when compared to the prior year quarter reflected $2.8 million of waived compensation partially offset by increased fixed compensation of $0.2 million and increased variable compensation of $0.6 million.

    Operating Margin

    The operating margin, which represents the ratio of operating income to revenue, was 32.4% for the first quarter of 2025 compared with 27.0% for the first quarter of 2024.

    Non-Operating Income

    (In thousands) Three Months Ended  
      March 31, 2025   March 31, 2024  
    Gain/(loss) from investments, net $ (110 )   $ 1,632    
    Interest and dividend income   1,622       3,033    
    Interest expense (a)   (292 )     (293 )  
    Total non-operating income $ 1,220     $ 4,372    
             
    (a) Related to GAAP accounting of finance lease.
             

    Non-operating income decreased $3.2 million for the quarter, reflecting the mark-to-market net loss on our investment portfolio for the quarter and a decrease in interest and dividend income.

    Other Financial Highlights

    The effective income tax rate (“ETR”) for the first quarter of 2025 was 7.8% versus 19.8% for the first quarter of 2024. The ETR for the first quarter of 2025 consisted of the statutory Federal tax rate of 21% offset by a net state income credit rate of 13.2%, relating to the release of an uncertain tax position accrual as a result of a settlement with New York State whereby the Company gave up the right to a refund in exchange for the closing of the audit years 2007-2014.

    Cash, cash equivalents, and investments were $175.4 million with no debt at March 31, 2025.

    Growth Initiatives: Lift-outs, Partnerships, Joint Ventures, New Markets

    • Partnership with Keeley management will enhance our research and portfolio teams for small and mid-cap focused assets

    On May 1, 2025, Gabelli completed partnership with the Keeley family for the management contracts of 4 open-end funds and approximately 500 separately managed accounts from Teton Advisors, LLC, adding close to $1.0 billion of AUM. The current Chicago-based Keeley research, portfolio management, and client service teammates have joined Gabelli and continue to manage and service these AUM. Our history with the Keeley founder, John L. Keeley, Jr., goes back to before the founding of our enterprise from the mid-1960s when John L. Keeley, Jr. and our Executive Chairman were both sell side analysts. Both firms are privileged to continue our shared focus on a client first culture.

    • Opened Zurich office with lift-out of research and sales teammates.

    Assets Under Management

    (In millions) As of  
      March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024   March 31, 2024  
                 
    Mutual Funds $ 7,959     $ 8,078     $ 8,235    
    Closed-end Funds   7,365       7,344       7,313    
    Institutional & PWM (a) (b)   10,182       10,700       11,146    
    SICAV   9       9       9    
    Total Equities   25,515       26,131       26,703    
                 
    100% U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund   5,638       5,552       4,965    
    Institutional & PWM Fixed Income   32       32       32    
    Total Treasuries & Fixed Income   5,670       5,584       4,997    
    Total Assets Under Management $ 31,185     $ 31,715     $ 31,700    
                 
    (a) Includes $206, $242, and $345 of AUM subadvised for Teton Advisors, Inc. at March 31, 2025,  
    December 31, 2024, and March 31, 2024, respectively.  
    (b) Includes $233, $237, and $225 of 100% U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund AUM at March 31, 2025,  
    December 31, 2024, and March 31, 2024, respectively.  
                 

    Assets under management on March 31, 2025 were $31.2 billion, a decrease of 1.6% from the $31.7 billion on December 31, 2024. The quarter’s decrease consisted of net outflows of $0.7 billion, and distributions, net of reinvestments, of $0.1 billion partially offset by net market appreciation of $0.3 billion.

    Mutual Funds

    Assets under management in Mutual Funds on March 31, 2025 were $8.0 billion, a decrease of 1.2% from the $8.1 billion at December 31, 2024. The quarterly change was attributed to:

    • Distributions, net of reinvestment, of $4 million;
    • Net outflows of $199 million; and
    • Net market appreciation of $84 million.

    Closed-end Funds

    Assets under management in Closed-end Funds on March 31, 2025 were $7.4 billion, an increase of 1.4% from the $7.3 billion on December 31, 2024. The quarterly change was comprised of:

    • Distributions, net of reinvestment, of $138 million;
    • Net outflows of $40 million, including the redemption of $37 million of preferred shares, and the repurchase of $11 million of common stock partially offset by the issuance of $8 million preferred shares; and
    • Net market appreciation of $199 million.

    Institutional & PWM

    Assets under management in Institutional & PWM on March 31, 2025 were $10.2 billion, a decrease of 4.7% from the $10.7 billion on December 31, 2024. The quarterly change was due to:

    • Net outflows of $481 million; and
    • Net market depreciation of $37 million.

    SICAV

    Assets under management were $9 million in the GAMCO All Cap Value sleeve and the GAMCO Convertible Securities sleeve on March 31, 2025, unchanged from $9 million at December 31, 2024.

    100% U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund

    Assets under management in our 100% U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund (GABXX) on March 31, 2025 were $5.6 billion unchanged from the $5.6 billion at December 31, 2024.


    The Gabelli Gold Fund – Up 32% For 1
    stquarter of 2025

    Portfolio manager Caesar Bryan commented on The Gabelli Gold Fund’s 1st quarter 2025 performance:

    The gold price performed strongly in the first quarter of 2025, building on its gains over the past two years. Gold ended the quarter at $3,124 per ounce for a gain of about $500 per ounce or 19.0%. Gold mining equities returned in excess of 30%, outperforming the gold price by over fifty percent. Until recently, the gold price has appreciated largely due to overseas central bank buying. However, more recently, investors have been adding to their gold holdings. This is evidenced by the rise in ounces of gold held by all the gold bullion ETFs. During the first quarter, gold ETFs added over 5m ounces to 88.0m ounces, which amounts to about $15bn. Unsurprisingly, in a strong quarter for gold stocks, our larger holdings were the top contributors to performance. The biggest contributor was Agnico Eagle, our largest holding, which appreciated by 39.1% and added 3.5% to performance. Other leading contributors were Newmont, Kinross, and Alamos. In terms of stock price performance, some of our smaller producers and development companies dominated. In this environment, gold should perform well and gold equities, that are over twenty five percent lower than their 2011 high, offer an opportunity for significant capital gains and income.

    Assets Under Administration

    (In millions) As of  
      March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024   March 31, 2024  
                 
    Teton-Keeley Funds (a) $ 750     $ 809     $ 952    
    SICAV   401       408       580    
    Total Assets Under Administration $ 1,151     $ 1,217     $ 1,532    
                 
    (a) Includes $206, $242 and $345 of AUM subadvised for Teton Advisors, Inc. at  
    March 31, 2025, December 31, 2024 and March 31, 2024, respectively.  
                 

    AUA on March 31, 2025 were $1.2 billion, unchanged from the $1.2 billion at December 31, 2024.

    Return to Shareholders

    During the first quarter of 2025, Gabelli returned $14.1 million to shareholders in the form of the repurchase of 499,710 shares for $12.3 million at an average investment of $24.27 per share and a regular quarterly dividend of $0.08 per share totaling $1.8 million. From April 1, 2025 to May 7, 2025, the Company has repurchased 19,213 shares at an average price of $20.90 per share for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $0.4 million.

    On May 7, 2025, Gabelli’s board of directors declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.08 per share, which is payable on June 24, 2025 to class A and class B shareholders of record on June 10, 2025.

    Balance Sheet Information        

    As of March 31, 2025, cash, cash equivalents, and U.S Treasury Bills were $103.5 million and investments were $71.9 million, compared with cash, cash equivalents, and U.S. Treasury Bills of $116.5 million and investments of $66.3 million as of December 31, 2024. As of March 31, 2025, stockholders’ equity was $141.6 million compared to $137.3 million as of December 31, 2024. The increase in stockholders’ equity resulted from $18.3 million in net income offset partially by the payment of $1.8 million in dividends and $12.3 million of stock buybacks.

    Symposiums/Conferences

    • On February 27th, we hosted our 35th Annual Pump, Valve & Water Systems Symposium. The symposium focused on themes crucial to this industry, including infrastructure spending, resource security, conservation, and M&A.
    • On March 20th, we hosted our 16th Annual Specialty Chemicals Symposium. The symposium featured presentations from senior management of leading specialty chemicals companies, with a focus on pricing power, margin recovery, interest rates, destocking, global supply chain, global demand trends, and the M&A environment.
    • On May 2nd, GAMCO hosted its 19th annual Omaha Research Trip in conjunction with the Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting. This Value Investor Conference attracted a record number of participants with Gabelli portfolio managers anchoring panels with noted Berkshire experts and regional CEOs.

    We are hosting the following symposiums and conferences in 2025:


    About Gabelli

    Gabelli (OTCQX: GAMI), established in 1977 and incorporated under the laws of Delaware, is a widely-recognized provider of investment advisory services to 24 open-end funds, 13 United States closed-end funds and one United Kingdom limited investment company, 5 actively managed exchange traded funds, one société d’investissement à capital variable, and approximately 1,400 institutional and private wealth management investors principally in the U.S. The Company’s revenues are based primarily on the levels of assets under management and fees associated with the various investment products.

    In 1977, Gabelli launched its well-known All Cap Value equity strategy, Gabelli Value, in a separate account format and in 1986 entered the mutual fund business. Today, Gabelli offers a diverse set of client solutions across asset classes (e.g. Equities, Debt Instruments, Convertibles, non-market correlated Merger Arbitrage), regions, market capitalizations, sectors (e.g. Gold, Utilities) and investment styles (e.g. Value, Growth). Gabelli serves a broad client base, including institutions, intermediaries, offshore investors, private wealth, and direct retail investors.

    CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    Our disclosure and analysis in this press release, which do not present historical information, contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements convey our current expectations or forecasts of future events. You can identify these statements because they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They use words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” and other words and terms of similar meaning. They also appear in any discussion of future operating or financial performance. In particular, these include statements relating to future actions, future performance of our products, expenses, the outcome of any legal proceedings, and financial results. Although we believe that we are basing our expectations and beliefs on reasonable assumptions within the bounds of what we currently know about our business and operations, the economy, and other conditions, there can be no assurance that our actual results will not differ materially from what we expect or believe. Therefore, you should proceed with caution in relying on any of these forward-looking statements. They are neither statements of historical fact nor guarantees or assurances of future performance.

    Forward-looking statements involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors, some of which are listed below, that are difficult to predict and could cause actual results and outcomes to differ materially from any future results or outcomes expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Some of the factors that may cause our actual results to differ from our expectations include risks associated with the duration and scope of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic resulting in volatile market conditions, a decline in the securities markets that adversely affect our assets under management, negative performance of our products, the failure to perform as required under our investment management agreements, and a general downturn in the economy that negatively impacts our operations. We also direct your attention to the more specific discussions of these and other risks, uncertainties and other important factors contained in our Annual Report and other public filings. Other factors that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We do not undertake to update publicly any forward-looking statements if we subsequently learn that we are unlikely to achieve our expectations whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Gabelli Funds, LLC is a registered investment adviser with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is a wholly owned subsidiary of GAMCO Investors, Inc. (OTCQX: GAMI).

    Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the fund before investing. The prospectus, which contains more complete information about this and other matters, should be read carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus, please call 800 GABELLI or visit www.gabelli.com
    Fitch rating drivers include: credit quality, interest rate risk, liquid assets, maturity profiles, and the capabilities of the investment advisor

    Money Market Fund

    Investment in the fund is neither guaranteed nor insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any government agency. Although the fund seeks to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it cannot guarantee it will do so. The fund’s sponsor has no legal obligation to provide financial support to the fund, and you should not expect that the sponsor will provide financial support to the fund at any time. You could lose money by investing in the fund.

    Gold

    Investments related to gold and other precious metals and minerals are considered speculative and are affected by a variety of worldwide economic, financial, and political factors. Investing in foreign securities involves risks not ordinarily associated with investment in domestic issues. Funds concentrating in specific sectors may experience greater fluctuations in value than funds that are more diversified. Not FDIC Insured. Not Bank Guaranteed. May Lose Value.

    As of March 31, 2025, GAMI and affiliates owned less than one percent of all stocks mentioned in the Gold Fund.

    Returns represent past performance and do not guarantee future results. Investment returns and the principal value of an investment will fluctuate. When shares are redeemed, they may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data presented. Visit www.gabelli.com for performance information as of the most recent month end.

    GAMCO Investors, Inc. and Subsidiaries  
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)  
    (in thousands, except per share data)  
      Three Months Ended  
      March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024   March 31, 2024  
    Revenue:            
    Investment advisory and incentive fees $ 53,786     $ 55,502     $ 52,472    
    Distribution fees and other income   3,542       3,760       4,473    
    Total revenue   57,328       59,262       56,945    
    Expenses:            
    Compensation   26,616       28,839       28,554    
    Management fee   2,202       2,287       2,191    
    Distribution costs   5,138       5,634       5,950    
    Other operating expenses   4,779       5,370       4,902    
    Total expenses   38,735       42,130       41,597    
    Operating income   18,593       17,132       15,348    
    Non-operating income:            
    Gain/(loss) from investments, net   (110 )     644       1,632    
    Interest and dividend income   1,622       3,090       3,033    
    Interest expense   (292 )     (282 )     (293 )  
    Total non-operating income   1,220       3,452       4,372    
    Income before provision for income taxes   19,813       20,584       19,720    
    Provision for income taxes   1,542       5,315       3,910    
    Net income $ 18,271     $ 15,269     $ 15,810    
                 
    Earnings per share attributable to common            
    stockholders:            
    Basic $ 0.81     $ 0.64     $ 0.64    
    Diluted $ 0.81     $ 0.64     $ 0.64    
                 
    Weighted average shares outstanding:            
    Basic   22,632       23,971       24,808    
    Diluted   22,632       23,971       24,808    
                 
    Shares outstanding   22,431       22,930       24,585    
                 
    GAMCO Investors, Inc. and Subsidiaries  
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (Unaudited)  
    (in thousands)  
         
      March 31,   December 31,   March 31,  
        2025       2024       2024    
    Assets            
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 53,596     $ 17,254     $ 65,467    
    Short-term investments in U.S. Treasury Bills   49,900       99,216       99,073    
    Investments in securities   43,117       36,855       30,351    
    Seed capital investments   28,772       29,452       26,184    
    Receivable from brokers   3,030       3,103       1,111    
    Other receivables   20,062       21,246       23,576    
    Deferred tax asset and income tax receivable   9,420       8,042       8,384    
    Other assets   10,207       9,509       9,614    
    Total assets $ 218,104     $ 224,677     $ 263,760    
                 
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity            
    Income taxes payable $ 9,902     $ 193     $ 3,464    
    Compensation payable   26,915       40,633       25,100    
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities   39,713       46,546       45,910    
    Total liabilities   76,530       87,372       74,474    
                 
    Stockholders’ equity   141,574       137,305       189,286    
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 218,104     $ 224,677     $ 263,760    
                 
                 
    GAMCO Investors, Inc. and Subsidiaries   
    Assets Under Management  
    By investment vehicle  
    (in millions)  
      Three Months Ended   % Changed From  
      March 31,   December 31,   March 31,   December 31,   March 31,  
       2025    2024    2024   2024   2024  
    Equities:                    
    Mutual Funds                    
    Beginning of period assets $ 8,078     $ 8,440     $ 7,973            
    Inflows   190       211       176            
    Outflows   (389 )     (420 )     (432 )          
    Net inflows (outflows)   (199 )     (209 )     (256 )          
    Market appreciation (depreciation)   84       (126 )     523            
    Fund distributions, net of reinvestment   (4 )     (27 )     (5 )          
    Total increase (decrease)   (119 )     (362 )     262            
    Assets under management, end of period $ 7,959     $ 8,078     $ 8,235     -1.5 %   -3.4 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management   25.5 %     25.5 %     26.0 %          
    Average assets under management $ 8,176     $ 8,447     $ 7,965     -3.2 %   2.6 %  
                         
    Closed-end Funds                    
    Beginning of period assets $ 7,344     $ 7,459     $ 7,097            
    Inflows   8       212       41            
    Outflows   (48 )     (43 )     (103 )          
    Net inflows (outflows)   (40 )     169       (62 )          
    Market appreciation (depreciation)   199       (155 )     404            
    Fund distributions, net of reinvestment   (138 )     (129 )     (126 )          
    Total increase (decrease)   21       (115 )     216            
    Assets under management, end of period   7,365     $ 7,344     $ 7,313     0.3 %   0.7 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management   23.6 %     23.2 %     23.1 %          
    Average assets under management $ 7,505     $ 7,610     $ 7,060     -1.4 %   6.3 %  
                         
    Institutional & PWM                    
    Beginning of period assets $ 10,700     $ 10,984     $ 10,738            
    Inflows   120       62       66            
    Outflows   (601 )     (407 )     (428 )          
    Net inflows (outflows)   (481 )     (345 )     (362 )          
    Market appreciation (depreciation)   (37 )     61       770            
    Total increase (decrease)   (518 )     (284 )     408            
    Assets under management, end of period $ 10,182     $ 10,700     $ 11,146     -4.8 %   -8.6 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management   32.7 %     33.7 %     35.2 %          
    Average assets under management $ 10,772     $ 11,085     $ 10,798     -2.8 %   -0.2 %  
                         
    SICAV                    
    Beginning of period assets $ 9     $ 9     $ 631            
    Inflows                          
    Outflows               (2 )          
    Net inflows (outflows)               (2 )          
    Market appreciation (depreciation)                          
    Reclassification to AUA               (620 )          
    Total increase (decrease)               (622 )          
    Assets under management, end of period $ 9     $ 9     $ 9     0.0 %   0.0 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management   0.0 %     0.0 %     0.0 %          
    Average assets under management $ 9     $ 9     $ 10     0.0 %   -10.0 %  
                         
    Total Equities                    
    Beginning of period assets $ 26,131     $ 26,892     $ 26,439            
    Inflows   318       485       283            
    Outflows   (1,038 )     (870 )     (965 )          
    Net inflows (outflows)   (720 )     (385 )     (682 )          
    Market appreciation (depreciation)   246       (220 )     1,697            
    Fund distributions, net of reinvestment   (142 )     (156 )     (131 )          
    Reclassification to AUA               (620 )          
    Total increase (decrease)   (616 )     (761 )     264            
    Assets under management, end of period $ 25,515     $ 26,131     $ 26,703     -2.4 %   -4.4 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management   81.8 %     82.4 %     84.2 %          
    Average assets under management $ 26,462     $ 27,151     $ 25,833     -2.5 %   2.4 %  
                         
    GAMCO Investors, Inc. and Subsidiaries   
    Assets Under Management  
    By investment vehicle – continued   
    (in millions)  
      Three Months Ended   % Changed From  
      March 31,   December 31,   March 31,   December 31,   March 31,  
       2025    2024    2024   2024   2024  
    Fixed Income:                    
    100% U.S. Treasury fund                    
    Beginning of period assets $ 5,552     $ 5,268     $ 4,615            
    Inflows   1,372       1,656       1,605            
    Outflows   (1,341 )     (1,440 )     (1,315 )          
    Net inflows (outflows)   31       216       290            
    Market appreciation (depreciation)   55       68       60            
    Total increase (decrease)   86       284       350            
    Assets under management, end of period $ 5,638     $ 5,552     $ 4,965     1.5 %   13.6 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management   18.1 %     17.5 %     15.7 %          
    Average assets under management $ 5,552     $ 5,415     $ 4,832     2.5 %   14.9 %  
                         
    Institutional & PWM Fixed Income                    
    Beginning of period assets $ 32     $ 32     $ 32            
    Inflows                          
    Outflows                          
    Net inflows (outflows)                          
    Market appreciation (depreciation)                          
    Total increase (decrease)                          
    Assets under management, end of period $ 32     $ 32     $ 32     0.0 %   0.0 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management   0.1 %     0.1 %     0.1 %          
    Average assets under management $ 32     $ 32     $ 32     0.0 %   0.0 %  
                         
    Total Treasuries & Fixed Income                    
    Beginning of period assets $ 5,584     $ 5,300     $ 4,647            
    Inflows   1,372       1,656       1,605            
    Outflows   (1,341 )     (1,440 )     (1,315 )          
    Net inflows (outflows)   31       216       290            
    Market appreciation (depreciation)   55       68       60            
    Total increase (decrease)   86       284       350            
    Assets under management, end of period $ 5,670     $ 5,584     $ 4,997     1.5 %   13.5 %  
    Percentage of total assets under management   18.2 %     17.6 %     15.8 %          
    Average assets under management $ 5,584     $ 5,447     $ 4,864     2.5 %   14.8 %  
                         
    Total AUM                    
    Beginning of period assets $ 31,715     $ 32,192     $ 31,086            
    Inflows   1,690       2,141       1,888            
    Outflows   (2,379 )     (2,310 )     (2,280 )          
    Net inflows (outflows)   (689 )     (169 )     (392 )          
    Market appreciation (depreciation)   301       (152 )     1,757            
    Fund distributions, net of reinvestment   (142 )     (156 )     (131 )          
    Reclassification to AUA               (620 )          
    Total increase (decrease)   (530 )     (477 )     614            
    Assets under management, end of period $ 31,185     $ 31,715     $ 31,700     -1.7 %   -1.6 %  
    Average assets under management $ 32,046     $ 32,598     $ 30,697     -1.7 %   4.4 %  
                         
       
    Contact: Kieran Caterina
      Chief Accounting Officer
      (914) 921-5149
       
      For further information please visit
      www.gabelli.com
       

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fdf70333-2c19-43f2-ac7e-f41e523355c5

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/14973722-0885-4fca-8e88-5fad950be53c

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: International companies to host live webcasts at Deutsche Bank’s Depositary Receipts Virtual Investor Conference on May 15, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Deutsche Bank today announced the lineup for its Depositary Receipts Virtual Investor Conference (“dbVIC”) on Thursday, May 15, 2025 featuring live webcast presentations from international companies with American Depositary Receipt (ADR) programs in the United States.

    Representatives from participating companies based in China, Hong Kong, Philippines, Denmark, Germany, South Africa, Switzerland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom will respond to questions during formal presentations. The conference is targeted to all categories of investors and analysts interested in international companies.

    There is no fee for participants to log in, attend live presentations and/or ask questions.

    Pre-registration is suggested. Please register here: www.adr.db.com/dbvic

    Conference Agenda May 15th, 2025 (US Eastern Standard Time):

    • 8:00 AM: Bavarian Nordic A/S (Nasdaq Copenhagen: BAVA, OTC: BVNRY)  
    • 8:30 AM: Viomi Technology Co., Ltd (NASDAQ: VIOT)
    • 9:00 AM: Infineon Technologies AG (Xetra: IFX, OTC: IFNNY)
    • 9:30 AM: Clicks Group Ltd (JSE: CLS, OTC: CLCGY)
    • 10:00 AM: First Pacific Company Ltd (HKEX: 142, OTC: FPAFY)
    • 10:30 AM: HUTCHMED (China) Limited (AIM: HCM, NASDAQ: HCM, and HKEX:13)
    • 11:00 AM: 51Talk Online Education Group (NYSE American: COE)
    • 11:30 AM: Yiren Digital Ltd. (NYSE: YRD)
    • 12:00 PM: ABB Ltd. (SIX: ABBN, OTC: ABBNY)
    • 12:30 PM: Belite Bio, Inc  (NASDAQ: BLTE)
    • 13:00 PM: Epiroc AB (Nasdaq Stockholm: EPIA, OTC: EPOAY)
    • 13:30 PM: International Airlines Group (LSE: IAG, MAD: IAG, OTC: ICAGY)
    • 14:00 PM: BDO Unibank, Inc (PSE: BDO, OTC: BDOUY)
    • 14:30 PM: iHuman Inc. (NYSE: IH)

    The presentations will be available for replay after the conference.

    In addition to specializing in administering cross-border equity structures such as American and Global Depositary Receipts, Deutsche Bank provides corporates, financial institutions, hedge funds and supranational agencies around the world with trustee, agency, escrow and related services. The Bank offers a broad range of services for diverse products, from complex securitizations and project finance to syndicated loans, debt exchanges and restructurings.

    For further information, please contact:
    Dylan Riddle
    Deutsche Bank AG
    Press & Media Relations
    Tel. +12122504982
    Cell. +1(904)3866481
    Email dylan.riddle@db.com

    Deutsche Bank provides commercial and investment banking, retail banking, transaction banking and asset and wealth management products and services to corporations, governments, institutional investors, small and medium-sized businesses, and private individuals. Deutsche Bank is Germany’s leading bank, with a strong position in Europe and a significant presence in the Americas and Asia Pacific.

    Deutsche Bank is sponsoring the Deutsche Bank Depositary Receipt Investor Conference solely for informational purposes. Deutsche Bank does not prepare, review, approve or edit any presentations, statements, documents or other information or materials, whether in written, electronic or verbal form, provided by any company participating in such conference, and disclaims any responsibility for the accuracy or adequacy of any such information or materials. Deutsche Bank is not promoting, endorsing or recommending any company participating in the conference.

    The Depositary Receipts have been registered pursuant to the US Securities Act of 1933 (the “Act”) on Form F-6. The investment or investment service which is the subject of this notice is not available to retail clients as defined by the UK Financial Conduct Authority. This notice has been approved and/or communicated by Deutsche Bank AG New York. The services described in this notice are provided by Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas (Deutsche Bank) or by its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in accordance with appropriate local registration and regulation. Deutsche Bank is providing the attached notice strictly for information purposes and makes no claims or statement, nor does it warrant as to or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the details contained herein and does not undertake an obligation to update or amend this information. Deutsche Bank, its subsidiaries and/or affiliates disclaims any and all liability to fullest extent permitted by law, whether arising in tort, contract or otherwise, which any of them might otherwise have in respect of the above information. This announcement appears as a matter of record only. Neither this announcement nor the information contained herein constitutes an offer or solicitation by Deutsche Bank or any other issuer or entity for the purchase or sale of any securities in the United States, nor does it constitute an offer or solicitation to any person in any other jurisdiction. No part of this notice may be copied or reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of Deutsche Bank. Past results are not an indication of future performance. Copyright© May 2025 Deutsche Bank AG. All rights reserved.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese vice premier meets Saudi Aramco’s chairman

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

    BEIJING, May 8 — Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang met with Yasir Al-Rumayyan, chairman of the board of directors of Saudi Aramco, in Beijing on Thursday.

    Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said the China-Saudi Arabia comprehensive strategic partnership had developed rapidly with deepened cooperation in various fields.

    Noting that Saudi Aramco has long been an active player in China’s reform and opening up as well as modernization drive, Ding said it is hoped that both sides will continue to deepen cooperation in traditional fields such as energy and chemical engineering, actively carry out cooperation on sci-tech innovation and green transformation, work together to maintain the stability of the global industrial and supply chains and the multilateral trading system, and make greater contributions to China-Saudi Arabia relations and the world economy.

    Yasir Al-Rumayyan said that Saudi Aramco had always been optimistic about China’s development prospects and is willing to further expand investment and trade cooperation with China, making contributions to the economic and trade cooperation between the two countries.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI: Advancements In Drone Technology Opening Up New Applications as Market Size Estimated to Reach $57 Billion by 2028

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – Drone services are progressively replacing legacy services in the commercial sector, such as aerial surveys, filmography, and search and rescue operations. They offer the advantages of prolonged operation, remote control by human operators, or autonomous functioning by onboard computers. The increasing adoption of drone services across various civil and commercial applications can be attributed to their extended endurance and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, the integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, IoT (Internet of Things), and cloud computing into drone services is expected to further boost their demand across various sectors. A report from MarketsAndMarkets said that the Global Drone Services Market Size is estimated to reach USD 57.8 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 27.7% during the forecast period. The report continued: “The drone market size continues to expand as the drone services industry evolves, offering a diverse range of services for both remotely controlled and autonomously flown drones. This industry integrates software-controlled flight plans into drones’ embedded systems, making it a critical component in sectors like agriculture, insurance, construction, marine, aviation, oil & gas, mining, and infrastructure. The demand for these services, which includes tasks such as search and rescue, package delivery, industrial inspections, imaging, and healthcare supply distribution to remote areas, significantly contributes to the growing drone market size.”   Active Companies in the drone industry today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE: TDY), ParaZero Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: PRZO), Safe Pro Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAI), Unusual Machines, Inc. (NYSE American: UMAC).

    MarketsAndMarkets added: “In terms of market segmentation, drone services are categorized by the type of service provided, including platform services (further divided into flight piloting and operation, data analysis, and data processing), maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO), and simulation and training. The application-based segmentation encompasses inspection and monitoring, mapping and surveying, spraying and seeding, filming and photography, transport and delivery, as well as security, search, and rescue. The industry-based segmentation covers a wide spectrum of sectors, including construction and infrastructure, agriculture, utility, oil & gas, mining, defense and law enforcement, media and entertainment, scientific research, insurance, aviation, marine, healthcare and social assistance, and transportation, logistics, and warehousing. These industries rely heavily on drones for functions like inspection, monitoring, and photography, further driving the drone market size.”

    ZenaTech (NASDAQ:ZENA) ZenaDrone Tests Proprietary Camera Enabling IQ Nano Drone Swarms for US Defense Applications and Blue UAS Submission – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”), a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS, and Quantum Computing solutions, announces that its subsidiary ZenaDrone is testing a new proprietary specialized camera that enables more efficient indoor applications such as inventory and security management, when utilizing IQ Nano drone swarms for commercial and US defense applications. The new camera prototype developed by its Taiwan component manufacturing subsidiary, Spider Vision Sensors, in collaboration with its certified electronics manufacturing partner, Suntek Global, will enable faster and more precise collection of data including multiple bar codes simultaneously scanned by multiple drones in a drone swarm. The company plans to apply for Blue UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) certification that lists and validates drones for military and government use.

    “Our Spider Vision Sensors subsidiary in collaboration with Suntek Global, has helped us speed up development of customized and specialized cameras required for our innovative drone swarm applications for commercial and defense customers. This partnership will continue to be invaluable as we develop our NDAA-compliant supply chain and received Blue UAS certification which will allow military and federal agencies to directly purchase our drones.,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D.

    Military and Defense departments use small autonomous indoor drones like the 10X10 inch IQ Nano for various applications such as inventory management, indoor building reconnaissance, search and rescue, training simulations, and explosives detection. ZenaDrone is also engaged in a paid trial which includes developing drone swarm applications for inventory management and security applications with a multinational auto parts manufacturer customer.

    A drone swarm is a coordinated group of autonomous drones that communicate and work together using AI and real-time data sharing, to perform tasks collaboratively without direct human control. Drone swarms enhance efficiency, accuracy, automation, and performance compared to a single drone. Autonomous drones can rapidly scan thousands of bar codes or RFID tags per second with high accuracy, providing real-time visibility into inventory without disrupting workflows. A drone swarm can also cover more ground simultaneously, dramatically reducing inventory audit times and manual labour while providing near-total inventory visibility.

    An AI drone swarm for indoor security and surveillance enhances coverage, response time, and efficiency by autonomously patrolling large areas, detecting threats, and providing real-time situational awareness. Unlike stationary cameras or human patrols, drone swarms can dynamically adapt to security breaches, track intruders, and coordinate movements to eliminate blind spots. AI-driven analytics enable them to identify anomalies, recognize faces, and detect unauthorized activity with high precision, reducing false alarms and improving security decision-making. Their autonomous nature minimizes human labor costs while ensuring 24/7 monitoring in complex environments like warehouses, data centers, or commercial facilities.

    The ZenaDrone IQ Nano is available in 10×10 and 20×20-inch sizes, designed to perform regular and frequent inspections such as bar code or RFID scanning, facility maintenance inspections, security monitoring, 3D indoor mapping and other applications inside a warehouse, distribution, or plant facility. It is designed for autonomous use featuring integrated sensors, high-quality cameras, data collection and analysis including AI methodologies. Weighing 1.5kg and with a flight time of at least 20 minutes before utilizing the automatic battery recharging station, it is designed for hovering stability and safety with obstacle avoidance capabilities.   Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

    In Additional ZENA News: ZenaTech’s (NASDAQ:ZENA) Expands Ireland Office Offering Drone as a Service (DaaS) Including Precision Agriculture to a European Market Growing at 28.6% Annually – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”), a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS, and Quantum Computing solutions, announces it will be expanding operations and opening a new, larger office and its European Headquarters in Dublin, Ireland. The new hub will facilitate the Company’s drone sales and DaaS drone services — including precision agriculture solutions — to a growing UK and European market. The Company anticipates the official grand opening during the summer of 2025.

    Strategically located near Dublin Airport and accessible via all major motorways, the new office location will serve a growing customer base in Ireland and enable growth across Europe, catering to agriculture as well as construction, renewable energy — including wind and solar farms — golf courses, racecourses, and warehouse and logistics.

    “Expanding our Dublin office and establishing a European HQ marks a new chapter in our strategy to scale our drones and DaaS offerings globally while servicing the fastest growing agricultural drone markets located in Europe. Our AI-powered drone solutions are designed to boost crop yields while reducing operational costs and provide smart, data-driven insights — empowering crop monitoring and health assessment, nutrient and resource optimization, and profitability,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D.

    The European agricultural drone market was valued at approximately USD 4.6 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 43.23 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 28.58% according to Market Data Forecast . This growth is fueled by the adoption of drones for crop spraying, mapping, pest control, seeding, and remote sensing, which enhance productivity and resource efficiency in farming. Growth is also supported by favorable European government policies and a strong focus on sustainable farming practices.    Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.zenatech.com/newsroom/

    Other recent developments in the drone industry include:

    Teledyne FLIR Defense, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE: TDY), has recently announced a number of upgrades to its Black Hornet® 4 Personal Reconnaissance System to further boost operational effectiveness for warfighters. The enhanced features are being showcased at the Special Operations Forces (SOF) Week annual conference at the Tampa Convention Center, May 6 to May 8.

    In development over the past year, the series of improvements include a 50% increase in Black Hornet’s radio communications range from two to three kilometers (in optimal conditions). The BH4’s new Android tablet, part of the ground control station, now has up to twice the battery life, plus a battery heater for charging in cold temperatures. The new tablet also features improved ergonomics, making it easier to use while wearing gloves.

    Black Hornet 4 can operate in 25-knot winds and rain, and extensive testing was performed to validate its already rugged endurance capabilities. The drone itself is now IP-52 rated, able to withstand 7.6 mm of rain per hour while in flight, while the ground control station boasts an IP-54 rating.

    Unusual Machines, Inc. (NYSE American: UMAC), a United States based manufacturer and distributor of drone parts recently has successfully closed a confidentially marketed public offering for the sale of 8,000,000 shares of the Company’s Common Stock at the offering price of $5.00 per share (the “Offering”) resulting in gross proceeds of $40 million, before deducting placement agent fees and other offering expenses. The Offering closed on May 7, 2025.

    Allan Evans, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and other members of the Company’s Board of Directors and all members of the Company’s advisory board purchased shares in the Offering on the same terms as the other investors. “We are overwhelmed by the level of support from everyone involved in the process,” said Allan Evans “This raise is absolutely a case of everyone putting their money behind accelerating American manufacturing for drones”.

    ParaZero Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: PRZO), an aerospace company focused on safety systems for commercial unmanned aircrafts and defense Counter UAS systems, recently announced that it has received a new order for dozens of units of its innovative SafeAir™ M4 system. The order was placed by a prominent European drone distributor that serves a wide range of commercial, public safety, and enterprise drone operators across the region.

    The SafeAir™ M4, ParaZero’s next-generation autonomous parachute recovery system, is designed for seamless integration with DJI’s Matrice 4 series. It features a newly developed deployment mechanism with real-time telemetry and is designed and expected to comply with the highest European regulatory standards to enable safe flight in urban areas throughout the EU.

    Safe Pro Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAI), a leading provider of artificial intelligence (AI)-driven security solutions, recently announced it has successfully completed multiple demonstrations of its patented Safe Pro Object Threat Detection (SPOTD) technology to various branches of the U.S. Department of Defense. Following these briefings, the Company commenced the integration of its SPOTD technology onto the Win-TAK platform, part of the U.S. Army’s Tactical Assault Kit (TAK) software ecosystem.

    As a result of these successful demonstrations, the Company is accelerating additional development efforts that seek to integrate the Company’s SPOTD technology into the full TAK software ecosystem which includes the U.S. Army’s ATAK (Android Tactical Assault Kit or ATAK) platform. Integration of SPOTD into ATAK is designed to allow detections of small explosive threats instantly identified in drone-based imagery by the Company’s AI technology to be quickly pushed across potentially hundreds of thousands of soldier-carried and vehicle-mounted wireless connected devices widely utilized by the U.S. Armed Forces.

    About FN Media Group:

    At FN Media Group, via our top-rated online news portal at www.financialnewsmedia.com, we are one of the very few select firms providing top tier one syndicated news distribution, targeted ticker tag press releases and stock market news coverage for today’s emerging companies. #tickertagpressreleases #pressreleases

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    DISCLAIMER:  FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates FinancialNewsMedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels. FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein. FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security. FNM’s market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities. The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material. All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks. All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release. FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers. Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks. For current services performed FNM has been compensated fifty one hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by ZenaTech, Inc. by the Company. FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may,” “future,” “plan” or “planned,” “will” or “should,” “expected,” “anticipates,” “draft,” “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

    Contact Information:

    Media Contact email: editor@financialnewsmedia.com – +1(561)325-8757

    SOURCE: FN Media Group

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: EXL to participate in upcoming investor conferences

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ExlService Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: EXLS), a leading data and AI company, today announced Maurizio Nicolelli, executive vice president, chief financial officer, and John Kristoff, vice president, head investor relations, are expected to participate at the following investor conferences:

    • 20th Annual Needham Technology, Media, & Consumer 1×1 Conference, Monday, May 12, 2025, Virtual
    • TD Cowen 53nd Annual Technology, Media & Telecom Conference, Thursday, May 29, 2025, New York, NY, (presentation at 10:50 AM EDT)
    • Baird 2025 Global Consumer, Technology & Services Conference, Thursday, June 5, 2025, New York, NY (presentation at 2:00 PM EDT)
    • Live audio webcasts of company presentations will available on the events page of EXL’s investor website.

    About ExlService Holdings, Inc.
    EXL (NASDAQ: EXLS) is a global data and AI company that offers services and solutions to reinvent client business models, drive better outcomes and unlock growth with speed. EXL harnesses the power of data, AI, and deep industry knowledge to transform businesses, including the world’s leading corporations in industries including insurance, healthcare, banking and capital markets, retail, communications and media, and energy and infrastructure, among others. EXL was founded in 1999 with the core values of innovation, collaboration, excellence, integrity and respect. We are headquartered in New York and have approximately 60,000 employees spanning six continents. For more information, visit www.exlservice.com.

    Contacts:
    Investor Relations
    John Kristoff
    +1 212 209 4613
    ir@exlservice.com 

    Media
    Keith Little
    +1 703 598 0980 
    media.relations@exlservice.com 

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Red Cat to Report Q1 2025 Earnings and Provide Corporate Update on Wednesday, May 14, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Red Cat (Nasdaq: RCAT) (“Red Cat” or the “Company”), a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations, announces that financial results for the Q1 2025 period will be reported on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at the market close.

    Company management will host an earnings conference call at 4:30p.m. ET on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 to review financial results and provide an update on corporate developments. Following management’s formal remarks, there will be a question-and-answer session.

    Interested parties can listen to the conference call by dialing 1-844-413-3977 (within the U.S.) or 1-412-317-1803 (international). Callers should dial in approximately ten minutes prior to the start time and ask to be connected to the Red Cat conference call. Participants can also pre-register for the call using the following link: https://dpregister.com/sreg/10199765/ff2109d7f3

    The conference call will also be available through a live webcast that can be accessed at: https://event.choruscall.com/mediaframe/webcast.html?webcastid=OqffyYp4

    A replay of the webcast will be available until May 28, 2025 and can be accessed through the above link or at www.redcat.red. A telephonic replay will be available until May 28, 2025 by calling 1-877-344-7529 (domestic) or 1-412-317-0088 (international) and using access code 2313236. Replay using an international dial-in number can be accessed at: https://services.choruscall.com/ccforms/replay.html

    About Red Cat

    Red Cat (Nasdaq: RCAT) is a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations. Through two wholly owned subsidiaries, Teal Drones and FlightWave Aerospace, Red Cat has developed a Family of Systems. This includes the Black Widow™, a small unmanned ISR system that was awarded the U.S. Army’s Short Range Reconnaissance (SRR) Program of Record contract. The Family of Systems also includes TRICHON™, a fixed-wing VTOL for extended endurance and range, and FANG™, the industry’s first line of NDAA-compliant FPV drones optimized for military operations with precision strike capabilities. Learn more at www.redcat.red.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” “will” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are based on Red Cat Holdings, Inc.’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 27, 2023. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and Red Cat Holdings, Inc. undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

    Contact:

    INVESTORS:
    E-mail: Investors@redcat.red

    NEWS MEDIA:
    Phone: (347) 880-2895
    Email: peter@indicatemedia.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: CERo Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. Regains Compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(b)(1)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CERo Therapeutics Holdings, Inc., (Nasdaq: CERO) (“CERo” or the “Company”) an innovative immunotherapy company seeking to advance the next generation of engineered T cell therapeutics that employ phagocytic mechanisms, announces it has regained compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(b)(1), which requires minimum stockholders’ equity of $2.5 million (the “Equity Rule”)

    On May 7, 2025 the Nasdaq Hearings Panel (the “Panel”) notified the Company that following the execution of its private placement of Series D Preferred Stock on 4/21/2025, a partial drawdown from the Company’s Equity Line of Credit, and the closing of a public offering in February 2025, the Panel has determined that the Company now complies with the Equity Rule.

    Chris Ehrlich, CERo Therapeutics CEO added, “We have worked diligently while communicating regularly with the team at Nasdaq in order to arrive at this outcome.  Having achieved compliance, we are now poised to turn all of our efforts toward the progression of our lead program, CER-1236 and to fulfilling our goal of being a successful clinical stage biotechnology company developing immunotherapy for cancer.  We anticipate the achievement of administering the first dose of our Phase 1 clinical trial in the near term, and to providing stakeholders with regular updates on our progress.”

    About CERo Therapeutics Holdings, Inc.

    CERo is an innovative immunotherapy company advancing the development of next generation engineered T cell therapeutics for the treatment of cancer. Its proprietary approach to T cell engineering, which enables it to integrate certain desirable characteristics of both innate and adaptive immunity into a single therapeutic construct, is designed to engage the body’s full immune repertoire to achieve optimized cancer therapy. This novel cellular immunotherapy platform is expected to redirect patient-derived T cells to eliminate tumors by building in engulfment pathways that employ phagocytic mechanisms to destroy cancer cells, creating what CERo refers to as Chimeric Engulfment Receptor T cells (“CER-T”). CERo believes the differentiated activity of CER-T cells will afford them greater therapeutic application than currently approved chimeric antigen receptor (“CAR-T”) cell therapy, as the use of CER-T may potentially span both hematological malignancies and solid tumors. CERo anticipates initiating clinical trials for its lead product candidate, CER-1236, in 2025 for hematological malignancies.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This communication contains statements that are forward-looking and as such are not historical facts. This includes, without limitation, statements regarding the financial position, business strategy and the plans and objectives of management for future operations of CERo and the implementation of its proposed plan of compliance with Nasdaq continued listing standards. These statements constitute projections, forecasts and forward-looking statements, and are not guarantees of performance. Such statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. When used in this communication, words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “strive,” “would” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. When CERo discusses its strategies or plans, it is making projections, forecasts or forward-looking statements. Such statements are based on the beliefs of, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to, CERo’s management.

    Actual results could differ from those implied by the forward-looking statements in this communication. Certain risks that could cause actual results to differ are set forth in CERo’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed on April 15, 2025, and the documents incorporated by reference therein. The risks described in CERo’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission are not exhaustive. New risk factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible to predict all such risk factors, nor can CERo assess the impact of all such risk factors on its business, or the extent to which any factor or combination of factors may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. You should not put undue reliance on these statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. All forward-looking statements made by CERo or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the foregoing cautionary statements. CERo undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Contact:
    Chris Ehrlich
    Chief Executive Officer
    chris@cero.bio

    Investors:
    CORE IR
    investors@cero.bio

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Best Online Casinos Australia: Experts Pick 7Bit Casino as the Best Australian Casino for 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PERTH, Australia, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The online gambling scene in Australia is booming, with countless casinos competing for the top spot. After diving deep into the iGaming landscape, we’ve found that 7Bit Casino stands out as the clear winner for 2025. With its crypto-friendly setup, super-fast payouts, and an impressive selection of over 4,000 games, 7Bit Casino raises the bar for what Aussie players should expect from online casinos.

    This article explores why 7Bit Casino is the top new online casino, highlighting its exceptional features, robust security, and dedication to delivering a superior gaming experience for Aussie players.

    New players can dive into the action by signing up and claiming a generous welcome bonus:

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    Why 7Bit Casino Dominates the Best Online Casinos in Australia

    Since its inception in 2014, 7Bit Casino has been a trailblazer in the online gambling world, particularly as one of the first platforms to embrace cryptocurrencies. This makes it a prime choice for players seeking an anonymous online casino. Licensed by Curacao Antillephone N.V., 7Bit Casino ensures a secure and fair gaming environment, cementing its status as a leader among the best online casinos in Australia.

    With an intuitive interface, a diverse game selection, and a rewarding bonus structure, 7Bit Casino caters to both novice and seasoned players. Whether you’re passionate about the best online pokies, classic table games, or immersive live dealer experiences, this platform delivers. Its focus on rapid payouts and 24/7 customer support further solidifies its position as the top Pay ID casino and new online casino in Australia for 2025.

    A Comprehensive Review Tailored to Aussie Players

    To identify the best online casinos in Australia, our team of iGaming experts conducted a meticulous evaluation based on key criteria that resonate with players. These include:

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    • Game Developer Partnerships
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    7Bit Casino excelled across all these areas, earning its title as the premier anonymous online casino for Australian players. Below, we delve into each criterion to showcase why 7Bit Casino is the ultimate destination for online gambling in Australia.

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    Key Game Categories at 7Bit Casino

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    Payment Methods: Fast, Flexible, and Crypto-Friendly

    A seamless banking experience is essential for the best online casinos Australia. 7Bit Casino excels with a wide range of payment options tailored to Aussie players. As a leading anonymous online casino, it supports instant deposits and rapid withdrawals, ensuring players can access their funds quickly.

    Supported Payment Methods

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    The platform’s crypto-friendly approach makes it a top pay ID casino, offering enhanced security, anonymity, and lower transaction fees. While some deposit methods may incur minor charges, 7Bit Casino ensures transparency by clearly outlining costs. The inclusion of pay ID for instant deposits further enhances its appeal as one of the best online casinos Australia. For players prioritizing speed and privacy, cryptocurrencies provide the fastest and most secure option, reinforcing 7Bit Casino’s status as a leading anonymous online casino.

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    In 2025, the best online casinos Australia must deliver a seamless mobile experience. 7Bit Casino excels with an HTML5-powered mobile platform that performs flawlessly on Android and iOS devices. Players can access the full game library, claim bonuses, and manage their accounts directly from their mobile browsers, without needing a dedicated app.

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    Responsible Gambling: Prioritizing Player Well-Being

    Responsible gambling is a critical consideration for the best online casinos in Australia. 7Bit Casino is committed to fostering a safe and enjoyable environment, offering a range of tools to help players manage their gambling habits:

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    How to Join 7Bit Casino: A Simple Process

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    Why 7Bit Casino Is the Go-To for Crypto Players

    As a pioneer in crypto gambling, 7Bit Casino is the premier pay ID casino for players who prefer digital currencies. Supporting cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin, and more, the platform offers fast, secure, and low-cost transactions. Crypto players benefit from enhanced privacy, instant withdrawals, and lower fees, making 7Bit Casino a leading anonymous online casino.

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    Game Developers: Partnerships with Industry Leaders

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    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Instant Loans Online Guaranteed Approval Direct Lenders No Credit Check – IOnline Payday Loans

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHERIDAN, Wyo., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Instant loans are short-term loans that are processed and funded rapidly, enabling borrowers to access funds within minutes or hours, offering quick cash loans. This article explores what an instant loan is, how to apply for an instant personal loan online, the advantages and disadvantages of instant loans online guaranteed approval, emergency loans, and how to select the right lender.

    >> Click Here to Apply for No Credit Check Loans >>

    We will specifically highlight the offerings of IOnline Payday, a lender that specializes in instant loans. Topics will include payday loans with instant funding to debit cards in California and loans of up to $5,000 with instant approval.

    >> Click Here to Apply for No Credit Check Loans >>

    What is an Instant Loan Guaranteed Approval?

    An instant loan is a type of loan that can be obtained quickly, often with fast approval, although the term “instant loan” may also refer to the speed of funding, such as instant payday loans guaranteed approval direct lenders. These loans can be utilized for various personal needs and are particularly helpful in urgent financial situations such as emergency loans no credit check.

    >> Click Here to Apply for No Credit Check Loans >>

    Instant loans encompass a wide range of loan types, including payday loans, which must be repaid quickly; personal loans for bad credit, which may not require a credit check; small payday loans; and secured loans, which are backed by collateral.

    This article explores the different types of instant loans, highlighting their benefits and drawbacks.

    How to Get an Instant Loan Online Guaranteed Approval?

    Securing an instant loan online guaranteed approval has become easier than ever, thanks to the emergence and growth of digital lending platforms that simplify the application process and provide faster funding solutions, including best personal loans no credit check.

    Borrowers looking to obtain an instant loan typically start by researching lenders that offer online payday loans and IOnline Payday, ensuring they understand the terms and conditions before applying. The application process for these loans is often quick and requires minimal documentation, making them accessible even to individuals with poor credit who seek personal loans with no credit check.

    After submitting their applications, many lenders provide same-day feedback, allowing borrowers to receive the funds they need—often via direct deposit into their bank accounts—within just a few hours.

    What are the Requirements for an Instant Payday Loan?

    To qualify for an instant loan, applicants must meet several basic requirements, which are generally consistent across most lenders and loan types, including bad credit applicants. Most lenders stipulate that applicants must be at least 18 years old and legal residents of the United States.

    Income verification is essential, as lenders need to assess how borrowers will repay their loans and their repayment ability. While traditional loans consider credit history and scores, many instant loans, particularly payday loans, are designed for individuals with poor credit and often come with flexible terms and guaranteed approval in many cases.

    Here are the basic requirements for instant loans, including $255 payday loans and unsecured personal loans:

    • Age: Most lenders require applicants to be at least 18 years old, as those below this age cannot legally enter into a loan contract.
    • Income: Lenders typically prefer applicants to have a stable income, which is usually verified through paychecks. However, many lenders also accept other forms of income, such as rental income, pension income, and government assistance.
    • Residency: Some lenders may require proof of residency, as they generally prefer borrowers who are established in their communities.
    • Financial Documentation: Providing documentation such as bank statements or pay stubs can increase the likelihood of approval.

    Instant loan options are intentionally inclusive, allowing individuals with below-average credit histories to access the assistance they need, including installment loans. This approach enables even the most financially challenged individuals to receive crucial support.

    Instant Loan Options Offered by IOnline Payday

    IOnline Payday offers a diverse range of instant loan options, including short term loans, enabling borrowers to find the right solution for their financial needs. These options include online payday loans, instant cash loans, and even a $100 loan through an instant app.

    IOnline Payday specializes in providing instant loans in various amounts, from small to large, featuring a simple application process accessible to borrowers with good, fair, or even poor credit.

    Instant Personal Loan Online Guaranteed Approval

    The instant personal loan offered online by IOnline Payday is designed to provide borrowers with quick access to funds for various personal financial needs, whether for emergency expenses or planned purchases and investments.

    These loans typically feature a streamlined application process, ensuring a hassle-free experience and rapid funding upon approval. Available for a wide range of financial purposes, instant personal loans offer borrowers flexible terms and quick solutions.

    The advantages of these loans arise from their easy approval process and straightforward eligibility requirements, which enable many individuals to secure the financial support they need. Most consumers find the requirements manageable and can conveniently apply for their loan online from the comfort of their homes.

    Instant personal loans online usually offer three key benefits:

    • They expedite the funding process, often requiring little to no paperwork.
    • They can be utilized for various needs, such as medical emergencies, home improvements, or debt consolidation.
    • Lenders can provide competitive interest rates tailored to each individual’s financial situation.

    This user-friendly lending model enables borrowers to better manage their expenses and navigate financial challenges.

    Payday Loan Instant Funding to Debit Card in California with Loan Approval

    In California, the option for instant funding of payday loans to debit cards offers residents immediate access to cash, effectively addressing urgent financial needs with convenience and speed. Borrowers can apply online and have funds directly deposited into their debit accounts, ensuring a seamless experience.

    This service is particularly beneficial for individuals facing unexpected expenses, allowing them to manage their finances without prolonged waiting periods.

    Designed with accessibility in mind, this financial service enables individuals, including those from various U.S. states, to navigate their emergencies effortlessly. The straightforward application process allows them to fill out a form in just a few minutes, significantly reducing the barriers often associated with traditional banking loans. Additionally, the approval criteria are typically more lenient, which can help those with less-than-perfect credit scores.

    With instant funding, borrowers can expect to see their funds reflected in their debit accounts within hours, making it an ideal solution for urgent needs such as medical bills, car repairs, or unexpected travel expenses. Many lenders offer 24/7 support, ensuring that assistance is available whenever necessary. Ultimately, this option promotes financial well-being, enabling individuals to quickly regain control over their circumstances.

    Instant Cash Loan with Quick Application

    An instant cash loan is a financial product that provides borrowers with quick access to cash, making it easy to apply for and rapidly funded. This type of unsecured loan is popular in U.S. states for its efficiency. This type of loan is an effective solution for individuals who need immediate financial support, as it can help cover urgent expenses such as medical bills, car repairs, or other unexpected costs. The convenience and speed of obtaining an instant cash loan make it a popular choice for those who struggle to secure traditional financing options.

    The benefits of instant cash loans extend beyond mere convenience; users in London find this especially beneficial; the ability to quickly access funds during a financial crisis offers borrowers a sense of security and relief. Most instant cash loan applications, approvals, and disbursements are conducted online, allowing borrowers to complete the entire process virtually.

    Loan Features and Benefits of Instant Cash Loans:

    • Fast Approval: Most requests are processed instantly, with many lending platforms providing decisions in three minutes or less.
    • Flexible Repayment Options: Lenders offer various repayment plans that allow borrowers to choose a schedule that best fits their financial situation, easing additional stress.
    • No Collateral Required: These loans do not necessitate any assets to be pledged, making them accessible to a wider audience, including those with low credit finance.

    By utilizing these financial products, individuals can address their immediate needs while also taking steps to restore their financial well-being through platforms like CreditNinja.

    $100 Loan Instant App – Powered by IOnline Payday

    The $100 loan instant app offered by IOnline Payday exemplifies a mobile platform that provides small, short-term loans to borrowers in need with minimal complications. Users can complete a quick application directly from their mobile devices, enabling them to access funds whenever necessary. The convenience of instant approval through the app means that funds are often made available almost immediately, helping borrowers cover short-term expenses and manage immediate cash flow needs more effectively.

    This mobile app is designed to streamline the borrowing experience, making it easy and beneficial for those who require financial assistance, including those facing a credit inquiry.

    Its features facilitate a significantly quicker borrowing process compared to traditional lenders, who often impose time-consuming procedures. With the app, users can:

    • Provide their information in just a few minutes
    • Receive real-time notifications regarding their approval status
    • Access funds directly in their bank accounts without any waiting period

    The app not only simplifies the loan acquisition process but also offers crucial support for individuals seeking rapid financial assistance without excessive paperwork. It allows consumers to address urgent expenses quickly and easily, whether related to unexpected medical bills or car repairs. The ability to obtain small loans swiftly has transformed how people handle financial emergencies, providing them with a sense of enablement when facing cash flow issues.

    With the rapid growth of mobile banking, this app demonstrates how technology can deliver essential solutions while prioritizing user convenience and efficiency.

    $5,000 Loan Instant Approval – Offered by IOnline Payday Loans

    The $5,000 loan instant approval option through IOnline Payday enables borrowers to access larger amounts of money for essential expenses without the delays typically associated with traditional lending.

    This type of loan usually features a simplified application process, allowing approved applicants to receive their funds quickly and easily. Flexible terms are often available, enabling borrowers to choose repayment options that best suit their needs.

    Many lenders provide the $5,000 loan instant approval option online, leveraging modern technology to allow applicants to complete the process in minutes rather than days, as is common with traditional banks. One key characteristic of this loan option is its accessibility; obtaining it is generally straightforward. The application process is streamlined, requiring minimal documentation and avoiding lengthy background checks.

    This ease of access can be particularly beneficial for individuals facing unexpected expenses, such as medical bills or home repairs, where immediate access to funds is crucial. Big Buck Loans also offers similar services.

    The quick turnaround time for disbursement helps individuals address urgent financial needs without prolonged stress.
    Overall, the convenience of the $5,000 loan instant approval option aligns well with the fast-paced demands of today’s economy.

    $255 Payday Loan Instant Funding to Debit Card – Provided by IOnline Payday Loans

    The $255 payday loan with instant funding to a debit card is a financial product designed to provide borrowers with quick access to funds that are deposited directly into their debit cards. This feature is particularly beneficial for those facing financial emergencies, such as unexpected medical bills or car repairs. With minimal requirements and immediate availability, this payday loan serves as a rapid source of cash.

    Pros:

    • Speed: Funds are available almost immediately following a brief approval process.
    • Accessibility: It is easy to qualify for, even for individuals without established credit histories.
    • Convenience: Funds are delivered instantly to a debit card, ensuring easy access.

    Cons:

    • High Rates: Lenders often impose higher-than-average fees.
    • Debt Cycle: Frequent reliance on payday loans can lead to a cycle of borrowing that is challenging to escape.

    How Long Does it Take to Get an Instant Loan?

    The time it takes to obtain an instant loan varies depending on the lender and the type of loan. Many online payday loans, however, offer some of the fastest funding options available, including same-day funding. Most borrowers can complete the application in under an hour, and if approved, funds can be made available on the same day.

    Some lenders even provide 1-hour payday loans for situations where borrowers urgently need cash due to unforeseen circumstances. Understanding the processing times for different loan products can help borrowers plan effectively. Generally, the average loan processing time ranges from one to three business days.

    Several factors influence this timeline, including lender policies, the complexity of the application, and the type of loan being sought. Traditional banks typically take longer due to their thorough verification processes, while online lenders often expedite approval timelines to assist borrowers facing emergencies.

    The following are examples of processing times that borrowers should be aware of:

    • Same-Day Loans: Many lenders offer same-day approval and funding, which can be especially valuable for borrowers in emergencies.
    • Expedited Processing: Some lenders allow borrowers to pay an extra fee for faster loan processing.
    • Loan Types: Personal loans and payday loans may have different timelines for availability.

    Being aware of the timing associated with each of these options can help borrowers make informed decisions and select the best loan options to meet their immediate needs.

    What are the Benefits of an Instant Loan?

    Instant loans offer numerous benefits that cater to the diverse needs of borrowers, making them an increasingly popular choice for those seeking quick financial solutions.

    The streamlined application process allows individuals to apply from the comfort of their homes. Unlike traditional loans, which often require extensive paperwork, instant loans typically demand only a few essential documents.

    Additionally, many instant loans come with flexible terms, enabling borrowers to customize repayment options to fit their financial capabilities. Furthermore, these loans often provide no credit check options, making them accessible to a wider range of applicants, including those with poor credit histories.

    Ultimately, instant loans grant borrowers quick access to cash, helping them address emergency financial needs.

    Quick and Easy Application Process

    One of the main advantages of instant loans is the straightforward application process, which makes borrowing easy for those facing emergencies. Unlike traditional loans that often involve extensive paperwork and lengthy approval times, online payday loans enable borrowers to complete a short application form in just a few minutes.

    This efficiency allows applicants to bypass unnecessary steps, resulting in quick funding that addresses urgent financial needs as soon as possible. The user-friendly design of online platforms enhances accessibility, ensuring that borrowers can easily navigate the necessary steps without feeling overwhelmed.

    For individuals who may not have much experience with borrowing, online payday loans feature intuitive interfaces with clear instructions and support options that enhance the user experience and provide transparent fees.

    Several factors contribute to the ability for individuals to receive funds almost instantly, including rapid turnaround times, secure application processes, and flexible repayment options. This timely access to cash reduces stress and enables borrowers to regain their financial stability without prolonged uncertainty.

    No Credit Check Loans Required

    The availability of no credit check loans guaranteed approval offers a significant advantage for many borrowers, particularly those with poor credit who may find it challenging to secure financing through traditional means, including bad credit loans.

    Instant loans, especially payday loans, typically do not require a credit check, making them more accessible to individuals facing urgent financial needs. This feature enables borrowers to obtain the funds they require quickly, without the burden of their credit history affecting their chances of approval.

    This approach not only alleviates financial pressure but also promotes responsible borrowing by providing opportunities to rebuild credit over time. For individuals caught in a cycle of financial instability, these loans can serve as a lifeline, allowing them to address immediate expenses such as medical bills or unexpected car repairs.

    The implications of no credit checks, often seen in payday loans no credit check options, broaden access to essential funds, supporting borrowers in their efforts to regain control over their finances. This practice reduces barriers to entry for individuals who have been denied traditional loans, helps borrowers manage unforeseen economic challenges, and promotes financial inclusion by addressing the needs of underserved populations.

    By facilitating this form of immediate assistance, lenders, including those in the lender network, foster a sense of hope and possibility for those who have previously been marginalized by conventional lending practices.

    Instant Approval and Funding

    Instant loans offer quick approval and funding, making them a preferred choice for borrowers in need of immediate cash compared to traditional lending options and providing a quick online process. Many lenders in the payday loan sector can provide same-day funding as long as the application is approved.

    Whether to cover a medical bill, a car repair, or a broke appliance, the instant availability of funds is often cited as the primary benefit of these loans. For borrowers, particularly those with low incomes and little to no savings, the ability to access funds during a financial crisis is invaluable.

    While many consumer loan providers can deliver funding by the next business day, some lenders can facilitate same-day funding. These include payday lenders, who may disburse funds in cash, via money order, prepaid debit card, or through direct deposit into the borrower’s checking account.

    Rapid approval and funding provide borrowers with the means to handle urgent financial situations, such as medical emergencies, car repairs, overdue bills, and unexpected expenses, all of which can cause significant distress. Research from the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC) revealed that 70% of individuals using instant loan services feel less stressed after quickly resolving their financial issues.

    Parents, for instance, can access instant cash loans to manage unexpected expenses related to their children. For example, if a child has an accident while playing and requires immediate medical attention, parents often need to pay for parking and medical bills before they can file an insurance claim, which may involve payday loans online.

    To illustrate the differences between a traditional loan and an instant loan, consider the following scenario: You need $1,500 for a family medical bill and approach your bank, where you have an excellent account history, for a traditional personal loan.

    The Traditional Loan Process: as seen in many financial institutions.

    • You submit a loan application.
    • Approval may take two to three business days, though it could be quicker if you have an existing account with the lender.
    • The lender’s underwriting process may take an additional one to two business days.
    • You receive your funds, which could take another business day, depending on the time of day you applied.

    Total Time for the Traditional Loan Process: 4-6 business days.

    The Instant Cash Loan Process:

    In contrast, the steps and timelines for an instant loan are as follows:

    • You submit a loan application.
    • The lender may approve it within an hour, provided you have accurately filled in all required fields and submitted the necessary documents.
    • Although instant loans are generally for smaller amounts (often a few hundred dollars) or short-term loans with higher interest rates, the lender may take some time to verify your information due to the increased risk of fraud.
    • The lender can transfer the funds electronically to your account or provide them via a prepaid debit card, offering flexible loan terms.

    Total Time for the Instant Cash Loan Process: A few hours.

    In summary, instant loans, including same day feedback options, deliver a significantly faster and more convenient solution for those in urgent financial need compared to traditional loans.

    Flexible Repayment Options, Including Loan Alternatives

    Flexible repayment options are a significant advantage of instant loans, enabling borrowers to customize their repayment plans based on their individual financial situations. Many lenders provide a variety of terms that cater to different budgets and repayment capacities, offering alternatives suitable for both experienced borrowers and those with poor credit.

    Whether choosing short-term repayment schedules or longer installment loans, these flexible terms help ensure that borrowers are not overwhelmed by their obligations, resulting in a more manageable repayment experience.

    The availability of tailored repayment options allows individuals to select plans that align with their income cycles and cash flow patterns. This increased adaptability greatly enhances the financial stability of borrowers by alleviating the stress associated with rigid payment schedules.

    For instance, some lenders may offer the option of bi-weekly payments instead of the standard monthly schedule, which can be more convenient for those who receive paychecks at varying intervals. Others may permit borrowers to choose longer loan terms, resulting in lower monthly payments and increased affordability.

    Ultimately, these diverse loan terms not only accommodate a range of financial situations but also enable borrowers to take control of their repayment processes, leading to improved overall financial well-being.

    What Are the Risks of an Instant Loan for Bad Credit?

    While instant loans offer several advantages, it is crucial for borrowers to understand the associated risks of this type of financing. The most significant risks of instant loans include the fact that their interest rates are often very high, resulting in substantial repayment amounts over time.

    Additionally, the short repayment terms typically associated with payday loans can lead borrowers who are unable to repay their loans quickly into a cycle of debt, which may cause further financial difficulties. By being aware of these risks, individuals can make informed decisions before accepting an instant loan.

    High Interest Rates

    The primary risk associated with instant loans is the potential for high interest rates, which can significantly increase the total amount owed. Many payday loans, designed for quick access to cash, come with very high interest rates that may not be immediately apparent to borrowers.

    As individuals navigate their financial needs, it is crucial for them to understand the implications of these elevated rates in order to avoid the risk of further financial hardship and escalating debt.

    The high interest rates on instant loans typically result from a combination of the lender’s risk assessment and the borrower’s financial situation. Borrowers often seek these loans due to urgent financial needs and limited alternatives, which creates an environment where lenders can impose excessive fees.

    Research indicates that the average annual percentage rate (APR) for payday loans can exceed 400%, dramatically increasing the repayment amount. For instance, a $500 loan at a 400% APR, if paid in full within 30 days, would require a repayment of nearly $750, highlighting the potential for hidden fees.

    Before taking out these loans, borrowers should be aware not only of the short-term benefits but also of the long-term risks associated with accumulating debt. Knowledge and awareness are essential for individuals to make informed decisions for themselves and their families.

    Short Repayment Terms

    Short repayment terms pose a significant risk associated with instant loans, particularly payday loans and their payday borrowing options, which often require repayment within just a few weeks. This limited timeframe can pressure borrowers to quickly gather the necessary funds for repayment, leading to financial strain if they are unable to meet their obligations on time.

    It is essential for anyone considering these borrowing options to fully understand the dangers of short repayment terms and to assess their ability to repay quickly. The urgency of such deadlines can compel borrowers to resort to high-interest financing options or roll over their loans, both of which can result in an inescapable debt spiral.

    To avoid falling into this precarious situation, borrowers can take several prudent steps, including exploring options like online personal loans, to mitigate the challenges posed by short repayment terms.

    • First, they should create a detailed budget that prioritizes monthly expenses, allowing them to plan their spending to ensure sufficient funds for loan repayment.
    • Additionally, exploring repayment options with lenders that offer a gradual repayment plan can be beneficial.
    • Lastly, building an emergency fund by setting aside a small amount each month— even as little as $5— can provide some savings to cover unexpected expenses.

    By taking these steps, borrowers can better manage their repayment schedules and reduce the risks associated with short-term loans.

    Potential for Debt Cycle

    The potential for a debt cycle poses a significant risk associated with instant loans, particularly for borrowers who are not adequately prepared to repay their loans on time. If individuals are unable to repay instant loans promptly, they may resort to taking out new loans to cover their existing debts, leading to a perilous borrowing chain as debts accumulate and financial strain escalates. This is a risk that borrowers must recognize to avoid becoming trapped in a cycle that can be difficult to escape and detrimental to their long-term financial health.

    It is crucial for borrowers to be aware of the signs of a debt cycle, which may include increased reliance on loans for everyday expenses, frequently changing due dates, missed payments, and accumulating late fees. To prevent falling into this trap, individuals should establish a strict budget that accounts for all expenses and repayments, ensuring they never borrow more than they can realistically afford to repay.

    If they are struggling to manage their debts, seeking financial counseling from experts like CreditNinja or David Jones can be beneficial.

    Awareness and proactive measures can help individuals evade the pitfalls of a debt cycle.

    How to Choose the Right Instant Loan Lender for Big Buck Loans?

    Choosing the right instant loan lender for your fund finance needs is a crucial step to ensure you receive the financial assistance you need while minimizing potential risks.

    With many lenders available in the instant loan market, it is vital to evaluate your options by considering several factors, including interest rates, repayment terms, and the lender’s reputation within the lending network.

    Reviewing testimonials and feedback from previous borrowers can provide valuable insights into the lender’s reliability and quality of service, helping you select a lender that best meets your needs.

    Research and Compare Lenders with Low Credit Finance

    Researching and comparing lenders is a crucial step in obtaining an instant loan, especially in cities like London, as it enables borrowers to identify options that best suit their needs. In today’s digital world, numerous tools and resources are available to assist individuals in exploring different lenders and their offerings, such as interest rates, fees, and loan terms. Investing time in research can lead to more favorable loan terms and help borrowers avoid predatory lending practices.

    Understanding the nuances of various lender offerings is essential, especially in the often complex realm of personal finance. Online comparison tools can significantly simplify this process by consolidating key elements from multiple lenders into an easy-to-read format.

    Here are some important points to keep in mind:

    • Exploring Customer Reviews: Past borrowers frequently share their experiences with lenders, and analyzing overall trends in customer satisfaction can provide valuable insight into whether a particular company is worth considering.
    • Checking Licensing and Accreditation: Always ensure that the lender is licensed to operate in your state and verify any relevant accreditations.
    • Analyzing Transparency in Terms: Seek out lenders who are upfront about their fees, terms, and penalties.

    By being as transparent as possible with lenders about their financial situations, consumers can build a more secure future for themselves.

    Read Reviews and Testimonials

    Reading reviews and testimonials is one of the most effective ways to choose an instant loan lender, as it offers insight into the experiences of other borrowers. Numerous online platforms and review sites provide individuals with access to feedback about specific lenders, highlighting their customer service, loan processes, and overall satisfaction. This information is invaluable for potential borrowers to assess a lender’s reputation within the lending network and determine whether they can trust the institution with their financial needs.

    Researching these evaluations not only promotes well-considered choices but also enables those seeking financial assistance to identify lenders that align with their expectations and values. Customer feedback serves as a compass, guiding users through the vast array of options available in the lending landscape. By exploring a diverse range of opinions, individuals can identify trends and patterns, revealing which lenders consistently meet or exceed borrower expectations.

    Consulting multiple sources enhances the reliability of the information gathered, fostering a comprehensive understanding of each lender’s offerings. Suggested methods for gathering reviews include:

    • Visiting reputable review websites
    • Participating in online forums
    • Consulting friends or family for personal experiences

    Leveraging customer testimonials can significantly enrich any borrower’s search for the right lending partner.

    Check for Proper Licensing and Regulations

    Ensuring that the immediate loan lender is credentialed and compliant is one of the most important ways to protect yourself financially. The modern financial landscape offers a multitude of options, and understanding the nuances of lenders requires careful discernment.

    Verifying a lender’s credentials is crucial, as it helps borrowers distinguish between reputable and unscrupulous lenders. Unscrupulous lenders often target individuals who may be financially inexperienced or desperate for quick financing. Engaging with uncredentialed or non-compliant lenders can lead to predatory practices, including exorbitantly high interest rates and abusive fees.

    Borrowers should begin by consulting their state’s licensing board or regulatory financial authority to verify a lender’s credentials. This typically involves one of the following steps:

    • Visiting the website of the relevant state agency, which maintains a list of licensed lenders;
    • Calling the regulatory office to inquire about a specific lender’s credentials;
    • Searching online for consumer reviews or warnings regarding particular lenders.

    If a lender lacks proper credentials and compliance, it is essential to question the reasons behind this.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is an instant loan online guaranteed approval?

    An instant loan online guaranteed approval is a type of loan that is approved and disbursed within a short period of time, usually within 24 hours. These loans are guaranteed to be approved as long as the borrower meets the minimum eligibility requirements.

    What is the difference between an instant loan and a traditional loan?

    The main difference between an instant loan and a traditional loan is the time it takes for the loan to be approved and disbursed. Traditional loans can take weeks or even months to be approved and disbursed, while instant loans can be approved and disbursed within 24 hours.

    How do I apply for an instant loan online guaranteed approval?

    To apply for an instant loan online guaranteed approval, you can visit the website of a reputable lender and fill out their application form. You will need to provide some basic personal and financial information and submit any required documents.

    Can I get an instant loan online with bad credit?
    Yes, you can still get an instant loan online with bad credit. Many lenders offer instant loans to individuals with less than perfect credit. However, keep in mind that the interest rates and loan terms may be higher for those with bad credit.

    What is the maximum amount I can borrow with an instant loan online? Can it be processed in 1 hour payday loans?

    The maximum amount you can borrow with an instant loan online varies depending on the lender and your financial situation. Some lenders offer small instant loans, such as $100 loans, while others may offer larger loans up to $5,000.

    How quickly can I receive the funds from an instant loan?

    If you are approved for an instant loan online, the funds will typically be deposited into your bank account within one business day. In some cases, you may be able to receive the funds on the same day if you apply and are approved early in the morning.

    Media Contact:
    Company Name: IOnline Payday Loans
    Registered Office Address: 1095 Sugar View Dr Ste 500 Sheridan, WY 82801
    Company Website: https://ionlinepaydayloans.com/
    Email: mria@ionlinepaydayloans.com
    Phone: 307-777-7311
    Contact person name: Mria

    Disclaimer: This announcement contains general information about IOnline payday loan services and should not be considered financial advice. Ionline Payday Loans does not guarantee loan approval, and loan terms may vary by applicant and lender requirements. Loans are available to U.S. residents only.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/07213980-370a-491b-a3af-a6643b1d5234

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b1dc704c-5252-4bf5-8efa-3a29dd3eb2de

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC Lists Doodles (DOOD) with 50,000 USDT Worth of DOOD and 50,000 USDT Bonus Prize Pool

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, announces it will list Doodles (DOOD) on May 9, 2025 (UTC). To celebrate this significant addition to the exchange, MEXC is launching a special event with a prize pool of 50,000 USDT Worth of DOOD & 50,000 USDT Bonus for new and existing users.

    Doodles is a Web3-native creative brand established in October 2021 by Canadian digital artist Burnt Toast (Scott Martin), alongside Evan Keast and Jordan Castro. The project features a collection of 10,000 unique generative NFT avatars, renowned for their vibrant, pastel-colored designs. Since its inception, Doodles has evolved into a multifaceted entertainment brand, expanding into animation, music, and fashion collaborations. Doodles has also partnered with prominent brands like Adidas, Crocs, and McDonald’s to bridge NFT culture with mainstream audiences.

    In February 2025, Doodles announced the launch of its official token, DOOD, aimed at enhancing community engagement and supporting the decentralized development strategy of Doodles. Following the announcement of the token, Doodles NFT trading volume surged to $16 million in one week, marking the second-highest weekly trading volume in the project’s history. The total supply of DOOD is capped at 10 billion, with no possibility of inflation. As a key element in fostering community interaction and value sharing, DOOD enables token holders to participate in governance, access exclusive content, and contribute to the growth of the Doodles ecosystem.

    To celebrate the listing, MEXC is hosting an Airdrop+ event from May 8, 11:00 to May 18, 11:00, 2025 (UTC), offering a range of rewards and exclusive opportunities:

    Benefit 1: Deposit and share $32,000 USDT in DOOD (New user exclusive)
    Benefit 2: Spot Challenge – Trade to share $10,000 in DOOD (For all users)
    Benefit 3: Futures Challenge – Trade to share 50,000 USDT in Futures bonus (For all users)
    Benefit 4: Invite new users and share $8,000 in DOOD (For all users)

    MEXC has established itself as an industry leader by consistently providing users with early access to promising projects. According to the latest TokenInsight report, MEXC led the industry with an impressive 461 spot listings. During each bi-weekly period, MEXC maintained a high listing frequency, consistently ranking among the top six exchanges and demonstrating its ability to capture market trends quickly. To date, the exchange has listed more than 3,000 digital assets. MEXC will continue to maintain its industry-leading listing efficiency, innovate, and expand its offerings, ensuring users have access to the best opportunities in the ever-evolving crypto landscape.

    For full event details and participation rules, please visit here.

    About MEXC
    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto.” Serving over 36 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, everyday airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
    MEXC Official WebsiteXTelegramHow to Sign Up on MEXC

    Risk Disclaimer:
    The information provided in this article regarding cryptocurrencies does not constitute investment advice. Given the highly volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market, investors are encouraged to carefully assess market fluctuations, the fundamentals of projects, and potential financial risks before making any trading decisions.

    Source

    Contact:
    Lucia Hu
    lucia.hu@mexc.com

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by MEXC. 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.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b631a595-d2ed-4ac7-8d15-5009779b29cd

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Nicholson Co-operative Town Bank Ltd., Tamil Nadu

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated May 06, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹1.50 lakh (Rupees One Lakh Fifty Thousand only) on The Nicholson Co-operative Town Bank Ltd., Tamil Nadu (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Loans and advances to directors, their relatives, and firms /concerns in which they are interested’ and ‘Know Your Customer (KYC)’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

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

    The bank had:

    1. sanctioned certain director related loans; and

    2. failed to upload the KYC records of certain customers onto Central KYC Records Registry (CKYCR) within the prescribed timeline.

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

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/286

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China steps up efforts to promote non-state sector development

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 8 (Xinhua) — China is introducing a series of measures to promote the development of the country’s non-state sector economy, officials said at a press conference held by the State Council Information Office on Thursday.

    The newly enacted Law on Promoting the Development of the Non-State Sector of the Economy enhances development certainty through legal stability, providing confidence to non-state enterprises seeking growth in a calm environment, Zheng Bei, deputy head of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), said at a press conference.

    In order to ensure fair participation in market competition, the law stipulates that China will implement a unified nationwide system of negative lists to regulate market access, Zheng Bei noted.

    Regarding equal access to production factors, the law ensures that non-state economic entities have equal rights to use capital, technology, human resources, digital data, land and public service resources on a legal basis, ensuring a level playing field for all stakeholders, she added.

    According to her, the SCRRK has launched a number of major projects in sectors such as nuclear energy and railways. In some nuclear energy projects, the share of non-state capital has reached 20 percent, while in projects in areas such as industrial equipment renewal and resource utilization and reuse, the share of investment by non-state enterprises has exceeded 80 percent.

    Zheng Bei said that this year, China will launch high-quality projects with a total investment of about 3 trillion yuan (about 416.2 billion US dollars) in sectors such as transportation, energy, water conservancy and new infrastructure.

    From January to April this year, the proportion of non-state-owned enterprises winning tenders increased by 5 percentage points compared with the same period last year, Zheng Bei said, adding that among projects worth less than 100 million yuan, non-state-owned enterprises accounted for more than 80 percent of the total number of winning projects.

    Speaking at the aforementioned press conference, Deputy Director General of the State Administration of Financial Regulation of the People’s Republic of China Cong Lin said that loans issued by banking financial institutions to enterprises in the non-state sector of the economy have maintained steady growth.

    According to her, over the past five years, loans issued to non-state enterprises have grown at an average annual rate of 1.1 percentage points higher than the overall growth rate of loans of all categories.

    As of the end of the first quarter of this year, the outstanding balance of loans issued to non-state-owned enterprises reached 76.07 trillion yuan, up 7.41 percent year on year, Cong Lin added, noting that the outstanding balance of inclusive loans issued to micro and small enterprises was 35.3 trillion yuan, up 12.5 percent year on year.

    The Law on Promoting the Development of the Non-State Economy, which will take effect on May 20 this year, stipulates that promoting the sustainable, healthy and high-quality development of the non-state economy is an important and long-term policy of China. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin inspected restored cultural sites as part of his working visit to the DPR

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin visited the Donetsk People’s Republic. As part of his working visit, he held a meeting on the socio-economic development programI region, and also inspected three museums in Mariupol, restored by the Leningrad Region under the supervision of the public-law company “Single Customer in the Sphere of Construction”.

    “I am very happy that we have reached such a pace of work in new regions that we can even work with museums. The local history museum survived and worked even during the Soviet Union’s fight against Nazi Germany, and in 2022 it was burned and looted. Specialists gave the building a second life and equipped it with an air conditioning and humidification system to preserve the exhibits. The museum was put into operation, so I asked the director to quickly open the doors to visitors. I also visited the Memorial House-Museum of Andrei Zhdanov, a statesman from Mariupol, created on the instructions of the President. The city bore Zhdanov’s name for 20 years, after which in 1989 it was returned to its historical name,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

    During a meeting with the head of the DPR Denis Pushilin and the acting chairman of the DPR government Andrei Chertkov, Marat Khusnullin discussed the implementation of the regional budget, the repair of social facilities, the modernization of public utilities infrastructure, and the attraction of investment.

    “We discussed in detail the renovation of roads and the construction of housing. Denis Vladimirovich identified these topics as some of the most pressing for the further development of the republic and its economy. Therefore, now, within the framework of work not only on the restoration program, but also on the national project “Infrastructure for Life”, we need to take into account all available tools that can create the necessary conditions that improve the quality of life of residents,” the Deputy Prime Minister noted.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI: Consumer Portfolio Services Deploys AI-Powered Servicing Platform from Salient to Advance Collections Strategy

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAS VEGAS, NV, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Consumer Portfolio Services, Inc. (Nasdaq: CPSS) (“CPS” or the “Company”), a leader in providing indirect automobile financing to consumers, today announced the deployment of a next-generation AI-powered servicing and collections platform developed in partnership with Salient, a leading provider of AI voice agent solutions tailored for the automotive industry.

    As Consumer Portfolio Services continues to scale its loan portfolio and optimize servicing operations, Salient’s AI platform is expected to play a key role in accelerating collections and improving repayment consistency, which should improve credit performance over time. The platform leverages conversational AI voice agents to automate borrower outreach across key servicing functions, including payment collection, due date adjustments, payoff management, and insurance verification, allowing CPS to redeploy human agents to focus on more complex cases. Salient’s platform has demonstrated a more than 60% reduction in handle times and improved customer response rates in previous implementations, positioning CPS to benefit from similar efficiency gains as it integrates the technology in 2025.

    “Our progress in scaling efficiently is supported by strategic investments in advanced AI automation,” said Mike Lavin, Chief Operating Officer of CPS. “By leveraging Salient’s voice AI agents to handle routine servicing tasks, we can free up our human agents to focus on higher-value and more complex customer interactions, strengthening our overall servicing and collections strategy. Salient’s technology enables us to execute collections strategies with greater precision and speed, improving repayment consistency, which should strengthen cash flow and credit performance over time. As we continue to expand our portfolio and originations, this integration reinforces the strength of our servicing platform while ensuring strict regulatory compliance.”

    Salient’s AI platform has processed over $1 billion in transactions and is built specifically for the automotive lending industry. The platform ensures compliance with key lending regulations, including FDCPA, FCRA, UDAAP, and CFPB guidelines, while maximizing customer outreach effectiveness. By automating outreach and borrower interactions, the platform enhances customer responsiveness and regulatory adherence.

    CPS recently reported strong loan origination growth, with a 52% year-over-year increase in new auto loan originations for the fourth quarter of 2024 and a total portfolio balance reaching a company record $3.6 billion. As CPS enters 2025 with momentum, leveraging AI-driven servicing solutions is expected to support continued efficiency gains and may contribute to further improvements in loan performance, reductions in servicing costs, and enhancements in overall portfolio profitability.

    About Consumer Portfolio Services:
    Consumer Portfolio Services, Inc. is an independent specialty finance company that provides indirect automobile financing to individuals with past credit problems or limited credit histories. We purchase retail installment sales contracts primarily from franchised automobile dealerships secured by late model used vehicles and, to a lesser extent, new vehicles. We fund these contract purchases on a long-term basis primarily through the securitization markets and service the contracts over their lives.

    About Salient
    Designed specifically for the consumer finance sector, Salient is a cutting-edge generative AI platform crafted to revolutionize customer-lender interactions. With its innovative technology solutions, Salient seamlessly automates vital operational processes across voice, text, and email channels, delivering a more streamlined and efficient communication experience for clients. Launched in 2023, Salient has interacted millions of US consumer, collected over $1 billion, and is backed by top tier venture capital firms, including Andreessen Horowitz, Y Combinator, Matrix Partners, and General Catalyst, alongside leaders from Tesla, Stripe, and Airtable. This platform promises to set new standards in the way automotive finance is approached and managed.

    Company Contact
    Danny Bharwani
    Chief Financial Officer
    949-753-6811

    Investor Relations Contact
    Tom Colton and Alec Wilson
    Gateway Group, Inc.
    949-574-3860
    CPSS@gateway-grp.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Primech AI Plans Production of 300 HYTRON Robots through its China Manufacturing Expansion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Primech AI Pte. Ltd. (“Primech AI” or the “Company”), a subsidiary of Primech Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: PMEC), today announced a significant expansion of its manufacturing capabilities through a strategic manufacturing partnership in Guangdong Province, China. The partnership will support the growing global demand for Primech AI’s innovative HYTRON bathroom cleaning robots, with plans to roll out 300 robots in the initial production phase.

    The partnership establishes a comprehensive manufacturing framework with a well-established electronics manufacturer in Huizhou City of Guangdong Province, creating a robust production base to serve markets across Asia and beyond. This strategic location in China’s manufacturing heartland provides Primech AI access to a sophisticated electronics supply chain and specialized technical expertise.

    “This manufacturing partnership in China represents a significant advancement in our production strategy,” said Charles Ng, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Primech AI. “The Guangdong region offers unparalleled advantages in electronics manufacturing infrastructure, component sourcing, and technical knowledge, enabling us to scale production efficiently while maintaining the highest quality standards for our HYTRON robots. Our ambitious target of rolling out 300 robots demonstrates our commitment to meeting market demand and accelerating our growth trajectory.”

    Under the terms of the agreement, the manufacturing partner will manage the full production cycle for Primech AI’s HYTRON bathroom cleaning robots, including manufacturing and assembly based on Primech AI’s detailed specifications, implementation of comprehensive quality assurance protocols, performance of rigorous functionality and safety testing, securing necessary certifications to meet international regulatory requirements, and production scheduling and delivery timeline management. The manufacturing agreement covers an initial two-year period and includes provisions for regular quality monitoring, performance reporting, and collaborative development to ensure continuous improvement of manufacturing processes.

    “Quality and reliability are foundational to our HYTRON technology, and our manufacturing partner in China brings extensive experience producing sophisticated electronic and robotic systems,” added Ng. “This collaboration allows us to leverage specialized manufacturing expertise while ensuring our exacting standards are maintained throughout the production process.”

    The strategic location in China provides Primech AI with several key advantages. Access to a mature electronics manufacturing ecosystem enables efficient production scaling and quality control. The proximity to specialized component suppliers streamlines the supply chain and reduces procurement lead times. The facility offers scalable production capacity to meet the growing global demand for HYTRON robots, starting with the 300-unit initial target. Finally, the location provides efficient logistics for serving Asian markets, reducing shipping times and transportation costs.

    This expansion of manufacturing capabilities in China complements Primech AI’s recent product innovations and market expansion initiatives, reinforcing the Company’s commitment to meeting growing global demand for its autonomous cleaning solutions.

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

    About Primech Holdings Limited
    Headquartered in Singapore, Primech Holdings Limited is a leading provider of comprehensive technology-driven facilities services, predominantly serving both public and private sectors throughout Singapore. Primech Holdings offers an extensive range of services tailored to meet the complex demands of its diverse clientele. Services include advanced general facility maintenance services, specialized cleaning solutions such as marble polishing and facade cleaning, meticulous stewarding services, and targeted cleaning services for offices and homes. Known for its commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge technology, Primech Holdings integrates eco-friendly practices and smart technology solutions to enhance operational efficiency and client satisfaction. This strategic approach positions Primech Holdings as a leader in the industry and a proactive contributor to advancing industry standards and practices in Singapore and beyond. For more information, visit www.primechholdings.com.    

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

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

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

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Aemetis Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • California Ethanol passes $2 billion cumulative revenue milestone.
    • Aemetis Biogas increased sales by 10,100 MMBtu compared with same quarter last year
    • Sales of investment tax credits resulted in cash proceeds of $19.0 million during Q1 2025.
    • India Biodiesel received letters of intent in April for an aggregate of $31 million of biodiesel sales to OMCs for delivery in May, June and July of 2025.

    CUPERTINO, Calif., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aemetis, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMTX), a renewable natural gas and renewable fuels company focused on low and negative carbon intensity products that replace petroleum products and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, today announced its financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2025.

    “Revenues during the first quarter of 2025 of $42.9 million reflect continued and strong execution by our California Ethanol and Dairy Renewable Natural Gas segments. After a pause in production and supply under the OMC contracts, our India Biodiesel segment is now approved to return to regular production levels,” said Todd Waltz, Chief Financial Officer of Aemetis. “We look forward to substantial additional revenues when we receive the LCFS provisional pathway approvals that are expected to approximately double our LCFS revenues and receive the federal Inflation Reduction Act Section 45Z production tax credits,” added Waltz.

    “We are pleased with the continued growth of Aemetis Biogas production and continued progress with building a large centralized dairy digester to process waste from four dairies that is expected to be operational in the next few months,” said Eric McAfee, Chairman and CEO of Aemetis. “Our continued focus on significantly improving cash flow from our California Ethanol segment by replacing fossil natural gas with lower carbon electricity is now underway with the fabrication of the equipment for the mechanical vapor recompression project.”

    Today, Aemetis will host an earnings review call at 11:00 a.m. Pacific time (PT).

    Live Participant Dial In (Toll Free): +1-877-545-0523 entry code 761021
    Live Participant Dial In (International): +1-973-528-0016 entry code 761021
    Webcast URL: https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/2211/52416

    For details on the call, please visit http://www.aemetis.com/investors/conference-calls/

    Financial Results for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2025

    Total revenues during the first quarter of 2025 were $42.9 million compared to $72.6 million for the first quarter of 2024. Delays with the receipt of contracts in India from the government-owned Oil Marketing Companies accounted for the decline in revenue. New OMC letters of intent for $31 million were issued in April 2025 and we started shipments in April. Our Keyes ethanol plant increased revenues by $1.7 million due principally to an increase in the average price of Ethanol from $1.79 during 2024 to $1.98 during the first quarter of 2025. Our Dairy Natural Gas segment sold 70,900 MMBtu of renewable natural gas, an increase of 10,100 MMBtu from the same quarter last year.

    Gross loss for the first quarter of 2025 was $5.1 million, compared to a $0.6 million loss during the first quarter of 2024.

    Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by $1.6 million to $10.5 million during the first quarter of 2025 compared to $8.9 million during the same period in 2024, driven primarily from legal and other transaction costs associated with receiving $18 million of cash proceeds from tax credit sales during the first quarter.

    Operating loss was $15.6 million for the first quarter of 2025, compared to operating loss of $9.5 million for the same period in 2024.

    Interest expense, excluding accretion of Series A preferred units in the Aemetis Biogas LLC subsidiary, increased to $13.7 million during the first quarter of 2025 compared to $10.5 million during the first quarter of 2024. Additionally, Aemetis Biogas recognized $2.3 million of accretion of Series A preferred units during the first quarter of 2025 compared to $3.3 million during the first quarter of 2024.

    Income tax expense included a benefit from the sale of $7.0 million of Investment Tax Credits during the first quarter of 2025.

    Net loss was $24.5 million for the first quarter of 2025, compared to net loss of $24.2 million for the first quarter of 2024.

    Cash at the end of the first quarter of 2025 was $500 thousand compared to $900 thousand at the close of the fourth quarter of 2024. We recorded investments in capital projects related to the reduction of the carbon intensity of Aemetis ethanol and construction of dairy digesters of $1.8 million for the first quarter of 2025. Additionally, payments of $15.4 million were applied to the repayment of debt during the first quarter.

    About Aemetis

    Headquartered in Cupertino, California, Aemetis is a renewable natural gas and renewable fuel company focused on the operation, acquisition, development, and commercialization of innovative technologies that replace petroleum products and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Founded in 2006, Aemetis is operating and actively expanding a California biogas digester network and pipeline system to convert dairy waste gas into Renewable Natural Gas. Aemetis owns and operates a 65 million gallon per year ethanol production facility in California’s Central Valley near Modesto that supplies about 80 dairies with animal feed. Aemetis owns and operates an 80 million gallon per year production facility on the East Coast of India producing high quality distilled biodiesel and refined glycerin. Aemetis is developing a sustainable aviation fuel and renewable diesel fuel biorefinery in California, renewable hydrogen, and hydroelectric power to produce low carbon intensity renewable jet and diesel fuel. For additional information about Aemetis, please visit www.aemetis.com

    Company Investor Relations
    Media Contact:
    Todd Waltz
    (408) 213-0940
    investors@aemetis.com

    External Investor Relations
    Contact:
    Kirin Smith
    PCG Advisory Group
    (646) 863-6519
    ksmith@pcgadvisory.com

    NON-GAAP FINANCIAL INFORMATION

    We have provided non-GAAP measures as a supplement to financial results based on GAAP. A reconciliation of the non-GAAP measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measures is included in the accompanying supplemental data. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income/(loss) plus (to the extent deducted in calculating such net income) interest and amortization expense, income tax expense or benefit, accretion expense, depreciation expense, and share-based compensation expense.

    Adjusted EBITDA is not calculated in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered as an alternative to net income/(loss), operating income or any other performance measures derived in accordance with GAAP or to cash flows from operating, investing or financing activities as an indicator of cash flows or as a measure of liquidity. Adjusted EBITDA is presented solely as a supplemental disclosure because management believes that it is a useful performance measure that is widely used within the industry in which we operate. In addition, management uses Adjusted EBITDA for reviewing financial results and for budgeting and planning purposes. EBITDA measures are not calculated in the same manner by all companies and, accordingly, may not be an appropriate measure for comparison.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This news release contains forward-looking statements, including statements regarding our assumptions, projections, expectations, targets, intentions or beliefs about future events or other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, without limitation, statements relating to our five-year growth plan; trends in market conditions with respect to prices for inputs for our products versus prices for our products; our ability to fund, develop, build, maintain and operate digesters, facilities and pipelines for our Dairy Renewable Natural Gas segment; our ability to fund, develop and operate our Sustainable Aviation Fuel, Renewable Diesel, and Carbon Capture and Sequestration projects, including obtaining required permits; our ability to receive awarded grants by meeting all of the required conditions, including meeting the minimum contributions; our ability to fund, develop and operate our sustainable aviation fuel and renewable biodiesel projects; our intention to repurchase the Series A preferred units relating to our Aemetis Biogas subsidiary and the expected valuation premium thereof; and our ability to raise additional capital. Words or phrases such as “anticipates,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “plans,” “predicts,” “projects,” “showing signs,” “targets,” “view,” “will likely result,” “will continue” or similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on current assumptions and predictions and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties. Actual results or events could differ materially from those set forth or implied by such forward-looking statements and related assumptions due to certain factors, including, without limitation, competition in the ethanol, biodiesel and other industries in which we operate, commodity market risks including those that may result from current weather conditions, financial market risks, customer adoption, counter-party risks, risks associated with changes to federal policy or regulation, and other risks detailed in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and other filed documents. We are not obligated, and do not intend, to update any of these forward-looking statements at any time unless an update is required by applicable securities laws.

    (Tables follow)

    AEMETIS, INC.  
    CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS  
    (unaudited, in thousands, except per share data)  
                   
            For the three months ended March 31,  
              2025       2024    
                   
    Revenues   $ 42,886     $ 72,634    
    Cost of goods sold     47,966       73,246    
    Gross loss     (5,080 )     (612 )  
                   
    Selling, general and administrative expenses     10,475       8,850    
    Operating loss     (15,555 )     (9,462 )  
                   
    Other expense (income):          
      Interest expense          
        Interest rate expense     11,018       9,092    
        Debt related fees and amortization expense   2,675       1,421    
        Accretion and other expenses of Series A preferred units   2,279       3,311    
      Other (income) expense     (215 )     67    
    Loss before income taxes     (31,312 )     (23,353 )  
      Income tax expense (benefit)     (6,783 )     878    
    Net loss   $ (24,529 )   $ (24,231 )  
                   
    Net loss per common share          
      Basic   $ (0.47 )   $ (0.58 )  
      Diluted   $ (0.47 )   $ (0.58 )  
                   
    Weighted average shares outstanding          
      Basic     52,584       41,889    
      Diluted     52,584       41,889    
                   
             
    AEMETIS, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
    (in thousands)
                     
              March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024  
              (Unaudited)      
    Assets              
      Current assets:            
        Cash and cash equivalents     $ 499     $ 898    
        Accounts receivable     1,043       1,805    
        Inventories       22,930       25,442    
        Tax credit sale receivable             12,300    
        Prepaid and other current assets       4,021       4,251    
      Total current assets       28,493       44,696    
                     
        Property, plant and equipment, net       199,435       199,392    
        Other assets       14,590       15,214    
      Total assets     $ 242,518     $ 259,302    
                     
    Liabilities and stockholders’ deficit            
      Current liabilities:            
        Accounts payable     $ 32,115     $ 33,139    
        Current portion of long term debt       93,669       63,745    
        Short term borrowings     25,878       26,789    
        Other current liabilities       22,939       20,295    
      Total current liabilities       174,601       143,968    
                     
      Total long term liabilities       348,612       379,262    
                     
      Stockholders’ deficit:            
        Common stock     54       51    
        Additional paid-in capital       313,075       305,329    
        Accumulated deficit     (587,471 )     (562,942 )  
        Accumulated other comprehensive loss       (6,353 )     (6,366 )  
      Total stockholders’ deficit       (280,695 )     (263,928 )  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ deficit     $ 242,518     $ 259,302    
                 
                     
    AEMETIS, INC.
    RECONCILIATION OF ADJUSTED EBITDA TO NET INCOME/(LOSS)
    (unaudited, in thousands)
                 
                 
          For the three months ended March 31,  
      EBITDA Calculation   2025       2024    
                 
      Net income (loss) $ (24,529 )   $ (24,231 )  
      Adjustments        
        Interest and amortization expense   13,705       10,525    
        Depreciation expense   2,357       1,798    
        Accretion of Series A preferred units   2,279       3,311    
        Share-based compensation   2,308       2,969    
        Income tax expense (benefit)   (6,783 )     878    
      Total adjustments   13,866       19,481    
                 
      Adjusted EBITDA $ (10,663 )   $ (4,750 )  
                 
                 
    AEMETIS, INC.
    PRODUCTION AND PRICE PERFORMANCE
    (unaudited)
               
      Three Months ended March 31,  
        2025       2024    
               
    California Ethanol          
    Ethanol          
    Gallons sold (in millions)   14.1       14.1    
    Average sales price/gallon $ 1.98     $ 1.79    
    Percent of nameplate capacity   103 %     103 %  
    WDG          
    Tons sold (in thousands)   93       94    
    Average sales price/ton $ 86     $ 98    
    Delivered Cost of Corn          
    Bushels ground (in millions)   4.8       4.9    
    Average delivered cost / bushel $ 6.63     $ 6.33    
               
    California Dairy Renewable Natural Gas          
    Renewable Natural Gas          
    MMBtu sold (in thousands)   70.9       60.8    
    Average price per MMBtu $ 3.65     $ 4.02    
    MMBtu stored as inventory   33.1       46.8    
    RINs          
    RINs sold (in thousands)   388.2       766.4    
    Average price per RIN $ 2.64     $ 3.08    
    LCFS          
    LCFS credits sold (in thousands)   16.0       18.0    
    Average price per LCFS credit $ 72.50     $ 66.00    
               
    India Biodiesel          
    Biodiesel          
    Metric tons sold (in thousands)   0       27.5    
    Average Sales Price/Metric ton $     $ 1,127    
    Percent of Nameplate Capacity   0 %     73.4 %  
    Refined Glycerin          
    Metric tons sold (in thousands)   0.0       2.4    
    Average Sales Price/Metric ton $     $ 551    

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