NewzIntel.com

Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI: XRP price rises, CJB Crypto one-day mining contract becomes more popular

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With the rising prices of mainstream cryptocurrencies such as XRP, ETH and BTC, CJB Crypto has attracted more and more users. In order to meet the needs of users to obtain passive income from digital assets such as Ripple (XRP), Bitcoin, Dogecoin, Ethereum, etc., the platform innovatively launched the mobile-first “One-Day Mining Contract”. The service relies on cloud facilities deployed in global data centers for mining, and users can get returns within 24 hours.

    Founded in London in November 2016, CJB Crypto is a leading global registered cryptocurrency cloud mining service provider. The platform has invested in and built more than 100 large mining farms and data centers in Canada, Kazakhstan, the United States, Russia and other countries. Its business covers 175 countries and regions around the world, and has served more than 7.5 million users in total.

    Start your CJB Crypto mining journey

    Easy registration: New users can enjoy a $10 reward upon registration, and can also get $0.6 for daily check-in.

    Choose a contract: After successful registration, choose a suitable mining contract based on your investment goals and budget. The platform provides a variety of contract plans, which can be easily participated by both novice and experienced users.

    Referral Bonus (Affiliate Program):

    Recommend friends to join, and you have the opportunity to win up to $20,000 in extra income every month.

    After your friend successfully registers and completes the first mining contract, you can immediately receive a 3% reward of their contract amount (for example: if your friend buys a $10,000 contract, you get $300).

    Cumulatively invite a certain number of active users, and you will have the opportunity to receive a one-time fixed bonus of up to $50,000.

    Unlimited income potential! The invitation mechanism is transparent and traceable, truly realizing “zero investment, home income generation”.

    Rich contracts, adapt to diverse needs
    After selecting and activating the contract, the system will automatically handle the subsequent mining process. CJB Crypto uses advanced technology to ensure efficient mining and help you maximize your potential income.

    Example contract returns (average daily):

    $10 contract (period: 1 day): $0.60

    $100 contract (period: 2 days): $3.50

    $500 contract (period: 5 days): $6.25

    $1,000 contract (period: 10 days): $13.00

    $5,000 contract (period: 30 days): $75.00

    Click to explore more contract options.

    Flexible settlement, support for multiple cryptocurrencies
    Mining income is settled in USDT by default. But you can freely choose to exchange the income for mainstream digital assets such as XRP, Solana, ETH or BTC. Asset allocation, control at will.

    Reasons why CJB Crypto is popular
    Since its launch, the platform has gathered more than 7.5 million users worldwide, and its core advantages of “zero threshold, security, convenience and efficiency” have been widely recognized. A 70-year-old American user shared: “Through sign-in and invitation rewards, I can steadily increase my income by thousands of dollars every month. The platform’s smart mining really helps me achieve my passive income goal.” This is exactly the original intention of CJB Crypto to open smart mining services-to allow everyone to easily participate, share the growth dividends of digital assets, and experience the fun of multiple feedback.

    About CJB Crypto
    As the world’s leading compliant cloud mining platform, CJB Crypto is committed to serving mass investors, not just technical experts, with high-quality applications, green and environmentally friendly global cloud infrastructure and perfect support. The platform adheres to the principle of “user first, safety and efficiency, and controllable risks”, lowers the threshold for industry participation through technological innovation, and promotes the development of inclusive finance.

    For more details and how to participate: https://cjb.top/

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on The Government Employees Co-operative Bank Limited, Dharwad, Karnataka

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated July 17, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹1 lakh (Rupees One Lakh only) on The Government Employees Co-operative Bank Limited, Dharwad, Karnataka (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Know Your Customer (KYC)’ and ‘Comprehensive Cyber Security Framework for Primary (Urban) Cooperative Banks (UCBs)’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 47A(1)(c) read with Sections 46(4)(i) and 56 of the 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. failed to upload the KYC records of customers onto Central KYC Records Registry (CKYCR) within the prescribed timeline; and

    2. not implemented certain cyber security control measures and requirements under the Cyber Security Framework prescribed by RBI.

    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: 2025-2026/751

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: [Opinion] Samsung in Collaboration with DTIC: Creating Meaningful Employment & Strengthening SA Economy through EEIP

    Source: Samsung

     

     
    According to research by Thrive CFO*: Small businesses in South Africa face numerous challenges, including access to funding, competition from larger companies, limited market reach, high operating costs, lack of skilled labour, regulatory compliance, cybersecurity threats, cash flow management, limited access to technology and environmental sustainability. *
     
    To help small enterprises in South Africa to overcome some of these challenges, Samsung in collaboration with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) has – under its R280-million worth Equity Equivalent Investment Programme (EEIP), which was launched in 2019 – formulated programmes that address some of government’s priorities as well as Information and Communication Technology (ICT) challenges.
     
    This multi-million rand EEIP programme aims to empower black owned and local SMEs with a particular focus on women and start-up businesses in the ICT sector. It supports skills development, enterprise development and job creation to contribute to black economic empowerment. The EEIP is part of Samsung’s broader commitment to social responsibility and economic development within South Africa.
     
    Samsung’s EEIP programme is closely aligned to the overarching objectives of the National Development Plan (NDP) Vision for 2030 and South Africa’s framework of broad-based black economic empowerment (B-BBEE) – providing a mechanism for multi-nationals to contribute towards the development of black South Africans.
     
    This framework has allowed our company to contribute to B-BBEE goals through alternative investments, including investments in black-owned businesses, ICT development and skills development. Our EEIP programme focuses on strengthening black economic empowerment by supporting ICT entrepreneurs and fostering technological advancement, ultimately contributing to socio-economic development and job creation. South Africa’s NDP envisions a thriving SME sector as a cornerstone of the country’s inclusive, resilient economy by 2030.
     
    In essence, the NDP sees SMEs as a crucial engine for economic growth, job creation and poverty reduction. This strategic plan for South Africa’s future outlines various tactics to foster SME development and ensure their long-term success. Our government, which includes our collaborative partner, DTIC, believe that SMEs can create the majority of new jobs in the country – contributing significantly to economic growth as well as play a vital role in the reduction of poverty and inequality.
     
    As Samsung, we also understand how much entrepreneurship contributes to job creation, community development and how it fosters innovation and drives economic growth. For that reason, Samsung EEIP programme and DTIC have opened the third Call to Market for the Transformative SME Development Programme – targeting suitable ICT entrepreneurs in the country, that are eager to grow their businesses for funding and support.
     
    This transformative SME Development Programme seeks to support local entrepreneurs throughout their journey as well as driving a culture of innovation and digital solutions. So, in an effort to go beyond meeting our obligations towards government and demonstrate our ongoing investment in SME development – we are in the process of recruiting suitable SMEs to participate in this EEIP SME Development Programme with the ultimate aim of contributing to economic growth and job creation.
     
    In the last two years, our criteria for this EEIP SME Development Programme focused on targeting SMEs that had been operating in the ICT and Service Centre space for at least a minimum of three years with a turnover that is less than R50M per annum. This year, our EEIP SME Development Programme “Call to Market” campaign for entries has gone with a unique approach that aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of local ICT SMEs. We have changed our focus to include start-up, micro-enterprises that are still in their infancy stage and also put a strong focus on women-owned businesses.
     
    In collaboration with DTIC, we understand that start-up businesses are generally considered high-risk ventures, particularly in the early stages. We have therefore put in place some mitigating measures coupled with key performance indicators (KPI’s) to help manage these micro-enterprises efficiently and overcome any challenges that might come our way. The specific KPIs that are used in this EEIP SME Development Programme include:
     

    Economic Impact – looks at accumulative investment in SME development, capacity building as well as the contribution to the South African economy. Also, this KPI looks at job creation, growth in revenue and the profitability of supported SMEs.
    Enterprise Development – evaluates the number of SMEs specifically black-owned as well as those that are township-based and the number of businesses supported.
    Capacity Building: looks at the number of individuals trained or upskilled, improvements in business management skills as well as access to new markets and technologies. And lastly,
    Sustainability: The environmental impact of supported businesses, long-term viability of supported SMEs as well as the number of black-owned businesses and townships-based that are supported.

     
    We made these changes because we understand the need to develop local start-up enterprises and also how gender representation plays a crucial role in the development of entrepreneurs in the country. Importantly, we strongly believe that gender inclusion in the ICT entrepreneurship space will help to unlock economic potential, drive innovation and create a more equitable and sustainable future.
     
    With this new approach in this year’s EEIP SME Development Programme, we are now able to offer a larger pool of eligible ICT SMEs in the country an opportunity to access grant funding and enterprise development support to help propel their businesses to greater heights. This improved approach aims to identify gems in the market and offer them holistic support which also includes Business Development assistance (mentoring and coaching) to help in fostering growth, a dynamic and connected information society as well as a knowledge economy.
     
    This essentially means that this holistic approach in our transformative EEIP SME Development Programme does not only focus on developing technical skills (for those organisations in the ICT sector), but also other key entrepreneurial capabilities such as soft skills that can help create sustainable businesses in South Africa and enable them to become engines for job creation.
     
    Also, our business development initiatives include an Enterprise Development Bootcamp that is part of Samsung’s EEIP Programme – which helps young entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses. This fast-paced four –month long, Bootcamp programme focuses on developing entrepreneurial skills and supporting Black-owned businesses in South Africa, particularly in the areas of Service Centre repairs and ICT. It aims to accelerate and grow businesses by providing entrepreneurs with training, mentorship, and financial support. 
     
    Samsung’s EEIP programme – now in its seven years of sustained success and this Enterprise Development “Call to Market” which represents the 3rd edition of our programme seeks to continue making a measurable difference to the socio-economic development of black South Africans. This year’s call follows two successful cycles and forms part of our broader commitment to the ICT sector, SME development and Vision 2030.
     
    This is our way of ensuring that we empower South Africa’s digital future by helping ICT entrepreneurs thrive as we deepen our commitment and collaboration with DTIC. The success of this EEIP SME Development Programme is highlighting the significant milestone of our EEIP in the country and the profound impact it has had on the nation’s ICT sector in conjunction with the DTIC.
     
    Our programme’s alignment with South Africa’s Vision 2030 and its success to date – has positioned this transformative SME Development Programme as one of the notably -value adding EEIPs in the sector. Furthermore, our strong and successful collaboration with the DTIC in strengthening the ICT sector through the EEIP – now complemented by our focus on providing support to start-ups in the infancy stage while also ensuring gender representation in this year’s SME Development Programme – is a true testament to shared goals for national development in the country.
     

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: [Opinion] Samsung in Collaboration with DTIC: Creating Meaningful Employment & Strengthening SA Economy through EEIP

    Source: Samsung

     

     
    According to research by Thrive CFO*: Small businesses in South Africa face numerous challenges, including access to funding, competition from larger companies, limited market reach, high operating costs, lack of skilled labour, regulatory compliance, cybersecurity threats, cash flow management, limited access to technology and environmental sustainability. *
     
    To help small enterprises in South Africa to overcome some of these challenges, Samsung in collaboration with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) has – under its R280-million worth Equity Equivalent Investment Programme (EEIP), which was launched in 2019 – formulated programmes that address some of government’s priorities as well as Information and Communication Technology (ICT) challenges.
     
    This multi-million rand EEIP programme aims to empower black owned and local SMEs with a particular focus on women and start-up businesses in the ICT sector. It supports skills development, enterprise development and job creation to contribute to black economic empowerment. The EEIP is part of Samsung’s broader commitment to social responsibility and economic development within South Africa.
     
    Samsung’s EEIP programme is closely aligned to the overarching objectives of the National Development Plan (NDP) Vision for 2030 and South Africa’s framework of broad-based black economic empowerment (B-BBEE) – providing a mechanism for multi-nationals to contribute towards the development of black South Africans.
     
    This framework has allowed our company to contribute to B-BBEE goals through alternative investments, including investments in black-owned businesses, ICT development and skills development. Our EEIP programme focuses on strengthening black economic empowerment by supporting ICT entrepreneurs and fostering technological advancement, ultimately contributing to socio-economic development and job creation. South Africa’s NDP envisions a thriving SME sector as a cornerstone of the country’s inclusive, resilient economy by 2030.
     
    In essence, the NDP sees SMEs as a crucial engine for economic growth, job creation and poverty reduction. This strategic plan for South Africa’s future outlines various tactics to foster SME development and ensure their long-term success. Our government, which includes our collaborative partner, DTIC, believe that SMEs can create the majority of new jobs in the country – contributing significantly to economic growth as well as play a vital role in the reduction of poverty and inequality.
     
    As Samsung, we also understand how much entrepreneurship contributes to job creation, community development and how it fosters innovation and drives economic growth. For that reason, Samsung EEIP programme and DTIC have opened the third Call to Market for the Transformative SME Development Programme – targeting suitable ICT entrepreneurs in the country, that are eager to grow their businesses for funding and support.
     
    This transformative SME Development Programme seeks to support local entrepreneurs throughout their journey as well as driving a culture of innovation and digital solutions. So, in an effort to go beyond meeting our obligations towards government and demonstrate our ongoing investment in SME development – we are in the process of recruiting suitable SMEs to participate in this EEIP SME Development Programme with the ultimate aim of contributing to economic growth and job creation.
     
    In the last two years, our criteria for this EEIP SME Development Programme focused on targeting SMEs that had been operating in the ICT and Service Centre space for at least a minimum of three years with a turnover that is less than R50M per annum. This year, our EEIP SME Development Programme “Call to Market” campaign for entries has gone with a unique approach that aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of local ICT SMEs. We have changed our focus to include start-up, micro-enterprises that are still in their infancy stage and also put a strong focus on women-owned businesses.
     
    In collaboration with DTIC, we understand that start-up businesses are generally considered high-risk ventures, particularly in the early stages. We have therefore put in place some mitigating measures coupled with key performance indicators (KPI’s) to help manage these micro-enterprises efficiently and overcome any challenges that might come our way. The specific KPIs that are used in this EEIP SME Development Programme include:
     

    Economic Impact – looks at accumulative investment in SME development, capacity building as well as the contribution to the South African economy. Also, this KPI looks at job creation, growth in revenue and the profitability of supported SMEs.
    Enterprise Development – evaluates the number of SMEs specifically black-owned as well as those that are township-based and the number of businesses supported.
    Capacity Building: looks at the number of individuals trained or upskilled, improvements in business management skills as well as access to new markets and technologies. And lastly,
    Sustainability: The environmental impact of supported businesses, long-term viability of supported SMEs as well as the number of black-owned businesses and townships-based that are supported.

     
    We made these changes because we understand the need to develop local start-up enterprises and also how gender representation plays a crucial role in the development of entrepreneurs in the country. Importantly, we strongly believe that gender inclusion in the ICT entrepreneurship space will help to unlock economic potential, drive innovation and create a more equitable and sustainable future.
     
    With this new approach in this year’s EEIP SME Development Programme, we are now able to offer a larger pool of eligible ICT SMEs in the country an opportunity to access grant funding and enterprise development support to help propel their businesses to greater heights. This improved approach aims to identify gems in the market and offer them holistic support which also includes Business Development assistance (mentoring and coaching) to help in fostering growth, a dynamic and connected information society as well as a knowledge economy.
     
    This essentially means that this holistic approach in our transformative EEIP SME Development Programme does not only focus on developing technical skills (for those organisations in the ICT sector), but also other key entrepreneurial capabilities such as soft skills that can help create sustainable businesses in South Africa and enable them to become engines for job creation.
     
    Also, our business development initiatives include an Enterprise Development Bootcamp that is part of Samsung’s EEIP Programme – which helps young entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses. This fast-paced four –month long, Bootcamp programme focuses on developing entrepreneurial skills and supporting Black-owned businesses in South Africa, particularly in the areas of Service Centre repairs and ICT. It aims to accelerate and grow businesses by providing entrepreneurs with training, mentorship, and financial support. 
     
    Samsung’s EEIP programme – now in its seven years of sustained success and this Enterprise Development “Call to Market” which represents the 3rd edition of our programme seeks to continue making a measurable difference to the socio-economic development of black South Africans. This year’s call follows two successful cycles and forms part of our broader commitment to the ICT sector, SME development and Vision 2030.
     
    This is our way of ensuring that we empower South Africa’s digital future by helping ICT entrepreneurs thrive as we deepen our commitment and collaboration with DTIC. The success of this EEIP SME Development Programme is highlighting the significant milestone of our EEIP in the country and the profound impact it has had on the nation’s ICT sector in conjunction with the DTIC.
     
    Our programme’s alignment with South Africa’s Vision 2030 and its success to date – has positioned this transformative SME Development Programme as one of the notably -value adding EEIPs in the sector. Furthermore, our strong and successful collaboration with the DTIC in strengthening the ICT sector through the EEIP – now complemented by our focus on providing support to start-ups in the infancy stage while also ensuring gender representation in this year’s SME Development Programme – is a true testament to shared goals for national development in the country.
     

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Roper Technologies announces second quarter financial results and acquisition of Subsplash; Increasing full year guidance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SARASOTA, Fla., July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Roper Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: ROP) reported financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025.

    Second quarter 2025 highlights

    • Revenue increased 13% to $1.94 billion; organic revenue was +7% and acquisition contribution was +6%
    • GAAP net earnings increased 12% to $378 million; adjusted net earnings increased 9% to $528 million
    • Adjusted EBITDA increased 12% to $775 million
    • GAAP operating cash flow increased 5% to $404 million; adjusted operating cash flow increased 13% to $434 million
    • GAAP DEPS increased 12% to $3.49; adjusted DEPS increased 9% to $4.87

    “We delivered another strong quarter, highlighted by 13% total revenue growth, 7% organic revenue growth, and 10% free cash flow growth,” said Neil Hunn, Roper Technologies’ President and CEO. “Our businesses continued to execute at a high level, while further innovating and investing to drive durable, long-term growth. We are particularly excited about how AI capabilities are enhancing our solutions and creating new opportunities, broadly, across our portfolio. Our second quarter growth was balanced across all three segments, as expected, and positions us well for a strong second half.”

    “We are once again increasing our full year outlook, supported by our strong second quarter results, the continued expansion of our recurring revenue base, and resilient demand for our businesses’ mission critical solutions. With significant M&A capacity and our proven acquisition model, we remain well positioned to execute our disciplined capital deployment strategy against a large pipeline of attractive opportunities. The combination of our durable business portfolio and proven M&A capability continues to fuel compelling long-term cash flow compounding for our shareholders.”

    Subsplash acquisition

    Last week, Roper signed a definitive agreement to acquire Subsplash, a leading provider of AI-enabled, cloud-based software and fintech solutions that serve over 20,000 faith-based organizations and churches, for a purchase price of $800 million.

    “Subsplash is a terrific business that meets each of our long-standing acquisition criteria while enhancing shareholder value creation with its high-teens organic growth profile and the ability to expand margins under Roper’s long-term ownership. We are excited to welcome the Subsplash team to the Roper family and look forward to partnering with them to execute their long-term growth strategy. We see significant potential for Subsplash to further advance their AI capabilities and deliver powerful solutions that will drive increased engagement for their customers,” concluded Mr. Hunn.

    Increasing 2025 guidance

    Roper now expects full year 2025 adjusted DEPS of $19.90 – $20.05, compared to previous guidance of $19.80 – $20.05. The Company increased its full year total revenue growth outlook to ~13%, compared to a previous outlook of ~12%, and continues to expect organic revenue growth of +6 – 7%.

    For the third quarter of 2025, the Company expects adjusted DEPS of $5.08 – $5.12.

    Roper’s guidance includes the impact of the Subsplash acquisition, which is expected to close later this month. The Company’s guidance excludes the impact of unannounced future acquisitions or divestitures.

    Conference call to be held at 8:00 AM (ET) today

    A conference call to discuss these results has been scheduled for 8:00 AM ET on Monday, July 21, 2025. The call can be accessed via webcast or by dialing +1 800-836-8184 (US/Canada) or +1 646-357-8785, using conference call ID 87418. Webcast information and conference call materials will be made available in the Investors section of Roper’s website (www.ropertech.com) prior to the start of the call. The webcast can also be accessed directly by using the following URL https://event.webcast. Telephonic replays will be available for up to two weeks and can be accessed by dialing +1 646-517-4150 with access code 87418#.

    Use of non-GAAP financial information

    The Company supplements its consolidated financial statements presented on a GAAP basis with certain non-GAAP financial information to provide investors with greater insight, increase transparency and allow for a more comprehensive understanding of the information used by management in its financial and operational decision-making. Reconciliation of non-GAAP measures to their most directly comparable GAAP measures are included in the accompanying financial schedules or tables. The non-GAAP financial measures disclosed by the Company should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, and the financial results prepared in accordance with GAAP and reconciliations from these results should be carefully evaluated.

    Minority interest

    Following the sale of a majority stake in its industrial businesses to CD&R, Roper holds a minority interest in Indicor. The fair value of Roper’s equity investment in Indicor is updated on a quarterly basis and reported as “equity investments (gain) loss, net.” Roper makes non-GAAP adjustments for the impacts associated with this investment.

    Table 1: Revenue and adjusted EBITDA reconciliation ($M)
      Q2 2024   Q2 2025   V %
    GAAP revenue $ 1,717     $ 1,944       13 %
               
    Components of revenue growth          
    Organic           7 %
    Acquisitions           6 %
    Foreign exchange           — %
    Revenue growth           13 %
               
    Adjusted EBITDA reconciliation          
    GAAP net earnings $ 337     $ 378      
    Taxes   88       107      
    Interest expense   68       79      
    Depreciation   9       10      
    Amortization   192       213      
    EBITDA $ 694     $ 788       14 %
               
    Transaction-related expenses for completed
    acquisitions    		   —       4      
    Financial impacts associated with the minority
    investments in Indicor & Certinia    		   1       (17 ) A  
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 695     $ 775       12 %
    Adjusted EBITDA margin   40.5 %     39.9 %     (60 bps )
    Table 2: Adjusted net earnings reconciliation ($M)
      Q2 2024   Q2 2025   V %
    GAAP net earnings $ 337     $ 378       12 %
    Transaction-related expenses for completed
    acquisitions    		   —       3      
    Financial impacts associated with the minority
    investments in Indicor & Certinia    		   —       (13 ) A  
    Amortization of acquisition-related intangible
    assets    		   146       160   B  
    Adjusted net earnings C $ 483     $ 528       9 %
               
    Table 3: Adjusted DEPS reconciliation
      Q2 2024   Q2 2025   V %
    GAAP DEPS $ 3.12     $ 3.49       12 %
    Transaction-related expenses for completed
    acquisitions    		   —       0.03      
    Financial impacts associated with the minority
    investments in Indicor & Certinia    		   —       (0.12 ) A  
    Amortization of acquisition-related intangible
    assets    		   1.35       1.48   B  
    Adjusted DEPS C $ 4.48     $ 4.87       9 %
               
    Table 4: Adjusted cash flow reconciliation ($M)
      Q2 2024   Q2 2025   V %
    Operating cash flow $ 384     $ 404       5 %
    Taxes paid in period related to divestiture   —       30   D  
    Adjusted operating cash flow $ 384     $ 434       13 %
    Capital expenditures   (7 )     (16 )    
    Capitalized software expenditures   (11 )     (14 )    
    Adjusted free cash flow $ 367     $ 403       10 %
               
    Table 5: Forecasted adjusted DEPS reconciliation
      Q3 2025   FY 2025
      Low end   High end   Low end   High end
    GAAP DEPS E $ 3.61     $ 3.65     $ 13.89     $ 14.04  
    YTD transaction-related expenses for
    completed acquisitions    		   —       —       0.03       0.03  
    YTD financial impacts associated with the
    minority investment in Indicor A    		   —       —       0.17       0.17  
    Amortization of acquisition-related
    intangible assets B    		   1.47       1.47       5.81       5.81  
    Adjusted DEPS C $ 5.08     $ 5.12     $ 19.90     $ 20.05  
                   

    Footnotes:

    A.  Adjustments related to the financial impacts associated with the minority investment in Indicor as shown below ($M, except per share data). Forecasted results do not include any potential impacts associated with our minority investment in Indicor, as these potential impacts cannot be reasonably predicted. These impacts will be excluded from all non-GAAP results in future periods.
                         
        Q2 2025A     Q3 2025E   FY 2025E     YTD 2025A
      Pretax $ (17 )     TBD   TBD     $ 28
      After-tax $ (13 )     TBD   TBD     $ 18
      Per share $ (0.12 )     TBD   TBD     $ 0.17
                         
    B. Actual results and forecast of estimated amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets as shown below ($M, except per share data). Forecasted results do not include amortization of intangible assets associated with the announced acquisition of Subsplash, as the valuation of acquisition-related intangible assets is incomplete. This item will be excluded from all non-GAAP results in future periods.
                         
        Q2 2025A     Q3 2025E   FY 2025E      
      Pretax $ 203       $ 202   $ 798      
      After-tax $ 160       $ 160   $ 630      
      Per share $ 1.48       $ 1.47   $ 5.81      
                         
    C. All actual and forecasted non-GAAP adjustments are taxed at 21% with the exception of the financial impacts associated with minority investments.
                         
    D. Cash taxes paid in the quarter associated with Roper’s gain on the sale of its minority interest in Certinia.
                         
    E. Forecasted GAAP DEPS do not include any potential impacts associated with our minority investment in Indicor, nor amortization of intangible assets associated with the announced acquisition of Subsplash, as the valuation of acquisition-related intangible assets is incomplete. These impacts will be excluded from all non-GAAP results in future periods.
       

    Note: Numbers may not foot due to rounding.  

    About Roper Technologies

    Roper Technologies is a constituent of the Nasdaq 100, S&P 500, and Fortune 1000. Roper has a proven, long-term track record of compounding cash flow and shareholder value. The Company operates market leading businesses that design and develop vertical software and technology enabled products for a variety of defensible niche markets. Roper utilizes a disciplined, analytical, and process-driven approach to redeploy its excess capital toward high-quality acquisitions. Additional information about Roper is available on the Company’s website at www.ropertech.com.

    Contact information:
    Investor Relations
    941-556-2601
    investor-relations@ropertech.com

    The information provided in this press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These forward-looking statements may include, among others, statements regarding operating results, the success of our internal operating plans, and the prospects for newly acquired businesses to be integrated and contribute to future growth, profit and cash flow expectations. Forward-looking statements may be indicated by words or phrases such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “plans,” “expects,” “projects,” “should,” “will,” “believes,” “intends” and similar words and phrases. These statements reflect management’s current beliefs and are not guarantees of future performance. They involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Such risks and uncertainties include our ability to identify and complete acquisitions consistent with our business strategies, integrate acquisitions that have been completed, realize expected benefits and synergies from, and manage other risks associated with, acquired businesses, including obtaining any required regulatory approvals with respect thereto. We also face other general risks, including our ability to realize cost savings from our operating initiatives, general economic conditions and the conditions of the specific markets in which we operate, including risks related to labor shortages and rising interest rates, changes in foreign exchange rates, risks related to changing U.S. and foreign trade policies, including increased trade restrictions or tariffs, risks associated with our international operations, cybersecurity and data privacy risks, including litigation resulting therefrom, risks related to political instability, armed hostilities, incidents of terrorism, public health crises (such as the COVID-19 pandemic) or natural disasters, increased product liability and insurance costs, increased warranty exposure, future competition, changes in the supply of, or price for, parts and components, including as a result of inflation and potential supply chain constraints, environmental compliance costs and liabilities, risks and cost associated with litigation, potential write-offs of our substantial intangible assets, and risks associated with obtaining governmental approvals and maintaining regulatory compliance for new and existing products. Important risks may be discussed in current and subsequent filings with the SEC. You should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. These statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update publicly any of them in light of new information or future events.

    Roper Technologies, Inc.      
    Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited)    
    (Amounts in millions)      
           
      June 30, 2025   December 31, 2024
    ASSETS:      
           
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 242.4     $ 188.2  
    Accounts receivable, net   868.8       885.1  
    Inventories, net   132.2       120.8  
    Income taxes receivable   50.0       25.6  
    Unbilled receivables   140.0       127.3  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   220.9       195.7  
    Total current assets   1,654.3       1,542.7  
           
    Property, plant and equipment, net   156.5       149.7  
    Goodwill   20,507.6       19,312.9  
    Other intangible assets, net   9,627.4       9,059.6  
    Deferred taxes   54.6       54.1  
    Equity investment   739.7       772.3  
    Other assets   480.3       443.4  
    Total assets $ 33,220.4     $ 31,334.7  
           
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:      
           
    Accounts payable $ 159.4     $ 148.1  
    Accrued compensation   213.8       289.0  
    Deferred revenue   1,618.1       1,737.4  
    Other accrued liabilities   520.3       546.2  
    Income taxes payable   53.1       68.4  
    Current portion of long-term debt, net   999.8       1,043.1  
    Total current liabilities   3,564.5       3,832.2  
           
    Long-term debt, net of current portion   7,859.2       6,579.9  
    Deferred taxes   1,706.0       1,630.6  
    Other liabilities   456.8       424.4  
    Total liabilities   13,586.5       12,467.1  
           
    Common stock   1.1       1.1  
    Additional paid-in capital   3,187.1       3,014.6  
    Retained earnings   16,565.9       16,034.9  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (104.1 )     (166.5 )
    Treasury stock   (16.1 )     (16.5 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   19,633.9       18,867.6  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 33,220.4     $ 31,334.7  
           
    Roper Technologies, Inc.          
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings (unaudited)        
    (Amounts in millions, except per share data)        
                   
      Three months ended
    June 30,    		   Six months ended
    June 30,
        2025       2024       2025       2024  
    Net revenues $ 1,943.6     $ 1,716.8     $ 3,826.4     $ 3,397.5  
    Cost of sales   598.2       523.5       1,187.3       1,023.2  
    Gross profit   1,345.4       1,193.3       2,639.1       2,374.3  
                   
    Selling, general and administrative expenses   797.1       699.1       1,565.0       1,398.8  
    Income from operations   548.3       494.2       1,074.1       975.5  
                   
    Interest expense, net   79.1       67.5       142.0       120.7  
    Equity investments (gain) loss, net   (16.6 )     0.8       27.8       (56.2 )
    Other expense, net   0.5       0.6       1.0       1.8  
                   
    Earnings before income taxes   485.3       425.3       903.3       909.2  
                   
    Income taxes   107.0       88.2       193.9       190.1  
                   
    Net earnings $ 378.3     $ 337.1     $ 709.4     $ 719.1  
                   
    Net earnings per share:              
    Basic $ 3.52     $ 3.15     $ 6.60     $ 6.72  
    Diluted $ 3.49     $ 3.12     $ 6.55     $ 6.66  
                   
    Weighted average common shares outstanding:              
    Basic   107.6       107.1       107.5       107.0  
    Diluted   108.4       107.9       108.3       107.9  
    Roper Technologies, Inc.                
    Selected Segment Financial Data (unaudited)                
    (Amounts in millions; percentages of net revenues)                
                                   
      Three months ended June 30,   Six months ended June 30,
        2025       2024       2025       2024  
      Amount   %   Amount   %   Amount   %   Amount   %
    Net revenues:                              
    Application Software $ 1,094.9         $ 931.8         $ 2,163.1         $ 1,827.0      
    Network Software   385.4           364.2           761.3           735.0      
    Technology Enabled
    Products    		   463.3           420.8           902.0           835.5      
    Total $ 1,943.6         $ 1,716.8         $ 3,826.4         $ 3,397.5      
                                   
                                   
    Gross profit:                              
    Application Software $ 753.3       68.8 %   $ 641.1       68.8 %   $ 1,474.1       68.1 %   $ 1,266.8       69.3 %
    Network Software   320.8       83.2 %     307.8       84.5 %     636.4       83.6 %     624.1       84.9 %
    Technology Enabled
    Products    		   271.3       58.6 %     244.4       58.1 %     528.6       58.6 %     483.4       57.9 %
    Total $ 1,345.4       69.2 %   $ 1,193.3       69.5 %   $ 2,639.1       69.0 %   $ 2,374.3       69.9 %
                                   
                                   
    Operating profit*:                              
    Application Software $ 294.6       26.9 %   $ 251.1       26.9 %   $ 571.4       26.4 %   $ 490.7       26.9 %
    Network Software   169.3       43.9 %     159.1       43.7 %     336.0       44.1 %     326.1       44.4 %
    Technology Enabled
    Products    		   164.1       35.4 %     146.7       34.9 %     317.7       35.2 %     282.9       33.9 %
    Total $ 628.0       32.3 %   $ 556.9       32.4 %   $ 1,225.1       32.0 %   $ 1,099.7       32.4 %
                                   
                                   
    * Segment operating profit is before unallocated corporate general and administrative expenses and enterprise-wide stock-based compensation. These expenses were $79.7 and $62.7 for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024, respectively, and $151.0 and $124.2 for the six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024, respectively.
    Roper Technologies, Inc.  
    Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited)
    (Amounts in millions)
      Six months ended
    June 30,
        2025       2024  
    Cash flows from operating activities:      
    Net earnings $ 709.4     $ 719.1  
    Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to cash flows from operating
    activities:    		      
    Depreciation and amortization of property, plant and equipment   19.6       18.5  
    Amortization of intangible assets   417.2       377.2  
    Amortization of deferred financing costs   5.5       4.5  
    Non-cash stock compensation   82.7       73.3  
    Equity investments (gain) loss, net   27.8       (56.2 )
    Income tax provision   193.9       190.1  
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquired businesses:      
    Accounts receivable   37.4       96.7  
    Unbilled receivables   (9.7 )     (17.7 )
    Inventories   (9.6 )     (11.0 )
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   (22.9 )     (30.7 )
    Accounts payable   7.0       4.5  
    Other accrued liabilities   (115.4 )     (47.3 )
    Deferred revenue   (132.7 )     (122.6 )
    Cash taxes paid for gain on disposal of equity investment   (30.2 )     —  
    Cash income taxes paid, excluding tax associated with gain on disposal of
    equity investment    		   (233.7 )     (284.3 )
    Other, net   (13.5 )     1.5  
    Cash provided by operating activities   932.8       915.6  
           
    Cash flows from (used in) investing activities:      
    Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired   (2,005.2 )     (1,858.3 )
    Capital expenditures   (26.0 )     (15.9 )
    Capitalized software expenditures   (26.8 )     (20.5 )
    Distributions from equity investment   5.1       8.4  
    Other   1.6       (1.1 )
    Cash used in investing activities   (2,051.3 )     (1,887.4 )
           
    Cash flows from (used in) financing activities:      
    Borrowings under revolving line of credit, net   1,275.0       1,090.0  
    Cash dividends to stockholders   (177.2 )     (160.6 )
    Proceeds from stock-based compensation, net   73.8       75.9  
    Treasury stock sales   12.5       10.3  
    Other, net   (43.9 )     (0.2 )
    Cash provided by financing activities   1,140.2       1,015.4  
           
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash   32.5       (6.4 )
           
    Net increase in cash and cash equivalents   54.2       37.2  
           
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   188.2       214.3  
           
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 242.4     $ 251.5  
           

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Beneficient Appoints Tom Hicks as Chairman and James Silk as Interim Chief Executive Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Beneficient (NASDAQ: BENF) (“Ben” or the “Company”), a technology-enabled platform providing exit opportunities and primary capital solutions and related trust and custody services to holders of alternative assets through its proprietary online platform AltAccess, today announced the separation of the roles of Chairman of the Board of Directors (“Board”) and Chief Executive Officer with the appointment of Thomas O. Hicks as Chairman of the Board and James G. Silk as its interim Chief Executive Officer.

    Mr. Hicks is a private equity pioneer with a decades-long record of success. He founded one of the early prominent private equity firms through which more than $12 billion was raised across six funds, completing more than $50 billion of leveraged acquisitions. Currently, through his family office, Mr. Hicks leads a seasoned team of private equity professionals who specialize in small and middle market transactions in specialty manufacturing, energy, food and beverage, media, and special situations. Mr. Hicks has served on the Board since 2018.

    Mr. Hicks said: “I am eager to assume this leadership position and to begin working to realize the Company’s full potential. An important first step is to appoint the right Interim CEO. Mr. Silk’s belief in the Company’s core strategy and significant experience with Beneficient and in financial services makes him the right person to guide us forward as we work to regain momentum and drive shareholder value.”

    “I am excited to return to Beneficient and work with the Board and leadership team to navigate this transition period in order to position the Company for long term success,” Mr. Silk said.

    Mr. Silk has more than 20 years of experience in the financial services industry and previously served as Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer of the Company, overseeing Beneficient’s operations, underwriting, risk, and legal groups, from January 2020 until May 2024. He also served as a member of the Board of Directors from January 2020 until May 2024. Prior to joining the Company in 2020, Mr. Silk was a Partner in the Asset Management Group of international law firm, Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, where he worked for more than 13 years. Prior to that position, Mr. Silk was an attorney at international law firm, A&O Shearman LLP.

    Throughout his career, Mr. Silk has advised clients on a wide variety of business and legal issues across the alternative assets industry. He has counseled many of the industry’s largest and most recognizable public and private asset management firms, including Goldman Sachs, Deutsche Bank, Credit Suisse, KKR, Brookfield, Bank of America, Merrill Lynch and Morgan Stanley. Mr. Silk has extensive expertise on developing alternative asset products and negotiating asset management mergers and acquisitions and other corporate transactions.

    Mr. Silk graduated with a BS in Finance from the University of Virginia and earned a JD, Summa Cum Laude, from St. John’s University School of Law.

    About Beneficient 
    Beneficient (Nasdaq: BENF) – Ben, for short – is on a mission to democratize the global alternative asset investment market by providing traditionally underserved investors − mid-to-high net worth individuals, small-to-midsized institutions and General Partners seeking exit options, anchor commitments and valued-added services for their funds− with solutions that could help them unlock the value in their alternative assets. Ben’s AltQuote® tool provides customers with a range of potential exit options within minutes, while customers can log on to the AltAccess® portal to explore opportunities and receive proposals in a secure online environment.

    Its subsidiary, Beneficient Fiduciary Financial, L.L.C., received its charter under the State of Kansas’ Technology-Enabled Fiduciary Financial Institution (TEFFI) Act and is subject to regulatory oversight by the Office of the State Bank Commissioner. 

    For more information, visit www.trustben.com or follow us on LinkedIn. 

    Contacts
    Matt Kreps: 214-597-8200, mkreps@darrowir.com
    Michael Wetherington: 214-284-1199, mwetherington@darrowir.com
    Investor Relations: investors@beneficient.com

    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. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding our executive transition period, our ability to create shareholder value and our future success . The words ”anticipate,” “believe,” ”continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intends,” “may,” “might,” ”plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “would” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are based on our management’s beliefs, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, them. Because such statements are based on expectations as to future financial and operating results and are not statements of fact, actual results may differ materially from those projected.

    Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the risks, uncertainties, and factors set forth under “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and its subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and the risks and uncertainties contained in the Company’s Current Reports on Form 8-K. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. The Company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, subsequent events, or circumstances or other changes affecting such statements except to the extent required by applicable law.

    Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and, except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BTCS Inc. ETH and Cash Market Value Now $242 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Agrees to issue approximately $10 Million Convertible Notes at $13 per share, a 198% premium to July 18 close

    $189 million raised year-to-date through hallmark DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel strategy

    SILVER SPRING, MD, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BTCS Inc. (Nasdaq: BTCS) (“BTCS” or the “Company”), a blockchain technology-focused company, short for Blockchain Technology Consensus Solutions, today announced that the combined market value of its 55,788 ETH holdings, cash1, and other liquid holdings are approximately $242.2 million, based on an ETH price of $3,600. Additionally, the Company has agreed to issue $10 million in convertible notes through its previously established $56 million arrangement with ATW Partners LLC.

    While the funding is extremely modest relative to the $189 million raised year-to-date, the nearly 200% conversion premium is consistent with, and further demonstrates, BTCS’s execution of its hallmark DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel strategy. The Company limited this financing to $10 million as part of its strategy to maintain financial flexibility for opportunistic future leverage while maintaining its loan-to-value ratio below 40%. This approach aligns with BTCS’s commitment to maximizing ETH exposure and minimizing shareholder dilution.

    DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel Update
    BTCS is successfully executing its DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel capital formation strategy, leveraging both decentralized and traditional finance to expand its ETH holdings, capitalize on its vertically integrated operations, and enhance shareholder value. The Company has raised capital through a mix of at-the-market equity sales, above-market convertible debt, and DeFi-based borrowing, executed in alignment with its strategy to optimize ETH exposure while actively managing dilution, as detailed below.

    Year-to-Date Funding Summary
    ATM Sales: $132 million1 (70%)
    Above-Market Convertible Debt: $17 million (9%)
    Aave Stablecoin Loans (DeFi): $40 million (21%)
    Total year-to-date funding: $189 million

    Total Crypto & Cash Assets: $242 million1
    ETH Holdings: 55,788 (average cost per ETH: $2,846), a 516% year-to-date increase

    “We believe that BTCS is the most financially and operationally leveraged Ethereum play in public markets today,” said Charles Allen, CEO of BTCS. “Our vertically integrated block-building and node operations are generating record revenue, and when combined with solid execution of our hallmark DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel, BTCS offers investors scalable, high-growth exposure to Ethereum.”

    ________________________________
    1 Inclusive of $28.4 million ATM sales at $7.9 per share pending settlement and funds from the pending closing of the $10 million convertible note.

    Above Market Convertible Note Financing
    The $10 million principal amount notes are convertible into common stock at a fixed conversion price of $13 per share, representing a 198% premium over the Company’s $6.57 closing stock price on Friday, July 18, 2025. The notes have a two-year maturity, expiring on July 21, 2027, include a 5% original issue discount, and bear interest at an annual rate of 6%.

    In connection with the note issuance, five-year warrants will be issued at closing to purchase 879,375 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $8 per share, representing a 122% premium to the closing price on Friday, July 18, 2025. The funding is expected to close on or before Tuesday, July 22, 2025.

    Notably, the financing involves no investment banking fees or restrictive terms typically associated with using an investment bank or placement agent, which could hinder the execution of the Company’s DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel strategy.

    As part of the financing terms, the Company agreed that, while the notes remain outstanding, it will not amend its non-convertible Series V Preferred Shares to allow for conversion into common stock for a period of 18 months.

    Capital Structure Update
    To help investors accurately assess BTCS’s intrinsic value and compare it with its peers, we’re providing an updated breakdown of our capital structure. This summary provides additional information to supplement our SEC filings.

    Equity Instrument Outstanding Fully Diluted
    Common Shares 45,761,072 45,761,072
    Common Shares – Subject to Forfeiture 1,149,801 1,149,801
    Convertible Debt (Conversion Price = $5.85)   1,334,679
    Convertible Debt (Conversion Price = $13.00)   773,078
    Convert Warrants #1 (Exercise Price = $2.75, exp. 5/13/2030)   532,191
    Convert Warrants #2 (Exercise Price = $8.00, exp. 7/21/2030)   879,375
    RD Warrant (Exercise Price = $11.50, exp. 3/4/2026)   712,500
    Employee Options (Weighted Average Exercise Price = $2.44)   1,561,410
    Total 46,910,873 52,704,106

    Approximately 16 million shares of Series V are now excluded from the fully diluted share count, as they are non-convertible and, under the terms of the note financing, cannot be amended to be convertible for 18 months.

    In light of the restriction and given the new administration’s growing acceptance of crypto and the broader recognition that real-world assets will be tokenized, the Company may re-explore various options to create liquidity for the Series V preferred shares, including potential tokenization on Ethereum’s blockchain. However, it is still very early, and the Company can provide no guarantees or assurances that it will be able to tokenize or create liquidity for the Series V and may ultimately seek to convert the Series V to common stock when the restriction expires. As such, the Series V has been excluded from the table above.

    About BTCS:
    BTCS Inc. (“BTCS” or the “Company”), short for Blockchain Technology Consensus Solutions, is a U.S.-based Ethereum-first blockchain technology company committed to driving scalable revenue and ETH accumulation through its hallmark strategy, the DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel, an integrated approach to capital formation and blockchain infrastructure. By combining decentralized finance (“DeFi”) and traditional finance (“TradFi”) mechanisms with its blockchain infrastructure operations, comprising NodeOps (staking) and Builder+ (block building), BTCS offers one of the most sophisticated opportunities for leveraged ETH exposure, driven by scalable revenue generation and a yield-focused ETH accumulation strategy. Discover how BTCS offers operational and financial leveraged exposure to Ethereum through the public markets at www.btcs.com.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    Certain statements in this press release constitute “forward-looking statements” within Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 including statements regarding creating high growth exposure to Ethereum, creating liquidity for Series V, and closing of the $10 million note offering. Words such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “continue,” “predict,” “forecast,” “project,” “plan,” “intend” or similar expressions, or statements regarding intent, belief, or current expectations, are forward-looking statements. While the Company believes these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on any such forward-looking statements, which are based on information available to us on the date of this release. These forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions and are subject to various risks and uncertainties, including without limitation market conditions, regulatory issues and requirements, unanticipated issues with our At-The-Market Offering facility, unexpected issues with Builder+, as well as risks set forth in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including its Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 which was filed on March 20, 2025. Thus, actual results could be materially different. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update or alter statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    For more information follow us on:
    Twitter: https://x.com/NasdaqBTCS
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nasdaq-btcs
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NasdaqBTCS

    Investor Relations:
    Charles Allen – CEO
    X (formerly Twitter): @Charles_BTCS
    Email: ir@btcs.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d2a20376-f8bd-4008-9c82-cdb4bc63b69e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BTCS Inc. ETH and Cash Market Value Now $242 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Agrees to issue approximately $10 Million Convertible Notes at $13 per share, a 198% premium to July 18 close

    $189 million raised year-to-date through hallmark DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel strategy

    SILVER SPRING, MD, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BTCS Inc. (Nasdaq: BTCS) (“BTCS” or the “Company”), a blockchain technology-focused company, short for Blockchain Technology Consensus Solutions, today announced that the combined market value of its 55,788 ETH holdings, cash1, and other liquid holdings are approximately $242.2 million, based on an ETH price of $3,600. Additionally, the Company has agreed to issue $10 million in convertible notes through its previously established $56 million arrangement with ATW Partners LLC.

    While the funding is extremely modest relative to the $189 million raised year-to-date, the nearly 200% conversion premium is consistent with, and further demonstrates, BTCS’s execution of its hallmark DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel strategy. The Company limited this financing to $10 million as part of its strategy to maintain financial flexibility for opportunistic future leverage while maintaining its loan-to-value ratio below 40%. This approach aligns with BTCS’s commitment to maximizing ETH exposure and minimizing shareholder dilution.

    DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel Update
    BTCS is successfully executing its DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel capital formation strategy, leveraging both decentralized and traditional finance to expand its ETH holdings, capitalize on its vertically integrated operations, and enhance shareholder value. The Company has raised capital through a mix of at-the-market equity sales, above-market convertible debt, and DeFi-based borrowing, executed in alignment with its strategy to optimize ETH exposure while actively managing dilution, as detailed below.

    Year-to-Date Funding Summary
    ATM Sales: $132 million1 (70%)
    Above-Market Convertible Debt: $17 million (9%)
    Aave Stablecoin Loans (DeFi): $40 million (21%)
    Total year-to-date funding: $189 million

    Total Crypto & Cash Assets: $242 million1
    ETH Holdings: 55,788 (average cost per ETH: $2,846), a 516% year-to-date increase

    “We believe that BTCS is the most financially and operationally leveraged Ethereum play in public markets today,” said Charles Allen, CEO of BTCS. “Our vertically integrated block-building and node operations are generating record revenue, and when combined with solid execution of our hallmark DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel, BTCS offers investors scalable, high-growth exposure to Ethereum.”

    ________________________________
    1 Inclusive of $28.4 million ATM sales at $7.9 per share pending settlement and funds from the pending closing of the $10 million convertible note.

    Above Market Convertible Note Financing
    The $10 million principal amount notes are convertible into common stock at a fixed conversion price of $13 per share, representing a 198% premium over the Company’s $6.57 closing stock price on Friday, July 18, 2025. The notes have a two-year maturity, expiring on July 21, 2027, include a 5% original issue discount, and bear interest at an annual rate of 6%.

    In connection with the note issuance, five-year warrants will be issued at closing to purchase 879,375 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $8 per share, representing a 122% premium to the closing price on Friday, July 18, 2025. The funding is expected to close on or before Tuesday, July 22, 2025.

    Notably, the financing involves no investment banking fees or restrictive terms typically associated with using an investment bank or placement agent, which could hinder the execution of the Company’s DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel strategy.

    As part of the financing terms, the Company agreed that, while the notes remain outstanding, it will not amend its non-convertible Series V Preferred Shares to allow for conversion into common stock for a period of 18 months.

    Capital Structure Update
    To help investors accurately assess BTCS’s intrinsic value and compare it with its peers, we’re providing an updated breakdown of our capital structure. This summary provides additional information to supplement our SEC filings.

    Equity Instrument Outstanding Fully Diluted
    Common Shares 45,761,072 45,761,072
    Common Shares – Subject to Forfeiture 1,149,801 1,149,801
    Convertible Debt (Conversion Price = $5.85)   1,334,679
    Convertible Debt (Conversion Price = $13.00)   773,078
    Convert Warrants #1 (Exercise Price = $2.75, exp. 5/13/2030)   532,191
    Convert Warrants #2 (Exercise Price = $8.00, exp. 7/21/2030)   879,375
    RD Warrant (Exercise Price = $11.50, exp. 3/4/2026)   712,500
    Employee Options (Weighted Average Exercise Price = $2.44)   1,561,410
    Total 46,910,873 52,704,106

    Approximately 16 million shares of Series V are now excluded from the fully diluted share count, as they are non-convertible and, under the terms of the note financing, cannot be amended to be convertible for 18 months.

    In light of the restriction and given the new administration’s growing acceptance of crypto and the broader recognition that real-world assets will be tokenized, the Company may re-explore various options to create liquidity for the Series V preferred shares, including potential tokenization on Ethereum’s blockchain. However, it is still very early, and the Company can provide no guarantees or assurances that it will be able to tokenize or create liquidity for the Series V and may ultimately seek to convert the Series V to common stock when the restriction expires. As such, the Series V has been excluded from the table above.

    About BTCS:
    BTCS Inc. (“BTCS” or the “Company”), short for Blockchain Technology Consensus Solutions, is a U.S.-based Ethereum-first blockchain technology company committed to driving scalable revenue and ETH accumulation through its hallmark strategy, the DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel, an integrated approach to capital formation and blockchain infrastructure. By combining decentralized finance (“DeFi”) and traditional finance (“TradFi”) mechanisms with its blockchain infrastructure operations, comprising NodeOps (staking) and Builder+ (block building), BTCS offers one of the most sophisticated opportunities for leveraged ETH exposure, driven by scalable revenue generation and a yield-focused ETH accumulation strategy. Discover how BTCS offers operational and financial leveraged exposure to Ethereum through the public markets at www.btcs.com.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    Certain statements in this press release constitute “forward-looking statements” within Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 including statements regarding creating high growth exposure to Ethereum, creating liquidity for Series V, and closing of the $10 million note offering. Words such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “continue,” “predict,” “forecast,” “project,” “plan,” “intend” or similar expressions, or statements regarding intent, belief, or current expectations, are forward-looking statements. While the Company believes these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on any such forward-looking statements, which are based on information available to us on the date of this release. These forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions and are subject to various risks and uncertainties, including without limitation market conditions, regulatory issues and requirements, unanticipated issues with our At-The-Market Offering facility, unexpected issues with Builder+, as well as risks set forth in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including its Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 which was filed on March 20, 2025. Thus, actual results could be materially different. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update or alter statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    For more information follow us on:
    Twitter: https://x.com/NasdaqBTCS
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nasdaq-btcs
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NasdaqBTCS

    Investor Relations:
    Charles Allen – CEO
    X (formerly Twitter): @Charles_BTCS
    Email: ir@btcs.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d2a20376-f8bd-4008-9c82-cdb4bc63b69e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BTCS Inc. ETH and Cash Market Value Now $242 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Agrees to issue approximately $10 Million Convertible Notes at $13 per share, a 198% premium to July 18 close

    $189 million raised year-to-date through hallmark DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel strategy

    SILVER SPRING, MD, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BTCS Inc. (Nasdaq: BTCS) (“BTCS” or the “Company”), a blockchain technology-focused company, short for Blockchain Technology Consensus Solutions, today announced that the combined market value of its 55,788 ETH holdings, cash1, and other liquid holdings are approximately $242.2 million, based on an ETH price of $3,600. Additionally, the Company has agreed to issue $10 million in convertible notes through its previously established $56 million arrangement with ATW Partners LLC.

    While the funding is extremely modest relative to the $189 million raised year-to-date, the nearly 200% conversion premium is consistent with, and further demonstrates, BTCS’s execution of its hallmark DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel strategy. The Company limited this financing to $10 million as part of its strategy to maintain financial flexibility for opportunistic future leverage while maintaining its loan-to-value ratio below 40%. This approach aligns with BTCS’s commitment to maximizing ETH exposure and minimizing shareholder dilution.

    DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel Update
    BTCS is successfully executing its DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel capital formation strategy, leveraging both decentralized and traditional finance to expand its ETH holdings, capitalize on its vertically integrated operations, and enhance shareholder value. The Company has raised capital through a mix of at-the-market equity sales, above-market convertible debt, and DeFi-based borrowing, executed in alignment with its strategy to optimize ETH exposure while actively managing dilution, as detailed below.

    Year-to-Date Funding Summary
    ATM Sales: $132 million1 (70%)
    Above-Market Convertible Debt: $17 million (9%)
    Aave Stablecoin Loans (DeFi): $40 million (21%)
    Total year-to-date funding: $189 million

    Total Crypto & Cash Assets: $242 million1
    ETH Holdings: 55,788 (average cost per ETH: $2,846), a 516% year-to-date increase

    “We believe that BTCS is the most financially and operationally leveraged Ethereum play in public markets today,” said Charles Allen, CEO of BTCS. “Our vertically integrated block-building and node operations are generating record revenue, and when combined with solid execution of our hallmark DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel, BTCS offers investors scalable, high-growth exposure to Ethereum.”

    ________________________________
    1 Inclusive of $28.4 million ATM sales at $7.9 per share pending settlement and funds from the pending closing of the $10 million convertible note.

    Above Market Convertible Note Financing
    The $10 million principal amount notes are convertible into common stock at a fixed conversion price of $13 per share, representing a 198% premium over the Company’s $6.57 closing stock price on Friday, July 18, 2025. The notes have a two-year maturity, expiring on July 21, 2027, include a 5% original issue discount, and bear interest at an annual rate of 6%.

    In connection with the note issuance, five-year warrants will be issued at closing to purchase 879,375 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $8 per share, representing a 122% premium to the closing price on Friday, July 18, 2025. The funding is expected to close on or before Tuesday, July 22, 2025.

    Notably, the financing involves no investment banking fees or restrictive terms typically associated with using an investment bank or placement agent, which could hinder the execution of the Company’s DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel strategy.

    As part of the financing terms, the Company agreed that, while the notes remain outstanding, it will not amend its non-convertible Series V Preferred Shares to allow for conversion into common stock for a period of 18 months.

    Capital Structure Update
    To help investors accurately assess BTCS’s intrinsic value and compare it with its peers, we’re providing an updated breakdown of our capital structure. This summary provides additional information to supplement our SEC filings.

    Equity Instrument Outstanding Fully Diluted
    Common Shares 45,761,072 45,761,072
    Common Shares – Subject to Forfeiture 1,149,801 1,149,801
    Convertible Debt (Conversion Price = $5.85)   1,334,679
    Convertible Debt (Conversion Price = $13.00)   773,078
    Convert Warrants #1 (Exercise Price = $2.75, exp. 5/13/2030)   532,191
    Convert Warrants #2 (Exercise Price = $8.00, exp. 7/21/2030)   879,375
    RD Warrant (Exercise Price = $11.50, exp. 3/4/2026)   712,500
    Employee Options (Weighted Average Exercise Price = $2.44)   1,561,410
    Total 46,910,873 52,704,106

    Approximately 16 million shares of Series V are now excluded from the fully diluted share count, as they are non-convertible and, under the terms of the note financing, cannot be amended to be convertible for 18 months.

    In light of the restriction and given the new administration’s growing acceptance of crypto and the broader recognition that real-world assets will be tokenized, the Company may re-explore various options to create liquidity for the Series V preferred shares, including potential tokenization on Ethereum’s blockchain. However, it is still very early, and the Company can provide no guarantees or assurances that it will be able to tokenize or create liquidity for the Series V and may ultimately seek to convert the Series V to common stock when the restriction expires. As such, the Series V has been excluded from the table above.

    About BTCS:
    BTCS Inc. (“BTCS” or the “Company”), short for Blockchain Technology Consensus Solutions, is a U.S.-based Ethereum-first blockchain technology company committed to driving scalable revenue and ETH accumulation through its hallmark strategy, the DeFi/TradFi Accretion Flywheel, an integrated approach to capital formation and blockchain infrastructure. By combining decentralized finance (“DeFi”) and traditional finance (“TradFi”) mechanisms with its blockchain infrastructure operations, comprising NodeOps (staking) and Builder+ (block building), BTCS offers one of the most sophisticated opportunities for leveraged ETH exposure, driven by scalable revenue generation and a yield-focused ETH accumulation strategy. Discover how BTCS offers operational and financial leveraged exposure to Ethereum through the public markets at www.btcs.com.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
    Certain statements in this press release constitute “forward-looking statements” within Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 including statements regarding creating high growth exposure to Ethereum, creating liquidity for Series V, and closing of the $10 million note offering. Words such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “continue,” “predict,” “forecast,” “project,” “plan,” “intend” or similar expressions, or statements regarding intent, belief, or current expectations, are forward-looking statements. While the Company believes these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on any such forward-looking statements, which are based on information available to us on the date of this release. These forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions and are subject to various risks and uncertainties, including without limitation market conditions, regulatory issues and requirements, unanticipated issues with our At-The-Market Offering facility, unexpected issues with Builder+, as well as risks set forth in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including its Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 which was filed on March 20, 2025. Thus, actual results could be materially different. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update or alter statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    For more information follow us on:
    Twitter: https://x.com/NasdaqBTCS
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nasdaq-btcs
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NasdaqBTCS

    Investor Relations:
    Charles Allen – CEO
    X (formerly Twitter): @Charles_BTCS
    Email: ir@btcs.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d2a20376-f8bd-4008-9c82-cdb4bc63b69e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: HBT Financial, Inc. Announces Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Second Quarter Highlights

    • Net income of $19.2 million, or $0.61 per diluted share; return on average assets (“ROAA”) of 1.53%; return on average stockholders’ equity (“ROAE”) of 13.47%; and return on average tangible common equity (“ROATCE”)(1) of 15.55%
    • Adjusted net income(1) of $19.8 million; or $0.63 per diluted share; adjusted ROAA(1) of 1.58%; adjusted ROAE(1) of 13.87%; and adjusted ROATCE(1) of 16.02%
    • Asset quality remained strong with nonperforming assets to total assets of 0.13% and net charge-offs to average loans of 0.12%, on an annualized basis
    • Net interest margin increased 2 basis points to 4.14% and net interest margin (tax-equivalent basis)(1)increased 3 basis points to 4.19%

    BLOOMINGTON, Ill., July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HBT Financial, Inc. (NASDAQ: HBT) (the “Company” or “HBT Financial” or “HBT”), the holding company for Heartland Bank and Trust Company, today reported net income of $19.2 million, or $0.61 diluted earnings per share, for the second quarter of 2025. This compares to net income of $19.1 million, or $0.60 diluted earnings per share, for the first quarter of 2025, and net income of $18.1 million, or $0.57 diluted earnings per share, for the second quarter of 2024.

    J. Lance Carter, President and Chief Executive Officer of HBT Financial, said, “During the second quarter of 2025, our team continued to deliver consistently strong earnings with adjusted net income(1) of $19.8 million, or $0.63 per diluted share. This was driven by an increase in adjusted pre-provision net revenue(1) of 5.2%, compared to the first quarter of 2025. Adjusted ROAA(1) was 1.58% and adjusted ROATCE(1) was 16.02% for the second quarter while our net interest margin on a tax equivalent basis(1) increased 3 basis points to 4.19%. Our strong profitability coupled with an improvement in our accumulated other comprehensive income due to lower interest rates resulted in a $0.59 increase in our tangible book value per share(1) to $16.02, an increase of 3.8% for the quarter and 17.4% over the last 12 months.

    Our balance sheet remains strong as all capital ratios increased during the quarter and asset quality remained stable with nonperforming assets to total assets of only 0.13%. We saw a decrease in loans during the quarter as seasonal paydowns on grain elevator lines of credit caused a decrease in commercial and industrial loans and a higher amount of property sales caused higher payoffs in several other portfolios. We expect to see loan growth return in the third quarter of 2025 due to higher loan pipelines at the end of the second quarter than at the end of the first quarter and fewer payoffs projected.

    Our credit discipline, strong profitability and solid balance sheet give us confidence that we are prepared for a variety of economic and interest rate environments. Our capital levels and operational structure support attractive acquisition opportunities should the right opportunity arise.”
    ____________________________________
    (1) See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to their most closely comparable GAAP financial measures.

    Adjusted Net Income

    In addition to reporting GAAP results, the Company believes non-GAAP measures such as adjusted net income and adjusted earnings per share, which adjust for acquisition expenses, branch closure expenses, gains (losses) on closed branch premises, realized gains (losses) on sales of securities, mortgage servicing rights fair value adjustments, and the tax effect of these pre-tax adjustments, provide investors with additional insight into its operational performance. The Company reported adjusted net income of $19.8 million, or $0.63 adjusted diluted earnings per share, for the second quarter of 2025. This compares to adjusted net income of $19.3 million, or $0.61 adjusted diluted earnings per share, for the first quarter of 2025, and adjusted net income of $18.1 million, or $0.57 adjusted diluted earnings per share, for the second quarter of 2024 (see “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” tables below for reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to their most closely comparable GAAP financial measures).

    Net Interest Income and Net Interest Margin

    Net interest income for the second quarter of 2025 was $49.7 million, an increase of 2.0% from $48.7 million for the first quarter of 2025. The increase was primarily attributable to improved yields on debt securities and lower funding costs which were partially offset by a decrease in average loan balances.

    Relative to the second quarter of 2024, net interest income increased 5.6% from $47.0 million. The increase was primarily attributable to lower funding costs, improved yields on debt securities, and higher average loan balances. Additionally, a $0.5 million increase in nonaccrual interest recoveries and loan fees contributed to the increase in net interest income.

    Net interest margin for the second quarter of 2025 was 4.14%, compared to 4.12% for the first quarter of 2025, and net interest margin (tax-equivalent basis)(1) for the second quarter of 2025 was 4.19%, compared to 4.16% for the first quarter of 2025. The increase was primarily attributable to improved yields on debt securities, which increased 11 basis points to 2.60%, and lower funding costs, which decreased 3 basis points to 1.29%.

    Relative to the second quarter of 2024, net interest margin increased 19 basis points from 3.95% and net interest margin (tax-equivalent basis)(1) increased 19 basis points from 4.00%. The increase was primarily attributable to lower funding costs, higher yields on interest-earning assets, and an increase in nonaccrual interest recoveries and loan fees. The increase in the contribution of nonaccrual interest recoveries and loan fees accounted for 4 basis points of the increase in net interest margin.
    ____________________________________
    (1) See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to their most closely comparable GAAP financial measures.

    Noninterest Income

    Noninterest income for the second quarter of 2025 was $9.1 million, a 1.8% decrease from $9.3 million for the first quarter of 2025. The decrease was primarily attributable to changes in the mortgage servicing rights (“MSR”) fair value adjustment, with a $0.8 million negative MSR fair value adjustment included in the second quarter 2025 results compared to a $0.3 million negative MSR fair value adjustment included in the first quarter 2025 results. Partially offsetting this decrease were seasonal increases in card income of $0.2 million and gains on sale of mortgage loans of $0.2 million.

    Relative to the second quarter of 2024, noninterest income decreased 4.9% from $9.6 million. The decrease was primarily attributable to changes in the MSR fair value adjustment, with a $0.8 million negative MSR fair value adjustment included in the second quarter 2025 results compared to a $0.1 million negative MSR fair value adjustment included in the second quarter 2024 results. Partially offsetting the decrease was a $0.2 million increase in wealth management fees.

    Noninterest Expense

    Noninterest expense for the second quarter of 2025 was $31.9 million, nearly unchanged from the first quarter of 2025. A $0.6 million decrease in salaries expense, which was impacted by seasonal variations in vacation accruals, was largely offset by a $0.4 million increase in other noninterest expense and a $0.3 million increase in employee benefits expense, primarily driven by higher medical benefit costs.

    Relative to the second quarter of 2024, noninterest expense increased 4.6% from $30.5 million. The increase was primarily attributable to a $0.7 million increase in employee benefits expense, primarily driven by higher medical benefit costs, a $0.3 million increase in other noninterest expense, and a $0.2 million increase in bank occupancy expense, primarily due to planned building maintenance and upgrades.

    Income Taxes

    During the second quarter of 2025 our effective tax rate increased to 27.0% when compared to 25.2% during the first quarter of 2025. This increase was primarily related to $0.3 million of additional tax expense related to the nonrecurring reversal of a stranded tax effect included in accumulated other comprehensive income, in connection with the maturity of a derivative designated as a cash flow hedge during the second quarter of 2025. Additionally, the first quarter of 2025 included a $0.2 million tax benefit from stock-based compensation that vested during the quarter.

    Loan Portfolio

    Total loans outstanding, before allowance for credit losses, were $3.35 billion at June 30, 2025, compared with $3.46 billion at March 31, 2025, and $3.39 billion at June 30, 2024. The $113.6 million decrease from March 31, 2025 was primarily attributable to $72.0 million of paydowns from property sales, a seasonal reduction of $25.1 million in grain elevator lines of credit included in the commercial and industrial segment, and additional payoffs across other segments. These reductions were partially offset by draws on existing loans in the construction and development segment and new originations to existing customers. Additionally, increases in the multi-family and commercial real estate – non-owner occupied segments were primarily due to completed projects being moved out of the construction and land development category.

    Deposits

    Total deposits were $4.31 billion at June 30, 2025, compared with $4.38 billion at March 31, 2025, and $4.32 billion at June 30, 2024. The $78.1 million decrease from March 31, 2025 was primarily attributable to higher outflows for tax payments by depositors and lower balances maintained in existing retail accounts which were partially offset by higher public funds balances.

    Asset Quality

    Nonperforming assets totaled $6.5 million, or 0.13% of total assets, at June 30, 2025, compared with $5.6 million, or 0.11% of total assets, at March 31, 2025, and $8.8 million, or 0.17% of total assets, at June 30, 2024. Additionally, of the $5.6 million of nonperforming loans held as of June 30, 2025, $1.9 million were either wholly or partially guaranteed by the U.S. government. The $0.9 million increase in nonperforming assets from March 31, 2025 was primarily attributable to higher nonperforming loan balances in the commercial and industrial and the construction and land development segments.

    The Company recorded a provision for credit losses of $0.5 million for the second quarter of 2025. The provision for credit losses primarily reflects a $1.0 million increase in required reserves driven by changes in the economic forecast; a $0.8 million increase in required reserves resulting from changes in qualitative factors; a $1.2 million decrease in required reserves driven by changes within the portfolio; and a $0.1 million decrease in specific reserves.
    The Company had net charge-offs of $1.0 million, or 0.12% of average loans on an annualized basis, for the second quarter of 2025, compared to net charge-offs of $0.4 million, or 0.05% of average loans on an annualized basis, for the first quarter of 2025, and net charge-offs of $0.7 million, or 0.08% of average loans on an annualized basis, for the second quarter of 2024. Charge-offs during second quarter of 2025 were primarily recognized in the commercial and industrial and one-to-four family residential segments.

    The Company’s allowance for credit losses was 1.24% of total loans and 741% of nonperforming loans at June 30, 2025, compared with 1.22% of total loans and 825% of nonperforming loans at March 31, 2025. In addition, the allowance for credit losses on unfunded lending-related commitments totaled $3.1 million as of June 30, 2025, compared with $3.2 million as of March 31, 2025.

    Capital

    As of June 30, 2025, the Company exceeded all regulatory capital requirements under Basel III as summarized in the following table:

        June 30, 2025   For Capital
    Adequacy Purposes
    With Capital
    Conservation Buffer
             
    Total capital to risk-weighted assets   17.74 %   10.50 %
    Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets   15.60     8.50  
    Common equity tier 1 capital ratio   14.26     7.00  
    Tier 1 leverage ratio   11.86     4.00  
                 

    The ratio of tangible common equity to tangible assets(1) increased to 10.21% as of June 30, 2025, from 9.73% as of March 31, 2025, and tangible book value per share(1) increased by $0.59 to $16.02 as of June 30, 2025, when compared to March 31, 2025.

    During the second quarter of 2025, the Company repurchased 135,997 shares of its common stock at a weighted average price of $21.30 under its stock repurchase program. The Company’s Board of Directors has authorized the repurchase of up to $15.0 million of HBT Financial common stock under its stock repurchase program, which is in effect until January 1, 2026. As of June 30, 2025, the Company had $12.1 million remaining under the stock repurchase program.
    ____________________________________
    (1) See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to their most closely comparable GAAP financial measures.

    About HBT Financial, Inc.

    HBT Financial, Inc., headquartered in Bloomington, Illinois, is the holding company for Heartland Bank and Trust Company, and has banking roots that can be traced back to 1920. HBT Financial provides a comprehensive suite of financial products and services to consumers, businesses, and municipal entities throughout Illinois and eastern Iowa through 66 full-service branches. As of June 30, 2025, HBT Financial had total assets of $5.0 billion, total loans of $3.3 billion, and total deposits of $4.3 billion.

    Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Some of the financial measures included in this press release are not measures of financial performance recognized in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP financial measures include adjusted net income, adjusted earnings per share, adjusted ROAA, pre-provision net revenue, pre-provision net revenue less charge-offs (recoveries), adjusted pre-provision net revenue, adjusted pre-provision net revenue less charge-offs (recoveries), net interest income (tax-equivalent basis), net interest margin (tax-equivalent basis), efficiency ratio (tax-equivalent basis), adjusted efficiency ratio (tax-equivalent basis), the ratio of tangible common equity to tangible assets, tangible book value per share, adjusted ROAE, ROATCE, and adjusted ROATCE. Our management uses these non-GAAP financial measures, together with the related GAAP financial measures, in its analysis of our performance and in making business decisions. Management believes that it is a standard practice in the banking industry to present these non-GAAP financial measures, and accordingly believes that providing these measures may be useful for peer comparison purposes. These disclosures should not be viewed as substitutes for the results determined to be in accordance with GAAP; nor are they necessarily comparable to non-GAAP financial measures that may be presented by other companies. See our reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measures in the “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” tables.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Readers should note that in addition to the historical information contained herein, this press release contains, and future oral and written statements of the Company and its management may contain, “forward-looking statements” within the meanings of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, 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 generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “will,” “propose,” “may,” “plan,” “seek,” “expect,” “intend,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” or “should,” or similar terminology. Any forward-looking statements presented herein are made only as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect changes in assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events, or otherwise.

    Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: (i) the strength of the local, state, national and international economies and financial markets (including effects of inflationary pressures and supply chain constraints); (ii) effects on the U.S. economy resulting from the threat or implementation of, or changes to, existing policies and executive orders including tariffs, immigration policy, regulatory or other governmental agencies, foreign policy and tax regulations; (iii) the economic impact of any future terrorist threats and attacks, widespread disease or pandemics, acts of war or other threats thereof (including the Russian invasion of Ukraine and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East), or other adverse events that could cause economic deterioration or instability in credit markets, and the response of the local, state and national governments to any such adverse external events; (iv) new and revised accounting policies and practices, as may be adopted by state and federal regulatory banking agencies, the Financial Accounting Standards Board or the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board; (v) changes in local, state and federal laws, regulations and governmental policies concerning the Company’s general business and any changes in response to bank failures; (vi) the imposition of tariffs or other governmental policies impacting the value of products produced by the Company’s commercial borrowers; (vii) changes in interest rates and prepayment rates of the Company’s assets; (viii) increased competition in the financial services sector, including from non-bank competitors such as credit unions and fintech companies, and the inability to attract new customers; (ix) technological changes implemented by us and other parties, including our third-party vendors, which may have unforeseen consequences to us and our customers, including the development and implementation of tools incorporating artificial intelligence; (x) unexpected results of acquisitions, which may include failure to realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions and the possibility that transaction costs may be greater than anticipated; (xi) the loss of key executives and employees, talent shortages and employee turnover; (xii) changes in consumer spending; (xiii) unexpected outcomes or costs of existing or new litigation or other legal proceedings and regulatory actions involving the Company; (xiv) the economic impact on the Company and its customers of climate change, natural disasters and of exceptional weather occurrences such as tornadoes, floods and blizzards; (xv) fluctuations in the value of securities held in our securities portfolio, including as a result of changes in interest rates; (xvi) credit risks and risks from concentrations (by type of borrower, geographic area, collateral and industry) within our loan portfolio (including commercial real estate loans) and large loans to certain borrowers; (xvii) the overall health of the local and national real estate market; (xviii) the ability to maintain an adequate level of allowance for credit losses on loans; (xix) the concentration of large deposits from certain clients who have balances above current FDIC insurance limits and who may withdraw deposits to diversify their exposure; (xx) the ability to successfully manage liquidity risk, which may increase dependence on non-core funding sources such as brokered deposits, and may negatively impact the Company’s cost of funds; (xxi) the level of nonperforming assets on our balance sheet; (xxii) interruptions involving our information technology and communications systems or third-party servicers; (xxiii) the occurrence of fraudulent activity, breaches or failures of our third-party vendors’ information security controls or cybersecurity-related incidents, including as a result of sophisticated attacks using artificial intelligence and similar tools or as a result of insider fraud; (xxiv) the effectiveness of the Company’s risk management framework, and (xxv) the ability of the Company to manage the risks associated with the foregoing as well as anticipated. Readers should note that the forward-looking statements included in this press release are not a guarantee of future events, and that actual events may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Additional information concerning the Company and its business, including additional factors that could materially affect the Company’s financial results, is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    CONTACT:
    Peter Chapman
    HBTIR@hbtbank.com 
    (309) 664-4556

    HBT Financial, Inc.
    Unaudited Consolidated Financial Summary
             
        As of or for the Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended June 30,
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)   June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024    		     2025       2024  
    Interest and dividend income   $ 63,919     $ 63,138     $ 62,824     $ 127,057     $ 124,785  
    Interest expense     14,261       14,430       15,796       28,691       31,069  
    Net interest income     49,658       48,708       47,028       98,366       93,716  
    Provision for credit losses     526       576       1,176       1,102       1,703  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses     49,132       48,132       45,852       97,264       92,013  
    Noninterest income     9,140       9,306       9,610       18,446       15,236  
    Noninterest expense     31,914       31,935       30,509       63,849       61,777  
    Income before income tax expense     26,358       25,503       24,953       51,861       45,472  
    Income tax expense     7,128       6,428       6,883       13,556       12,144  
    Net income   $ 19,230     $ 19,075     $ 18,070     $ 38,305     $ 33,328  
                         
    Earnings per share – diluted   $ 0.61     $ 0.60     $ 0.57     $ 1.21     $ 1.05  
                         
    Adjusted net income (1)   $ 19,803     $ 19,253     $ 18,139     $ 39,056     $ 36,212  
    Adjusted earnings per share – diluted (1)     0.63       0.61       0.57       1.23       1.14  
                         
    Book value per share   $ 18.44     $ 17.86     $ 16.14          
    Tangible book value per share (1)     16.02       15.43       13.64          
                         
    Shares of common stock outstanding     31,495,434       31,631,431       31,559,366          
    Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding, including all dilutive potential shares     31,588,541       31,711,671       31,666,811       31,649,766       31,734,999  
                         
    SUMMARY RATIOS                    
    Net interest margin *     4.14 %     4.12 %     3.95 %     4.13 %     3.95 %
    Net interest margin (tax-equivalent basis) * (1)(2)     4.19       4.16       4.00       4.18       3.99  
                         
    Efficiency ratio     53.10 %     53.85 %     52.61 %     53.47 %     55.40 %
    Efficiency ratio (tax-equivalent basis) (1)(2)     52.61       53.35       52.10       52.97       54.83  
                         
    Loan to deposit ratio     77.75 %     78.95 %     78.39 %        
                         
    Return on average assets *     1.53 %     1.54 %     1.45 %     1.53 %     1.34 %
    Return on average stockholders’ equity *     13.47       13.95       14.48       13.70       13.46  
    Return on average tangible common equity * (1)     15.55       16.20       17.21       15.87       16.03  
                         
    Adjusted return on average assets * (1)     1.58 %     1.55 %     1.45 %     1.56 %     1.45 %
    Adjusted return on average stockholders’ equity * (1)     13.87       14.08       14.54       13.97       14.63  
    Adjusted return on average tangible common equity * (1)     16.02       16.36       17.27       16.18       17.42  
                         
    CAPITAL                    
    Total capital to risk-weighted assets     17.74 %     16.85 %     16.01 %        
    Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets     15.60       14.77       13.98          
    Common equity tier 1 capital ratio     14.26       13.48       12.66          
    Tier 1 leverage ratio     11.86       11.64       10.83          
    Total stockholders’ equity to total assets     11.58       11.10       10.18          
    Tangible common equity to tangible assets (1)     10.21       9.73       8.74          
                         
    ASSET QUALITY                    
    Net charge-offs (recoveries) to average loans *     0.12 %     0.05 %     0.08 %     0.09 %     0.03 %
    Allowance for credit losses to loans, before allowance for credit losses     1.24       1.22       1.21          
    Nonperforming loans to loans, before allowance for credit losses     0.17       0.15       0.25          
    Nonperforming assets to total assets     0.13       0.11       0.17          
                                     

    ____________________________________

    (1) See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to their most closely comparable GAAP financial measures.
    (2) On a tax-equivalent basis assuming a federal income tax rate of 21% and a state tax rate of 9.5%. 

    HBT Financial, Inc.
    Unaudited Consolidated Financial Summary
    Consolidated Statements of Income
     
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended June 30,
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data) June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024    		     2025       2024  
    INTEREST AND DIVIDEND INCOME                  
    Loans, including fees:                  
    Taxable $ 53,156     $ 53,369     $ 52,177     $ 106,525     $ 104,103  
    Federally tax exempt   1,215       1,168       1,097       2,383       2,191  
    Debt securities:                  
    Taxable   7,434       6,936       6,315       14,370       12,519  
    Federally tax exempt   457       469       521       926       1,118  
    Interest-bearing deposits in bank   1,544       1,065       2,570       2,609       4,522  
    Other interest and dividend income   113       131       144       244       332  
    Total interest and dividend income   63,919       63,138       62,824       127,057       124,785  
    INTEREST EXPENSE                  
    Deposits   12,835       12,939       14,133       25,774       27,726  
    Securities sold under agreements to repurchase   —       22       129       22       281  
    Borrowings   30       109       121       139       246  
    Subordinated notes   469       470       469       939       939  
    Junior subordinated debentures issued to capital trusts   927       890       944       1,817       1,877  
    Total interest expense   14,261       14,430       15,796       28,691       31,069  
    Net interest income   49,658       48,708       47,028       98,366       93,716  
    PROVISION FOR CREDIT LOSSES   526       576       1,176       1,102       1,703  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses   49,132       48,132       45,852       97,264       92,013  
    NONINTEREST INCOME                  
    Card income   2,797       2,548       2,885       5,345       5,501  
    Wealth management fees   2,826       2,841       2,623       5,667       5,170  
    Service charges on deposit accounts   1,915       1,944       1,902       3,859       3,771  
    Mortgage servicing   1,042       990       1,111       2,032       2,166  
    Mortgage servicing rights fair value adjustment   (751 )     (308 )     (97 )     (1,059 )     (17 )
    Gains on sale of mortgage loans   459       252       443       711       741  
    Realized gains (losses) on sales of securities   —       —       —       —       (3,382 )
    Unrealized gains (losses) on equity securities   23       8       (96 )     31       (112 )
    Gains (losses) on foreclosed assets   14       13       (28 )     27       59  
    Gains (losses) on other assets   (128 )     54       —       (74 )     (635 )
    Income on bank owned life insurance   167       164       166       331       330  
    Other noninterest income   776       800       701       1,576       1,644  
    Total noninterest income   9,140       9,306       9,610       18,446       15,236  
    NONINTEREST EXPENSE                  
    Salaries   16,452       17,053       16,364       33,505       33,021  
    Employee benefits   3,580       3,285       2,860       6,865       5,665  
    Occupancy of bank premises   2,471       2,625       2,243       5,096       4,825  
    Furniture and equipment   575       445       548       1,020       1,098  
    Data processing   2,687       2,717       2,606       5,404       5,531  
    Marketing and customer relations   1,020       1,144       996       2,164       1,992  
    Amortization of intangible assets   694       695       710       1,389       1,420  
    FDIC insurance   551       562       565       1,113       1,125  
    Loan collection and servicing   360       383       475       743       927  
    Foreclosed assets   67       5       10       72       59  
    Other noninterest expense   3,457       3,021       3,132       6,478       6,114  
    Total noninterest expense   31,914       31,935       30,509       63,849       61,777  
    INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAX EXPENSE   26,358       25,503       24,953       51,861       45,472  
    INCOME TAX EXPENSE   7,128       6,428       6,883       13,556       12,144  
    NET INCOME $ 19,230     $ 19,075     $ 18,070     $ 38,305     $ 33,328  
                       
    EARNINGS PER SHARE – BASIC $ 0.61     $ 0.60     $ 0.57     $ 1.21     $ 1.05  
    EARNINGS PER SHARE – DILUTED $ 0.61     $ 0.60     $ 0.57     $ 1.21     $ 1.05  
    WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK OUTSTANDING   31,510,759       31,584,989       31,579,457       31,547,669       31,621,205  
                                           
    HBT Financial, Inc.
    Unaudited Consolidated Financial Summary
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
               
    (dollars in thousands) June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024
    ASSETS          
    Cash and due from banks $ 25,563     $ 25,005     $ 22,604  
    Interest-bearing deposits with banks   170,179       186,586       172,636  
    Cash and cash equivalents   195,742       211,591       195,240  
               
    Interest-bearing time deposits with banks   —       —       520  
    Debt securities available-for-sale, at fair value   773,206       706,135       669,055  
    Debt securities held-to-maturity   481,942       490,398       512,549  
    Equity securities with readily determinable fair value   3,346       3,323       3,228  
    Equity securities with no readily determinable fair value   2,609       2,629       2,613  
    Restricted stock, at cost   4,979       5,086       5,086  
    Loans held for sale   2,316       2,721       858  
               
    Loans, before allowance for credit losses   3,348,211       3,461,778       3,385,483  
    Allowance for credit losses   (41,659 )     (42,111 )     (40,806 )
    Loans, net of allowance for credit losses   3,306,552       3,419,667       3,344,677  
               
    Bank owned life insurance   24,320       24,153       24,235  
    Bank premises and equipment, net   68,523       67,272       65,711  
    Bank premises held for sale   140       190       317  
    Foreclosed assets   890       460       320  
    Goodwill   59,820       59,820       59,820  
    Intangible assets, net   16,454       17,148       19,262  
    Mortgage servicing rights, at fair value   17,768       18,519       18,984  
    Investments in unconsolidated subsidiaries   1,614       1,614       1,614  
    Accrued interest receivable   20,624       22,735       22,425  
    Other assets   37,553       38,731       59,685  
    Total assets $ 5,018,398     $ 5,092,192     $ 5,006,199  
               
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
    Liabilities          
    Deposits:          
    Noninterest-bearing $ 1,034,387     $ 1,065,874     $ 1,045,697  
    Interest-bearing   3,272,144       3,318,716       3,272,996  
    Total deposits   4,306,531       4,384,590       4,318,693  
               
    Securities sold under agreements to repurchase   556       2,698       29,330  
    Federal Home Loan Bank advances   7,240       7,209       13,734  
    Subordinated notes   39,593       39,573       39,514  
    Junior subordinated debentures issued to capital trusts   52,879       52,864       52,819  
    Other liabilities   30,702       40,201       42,640  
    Total liabilities   4,437,501       4,527,135       4,496,730  
               
    Stockholders’ Equity          
    Common stock   329       329       328  
    Surplus   297,479       297,024       296,430  
    Retained earnings   341,750       329,169       290,386  
    Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)   (32,739 )     (38,446 )     (54,656 )
    Treasury stock at cost   (25,922 )     (23,019 )     (23,019 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   580,897       565,057       509,469  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 5,018,398     $ 5,092,192     $ 5,006,199  
    SHARES OF COMMON STOCK OUTSTANDING   31,495,434       31,631,431       31,559,366  
                           
    HBT Financial, Inc.
    Unaudited Consolidated Financial Summary
               
    (dollars in thousands) June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024
               
    LOANS          
    Commercial and industrial $ 419,430   $ 441,261   $ 400,276
    Commercial real estate – owner occupied   317,475     321,990     289,992
    Commercial real estate – non-owner occupied   907,073     891,022     889,193
    Construction and land development   310,252     376,046     365,371
    Multi-family   453,812     424,096     429,951
    One-to-four family residential   451,197     455,376     484,335
    Agricultural and farmland   271,644     292,240     285,822
    Municipal, consumer, and other   217,328     259,747     240,543
    Total loans $ 3,348,211   $ 3,461,778   $ 3,385,483
                     
    (dollars in thousands) June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024
               
    DEPOSITS          
    Noninterest-bearing deposits $ 1,034,387   $ 1,065,874   $ 1,045,697
    Interest-bearing deposits:          
    Interest-bearing demand   1,097,086     1,143,677     1,094,797
    Money market   831,292     812,146     769,386
    Savings   568,971     575,558     582,752
    Time   774,795     787,335     796,069
    Brokered   —     —     29,992
    Total interest-bearing deposits   3,272,144     3,318,716     3,272,996
    Total deposits $ 4,306,531   $ 4,384,590   $ 4,318,693
                     
    HBT Financial, Inc.
    Unaudited Consolidated Financial Summary
       
      Three Months Ended
      June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   June 30, 2024
    (dollars in thousands) Average Balance   Interest   Yield/Cost *   Average Balance   Interest   Yield/Cost *   Average Balance   Interest   Yield/Cost *
                                       
    ASSETS                                  
    Loans $ 3,417,582     $ 54,371   6.38 %   $ 3,460,906     $ 54,537   6.39 %   $ 3,374,058     $ 53,274   6.35 %
    Debt securities   1,217,386       7,891   2.60       1,204,424       7,405   2.49       1,187,795       6,836   2.31  
    Deposits with banks   160,726       1,544   3.85       120,014       1,065   3.60       211,117       2,570   4.90  
    Other   12,519       113   3.66       12,677       131   4.19       12,588       144   4.60  
    Total interest-earning assets   4,808,213     $ 63,919   5.33 %     4,798,021     $ 63,138   5.34 %     4,785,558     $ 62,824   5.28 %
    Allowance for credit losses   (42,118 )             (42,061 )             (40,814 )        
    Noninterest-earning assets   270,580               276,853               283,103          
    Total assets $ 5,036,675             $ 5,032,813             $ 5,027,847          
                                       
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY                                  
    Liabilities                                  
    Interest-bearing deposits:                                  
    Interest-bearing demand $ 1,125,787     $ 1,569   0.56 %   $ 1,120,608     $ 1,453   0.53 %   $ 1,123,592     $ 1,429   0.51 %
    Money market   813,531       4,463   2.20       807,728       4,397   2.21       788,744       4,670   2.38  
    Savings   569,193       374   0.26       569,494       370   0.26       592,312       393   0.27  
    Time   780,536       6,429   3.30       784,099       6,719   3.48       763,507       7,117   3.75  
    Brokered   —       —   —       —       —   —       38,213       524   5.51  
    Total interest-bearing deposits   3,289,047       12,835   1.57       3,281,929       12,939   1.60       3,306,368       14,133   1.72  
    Securities sold under agreements to repurchase   1,420       —   0.05       8,754       22   1.02       30,440       129   1.70  
    Borrowings   7,225       30   1.70       12,890       109   3.41       13,466       121   3.60  
    Subordinated notes   39,582       469   4.76       39,563       470   4.82       39,504       469   4.78  
    Junior subordinated debentures issued to capital trusts   52,871       927   7.03       52,856       890   6.83       52,812       944   7.18  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   3,390,145     $ 14,261   1.69 %     3,395,992     $ 14,430   1.72 %     3,442,590     $ 15,796   1.85 %
    Noninterest-bearing deposits   1,044,539               1,045,733               1,043,614          
    Noninterest-bearing liabilities   29,486               36,373               39,806          
    Total liabilities   4,464,170               4,478,098               4,526,010          
    Stockholders’ Equity   572,505               554,715               501,837          
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 5,036,675             $ 5,032,813             $ 5,027,847          
                                       
    Net interest income/Net interest margin (1)     $ 49,658   4.14 %       $ 48,708   4.12 %       $ 47,028   3.95 %
    Tax-equivalent adjustment (2)       548   0.05           545   0.04           553   0.05  
    Net interest income (tax-equivalent basis)/
    Net interest margin (tax-equivalent basis) (2) (3)    		     $ 50,206   4.19 %       $ 49,253   4.16 %       $ 47,581   4.00 %
    Net interest rate spread (4)         3.64 %           3.62 %           3.43 %
    Net interest-earning assets (5) $ 1,418,068             $ 1,402,029             $ 1,342,968          
    Ratio of interest-earning assets to interest-bearing liabilities   1.42               1.41               1.39          
    Cost of total deposits         1.19 %           1.21 %           1.31 %
    Cost of funds         1.29             1.32             1.42  
                                             

    ____________________________________

    * Annualized measure.

    (1) Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average total interest-earning assets.
    (2) On a tax-equivalent basis assuming a federal income tax rate of 21% and a state income tax rate of 9.5%.
    (3) See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to their most closely comparable GAAP financial measures.
    (4) Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the yield on average interest-earning assets and the cost of average interest-bearing liabilities.
    (5) Net interest-earning assets represents total interest-earning assets less total interest-bearing liabilities. 

    HBT Financial, Inc.
    Unaudited Consolidated Financial Summary
     
      Six Months Ended
      June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024
    (dollars in thousands) Average Balance   Interest   Yield/Cost *   Average Balance   Interest   Yield/Cost *
                           
    ASSETS                      
    Loans $ 3,439,124     $ 108,908   6.39 %   $ 3,372,640     $ 106,294   6.34 %
    Debt securities   1,210,941       15,296   2.55       1,200,871       13,637   2.28  
    Deposits with banks   140,483       2,609   3.75       189,207       4,522   4.81  
    Other   12,597       244   3.93       12,787       332   5.22  
    Total interest-earning assets   4,803,145     $ 127,057   5.33 %     4,775,505     $ 124,785   5.25 %
    Allowance for credit losses   (42,089 )             (40,526 )        
    Noninterest-earning assets   273,193               280,676          
    Total assets $ 5,034,249             $ 5,015,655          
                           
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY                      
    Liabilities                      
    Interest-bearing deposits:                      
    Interest-bearing demand $ 1,123,212     $ 3,022   0.54 %   $ 1,125,638     $ 2,740   0.49 %
    Money market   810,645       8,860   2.20       800,714       9,467   2.38  
    Savings   569,343       744   0.26       601,768       836   0.28  
    Time   782,307       13,148   3.39       714,003       13,042   3.67  
    Brokered   —       —   —       60,181       1,641   5.48  
    Total interest-bearing deposits   3,285,507       25,774   1.58       3,302,304       27,726   1.69  
    Securities sold under agreements to repurchase   5,067       22   0.89       31,448       281   1.80  
    Borrowings   10,042       139   2.79       13,235       246   3.73  
    Subordinated notes   39,573       939   4.79       39,494       939   4.78  
    Junior subordinated debentures issued to capital trusts   52,864       1,817   6.93       52,804       1,877   7.15  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   3,393,053     $ 28,691   1.71 %     3,439,285     $ 31,069   1.82 %
    Noninterest-bearing deposits   1,045,133               1,040,007          
    Noninterest-bearing liabilities   32,404               38,457          
    Total liabilities   4,470,590               4,517,749          
    Stockholders’ Equity   563,659               497,906          
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 5,034,249               5,015,655          
                           
    Net interest income/Net interest margin (1)     $ 98,366   4.13 %       $ 93,716   3.95 %
    Tax-equivalent adjustment (2)       1,093   0.05           1,128   0.04  
    Net interest income (tax-equivalent basis)/
    Net interest margin (tax-equivalent basis) (2) (3)    		     $ 99,459   4.18 %       $ 94,844   3.99 %
    Net interest rate spread (4)         3.62 %           3.43 %
    Net interest-earning assets (5) $ 1,410,092             $ 1,336,220          
    Ratio of interest-earning assets to interest-bearing liabilities   1.42               1.39          
    Cost of total deposits         1.20 %           1.28 %
    Cost of funds         1.30             1.39  

    ____________________________________
    (1) Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average total interest-earning assets.
    (2) On a tax-equivalent basis assuming a federal income tax rate of 21% and a state income tax rate of 9.5%.
    (3) See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below for reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to their most closely comparable GAAP financial measures.
    (4) Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the yield on average interest-earning assets and the cost of average interest-bearing liabilities.
    (5) Net interest-earning assets represents total interest-earning assets less total interest-bearing liabilities. 

    HBT Financial, Inc.
    Unaudited Consolidated Financial Summary
               
    (dollars in thousands) June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024
               
    NONPERFORMING ASSETS          
    Nonaccrual $ 5,615     $ 5,102     $ 8,425  
    Past due 90 days or more, still accruing   9       4       7  
    Total nonperforming loans   5,624       5,106       8,432  
    Foreclosed assets   890       460       320  
    Total nonperforming assets $ 6,514     $ 5,566     $ 8,752  
               
    Nonperforming loans that are wholly or partially guaranteed by the U.S. Government $ 1,878     $ 1,350     $ 2,132  
               
    Allowance for credit losses $ 41,659     $ 42,111     $ 40,806  
    Loans, before allowance for credit losses   3,348,211       3,461,778       3,385,483  
               
    CREDIT QUALITY RATIOS          
    Allowance for credit losses to loans, before allowance for credit losses   1.24 %     1.22 %     1.21 %
    Allowance for credit losses to nonaccrual loans   741.92       825.38       484.34  
    Allowance for credit losses to nonperforming loans   740.74       824.74       483.94  
    Nonaccrual loans to loans, before allowance for credit losses   0.17       0.15       0.25  
    Nonperforming loans to loans, before allowance for credit losses   0.17       0.15       0.25  
    Nonperforming assets to total assets   0.13       0.11       0.17  
    Nonperforming assets to loans, before allowance for credit losses, and foreclosed assets   0.19       0.16       0.26  
                           
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended June 30,
    (dollars in thousands) June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024    		     2025       2024  
                       
    ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES                  
    Beginning balance $ 42,111     $ 42,044     $ 40,815     $ 42,044     $ 40,048  
    Provision for credit losses   595       496       677       1,091       1,237  
    Charge-offs   (1,252 )     (665 )     (870 )     (1,917 )     (1,097 )
    Recoveries   205       236       184       441       618  
    Ending balance $ 41,659     $ 42,111     $ 40,806     $ 41,659     $ 40,806  
                       
    Net charge-offs $ 1,047     $ 429     $ 686     $ 1,476     $ 479  
    Average loans   3,417,582       3,460,906       3,374,058       3,439,124       3,372,640  
                       
    Net charge-offs to average loans *   0.12 %     0.05 %     0.08 %     0.09 %     0.03 %
                                           

    ____________________________________

    * Annualized measure.

      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended June 30,
    (dollars in thousands) June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024    		     2025     2024
                       
    PROVISION FOR CREDIT LOSSES                  
    Loans $ 595     $ 496   $ 677   $ 1,091   $ 1,237
    Unfunded lending-related commitments   (69 )     80     499     11     466
    Total provision for credit losses $ 526     $ 576   $ 1,176   $ 1,102   $ 1,703
                                   
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures –
    Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted Return on Average Assets
        Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended June 30,
    (dollars in thousands)   June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024    		     2025       2024  
                         
    Net income   $ 19,230     $ 19,075     $ 18,070     $ 38,305     $ 33,328  
    Less: adjustments                    
    Gains (losses) on closed branch premises     (50 )     59       —       9       (635 )
    Realized gains (losses) on sales of securities     —       —       —       —       (3,382 )
    Mortgage servicing rights fair value adjustment     (751 )     (308 )     (97 )     (1,059 )     (17 )
    Total adjustments     (801 )     (249 )     (97 )     (1,050 )     (4,034 )
    Tax effect of adjustments (1)     228       71       28       299       1,150  
    Total adjustments after tax effect     (573 )     (178 )     (69 )     (751 )     (2,884 )
    Adjusted net income   $ 19,803     $ 19,253     $ 18,139     $ 39,056     $ 36,212  
                         
    Average assets   $ 5,036,675     $ 5,032,813     $ 5,027,847     $ 5,034,249     $ 5,015,655  
                         
    Return on average assets *     1.53 %     1.54 %     1.45 %     1.53 %     1.34 %
    Adjusted return on average assets *     1.58       1.55       1.45       1.56       1.45  
                                             

    ____________________________________

    * Annualized measure.

    (1) Assumes a federal income tax rate of 21% and a state tax rate of 9.5%.

    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures –
    Adjusted Earnings Per Share — Basic and Diluted
        Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended June 30,
    (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)   June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024    		     2025     2024
                         
    Numerator:                    
    Net income   $ 19,230   $ 19,075   $ 18,070   $ 38,305   $ 33,328
                         
    Adjusted net income   $ 19,803   $ 19,253   $ 18,139   $ 39,056   $ 36,212
                         
    Denominator:                    
    Weighted average common shares outstanding     31,510,759     31,584,989     31,579,457     31,547,669     31,621,205
    Dilutive effect of outstanding restricted stock units     77,782     126,682     87,354     102,097     113,794
    Weighted average common shares outstanding, including all dilutive potential shares     31,588,541     31,711,671     31,666,811     31,649,766     31,734,999
                         
    Earnings per share – basic   $ 0.61   $ 0.60   $ 0.57   $ 1.21   $ 1.05
    Earnings per share – diluted   $ 0.61   $ 0.60   $ 0.57   $ 1.21   $ 1.05
                         
    Adjusted earnings per share – basic   $ 0.63   $ 0.61   $ 0.57   $ 1.24   $ 1.15
    Adjusted earnings per share – diluted   $ 0.63   $ 0.61   $ 0.57   $ 1.23   $ 1.14
                                   
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures –
    Pre-Provision Net Revenue, Pre-Provision Net Revenue Less Net Charge-offs (Recoveries),
    Adjusted Pre-Provision Net Revenue, and Adjusted Pre-Provision Net Revenue Less Net Charge-offs (Recoveries)
        Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended June 30,
    (dollars in thousands)   June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024    		     2025       2024  
                         
    Net interest income   $ 49,658     $ 48,708     $ 47,028     $ 98,366     $ 93,716  
    Noninterest income     9,140       9,306       9,610       18,446       15,236  
    Noninterest expense     (31,914 )     (31,935 )     (30,509 )     (63,849 )     (61,777 )
    Pre-provision net revenue     26,884       26,079       26,129       52,963       47,175  
    Less: adjustments                    
    Gains (losses) on closed branch premises     (50 )     59       —       9       (635 )
    Realized gains (losses) on sales of securities     —       —       —       —       (3,382 )
    Mortgage servicing rights fair value adjustment     (751 )     (308 )     (97 )     (1,059 )     (17 )
    Total adjustments     (801 )     (249 )     (97 )     (1,050 )     (4,034 )
    Adjusted pre-provision net revenue   $ 27,685     $ 26,328     $ 26,226     $ 54,013     $ 51,209  
                         
    Pre-provision net revenue   $ 26,884     $ 26,079     $ 26,129     $ 52,963     $ 47,175  
    Less: net charge-offs     1,047       429       686       1,476       479  
    Pre-provision net revenue less net charge-offs   $ 25,837     $ 25,650     $ 25,443     $ 51,487     $ 46,696  
                         
    Adjusted pre-provision net revenue   $ 27,685     $ 26,328     $ 26,226     $ 54,013     $ 51,209  
    Less: net charge-offs     1,047       429       686       1,476       479  
    Adjusted pre-provision net revenue less net charge-offs   $ 26,638     $ 25,899     $ 25,540     $ 52,537     $ 50,730  
                                             
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures –
    Net Interest Income (Tax-equivalent Basis) and Net Interest Margin (Tax-equivalent Basis)
        Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended June 30,
    (dollars in thousands)   June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024    		     2025       2024  
                         
    Net interest income (tax-equivalent basis)                    
    Net interest income   $ 49,658     $ 48,708     $ 47,028     $ 98,366     $ 93,716  
    Tax-equivalent adjustment (1)     548       545       553       1,093       1,128  
    Net interest income (tax-equivalent basis) (1)   $ 50,206     $ 49,253     $ 47,581     $ 99,459     $ 94,844  
                         
    Net interest margin (tax-equivalent basis)                    
    Net interest margin *     4.14 %     4.12 %     3.95 %     4.13 %     3.95 %
    Tax-equivalent adjustment * (1)     0.05       0.04       0.05       0.05       0.04  
    Net interest margin (tax-equivalent basis) * (1)     4.19 %     4.16 %     4.00 %     4.18 %     3.99 %
                         
    Average interest-earning assets   $ 4,808,213     $ 4,798,021     $ 4,785,558     $ 4,803,145     $ 4,775,505  
                                             

    ____________________________________

    * Annualized measure.

    (1) On a tax-equivalent basis assuming a federal income tax rate of 21% and a state tax rate of 9.5%. 

    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures –
    Efficiency Ratio (Tax-equivalent Basis) and Adjusted Efficiency Ratio (Tax-equivalent Basis)
        Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended June 30,
    (dollars in thousands)   June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024    		     2025       2024  
                         
    Total noninterest expense   $ 31,914     $ 31,935     $ 30,509     $ 63,849     $ 61,777  
    Less: amortization of intangible assets     694       695       710       1,389       1,420  
    Noninterest expense excluding amortization of intangible assets   $ 31,220     $ 31,240     $ 29,799     $ 62,460     $ 60,357  
                         
    Net interest income   $ 49,658     $ 48,708     $ 47,028     $ 98,366     $ 93,716  
    Total noninterest income     9,140       9,306       9,610       18,446       15,236  
    Operating revenue     58,798       58,014       56,638       116,812       108,952  
    Tax-equivalent adjustment (1)     548       545       553       1,093       1,128  
    Operating revenue (tax-equivalent basis) (1)     59,346       58,559       57,191       117,905       110,080  
    Less: adjustments to noninterest income                    
    Gains (losses) on closed branch premises     (50 )     59       —       9       (635 )
    Realized gains (losses) on sales of securities     —       —       —       —       (3,382 )
    Mortgage servicing rights fair value adjustment     (751 )     (308 )     (97 )     (1,059 )     (17 )
    Total adjustments to noninterest income     (801 )     (249 )     (97 )     (1,050 )     (4,034 )
    Adjusted operating revenue (tax-equivalent basis) (1)   $ 60,147     $ 58,808     $ 57,288     $ 118,955     $ 114,114  
                         
    Efficiency ratio     53.10 %     53.85 %     52.61 %     53.47 %     55.40 %
    Efficiency ratio (tax-equivalent basis) (1)     52.61       53.35       52.10       52.97       54.83  
    Adjusted efficiency ratio (tax-equivalent basis) (1)     51.91       53.12       52.02       52.51       52.89  
                                             

    ____________________________________
    (1) On a tax-equivalent basis assuming a federal income tax rate of 21% and a state tax rate of 9.5%.

    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures –
    Ratio of Tangible Common Equity to Tangible Assets and Tangible Book Value Per Share
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)   June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024
                 
    Tangible Common Equity            
    Total stockholders’ equity   $ 580,897     $ 565,057     $ 509,469  
    Less: Goodwill     59,820       59,820       59,820  
    Less: Intangible assets, net     16,454       17,148       19,262  
    Tangible common equity   $ 504,623     $ 488,089     $ 430,387  
                 
    Tangible Assets            
    Total assets   $ 5,018,398     $ 5,092,192     $ 5,006,199  
    Less: Goodwill     59,820       59,820       59,820  
    Less: Intangible assets, net     16,454       17,148       19,262  
    Tangible assets   $ 4,942,124     $ 5,015,224     $ 4,927,117  
                 
    Total stockholders’ equity to total assets     11.58 %     11.10 %     10.18 %
    Tangible common equity to tangible assets     10.21       9.73       8.74  
                 
    Shares of common stock outstanding     31,495,434       31,631,431       31,559,366  
                 
    Book value per share   $ 18.44     $ 17.86     $ 16.14  
    Tangible book value per share     16.02       15.43       13.64  
                             
    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures –
    Return on Average Tangible Common Equity,
    Adjusted Return on Average Stockholders’ Equity and Adjusted Return on Average Tangible Common Equity
        Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended June 30,
    (dollars in thousands)   June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024    		     2025       2024  
                         
    Average Tangible Common Equity                    
    Total stockholders’ equity   $ 572,505     $ 554,715     $ 501,837     $ 563,659     $ 497,906  
    Less: Goodwill     59,820       59,820       59,820       59,820       59,820  
    Less: Intangible assets, net     16,782       17,480       19,605       17,130       19,970  
    Average tangible common equity   $ 495,903     $ 477,415     $ 422,412     $ 486,709     $ 418,116  
                         
    Net income   $ 19,230     $ 19,075     $ 18,070     $ 38,305     $ 33,328  
    Adjusted net income     19,803       19,253       18,139       39,056       36,212  
                         
    Return on average stockholders’ equity *     13.47 %     13.95 %     14.48 %     13.70 %     13.46 %
    Return on average tangible common equity *     15.55       16.20       17.21       15.87       16.03  
                         
    Adjusted return on average stockholders’ equity *     13.87 %     14.08 %     14.54 %     13.97 %     14.63 %
    Adjusted return on average tangible common equity *     16.02       16.36       17.27       16.18       17.42  

    ____________________________________

    * Annualized measure.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Gilat to Report Second Quarter 2025 Results on Wednesday, August 6th

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PETAH TIKVA, Israel, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILT, TASE: GILT), a worldwide leader in satellite networking technology, solutions and services, today announced that it will release its second quarter 2025 financial results on Wednesday, August 6th, 2025.

    Conference Call and Webcast

    Following the release, Adi Sfadia, Chief Executive Officer, and Gil Benyamini, Chief Financial Officer, will discuss Gilat’s second quarter 2025 results and business achievements and participate in a question and answer session:

    Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025
    Start: 09:30 AM EST / 16:30 IST
       

    A simultaneous webcast of the conference call will be available through this link: https://www.veidan-conferencing.com/gilat

    Or Dial-in: US: 1-888-407-2553
      International: +972-3-918-0609
       

    The webcast will also be archived for a period of 30 days on the Company’s website and through the link above.

    About Gilat

    Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILT, TASE: GILT) is a leading global provider of satellite-based broadband communications. With over 35 years of experience, we develop and deliver deep technology solutions for satellite, ground, and new space connectivity, offering next-generation solutions and services for critical connectivity across commercial and defense applications. We believe in the right of all people to be connected and are united in our resolution to provide communication solutions to all reaches of the world.

    Together with our wholly owned subsidiaries—Gilat Wavestream, Gilat DataPath, and Gilat Stellar Blu—we offer integrated, high-value solutions supporting multi-orbit constellations, Very High Throughput Satellites (VHTS), and Software-Defined Satellites (SDS) via our Commercial and Defense Divisions. Our comprehensive portfolio is comprised of a cloud-based platform and modems; high-performance satellite terminals; advanced Satellite On-the-Move (SOTM) antennas and ESAs; highly efficient, high-power Solid State Power Amplifiers (SSPA) and Block Upconverters (BUC) and includes integrated ground systems for commercial and defense markets, field services, network management software, and cybersecurity services.

    Gilat’s products and tailored solutions support multiple applications including government and defense, IFC and mobility, broadband access, cellular backhaul, enterprise, aerospace, broadcast, and critical infrastructure clients all while meeting the most stringent service level requirements. For more information, please visit: http://www.gilat.com

    Certain statements made herein that are not historical are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “estimate”, “project”, “intend”, “expect”, “believe” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Gilat to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, among others, changes in general economic and business conditions, inability to maintain market acceptance to Gilat’s products, inability to timely develop and introduce new technologies, products and applications, rapid changes in the market for Gilat’s products, loss of market share and pressure on prices resulting from competition, introduction of competing products by other companies, inability to manage growth and expansion, loss of key OEM partners, inability to attract and retain qualified personnel, inability to protect the Company’s proprietary technology and risks associated with Gilat’s international operations and its location in Israel, including those related to Israel’s preemptive strike against Iran’s nuclear project and the continued hostilities between Israel and Iran, and the hostilities between Israel and Hamas. For additional information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties associated with Gilat’s business, reference is made to Gilat’s reports filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements for any reason.

    Contact:

    Gilat Satellite Networks
    Hagay Katz, Chief Product and Marketing Officer
    hagayk@gilat.com

    Alliance Advisors:

    GilatIR@allianceadvisors.com
    Phone: +1 212 838 3777

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Gilat to Report Second Quarter 2025 Results on Wednesday, August 6th

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PETAH TIKVA, Israel, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILT, TASE: GILT), a worldwide leader in satellite networking technology, solutions and services, today announced that it will release its second quarter 2025 financial results on Wednesday, August 6th, 2025.

    Conference Call and Webcast

    Following the release, Adi Sfadia, Chief Executive Officer, and Gil Benyamini, Chief Financial Officer, will discuss Gilat’s second quarter 2025 results and business achievements and participate in a question and answer session:

    Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025
    Start: 09:30 AM EST / 16:30 IST
       

    A simultaneous webcast of the conference call will be available through this link: https://www.veidan-conferencing.com/gilat

    Or Dial-in: US: 1-888-407-2553
      International: +972-3-918-0609
       

    The webcast will also be archived for a period of 30 days on the Company’s website and through the link above.

    About Gilat

    Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILT, TASE: GILT) is a leading global provider of satellite-based broadband communications. With over 35 years of experience, we develop and deliver deep technology solutions for satellite, ground, and new space connectivity, offering next-generation solutions and services for critical connectivity across commercial and defense applications. We believe in the right of all people to be connected and are united in our resolution to provide communication solutions to all reaches of the world.

    Together with our wholly owned subsidiaries—Gilat Wavestream, Gilat DataPath, and Gilat Stellar Blu—we offer integrated, high-value solutions supporting multi-orbit constellations, Very High Throughput Satellites (VHTS), and Software-Defined Satellites (SDS) via our Commercial and Defense Divisions. Our comprehensive portfolio is comprised of a cloud-based platform and modems; high-performance satellite terminals; advanced Satellite On-the-Move (SOTM) antennas and ESAs; highly efficient, high-power Solid State Power Amplifiers (SSPA) and Block Upconverters (BUC) and includes integrated ground systems for commercial and defense markets, field services, network management software, and cybersecurity services.

    Gilat’s products and tailored solutions support multiple applications including government and defense, IFC and mobility, broadband access, cellular backhaul, enterprise, aerospace, broadcast, and critical infrastructure clients all while meeting the most stringent service level requirements. For more information, please visit: http://www.gilat.com

    Certain statements made herein that are not historical are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “estimate”, “project”, “intend”, “expect”, “believe” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Gilat to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, among others, changes in general economic and business conditions, inability to maintain market acceptance to Gilat’s products, inability to timely develop and introduce new technologies, products and applications, rapid changes in the market for Gilat’s products, loss of market share and pressure on prices resulting from competition, introduction of competing products by other companies, inability to manage growth and expansion, loss of key OEM partners, inability to attract and retain qualified personnel, inability to protect the Company’s proprietary technology and risks associated with Gilat’s international operations and its location in Israel, including those related to Israel’s preemptive strike against Iran’s nuclear project and the continued hostilities between Israel and Iran, and the hostilities between Israel and Hamas. For additional information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties associated with Gilat’s business, reference is made to Gilat’s reports filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements for any reason.

    Contact:

    Gilat Satellite Networks
    Hagay Katz, Chief Product and Marketing Officer
    hagayk@gilat.com

    Alliance Advisors:

    GilatIR@allianceadvisors.com
    Phone: +1 212 838 3777

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Japan Contributes $2 Million to Help WFP Prevent Worsening Hunger in Yemen

    Source: World Food Programme

    ADEN, Yemen – The Government of Japan has contributed US$2 million (approximately 300 million Japanese Yen) to the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), enabling life-saving food assistance at a time when millions in Yemen face deepening hunger.

    Japan’s support will enable WFP to provide vegetable oil as part of food rations for 700,000 people, helping prevent further deterioration in food security.

    “We are incredibly grateful for Japan’s timely support,” said WFP’s Head of Global Partner Countries Division Abdallah Alwardat. “We are witnessing unprecedented levels of need in Yemen. Families are increasingly telling us they can no longer afford enough food, while our resources continue to shrink. This contribution allows us to deliver food assistance that families urgently need.”

    Contributions like Japan’s are critical to sustaining WFP food assistance in Yemen, which remains one of the few lifelines for millions of Yemenis.

    This generous contribution comes as food insecurity levels in Yemen are the third worst globally, after Gaza and Sudan. By September, over 18 million people, more than half of the population, are projected to face acute food insecurity, with 41,000 people at risk of slipping into catastrophic, famine-like conditions. This is the worst outlook since 2022.

    “Yemen continues to suffer from dire human security situations due to lingering conflict, deteriorating economy, and subsequent collapse of local services. In light of this critical and deteriorating humanitarian situation, and in line with the 2025 Yemen Humanitarian Response Plan, Japan has decided to provide support in partnership with the WFP. We stand in firm solidarity with the Yemeni people,” stated H.E. Mr. Yoichi Nakashima, Ambassador of Japan to Yemen.

    Japan has been a consistent and valued partner of WFP in Yemen, contributing approximately US$160 million since 2016 to help address one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. This latest contribution reaffirms Japan’s continued commitment to fighting hunger and supporting the people of Yemen.

     #                   #                    #

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on X @WFPYemen

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP Soars, Trump Unlocks 401(k) for Crypto—RI Mining Debuts Green AI Cloud Mining with $15 Entry

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Following President Trump’s landmark executive order on July 20, 2025, allowing cryptocurrencies into the $9 trillion U.S. 401(k) retirement market, Ripple (XRP) surged to $3.61. This groundbreaking policy shift is expected to redirect billions of dollars from traditional retirement funds into crypto assets, fundamentally reshaping the investment landscape. With unprecedented retirement funds now flowing into cryptocurrencies like XRP, more investors than ever are seeking secure and convenient entry points into this booming market.

    $15 Free AI Mining: Turn XRP into Daily Income

    RI Mining has launched innovative AI-powered cloud mining contracts tailored to meet the demands of today’s market, enabling investors at all levels to effortlessly generate passive income from their XRP holdings, with no hardware expenses or technical expertise required. To further lower barriers, RI Mining offers a $15 sign-up bonus—providing accessible, free cloud mining and empowering anyone to unlock passive earnings directly from their smartphone.

    Why RI Mining? Green, AI-Driven, and Hassle-Free


    RI Mining distinguishes itself by offering AI-driven cloud mining contracts that optimize earnings through intelligent yield management. Unlike traditional cryptocurrency mining, RI Mining users do not need costly hardware or specialized knowledge. The platform seamlessly integrates XRP’s liquidity and blockchain efficiency with environmentally-friendly renewable energy data centers, aligning perfectly with today’s ESG investment standards.

    “We built RI Mining for people who want a straightforward way into crypto mining,” said EVANS Mark, CEO of RI Mining. “The Trump administration’s policy shift toward crypto-friendly retirement planning is a clear signal that digital assets like XRP have entered mainstream finance. Our platform ensures investors can quickly capitalize on this trend, starting with just $15 and a few clicks on their smartphones.”

    Simple Steps, Immediate Earnings

    Getting started with RI Mining is designed to be intuitive:

    1. Sign up and verify: Complete the easy onboarding process within minutes.
    2. Choose your contract: Select from flexible contracts starting from $100.

    [Daily Sign-In Reward] Daily Earnings $0.6

    Register & Get $15

    [Newbie Plan] Daily Earnings $4

     $100, 2 days, $4/day, $100.00 + $8 total profit

    [Basic Hashrate Contract] Daily Earnings $6.5

    $500, 5 days, $6.5/day, $500.00 + $32.5 total profit

    [Basic Hashrate Contract] Daily Earnings $36.4

    $2,600, 14 days,$2,600.00 + $509.6 total profit

    [Intermediate Hashrate Contract] Daily Earnings $70.56

    $4,800, 19 days,$70.56/day, $4800 + $1340.64 total profit

    [Advanced Hashrate Contract] Daily Earnings $910

    $50,000, 42 days,$70.56/day, $50,000 + $38,220 total profit

    … (See more plans on our site)

    1. Monitor earnings daily: Track your passive income via an easy-to-use mobile interface.
    2. Withdraw anytime: Enjoy hassle-free access to your profits with instant withdrawals.

    About RI Mining

    RI Mining is an innovative cryptocurrency mining platform that harnesses artificial intelligence and green energy to deliver seamless passive income opportunities, founded in 2014 and serving over 10 million users worldwide., hassle-free passive income opportunities. Specializing in XRP and Bitcoin contracts, RI Mining enables retail investors worldwide to profit from the growth of the crypto market—without any hardware costs or technical barriers.

    The platform supports settlements in more than 10 major cryptocurrencies, including DOGE, BTC, ETH, SOL, BCH, XRP, USDC, LTC, USDT-TRC20, and USDT-ERC20, offering investors maximum flexibility and convenience.

    “Free, intelligent, and sustainable” cloud mining empowers anyone to join the digital asset revolution—no matter their background or experience


    Media Contact

    For easy mining, please visit RI Mining official website：https://rimining.com

    Download app: Click to download

    Official email: info@RImining.com

    Disclaimer:This press release is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Cryptocurrency mining involves inherent risks, including market volatility and potential financial loss. Investors are advised to perform thorough due diligence and consult professional advisors prior to participating.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: LET Mining launches new cloud mining strategy: start computing power contracts with XRP

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  This innovative model of LET Mining has made many XRP holders optimistic about its long-term profit potential. With more users participating, the platform plans to further optimize the computing power allocation mechanism

    Why choose XRP to start cloud mining?

    XRP (Ripple) is famous for its fast transaction confirmation speed, extremely low handling fees and strong global versatility. It is a mainstream cryptocurrency widely used by many companies and investors. On the LET Mining platform, XRP is no longer just a passively held asset, it is being redefined as an active “earning money” tool.

    LET Mining: An innovative platform that turns XRP into daily cash flow
    With a strong computing power foundation, compliant operation mechanism and automated mining system, LET Mining opens a “remote start, real-time settlement” income channel for XRP holders. Users do not need to build mining machines or purchase hardware. They only need to recharge XRP to start BTC cloud mining with one click and obtain daily income.

    The core advantages of the platform include:

    ● XRP direct start: users can directly use XRP to purchase mining contracts, eliminating the exchange process;

    ● Intelligent operation: income is distributed to the account daily, and the system runs automatically without manual management;

    ● High-yield strategy: a variety of flexible contracts are available, covering short-term trials to long-term stable strategies;

    ● Security and compliance: LET Mining adopts a multi-layer wallet security architecture and supports multiple identity authentication;

    ● Global service: The platform supports multi-language interfaces and 24-hour online customer service, which can be used by users around the world.

    How to start mining with XRP?
    Just follow these simple steps:

    ⑴Register an account: Visit LET Mining official website: https://letmining.com/ to create an account and get a $12 beginner bonus;

    ⑵Deposit XRP: Get a dedicated XRP deposit address on the deposit page and complete the transfer; (40XRP is enough to participate)

    ⑶Choose a mining plan: Choose a suitable cloud mining contract based on your personal funds and goals;

    ●Experience Contract: Investment amount: $100, contract period: 2 days, daily income of $4, expiration income: $100 + $8
    ●BTC Classic Hash Power: Investment amount: $500, contract period: 6 days, daily income of $6, expiration income: $500 + $36
    ●DOGE Classic Hash Power: Investment amount: $3,000, contract period: 24 days, daily income of $43.2, expiration income: $3,000 + $1,036.8
    ●BTC Advanced Hash Power: Investment amount: $5,000, contract period: 29days, daily income of $76.5, expiration income: $5,000 + $2,218.5
    ●BTC Advanced Hash Power: Investment amount: $10,000, contract period: 40 days, daily income of $175, expiration income: $10,000 + $7,000

    (Click here to view more high-yield contract details)

    ⑷Start earning: The system runs automatically, and the daily settlement income is transferred to your balance, which can be withdrawn or reinvested at any time.

    With the maturity of blockchain technology and the increasing popularity of cryptocurrencies, simply “holding coins and waiting for appreciation” is no longer the first choice for smart investors. Especially for digital assets like Ripple (XRP) with high-speed transfer and low handling fees, more and more users are beginning to explore how to convert them into continuous passive income tools.

    LET Mining emphasizes that this new model is particularly suitable for investors who hold XRP for a long time. They can convert idle XRP assets into a continuous source of income through cloud mining.

    LET Mining said that the XRP cloud mining service is just the first step in its efforts to build a full-scale cryptocurrency passive income ecosystem. The company plans to launch similar services for more mainstream cryptocurrencies in the coming months and introduce more flexible income mechanisms to meet the needs of different investors.

    As the cryptocurrency market matures, such innovative financial products may become an important bridge between traditional investors and the world of digital assets.

    Join LET Mining now and turn your XRP from holding to daily passive income!

    Official website: https://letmining.com/
    Contact email: info@letmining.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation Receives Her German Counterpart on Her First Visit to Egypt to Discuss Strengthening the Strategic Economic Partnership Between the Two Countries

    Source: APO


    .

    H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, received Ms. Reem Alabali-Radovan, Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany, at the Government Headquarters in New Alamein City during her visit to the Arab Republic of Egypt, within the framework of strengthening bilateral economic cooperation between the two countries. The meeting comes as a follow-up to the fruitful discussions held during the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (Ff4D) in Seville, Spain.

    At the beginning of the meeting, H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat welcomed the German Minister on her first visit to Egypt and wished her success in her mission in the new German government, emphasizing the Arab Republic of Egypt’s appreciation for for the Egyptian-German economic relations, which represent a strategic partnership that reflects the keenness to advancing mutual interests and promoting development efforts, whether through bilateral governmental partnership, German investments in Egypt, and development cooperation efforts, adding that this visit marks a milestone in the process of cooperation between the two countries and reflects the depth of bilateral relations and common vision towards achieving sustainable development and economic growth.

    The two ministers discussed recent developments in Egyptian-German economic and investment relations, joint development projects, and explored new mechanisms for innovative financing, especially in light of the outcomes of the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development held in Seville, Spain, and the need for the international community to contribute more to financing development in developing countries and emerging economies. They also discussed the implementation of the European Investment Guarantee Mechanism (EFSD+), which comes in light of the Egypt-EU strategic partnership and contributes to increasing foreign direct investments to the local and foreign private sector in Egypt, in addition to the preparations for the convening of the 2025 Egyptian-German governmental negotiations.

    The two sides also discussed the outcomes of the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development, noting the importance of implementing recommendations of the UN expert group report on addressing debt challenges in Global South countries, which included 11 outcomes, such as redirecting and replenishing existing resources from multilateral development banks and the IMF to enhance liquidity, adopting policies to extend maturities, financing debt buybacks, reducing debt servicing during crises, reforming the G20 Common Framework to include all middle-income countries, and updating IMF and World Bank debt sustainability analysis (DSA) to better reflect the situation of low- and middle-income countries, among other measures.

    The Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation also reviewed the key features of Egypt’s national narrative for economic development, which aims to achieve a structural transformation in the Egyptian economy towards tradable and exportable sectors by strengthening macroeconomic policies, encouraging foreign direct investment, promoting industrial development, and supporting labor market and employment policies, noting that Egyptian-German relations are reflected in achieving these objectives.

    In this context, H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat praised the success of the Egyptian-German Debt Swap Program, where the Egyptian government succeeded in signing debt swap agreements with a total value of €340 million to finance various development projects across multiple sectors, including the new tranche of the debt swap program worth €100 million for the period 2024–2026, explaining that the program contributed  to using the local currency equivalents of debt repayments to implement development projects in various sectors, including education and technical education, social protection, health, improving renewable energy supply. Ongoing coordination is underway to allocate €50 million from the program to support the energy pillar of the “NWFE” program, financing part of the local component for connecting ACWA Power (1) and (2) wind farms, with a total capacity of 1,100 MW. She reaffirmed that the Egyptian-German Debt Swap Program is a successful model for promoting financing for development.

    The discussion also touched on the Financial Cooperation Agreement between Egypt and Germany, which was signed on May 25, 2025, and includes a €118 million financing package in the form of concessional financing and financial contributions (complementary grants), and includes funding for the following projects: financial support for the Comprehensive Technical Education Initiative and the support for the establishment of 25 Egyptian Centers of Excellence. In the same context, the two sides also discussed the the status of the governmental negotiations to be held between the Egyptian and German sides at the end of this year, expressing their aspiration to enhance economic and development cooperation between the two governments, as well as allocating new financial contributions to finance development projects aimed at driving economic growth.

    Furthermore, H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat pointed out that, In light of the success of the country platform for the “NWFE” program and the international community’s expansion of the concept of national platforms to mobilize investments, work is currently underway, in coordination with the Ministry of Industry, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and other development partners, to launch the first national platform to mobilize financing and technical support for the industrial sector. This aligns with the national narrative for economic development to support the state’s efforts in localizing industry and encouraging domestic production, noting that the narrative sets a unified vision for the Egyptian economy to shift towards tradable sectors.

    H.E. also highlighted the importance of strengthening South-South cooperation and triangular cooperation through German collaboration to stimulate efforts to transfer Egyptian expertise in the field of development to developing and emerging countries, noting Egypt’s keenness to advance the prospects of joint cooperation in the field of water within the “NWFE” program with the German side.

    For her part, the German Minister expressed her aspiration to build on the Egyptian-German strategic relations and the progress achieved in recent years to further advance joint cooperation in light of regional and global challenges.

    In the same context, the two sides addressed the Egyptian-German economic cooperation portfolio, which currently amounts to approximately €1.6 billion, aiming to implement various development projects across priority sectors that contribute to sustainable economic development including energy, climate, water supply, sanitation, irrigation, migration, solid waste management, and enhancing the competitiveness of the private sector, which are funded through multiple mechanisms, such as the Egyptian-German Debt Swap Program, concessional financing, financial contributions, and technical cooperation grants.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation – Egypt.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa Finance Corporation Secures Inaugural AED 937.5 Million Sustainability-Linked Loan Backed by United Arab Emirates (UAE) Banks

    Source: APO

    Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) (www.AfricaFC.org), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, has secured an inaugural Sustainability-Linked Term Loan Facility, marking a significant milestone in the Corporation’s innovative funding strategy and deepening its financial ties with the UAE.

    The AED 937.50 million (US$255 million) facility reflects AFC’s commitment to use financial innovation tools to optimise funding for transformative infrastructure. Along with further expanding AFC’s geographical funding base, the transaction aligns future borrowing costs with measurable environmental outcomes through predefined Sustainability Performance Targets (SPTs). The structure allows AFC to benefit from reduced loan costs upon achieving key sustainability targets, signaling to investors and stakeholders the importance of environmental responsibility to its infrastructure investment mandate.

    The loan facility was anchored by a syndicate of prominent UAE-based financial institutions. Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank PJSC, Emirates NBD Capital Limited, First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC, Mashreqbank PSC, and the National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah (P.S.C.) acted as Initial Mandated Lead Arrangers and Bookrunners (IMLABs). Mashreqbank PSC additionally served as Global Coordinator and Documentation Agent, while First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC acted as Sustainability Coordinator and Emirates NBD Bank (P.J.S.C.) acted as the Facility Agent.

    “This facility represents a key milestone in AFC’s journey,” said Banji Fehintola, Executive Board Member & Head, Financial Services, AFC. “By tapping the UAE Dirham market and embedding sustainability performance into our funding terms, we are not only diversifying our funding sources but also aligning our financing strategy with our mission to catalyse infrastructure-driven economic growth and industrial development across Africa. This transaction is a testament to the strength of our partnerships in the UAE and our continued commitment to sustainable infrastructure development across Africa.”

    This facility builds on AFC’s strong momentum in diversified and sustainable capital raising. Following a record US$1.16 billion syndicated loan in 2024, AFC debuted a US$500 million hybrid capital issuance and a US$400 million Murabaha facility in 2025. The Corporation also expanded its climate finance instruments – having issued a CHF150 million Green Bond in 2020, and in 2024, pioneering Green Shares with a US$30 million equity investment from the African Development Bank. These efforts complement AFC’s strategic stake in Lekela Power, through Infinity, forming Africa’s largest renewable energy platform with over 1 GW of clean power capacity, reaching 1.2 million homes and avoiding 7.9 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC).

    Media Enquiries:
    Yewande Thorpe
    Communications
    Africa Finance Corporation
    Mobile: +234 1 279 9654
    Email: yewande.thorpe@africafc.org

    About AFC:
    AFC was established in 2007 to be the catalyst for pragmatic infrastructure and industrial investments across Africa. AFC’s approach combines specialist industry expertise with a focus on financial and technical advisory, project structuring, project development, and risk capital to address Africa’s infrastructure development needs and drive sustainable economic growth.

    Eighteen years on, AFC has developed a track record as the partner of choice in Africa for investing and delivering on instrumental, high-quality infrastructure assets that provide essential services in the core infrastructure sectors of power, natural resources, heavy industry, transport, and telecommunications. AFC has 45 member countries and has invested over US$15 billion in 36 African countries since its inception.

    www.AfricaFC.org

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • UPI revolution pushes India to global lead in real-time digital payments

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India has firmly established itself as a global leader in real-time digital payments, with the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) at the forefront of this transformation. According to a recent IMF note titled “Growing Retail Digital Payments: The Value of Interoperability”, India’s digital infrastructure has become a global benchmark, with UPI now processing over 18 billion transactions each month.

    Launched in 2016 by the National Payments Corporation of India, UPI has redefined how Indians send and receive money – bringing together multiple bank accounts in a single mobile app for instant, secure, and low-cost transactions. In June 2025 alone, the platform handled transactions worth over ₹24.03 lakh crore, showing a 32% increase from the same period last year.

    UPI now accounts for 85% of all digital payments in India, serving 491 million individuals and 65 million merchants, and connecting 675 banks on a unified platform. Globally, it processes 640 million transactions daily, recently surpassing Visa’s volume, and now powers nearly 50% of all real-time payments worldwide.

    The system has expanded beyond India’s borders and is now live in seven countries, including Singapore, UAE, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, and France – marking its first entry into Europe. India is also pushing for UPI’s adoption among BRICS nations, aiming to enhance remittances and financial inclusion on a global scale.

    Backed by strong digital infrastructure, policy vision, and inclusive design, UPI is no longer just a domestic innovation but a model for the world. Its success signals India’s growing stature in global fintech and its commitment to building a cashless, connected, and inclusive digital economy.

  • RRBs reduced from 43 to 28 to simplify management, ease of service delivery: FM Sitharaman

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The amalgamation of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) has resulted in formation of a state-level RRB with contiguous area of operation leading to simplifying management and ease of service delivery, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Monday.

    In a written reply to a question on the first day of the Parliament’s Monsoon Session, FM Sitharaman said that guided by the principle of ‘One State-One RRB’, the government continued with the process of further consolidation of RRBs in “Phase IV amalgamation” to achieve the benefits of scale efficiency and cost rationalisation, whereby number of RRBs has been reduced from 43 to 28 (with effect from May 1, 2025) in 26 states and 2 UTs.

    “The RRBs have increased their capital base, enhancing the financial stability and resilience of the merged entity. By consolidating operations and eliminating redundancies on account of separate administrative structures, amalgamation is expected to lead to cost savings,” the finance minister informed.

    Further, amalgamated RRBs can invest in and leverage advanced technology platforms, leading to improved operational efficiency and customer service, she mentioned in her reply in the Lok Sabha.

    The government has constituted state-level monitoring committee (SLMC) and national-level project monitoring unit (NLPMU) to oversee and monitor the implementation of the amalgamation programme.

    “NABARD has issued National Level Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), containing detailed guidelines, which, inter alia, advises setting up of Amalgamation Project Management Unit (APMU), Steering Committee and Functional Committees in every anchor/transferee RRB to finalise the harmonised policies and operational guidelines, and to handle day-to-day integration plan,” the finance minister noted in her reply.

    A study on the impact of amalgamation of RRBs on their financial performance was undertaken by NABARD in 2021 and it was observed that the amalgamation process in the past had resulted in improved viability and financial performance of the RRBs.

    The study revealed that during the different phases of amalgamation, the share of profitable and sustainably viable RRBs improved continuously and the quantum of accumulated losses as a percentage of total assets also declined

    (IANS)

  • UPI transforms everyday life in India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has transformed how millions manage money, making the country a global leader in fast, real-time digital payments. The world is also recognizing the power of Digital India and UPI. A recent IMF note titled “Growing Retail Digital Payments: The Value of Interoperability” highlights UPI’s success as a model of public digital infrastructure.

    UPI has made a name for itself in the fintech world. Real-time digital transactions in India now exceed the total of such transactions globally – an achievement that is drawing worldwide attention.

    With over 18 billion transactions monthly, UPI enables seamless money transfers, bill payments, and merchant transactions. Its interoperability allows users across banks and apps to transact effortlessly, fostering innovation and competition in India’s fintech space.

    Before UPI, digital payments in India were limited by closed-loop systems, where transactions can only happen within the same platform. UPI changed this. It connected banks and fintech apps through a common platform. Now, a user can pick any UPI-enabled app and pay someone using another app, without worrying about which bank they use. This is true interoperability in action.

    UPI’s impact is visible in daily life – people can send or receive money 24/7, pay via QR codes, manage multiple accounts in one app, and enjoy fast, secure, and private transactions. Even grievances can be addressed directly through the app.

    This digital shift rests on strong foundations. The Jan Dhan Yojana brought over 55.83 crore people into the banking system. The Aadhaar platform, with over 142 crore cards, enabled secure digital identity. Meanwhile, rapid 5G rollout and low-cost data – dropping from Rs 308/GB in 2014 to just Rs 9.34 – expanded digital access to the remotest corners.

    UPI now accounts for 85% of all digital payments in India and has gone global, operating in seven countries and pushing for adoption within the BRICS bloc.

    India’s digital revolution, powered by UPI, is redefining everyday life and setting a new global standard for inclusive and interoperable digital finance.

     

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government initial response to Independent Water Commission’s final report

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Government initial response to Independent Water Commission’s final report

    Environment Secretary Steve Reed sets out the government’s initial response to the Independent Water Commission final report, led by Sir Jon Cunliffe.

    Good morning everyone. Welcome to this beautiful venue.

    I’ve just watched Sir Jon Cunliffe’s statement presenting his report.

    I’d like to start by thanking Sir Jon Cunliffe and his team for the huge amount of work they have put into reviewing the regulation of our water industry.

    He’s produced an outstanding report that I will respond to in more detail in the House of Commons this afternoon. But I’d like to make some initial comments now.

    It is clear the water industry is broken.  

    Our rivers, lakes and seas are polluted with record levels of sewage.  

    Water pipes have been left to crumble into disrepair.  

    Soaring water bills are straining family finances. 

    There are hosepipe bans across the country right now because not a single new reservoir has been built in over 30 years,  

    The lack of water infrastructure is holding back economic growth. 

    Water companies have been allowed to profit at the expense of the British people when they should have been investing to fix our broken water pipes.  

    A broken regulatory system let them get away with this.    

    Failing customers, investors and the environment.   

    The public expressed their fury in last year’s General Election, and they voted for change.     That change will now come.   

    In just one year, this government has put in place the building blocks to clean up our rivers, lakes and seas.  

    First, we restored accountability by giving the regulators more teeth with a ban on unfair bonuses, severe and automatic penalties for breaking the law, and jail sentences for serious offences.    

    Second, we have launched one of the biggest infrastructure projects in British history to clean up our rivers, lakes and seas.  

    £104 billion pounds of private sector investment will rebuild the entire water network.  

    Upgrading crumbling pipes, repairing leaks and building new sewage treatment works around the country. 

    This is the biggest-ever investment in the water sector’s history and it allows me to make a new commitment to the country:  

    This government will cut water companies’ sewage pollution in half within five years. 

    This is the most ambitious sewage target the government has ever set.  

    Over a decade of national renewal, we will restore our rivers, lakes and seas to good health. 

    The third building block for change is today’s final report from Sir Jon Cunliffe’s Independent Water Commission.   

    It offers a blueprint for fixing our broken regulatory system so the failures of the past can never happen again.   

    I agree that water regulation has been too weak and too ineffective.   

    Having four separate regulators with overlapping and conflicting remits has created a merry-go-round that has failed customers and the environment.   

    Ofwat has failed to protect customers from water companies’ mismanagement of their hard-earned money.   

    Today I can announce that the Labour Government will abolish Ofwat.   

    In the biggest overhaul of water regulation in a generation we will bring water functions from four different regulators into one:  A single powerful regulator responsible for the entire water sector.   

    There are four further recommendations that the government can accept immediately and I will outline these in Parliament this afternoon.

    The new regulator will stand firmly on the side of customers, investors and the environment and prevent the abuses of the past. 

    For customers, it will oversee investment and maintenance so hardworking British families are never again hit by the shocking bill hikes we saw last year as customers paid the price of 14 years of failure by the previous government. 

    For investors, it will end the tangle of ineffective regulation and provide the clarity and direction required for a strong

    partnership between Government, the sector and investors to attract billions of pounds of new funding. 

    For the environment, it will cut all forms of pollution to clean up our rivers, lakes and seas for good.   

    We will legislate to set up the new regulator, and I will provide more details of this in Parliament later today. 

    Ofwat will remain in place during the transition to the new regulator and I will ensure they provide the right leadership to oversee the current price review and investment plan during that time. 

    This Labour Government was elected to clean up water pollution.   

    We now have all the building blocks in place to make that happen.   

    This is our chance to make sure our children – and their children – can create the same wonderful memories we remember from our childhoods.  

    Splashing about in the waves on a beach, rowing along a river, without having to worry about toxic sewage pollution.  

    Today marks the start of a water revolution. 

    We are establishing a new partnership where water companies, investors, communities and the government will work together to clean up our rivers, lakes and seas for good.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Presidents of Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia discussed key areas of bilateral cooperation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BISHKEK, July 21 (Xinhua) — Talks were held in Bishkek on Monday between Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov and Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh as part of the latter’s state visit to the Kyrgyz Republic, the Kyrgyz president’s Telegram channel reported.

    The parties discussed key areas of bilateral cooperation, including politics, trade and economics, transport and agriculture. Particular attention was paid to digitalization, the development of cultural and humanitarian ties and tourism.

    S. Japarov emphasized that Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia are states historically linked by ties of friendship, the roots of which go back to ancient times. “Comprehensive cooperation with Mongolia is one of the priority areas of development of Kyrgyzstan’s foreign policy,” he noted.

    The President of Kyrgyzstan expressed confidence that the visit of the head of Mongolia will give a powerful impetus to further strengthening political dialogue, expanding trade and economic ties and developing cultural and humanitarian cooperation.

    In turn, U. Khurelsukh emphasized that this visit provides a good opportunity to jointly with the President of Kyrgyzstan to sum up the 30-year path of bilateral relations, assess the implementation of the agreements reached, and also determine priority areas and prospects for cooperation filled with specific economic content.

    “For Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan is an important partner in Central Asia and a kind of bridge connecting the region. We strive to develop mutually beneficial cooperation in all areas, especially in the trade and economic sphere,” the President of Mongolia noted.

    Following the talks, the heads of the two states signed a Joint Declaration on the establishment of a comprehensive partnership between Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia, as well as a number of other documents aimed at increasing cooperation. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Deputy Minister of Economic Development inspected the infrastructure of the Mamison resort

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) – Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On July 17, 2025, Deputy Minister of Economic Development of Russia Sergey Nazarov visited North Ossetia on a working visit. The main point of the trip was the all-season tourist and recreational complex “Mamison”, where an off-site meeting was held with the participation of the Minister of Economic Development of the Republic of North Ossetia Alania Marat Sokayev and representatives of “Kavkaz.RF”.

    During the meeting, key areas of further development of the resort were discussed, including the pace of construction of facilities and connection to utility networks. Sergey Nazarov inspected the transport, utilities and tourism infrastructure, including ski slopes, hotels, glampings and tent camps. In addition, the meeting participants tested the new Mamihdon trail from the upper cable car station to the tent camp (length over 4 km).

    Today, the resort has two cable cars, 14 km of ski slopes, hotels, cafes and year-round recreation facilities. Due to the national project “Tourism and Hospitality Industry”, 590 million rubles were allocated for infrastructure development in 2023-2024. In 2025-2027, financing in the amount of 150 million rubles is planned.

    Construction and installation works at the 110/10 kV Mamison substation have been fully completed. In December 2024, an agreement was concluded between JSC Kavkaz.RF and PJSC Rosseti North Caucasus, ensuring the technological connection of the resort facilities. The redistribution of capacity in the amount of 4480 kW allows for the launch of the infrastructure in normal mode.

    The main gas pipeline, 14.5 km long, is 90% complete, and 100% within the resort. Gas supply via this route is expected in the fourth quarter of 2025.

    The water intake unit with a capacity of 4,500 m³/day has been operating since 2014 and was transferred to the balance of the republican water utility in 2024. The resort is connected to the centralized water supply according to a temporary scheme: water comes directly from wells, bypassing reservoirs. This ensures the functioning of the facilities, but requires additional measures to modernize the system.

    “The creation of the Mamison resort is not only a contribution to the tourist attractiveness of North Ossetia, but also to the development of the entire economy of the region. Over the past two years, we have managed to overcome infrastructure barriers and move to the stage of stable operation. Today, the task is to ensure the stable operation of all engineering systems, involve investors and continue the comprehensive development of the resort,” emphasized Sergey Nazarov.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Grigorenko: More than a third of the first wave of industrial competence center projects have been successfully completed

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Within the framework of industrial competence centers, the implementation of 66 IT products of the first wave has been completed. They have already been implemented by more than 500 Russian and foreign companies – from chain retailers to airports and nuclear industry enterprises. More than 135 thousand jobs have been transferred to domestic software solutions that were implemented within the framework of the ICC.

    In total, the first wave of particularly significant projects included 150 solutions that replace foreign software used in key sectors of the economy. Among the completed developments are 59 projects implemented using the companies’ own funds, as well as 7 projects implemented with the involvement of grant funds.

    “We are faced with the task of developing, including with government support, IT products that are not inferior in functionality to foreign ones, so that it would be interesting and profitable for businesses to implement them. And judging by the completed projects of the first wave, such mature domestic solutions exist. They have gone beyond the pilot stage and are already used by hundreds of companies,” said Deputy Prime Minister – Chief of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko.

    Among the completed solutions that are most actively replicated is the creation of a software and hardware complex (operating system, office software, browser, antivirus) designed to automate the activities of specialists (a project commissioned and funded by Rosatom State Corporation). It is necessary to transfer automated workstations that previously used Microsoft to domestic software. During the project, more than 133 thousand workstations of 150 nuclear industry organizations were transferred to Russian software. The active replication of the project continues.

    Another development within the framework of the ICC, which has already been implemented and is in great demand among Russian companies, is the Russian loyalty system Loyalty 2.0 for retail outlets. It has already been implemented by more than 50 Russian companies, such as Magnit, Domashniy Interier (Hoff), Dixie, Medsi, Rive Gauche, as well as three foreign companies. The solution uses data on customer purchases and preferences to create personalized offers and manage marketing campaigns. The system allows processing more than 6 thousand customer requests every second. The developer’s revenue from sales of the solution amounted to about 1 billion rubles.

    The solutions that showed the best sales revenue figures also included a digital platform for field design commissioned by JSC Rosgeo. The solution was developed with the help of grant funds. It is already being used in 33 companies. The solution’s sales revenue amounted to almost 160 million rubles (340% of the grant amount), and the return on government investment in the form of taxes was more than 72 million rubles (154% of the grant amount).

    In total, about 200 particularly significant projects are currently being implemented in Russia within the framework of the ICC. Most of the first wave projects will be implemented by the end of 2026. In May 2025, the second wave of ICC projects was launched. Within its framework, 49 projects were selected and supported. 17 of them received grant funding in the amount of 3.2 billion rubles. Completion of the implementation of most of the second wave projects is planned for the end of 2027.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 13th Mainland, Hong Kong and Macao Legal Seminar concludes (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    13th Mainland, Hong Kong and Macao Legal Seminar concludes  
         Addressing the opening ceremony at the seminar, the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, said that since the promulgation and implementation of the Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area more than six years ago, the legal departments and legal sectors of the three places have worked hard to continuously deepen co-operation and promote the high-quality development of the GBA. The remarkable progress of co-operation in the legal and dispute resolution fields has laid a solid foundation for closer co-operation in the GBA in the future. As the construction of the GBA continues to advance, it is particularly important to promote legal harmonisation between the three places and strengthen exchanges and co-operation in the legal sector. He expressed hope that everyone will contribute wisdom and strength to the high-quality development of the GBA to open up broader prospects for legal co-operation among the three places.
     
         The seminar focused on four topics, namely “Strengthening legislative co-ordination among Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao, and promoting the interfaces of regulatory frameworks and mechanisms in the GBA”; “Data element market governance and competition order protection in the GBA”; “Legal obstacles and institutional innovation in cross-border co-ordination of protection of intellectual property rights in the GBA”; and “Establishing a diversified mechanism for the resolution of cross-border financial disputes in the GBA”. Officials of the three places, representatives of the Hong Kong Bar Association and the Law Society of Hong Kong, as well as legal professionals and experienced practitioners served as moderators and speakers to share experiences and exchange views on promoting the construction of the GBA with high-quality rule of law.
     
         Concluding the seminar, the Deputy Secretary for Justice, Dr Cheung Kwok-kwan, said that the DoJ has been actively taking forward its work in setting up a dedicated platform for GBA lawyers and a GBA legal information platform, supporting the legal sector to deepen professional co-operation with Guangdong and Macao counterparts with a view to better supporting the professional development of GBA lawyers and enhancing the exchange of legal information, contributing to the construction of foreign-related rule of law of the country.
    Issued at HKT 18:17

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK ramps up Ukraine military support with £150 million of vital air defence and artillery ammunition delivered in just two months

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    UK ramps up Ukraine military support with £150 million of vital air defence and artillery ammunition delivered in just two months

    More than £150 million worth of air defence and artillery has been delivered to Ukraine in the last two months, as procurement of hundreds of air defence missiles and thousands of rounds of artillery to provide to Ukraine ramps up.

    At least £700 million of this support is set to be spent this year on air defence and artillery ammunition including the £150 million already delivered – with other funding going towards procuring more drones, as well as critical contracts to maintain and repair UK weapons already provided to Ukraine, allowing damaged equipment to return to the frontline as quickly as possible.

    With Putin repeatedly targeting Ukraine’s cities in recent weeks with the most intense aerial bombardment since the beginning of the full-scale invasion in 2022, the UK is joining the US and European nations in ramping up deliveries of vital air defence.

    The UK signed an agreement with Ukraine in May to provide an additional £2.26 billion worth of military support that will be repaid using funds raised from immobilised Russian assets, with more than two-thirds of the money allocated for procurement of weapons and munitions in just two months.

    The deal delivers on this Government’s Plan for Change, by spending more on defence and creating jobs we will keep the country safe and boost economic growth. 

    The Defence Secretary will make the announcement at the 29th meeting of the 50-nation strong Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG) which he will chair virtually on Monday alongside German Defence Minister, Boris Pistorius.

    Opening the UDCG meeting, Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, is expected to say:

    Last week, President Trump announced a new plan for large scale NATO weapons transfers and committed to getting these “quickly distributed to the battlefield”.

    The UK government backs this policy, and we will play our full part in its success to bolster Ukraine’s immediate fight and to support our own and wider European security.

    Alongside this, the US has started the clock on a 50-day deadline for Putin to agree to peace or face crippling economic sanctions.

    As members of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, we need to step up in turn with a “50-day drive” to arm Ukraine on the battlefield and force Putin to the negotiating table.

    It comes as the UK also completed delivery of nearly 50,000 military drones to Ukraine in under six months, in addition to 20,000 drones provided in the same period via the UK-Latvia co-led drone coalition, working closely with British defence companies to speed up procurement and delivery. The UK has committed £350 million this year to increase the supply of drones from 10,000 in 2024 to 100,000 in 2025.

    At the meeting, the UK and Germany will announce a new agreement to partner in providing critical air defence ammunition to Ukraine. Germany will provide more than 170 million Euros worth of funding, which the UK will use to rapidly procure air defence ammunition via the UK-led International Fund for Ukraine for delivery in the coming months. This supports the aims of the Integrated Air and Missile Defence Capability Coalition, co-led by Germany and France.

    The UK’s military support for Ukraine this year is more than ever before, with £4.5 billion allocated for this financial year. In March, the Prime Minister announced a historic £1.6 billion deal to provide more than five thousand air defence missiles for Ukraine.

    Last month, the Prime Minister announced a landmark agreement between the UK and Ukraine to share battlefield technology, boosting Ukraine’s drone production and linking up the UK’s defence industry with the cutting-edge technology being developed on the front lines in Ukraine.

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Catherine Staggs: Advancing Artemis Through Contracting Expertise

    Source: NASA

    A lifelong baseball fan, Catherine Staggs set out with her family to visit all 30 Major League Baseball stadiums across the United States. That love of the game eventually led them to settle in Houston about eight years ago – a choice that helped lead Staggs to NASA’s Johnson Space Center, where she is a contracting officer for the agency’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative. Through CLPS, she helps manage the contracts with commercial companies delivering science and technology to the Moon. These efforts support NASA’s Artemis campaign and lay the groundwork for continuous human presence on the lunar surface.

    She joined NASA as a civil servant in 2018, but Staggs’ career in the federal government stretches back to her college days. She completed an accounting co-op with the Department of Defense as a student at Clemson University in Clemson, South Carolina, and secured a full-time accounting position with the agency following her graduation. She transitioned to a business financial manager position supporting U.S. Marine Corps projects while earning an MBA from The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. “That position is where I started to dabble in contracting,” she said.
    Staggs moved to Texas in 2014 to be closer to her boyfriend – now husband – who was stationed at Fort Hood in Killeen. She was hired as a contract compliance manager for a small, Killeen-based business that specialized in government contracts, officially launching her career in contracting. When Staggs’ husband retired from the Army, the couple decided to move to Houston because they loved to watch the Houston Astros play ball. Staggs continued working for the contracting company from her new home but missed meeting new people and collaborating with colleagues in person.
    “I applied for a contract specialist job with NASA to get back into the office, and the rest is history,” she said.
    Her current role at Johnson involves managing the administrative contract functions for the 13 base contracts that support CLPS, which are valued at $2.6 billion. She is also the contracting officer for Firefly’s Blue Ghost Mission-3 and helps to train and develop up-and-coming contract specialists. “I love to see the development each contract specialist has over their career,” she said. “My first Pathways intern is now working full-time for NASA as a contract specialist, and they are working to become a limited warrant contracting officer.”

    Her training experience provides valuable perspective on new team members. “Everyone starts at the bottom, not knowing what they don’t know,” she said. “We all have a beginning, and we need to remember that as we welcome new employees.”
    Staggs said that navigating change has at times been difficult in her career, but she strives to remain flexible and open to adjusting work and life to meet the needs of the mission. “My time at NASA has helped develop my leadership skills through confidence in myself and my team,” she said.

    She looks forward to mentoring the Artemis Generation and sharing her contracting knowledge with new team members. She also anticipates crossing more baseball stadiums off her family’s list this summer.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU hosted the first economic quest “Knowledge — Money”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On July 10, Novosibirsk State University hosted a fascinating economic quest, “Knowledge — Money,” in which 65 high school students from different schools in Novosibirsk took part. It was not just an intellectual challenge, but also a real immersion into the world of economics, where knowledge, logic, and teamwork become the key to success.

    The quest was organized by the public organization “Laboratory of Economics and Business” with the support of Faculty of Economics, NSU, the “First” movement and the low-rise eco-quarter “Spectrum”.

    —The Laboratory of Economics and Business was created three years ago. Our mission is to develop schoolchildren’s interest in economics and to form a culture of systems thinking. The first event we held last year was a course of lectures and interactive seminars “Basics of Economics and Business for Schoolchildren”. Instead of the planned 20 people, more than 60 took part in it. We realized that schoolchildren have a huge interest in economics and new educational formats. This is how the idea of a quest was born, which we decided to hold in the summer, — said Dmitry Markov, a lecturer in the Department of Management of the Faculty of Economics of NSU, head of the laboratory.

    The participants united into 14 teams, each of which went through 13 stations in four thematic “economic laboratories” in three hours. At each station, the teams passed tests on knowledge, logic and ingenuity, solved problems of varying difficulty levels and earned points. The maximum for each station was 100 points, and at the end the strongest team was determined.

    1. Systems Analysis Laboratory

    The children were given tasks that clearly demonstrated the importance of a systematic approach to solving problems. A crossword, a fillword, and a Japanese puzzle called “Bridges” — all of this forced the participants to think logically, find patterns and relationships. And most importantly, it helped them better understand how economic processes are structured in reality.

    2. Laboratory of Economic Intuition

    Here, participants encountered economic puzzles, asset turnover tasks, and cases that required filling in missing terms. These tasks helped participants not only remember the terms, but also understand how they work in the context of business and finance.

    3. Business Analytics Lab

    It turned out to be the most difficult — and, perhaps, the most educational. The kids had to understand the financial statements of the Magnit retail chain, pass tests on formal logic, and solve numerical problems that are used when hiring in large financial companies. This gave the schoolchildren the opportunity to “try on” the role of a business analyst and understand how interesting and in-demand this profession is.

    4. Bipolar Laboratory

    This lab turned out to be the most creative and memorable. Participants had to not only think, but also act:

    Assemble a product according to the technical specifications from a construction set. Assemble a puzzle from the logos of famous brands and compare them with the companies’ missions. Restore the system by analogy with the game “Tetris”. Assemble slides with company analytics to create a complete picture.

    These tasks developed not only logic and economic thinking, but also teamwork skills, attentiveness and creativity.

    Each laboratory had its own curators, who were students from the Faculty of Economics of NSU.

    Artem Bezrukov commanded the business analytics laboratory.

    — Three stations: calculation tasks, a logic storm and a hellish quiz on financial reporting. I thought that my stations would be the hardest for the participants, but the guys turned out to be great! We were especially impressed with the financial reporting of Magnit. We compared profitability, revenue, turnover — like analysts with real cases! Honestly, I thought that out of 100 points our maximum would be 50, but I was pleasantly surprised by other results!) I admit, the logic test turned out to be the most tricky. Only two teams were able to solve it 100 out of 100! Apparently, numbers are closer to them than puzzles.) Even my fifth-graders learned to calculate profitability! — said Artem.

    Kira Kurmasheva was responsible for the bipolar laboratory.

    —We had a great time and enjoyed it as much as the quest participants. Our lab had the most stations — four. All the tasks in my lab were interactive, the kids were asked to assemble a flower from a construction set, restore economic slides, assemble puzzles with logos of famous companies, and solve a riddle. All the tasks were quite easy, but very interesting. Our lab had the highest average score for the quest.

    I am very glad that our event attracted so many children from all over the region. During the game, I received a lot of positive feedback about the quest. I hope that I will participate in many more similar projects from the laboratory of economics and business! – Kira shared.

    As a result, all teams completed all stations, showed good results and acquired valuable skills. The winner of the quest was the team “EkoMi”, which scored the highest number of points.

    All participants were awarded raffle tickets and delicious pizza, which was a pleasant end to a busy but exciting day.

    Here’s what the event participants thought about the quest.

    Taisiya Gershun, 8th grade, OC “Gornostay”:

    — Although I was never particularly interested in economics, the quest even made me think about enrolling in the economics department! An interesting format that helps to apply knowledge from economics in practice. During the quest, you learn to work together and make decisions quickly. It was especially interesting to solve economic puzzles and solve different problems. At the end, there was an announcement of the winners and pizza!!

     

    Vladimir Rimmer, 9th grade, Lyceum No. 130:

    — My mother signed me up for the quest, for which I am very grateful to her. I got a lot of new emotions, made new acquaintances. I really liked the idea itself, the organization and, of course, the surprise in the form of pizza after the end. If I were to rate the quest on a ten-point scale, it would definitely be 10 out of 10!

     

    Daria Rakova, 9th grade, OC “Gornostay”:

    — Overall, the event was interesting and useful. The tasks were varied, you had to think and act. I especially liked two things: bridges and a crossword puzzle. These logic tasks are just super, and everything was exciting with the team. Overall, I spent my time usefully, learned something new and laughed.

     

    The Laboratory of Economics and Business is already drawing up a plan for future events, where schoolchildren not only gain new knowledge, but also come into contact with university life.

    — The guys spent the whole day at NSU, got to know the university, its teachers and students better. We are sure that many of them will choose NSU as the place of their admission and further education, — Dmitry Markov emphasized.

     

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: SCO countries are continuously deepening the interconnectivity of supply chains and production chains

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    QINGDAO, July 21 (Xinhua) — With the global economic architecture changing rapidly, member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) have been continuously deepening the connectivity of supply chains and industrial chains through pragmatic cooperation, according to participants at the China-SCO Regional Economic and Trade Cooperation Conference held recently in Qingdao, east China’s Shandong Province.

    Li Gang, assistant general manager of Sinopec Group Co., Ltd., expressed hope for deeper cooperation in the upstream and downstream sectors of industrial chains, including joint projects in crude oil refining, jointly upgrading industrial technology, and building more competitive chemical industry clusters, so as to promote the coordinated development of manufacturing industries in the region.

    Logistics and transportation are an important pillar for deepening the connectivity of supply chains and industrial chains. According to the management committee of the China-SCO Regional Economic and Trade Cooperation Demonstration Zone in Qingdao, 4,500 China-Europe international railway trains have been operated on the zone, linking it with 54 cities in 23 countries.

    In addition, at present, the China-SCO Demonstration Zone is also the leader in China in terms of the number of truck shipments under the TIR /International Road Transport/ system.

    According to a local international economic and trade company, the TIR system has greatly improved the efficiency of international trade. With the introduction of the “TIR plus two-way cold chain transportation” model, fruits and vegetables produced in China’s Shandong, Sichuan, Hunan, Guangdong and other regions can also be delivered to Belarus, Russia and other countries.

    “We deliver these fruits and vegetables to St. Petersburg in a maximum of 6 days. For comparison, the transportation of these products by traditional road transport took about 15 days. This business model has attracted many Russian buyers and Chinese exporters of fruits and vegetables,” the company noted.

    According to experts, the continuous deepening of the interconnectedness of supply chains and production chains within the SCO not only promotes the integration development of the regional economy, but also helps to ensure the stability of the global supply chain. -0-

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Where will we live? The urgent need for affordable housing in Estonia

    Source: European Investment Bank

    To further strengthen our engagement, the EIB has recently opened a local office in Tallinn, enhancing our ability to work closely with partners on the ground.

    The EIB is ready to support Estonia’s efforts to expand access to such housing. This includes supporting innovative and sustainable construction methods, financing energy-efficient renovations to reduce emissions and utility costs, and helping to increase the supply of affordable homes through both direct and intermediated financing.

    Encouragingly, Estonia welcomes our initiative and is already engaged in negotiations to design a model and implementation strategy in collaboration with the EIB.

    To make it easier for local authorities, developers, and communities to access support, we’ve created the “More homes. Better homes.” online portal. It connects housing stakeholders with the advice, funding, and financing they need. The response so far has been encouraging—clear proof of both the urgent demand and the opportunity ahead.

    But the EIB is not acting alone. We are working closely with the European Commission, national governments, cities, and promotional banks. Because solving the housing crisis requires strong partnerships at every level.

    And this is about more than just housing. Affordable homes are essential for economic competitiveness, climate resilience, and social cohesion. They support a more inclusive economy, reduce emissions through energy-efficient living, and help communities thrive. In short, affordable housing is a foundation for a fairer, greener, and more prosperous future.

    That’s why I’m pleased to announce that the EIB Group will soon conduct a roadshow in several EU members led by my colleague Vice-President Ioannis Tsakiris. We aim to bring together housing stakeholders from every corner of Europe as we promote new financing and support opportunities for the sector.

    Estonia has the talent, the tools, and the determination to lead in this space. Together, we can ensure that every Estonian, regardless of income or background, has a place to call home.

    MIL OSI Europe News –