Category: Entertainment

  • MIL-OSI: Bread Financial Reports Second Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    COLUMBUS, Ohio, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bread Financial® Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: BFH), a tech-forward financial services company that provides simple, flexible payment, lending and saving solutions, today announced its second quarter 2025 financial results. All earnings-related materials are now available at the company’s investor relations website, here.

    Bread Financial President and Chief Executive Officer Ralph Andretta and Chief Financial Officer Perry Beberman will host a conference call at 8:30 a.m. ET today to discuss results. A link to the conference call will be available at the company’s investor relations website, and a replay will also be available there following the call.

    About Bread Financial® 
    Bread Financial® (NYSE: BFH) is a tech-forward financial services company that provides simple, personalized payment, lending and saving solutions to millions of U.S consumers. Our payment solutions, including Bread Financial general purpose credit cards and savings products, empower our customers and their passions for a better life. Additionally, we deliver growth for some of the most recognized brands in travel & entertainment, health & beauty, jewelry and specialty apparel through our private label and co-brand credit cards and pay-over-time products providing choice and value to our shared customers.

    To learn more about Bread Financial, our global associates and our sustainability commitments, visit breadfinancial.com or follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn.

    Contacts
    Brian Vereb — Investor Relations
    Brian.Vereb@breadfinancial.com

    Susan Haugen — Investor Relations
    Susan.Haugen@breadfinancial.com

    Rachel Stultz — Media
    Rachel.Stultz@breadfinancial.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Bread Financial Provides Performance Update for June 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    COLUMBUS, Ohio, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bread Financial Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: BFH), a tech-forward financial services company that provides simple, personalized payment, lending, and saving solutions to millions of U.S. consumers, provided a performance update. The following tables present the Company’s net loss rate and delinquency rate for the periods indicated:

      For the
    month ended
    June 30, 2025
      For the
    three months ended
    June 30, 2025
      (dollars in millions)
    End-of-period credit card and other loans $ 17,656     $ 17,656  
    Average credit card and other loans $ 17,631     $ 17,686  
    Year-over-year change in average credit card and other loans   (1 %)     (1 %)
    Net principal losses(1) $ 113     $ 348  
    Net loss rate(1)   7.8 %     7.9 %
      As of
    June 30, 2025
      As of
    June 30, 2024
      (dollars in millions)
    30 days + delinquencies – principal $ 922     $ 979  
    Period ended credit card and other loans – principal $ 16,102     $ 16,344  
    Delinquency rate   5.7 %     6.0 %
    (1) As a result of hurricanes Helene and Milton we froze delinquency progression for cardholders in Federal Emergency Management Agency identified impact zones for one billing cycle, which resulted in modestly lower Net principal losses and Net loss rate in the fourth quarter of 2024, and consequently these actions negatively impacted Net principal losses and Net loss rate in the second quarter of 2025.


    About Bread Financial
    ®  

    Bread Financial® (NYSE: BFH) is a tech-forward financial services company that provides simple, personalized payment, lending, and saving solutions to millions of U.S consumers. Our payment solutions, including Bread Financial general purpose credit cards and savings products, empower our customers and their passions for a better life. Additionally, we deliver growth for some of the most recognized brands in travel & entertainment, health & beauty, jewelry and specialty apparel through our private label and co-brand credit cards and pay-over-time products providing choice and value to our shared customers.  

    To learn more about Bread Financial, our global associates and our sustainability commitments, visit breadfinancial.com or follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn.  

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements give our expectations or forecasts of future events and can generally be identified by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “project,” “plan,” “likely,” “may,” “should” or other words or phrases of similar import. Similarly, statements that describe our business strategy, outlook, objectives, plans, intentions or goals also are forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements we make regarding, and the guidance we give with respect to, our anticipated operating or financial results, future financial performance and outlook, future dividend declarations, and future economic conditions.

    We believe that our expectations are based on reasonable assumptions. Forward-looking statements, however, are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and, in many cases, beyond our control. Accordingly, our actual results could differ materially from the projections, anticipated results or other expectations expressed in this release, and no assurances can be given that our expectations will prove to have been correct. Factors that could cause the outcomes to differ materially include, but are not limited to, the following: macroeconomic conditions, including market conditions, inflation, interest rates, labor market conditions, recessionary pressures or concerns over a prolonged economic slowdown, and the related impact on consumer spending behavior, payments, debt levels, savings rates and other behaviors; global political and public health events and conditions, including significant shifts in trade policy, such as changes to, or the imposition of, tariffs and/or trade barriers and any economic impacts, volatility, uncertainty and geopolitical instability resulting therefrom, as well as ongoing wars and military conflicts and natural disasters; future credit performance, including the level of future delinquency and write-off rates; the loss of, or reduction in demand from, significant brand partners or customers in the highly competitive markets in which we compete; the concentration of our business in U.S. consumer credit; inaccuracies in the models and estimates on which we rely, including the amount of our Allowance for credit losses and our credit risk management models; the inability to realize the intended benefits of acquisitions, dispositions and other strategic initiatives; our level of indebtedness and ability to access financial or capital markets; pending and future federal and state legislation, regulation, supervisory guidance, and regulatory and legal actions, including, but not limited to, those related to financial regulatory reform and consumer financial services practices, as well as any such actions with respect to late fees, interchange fees or other charges; impacts arising from or relating to the transition of our credit card processing services to third party service providers that we completed in 2022; failures or breaches in our operational or security systems, including as a result of cyberattacks, unanticipated impacts from technology modernization projects or otherwise; and any tax or other liability or adverse impacts arising out of or related to the spinoff of our former LoyaltyOne segment or the bankruptcy filings of Loyalty Ventures Inc. (LVI) and certain of its subsidiaries and subsequent litigation or other disputes. The foregoing factors, along with other risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in forward-looking statements, are described in greater detail under the headings “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the most recently ended fiscal year, which may be updated in Item 1A of, or elsewhere in, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed for periods subsequent to such Form 10-K. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made, and we undertake no obligation, other than as required by applicable law, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events, anticipated or unanticipated circumstances or otherwise.

    Contacts 
    Brian Vereb – Investor Relations 
    Brian.Vereb@BreadFinancial.com  

    Susan Haugen – Investor Relations 
    Susan.Haugen@BreadFinancial.com  

    Rachel Stultz – Media 
    Rachel.Stultz@BreadFinancial.com  

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Xtract One Secures SmartGateway Contract with Global Performing Arts Company Famous for Live Entertainment

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Xtract One Technologies (TSX: XTRA)(OTCQX: XTRAF)(FRA: 0PL) (“Xtract One” or the “Company”) today announced its SmartGateway screening solution has been chosen by a leading, global performing arts company, known for permanent and touring live entertainment, to amplify security for its shows. The initial deployment will support a number of the organization’s touring performances across dozens of venue locations beginning earlier in 2025. Further deployments are in planning for later in 2025 and into 2026.

    Following a thorough evaluation of available solutions and trial period with a single show with SmartGateway, the entertainment organization selected Xtract One for its enhanced weapons detection capabilities, streamlined entrance experience, flexibility and portability to address the dynamic and changing needs of a tour environment, and seamless integration into existing business security protocols. This deployment sets a new benchmark for safety and innovation in the entertainment industry, spanning live shows, multimedia productions, and immersive experiences. It also reinforces Xtract One’s position as a leader in providing outstanding guest experience, operational simplicity and flexibility, and a solution that can deliver against a globally diverse set of security needs.

    “In the world of live entertainment, brand experience is a key priority. These are immersive experiences where the first brand moment occurs at the entry to the venue. Well executed security changes the security guard to the first brand ambassador that a guest encounters, and their first brand experience” said Peter Evans, CEO of Xtract One. “We’re proud to be working with another major player in the entertainment field, delivering next-generation security solutions that meet the demands of large-scale complex events in a myriad of deployment applications. These deployments demonstrate an exciting opportunity to combine our technological expertise with their creative vision, ensuring safe, seamless experiences for all audience members throughout the world.”

    SmartGateway revolutionizes security by delivering fast, reliable, and accurate patron screening for high-throughput venues. This concealed weapons detection solution discreetly scans individuals for weapons and prohibited items upon entry by leveraging AI-powered sensors that detect threats without the need for patrons to remove personal items. The advanced system replaces intimidating and traditional metal detectors to ensure that patron privacy and comfort are not compromised, all while maximizing security screening efforts. The Company’s Multi-Sensor Gateway portfolio has been awarded the U.S. Department of Homeland Security DHS SAFETY Act Designation as a Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology (QATT), highlighting the efficacy of Xtract One’s innovative security solutions in safeguarding public spaces against modern threats.

    To learn more, visit www.xtractone.com.

    About Xtract One
    Xtract One Technologies is a leading technology-driven provider of threat detection and security solutions leveraging AI to deliver seamless and secure experiences. The Company makes unobtrusive weapons and threat detection systems that enable facility operators to prioritize and deliver improved “Walk-right-In” experiences while providing unprecedented safety. Xtract One’s innovative portfolio of AI-powered Gateway solutions excels at allowing facilities to discreetly screen and identify weapons and other threats at points of entry and exit without disrupting the flow of traffic. With solutions built to serve the unique market needs for schools, hospitals, arenas, stadiums, manufacturing, distribution, and other customers, Xtract One is recognized as a market leader delivering the highest security in combination with the best individual experience. For more information, visit www.xtractone.com or connect on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.

    About Threat Detection Systems
    Xtract One solutions, when properly configured, deployed, and utilized, are designed to help enhance safety and reduce threats. Given the wide range of potential threats in today’s world, no threat detection system is 100% effective. Xtract One solutions should be utilized as one element in a multilayered approach to physical security.

    Forward Looking Statements
    This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements that are not historical facts, including without limitation, statements regarding future estimates, plans, programs, forecasts, projections, objectives, assumptions, expectations or beliefs of future performance, are “forward-looking statements”. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “estimates”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, events or developments to be materially different from any future results, events or developments expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risks detailed from time to time in the continuous disclosure filings made by the Company with securities regulations. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risk factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other risk factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements. The Company has no obligation to update any forward looking statement, even if new information becomes available as a result of future events, new information or for any other reason except as required by law.

    For further information, please contact:
    Xtract One Inquiries: info@xtractone.com, http://www.xtractone.com
    Investor Relations: Chris Witty, Darrow Associates, cwitty@darrowir.com, 646-438-9385
    Media Contact: Kristen Aikey, JMG Public Relations, kristen@jmgpr.com, 212-206-1645

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC Celebrates StablR Euro (EURR) Listing with Exclusive Launchpool Event Featuring 85,000 USDT

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, today announced it will launch a special Launchpool event to mark the listing of StablR Euro (EURR), a Euro-backed stablecoin. The event will run from July 24, 11:00 to July 28, 11:00 (UTC) and offers users the opportunity to share an 85,000 USDT prize pool. Participation is open to both new and existing users.

    About StablR Euro (EURR)

    StablR Euro (EURR) represents a significant addition to MEXC’s expanding stablecoin offerings. This Euro-backed digital asset maintains a 1:1 peg with the Euro and is fully redeemable, backed by fiat currency and short-term government bonds. With a total supply of 6,325,084 EURR, the stablecoin serves as a digital alternative to traditional money, offering enhanced efficiency, security, and accessibility for users worldwide.

    The stablecoin addresses multiple use cases including faster cross-border payments, international trade facilitation, and supporting more flexible financial systems. As a reliable store of value and medium of exchange, EURR provides European users and global traders with direct exposure to Euro-denominated digital assets without the volatility typically associated with cryptocurrencies.

    Launchpool Event Highlights

    Event 1: Launchpool – Stake USDT, MX, EURR to Share 70,000 USDT
    Users can stake USDT, MX, or EURR to share 70,000 USDT in rewards. The USDT staking pool, offering the largest 50,000 USDT prize, is exclusively available to new users. Each pool features distinct reward caps and staking limits, giving users flexible ways to participate. Additionally, users staking MX tokens can earn bonus airdrops through MEXC’s Kickstarter events, unlocking double rewards.

    Event 2: Invite New Users & Share 15,000 USDT
    In addition, users can invite friends to join MEXC and earn up to 400 USDT in referral rewards—20 USDT per successful invite, capped at 20 invites per user. Rewards are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Complete event details are available on the MEXC platform.

    MEXC’s User-Centric Commitment

    This event reflects MEXC’s user-centric philosophy and demonstrates its determination to create a convenient and mutually beneficial trading environment for the global community. With rapid listing efficiency, comprehensive selection of over 3,000 digital assets, daily airdrop benefits, industry-leading liquidity, low trading fees, and robust security infrastructure, MEXC has earned the trust of over 40 million users worldwide. In the future, MEXC will continue to uphold its user-centric values while delivering cutting-edge trading solutions and community benefits.

    About MEXC
    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto.” Serving over 40 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, everyday airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
    MEXC Official WebsiteXTelegramHow to Sign Up on MEXC

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/92cdf20d-c8fa-4de9-a88d-c7fd5b975478

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Latest situation of Shek O Beach

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Attention TV/radio announcers:

    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:

    Here is an item of interest to swimmers.

    The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (July 24) that the shark prevention net at Shek O Beach in Southern District, Hong Kong Island, has been repaired, and the beach is reopened.

    The beach was temporarily closed earlier for shark prevention net maintenance work.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Zhejiang Jingkun Art Center (Kun Opera Troupe) to perform classic Kunqu plays and excerpts in Hong Kong in August (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Chinese Culture Festival (CCF) 2025, organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), has invited Zhejiang Jingkun Art Center (Kun Opera Troupe) to present timeless masterpieces in Hong Kong in August, including their signature classic “Fifteen Strings of Cash”, the light-hearted comedy “The Lioness Roars”, and selected opera excerpts showcasing both civil and martial arts. The performances will feature acclaimed artists from the troupe’s Wan and Dai generations, demonstrating the enduring cultural vitality of Kunqu opera through generations of artistic heritage. This programme is also one of the programmes of the 13th Chinese Opera Festival (COF).

      Kunqu opera gained popularity in the Kunshan area of Suzhou during the Yuan and Ming periods. It has been described as “the mother of Chinese operas”, and was listed by UNESCO as one of the “Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity” in 2001. It is renowned for its elegant libretti commended for literary merit and delicate dance movements.

      Details of the three performances are as follows:

    “Fifteen Strings of Cash”
    ———————————————————
    Date and time: August 15 (Friday), 7.30pm

      Departing from Kunqu opera’s typical themes of scholar-beauty romance, “Fifteen Strings of Cash” recounts a mysterious murder case triggered by 15 strings of copper coins. This gripping tale follows Judge Kuang Zhong, who overturns a wrongful conviction and uncovers the true culprit, a cunning trickster named Lou Ashu (Lou the Rat). The excerpt “An Investigation in Disguise” features a masterful interplay between the laosheng (old male) and the chou (comic) roles, representing the pinnacle of operatic artistry. This play was first performed by the troupe’s Chuan-generation artists Zhou Chuanying and Wang Chuansong, and has been passed down through five generations over 70 years. The upcoming performance features Bao Chen and Tian Yang of the Wan generation in the lead, who uphold the legacy with this timeless classic.

    “The Lioness Roars”
    ———————————————————
    Date and time: August 16 (Saturday), 7.30pm

      As one of the rare light comedies in Kunqu opera, “The Lioness Roars” retains the elegance of Kunqu’s lyrical singing while infusing the scholar-beauty romance with a touch of mundane charm, making it a staple of the Kunqu repertoire. The play follows the story of Chen Jichang, a talented scholar who appears timid but deeply devoted to his wife Madam Liu (the Lioness of Hedong). She is portrayed as dominating and prideful, but never to the extent of being objectionable. Chen’s friend Su Dongpo tries to mediate but only adds fuel to their quarrels. Through the couple’s everyday squabbles, the play highlights the importance of family harmony. The play is one of the signature works of Kunqu master Wang Shiyu. Now, the troupe’s star duo Zeng Jie and Hu Ping of the Wan generation take on the roles of this quarrelsome yet loving couple, promising a performance of exceptional artistry.

    Traditional Opera Excerpts
    ———————————————————
    Date and time: August 17 (Sunday), 2.30pm

      The finale will present five opera excerpts drawn from classic masterpieces of Kunqu opera featuring “The Celestial Place” from “The Dream of Nanke” (one of Tang Xianzu’s “The Four Dreams at Linchuan” of Ming dynasty); “Cancelling the Birthday Celebrations” from the zaju play “The Pavilion of Chanting in the Wind” of Qing dynasty; “Rendezvous at the Pavilion” from the chuanqi “Red Pear Blossom” of Ming dynasty; “Entrusting His Son” from “The Beauty Washing Silk by the River”, the earliest chuanqi in Kunqu; and the spectacular martial piece “Fighting on the Water” from “Leifeng Pagoda”. This programme combines both civil and martial pieces, with the troupe’s outstanding actors demonstrating their exceptional artistry, which makes the performance a must-see for opera enthusiasts.

      Zhejiang Jingkun Art Center (Kun Opera Troupe) was established in 2019 through the merger of Zhejiang Kunqu Opera Troupe and Zhejiang Peking Opera Troupe. The Zhejiang Kunqu Opera Troupe, founded in 1956, brought Kunqu opera back into the national spotlight when it adapted the traditional play “Dream of Two Bears” into “Fifteen Strings of Cash”. This production became a landmark in Chinese opera reform, with People’s Daily publishing an editorial, hailing it as “a single play that revived an entire genre”. The success spurred the establishment of Kunqu troupes across China. Over the years, the troupe has nurtured outstanding talents, maintaining a lineage of six generations of performers, namely Chuan, Shi, Sheng, Xiu, Wan and Dai. It has also produced numerous award-winning works, earning widespread recognition.

      The three performances will be held at the Auditorium of Ko Shan Theatre New Wing. Lyrics and dialogue are with Chinese and English surtitles. Tickets priced at $250, $350 and $450 are now available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). For telephone bookings, please call 3166 1288. Group booking discounts and package booking discounts are available for purchasing selected CCF stage programmes, the “Chinese Opera Film Shows” of the COF 2025 and the “Legacy and Vision: Conversations with Chinese Cultural Masters” lecture. For programme enquiries and concessionary schemes, please call 2268 7325 or visit www.ccf.gov.hk/en/programme/zhejiang-jingkun-art-center-kun-opera-troupe.

      The programme will also feature two Kunqu opera masterclasses (in Putonghua), with actors Hu Ping and Zeng Jie to share the crafting of Dan (female) roles and Sheng (male) roles in Kunqu respectively. The two sessions will be held at 2pm and 4pm on August 14 (Thursday) at AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre. In addition, a meet-the-artists session entitled “Six Generations of Kunqu Performers: The Sustaining Growth of the Zhejiang Kunqu Opera Troupe” (in Putonghua and Cantonese) will be held at 7.30pm on the same day at the same venue. The speakers include Gu Jiong, Bao Chen, Zeng Jie, Hu Ping and Tian Yang, while Chinese opera researcher Chan Chun-miu will be the moderator. Additionally, a demonstration talk entitled “Kunqu Classics as a Living Tradition” (in Putonghua) will be held at 5pm on August 18 (Monday) at the Theatre, Block I, Jao Tsung-I Academy. The speakers include actors Wu Xinyi and Wang Hengtao. Admission is free. Since the quotas for online registration are full, those who are interested may wait at the venue’s entrance for a standby quota on the day of the session. Any unclaimed spots will be released 10 minutes after the session begins on a first-come, first-served basis.

      The CCF, presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and organised by the Chinese Culture Promotion Office under the LCSD, aims to promote Chinese culture and enhance the public’s national identity and cultural confidence. It also aims to attract top-notch artists and arts groups from the Mainland and other parts of the world for exchanges in Chinese arts and culture. The CCF 2025 is held from June to September. Through different performing arts programmes in various forms and related extension activities, including selected programmes of the COF, “Tan Dun WE-Festival”, film screenings, exhibitions, as well as community and school activities and more, the festival provides members of the public and visitors with more opportunities to enjoy distinctive programmes that showcase fine traditional Chinese culture, thereby facilitating patriotic education and contributing to the inheritance, transformation and development of traditional Chinese culture in Hong Kong. For more information about programmes and activities of the CCF 2025, please visit www.ccf.gov.hk.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI: SALTGATOR Debuts Desktop Soft-Gel Injection Machine on Kickstarter — A Game-Changer for Makers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DICKINSON, Texas, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SALTGATOR Tech Inc., an Dickinson-based startup dedicated to accessible fabrication tools, is proud to announce the launch of its Kickstarter campaign for the SALTGATOR — the world’s first desktop soft-gel injection molding machine. Compact, safe, and remarkably versatile, SALTGATOR puts industrial-grade molding capabilities into the hands of everyday creators.

    Designed for desktops, workshops, or classrooms, the SALTGATOR measures just 13×6×5.5 inches and supports precise heating up to 410°F (210°C). Fully enclosed and insulated, it safely processes up to 4 fl oz of softgel material, enabling users to create custom items like dual-tone fishing lures, silicone grips, cosplay props, keyboard caps, and squishy toys — all within minutes.

    “We believe manufacturing tools belong on every creator’s desk,” said a SALTGATOR spokesperson. “Our goal is to empower the next generation of inventors with professional molding capabilities — without the cost, complexity, or hazards of traditional industrial equipment.”

    Key Benefits:
    – Compact and Powerful – Industrial-level injection molding in a desktop-sized device
    – Multi-Material Support – Compatible with thermoplastic elastomers and 3D-printed molds (PLA, PETG, resin)
    – Eco-Friendly & Reusable – Remelt and reuse materials to reduce waste and cost
    – No Hidden Costs – No subscriptions, no proprietary cartridges — just refill and go
    – Beginner-Friendly Interface – Simple control panel, auto shut-off, and fume-free operation for total peace of mind

    Kickstarter Details
    The SALTGATOR Kickstarter campaign offers early-bird specials starting at $249, a full $150 discount from the projected $399 retail price. Reward tiers include starter mold sets, custom color options, and extended warranties. Shipping is expected 1 months after campaign completion.

    Backers can explore hands-on video demos, real-world use cases, and expert reviews on the campaign page, showcasing how SALTGATOR bridges the gap between creative ideas and real, tangible products. Whether you’re an educator, DIY enthusiast, or small-batch producer, SALTGATOR makes desktop-scale molding more approachable than ever before.

    “As more creators demand agile, on-demand fabrication solutions, SALTGATOR brings those capabilities home,” added the spokesperson. “We’re here to unlock creativity with tools that are powerful, safe, and surprisingly fun to use.”

    About SALTGATOR Tech Inc.
    Founded in 2025 in Dickinson, Texas, SALTGATOR Tech Inc. develops compact, efficient, and user-friendly fabrication tools for innovators of all levels. With a focus on safety, simplicity, and creativity, SALTGATOR’s mission is to make advanced production technologies — like soft-gel injection molding — accessible to makers, educators, and entrepreneurs around the world.

    For media inquiries and sample requests:
    SALTGATOR Tech Inc. Press Office

    https://www.SALTGATOR.com

    https://discord.com/invite/93EydfRVUD

    https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1613155563/saltgator-the-1st-desktop-softgel-injection-molding-machine?ref=7c79id

    Email: hello@saltgator.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by SALTGATOR Tech Inc.. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information shared in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment, financial, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended that you conduct thorough research and consult with a professional financial advisor before making any investment or trading decisions. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/23c3bfca-ea72-4a57-a061-6966b5ca0bdb

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c83b5167-eaa7-46c1-8881-6640aeb2d939

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5b7577e2-d171-441f-9c06-912ed41dfafb

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget’s July Proof-of-Reserves Report Shows 45% Increase in User Holdings for Bitcoin (BTC)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has released its latest Proof-of-Reserves (PoR) data reveals a sharp increase in user-held Bitcoin, with BTC balances surging over 45% month-on-month in July. This marks the strongest growth across all major assets tracked on the platform.

    According to the PoR public figures published, BTC held by users grew from 6,594 BTC in June to 9,531 BTC in July. USDT holdings also experienced a notable increase of 21%, climbing from approximately 1.61 billion to nearly 1.95 billion. ETH balances rose by 31% month-on-month, from 148,754 ETH to 195,466 ETH, while USDC holdings grew by 14%.

    The substantial surge in user asset holdings follows ongoing efforts across the industry to promote transparent reserve practices. Bitget continues to publish real-time reserve data via Merkle Tree infrastructure and open-source verification tools. As of July 23, the platform maintains a reserve ratio of over 200% across major assets, double the industry benchmark of 100%.

    “This increase in on-platform user assets, especially Bitcoin, shows a bit of the broader trend in user behavior, where traders and institutions increasingly may favor exchanges that allow independent asset verification,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget. “Our priority will always be to keep maintaining Bitget as one of the largest most secure platforms for crypto trading,” she added.

    The POR growth in July also corresponds with improved market sentiment and heightened institutional interest in digital assets, particularly following the recent price stabilization of Bitcoin above the $110,000 threshold.

    Bitget’s PoR methodology includes monthly snapshots and daily updates of asset balances, matched against liabilities through publicly auditable cryptographic proofs. The platform’s reserve transparency continues to be a key differentiator as global regulators intensify demands for accountability from centralized exchanges.

    For July, all reserve figures exceed the 100% mark across BTC, ETH, USDT, and USDC, and the exchange remains one of the few top-tier platforms to continuously publish real-time snapshots for user review. This consistent transparency is increasingly valued by both retail and institutional users seeking safeguards against mismanagement or opaque balance sheet practices.

    To know more about Proof of Reserves, please visit here.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform.

    Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. In the world of motorsports, Bitget is the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange partner of MotoGP™, one of the world’s most thrilling championships.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ab79b77e-18ca-440d-b88b-dd1a69aec32e

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Beam Global Reports 21% ESS Revenue Growth and $2M Order from Major Customer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Beam Global, (Nasdaq: BEEM), a leading provider of innovative and sustainable infrastructure solutions for the electrification of transportation and energy security, today announced a 21% increase in energy storage solutions (ESS) revenue in the first half of 2025 vs. 2024. Additionally, a purchase order was received from one of its largest ESS customers, for approximately $2 million, scheduled to be recognized as revenue by the end of 2025. The surge reflects Beam Global’s growing role as a trusted ESS supplier for mission-critical energy storage applications and the Company views repeat customers purchasing in increasing volumes as a strong validation of the reliability of its products.

    Beam Global’s ESS business is experiencing material growth, driven by repeat orders from existing customers and the addition of three major new clients, including a Fortune 500 automotive company. The Company believes this continued momentum reflects both the strong loyalty of its current customer base and growing global demand for scalable and safe ESS solutions. Beam’s bespoke designs, superior safety and smart battery management system (BMS) continue to differentiate the Company from its peers.

    “Our efforts to diversify our revenue opportunities continue to pay off,” said Desmond Wheatley, CEO of Beam Global. “Our energy storage group provides the expertise and bespoke products that we need to continue to make Beam Global products better and less expensive to produce. Simultaneously, we are growing external sales of this expertise and these products. These activities, along with our growth into Europe and now the Middle East, as well as our expanded product portfolio, are positioning us for diverse revenue and profit generation. The electrification of transportation will continue to be a global growth engine for many years to come but Beam Global is about much more than that with our energy security and storage business and our increasing presence in smart cities infrastructure. Each of these businesses support each other and offer opportunities for cross selling. Our long-term growth strategy is working.”

    Beam AllCell™ energy storage solutions use patented PCC™ technology that enables more power in a smaller, lighter battery. The advanced thermal management capabilities of PCC™ technology also mitigate thermal runaway propagation, delivering superior safety and the ability to operate efficiently in hot and cold environments. The ESS market is projected to grow from $7.8 billion in 2024 to $25.6 billion in 2029, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 26.9%.

    About Beam Global
    Beam Global is a clean technology innovator which develops and manufactures sustainable infrastructure products and technologies. We operate at the nexus of clean energy and transportation with a focus on sustainable energy infrastructure, rapidly deployed and scalable EV charging solutions, safe energy storage and vital energy security. With operations in the U.S., Europe and the Middle East, Beam Global develops, patents, designs, engineers and manufactures unique and advanced clean technology solutions that power transportation, provide secure sources of electricity, save time and money and protect the environment. Beam Global is headquartered in San Diego, CA with facilities in Broadview, IL and Belgrade and Kraljevo, Serbia. Beam Global is listed on Nasdaq under the symbol BEEM. For more information visit, BeamForAll.comLinkedInYouTube, Instagram and X.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This Beam Global Press Release may contain forward-looking statements. All statements in this Press Release other than statements of historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are generally accompanied by terms or phrases such as “estimate,” “project,” “predict,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “target,” “plan,” “intend,” “seek,” “goal,” “will,” “should,” “may,” or other words and similar expressions that convey the uncertainty of future events or results. These statements relate to future events or future results of operations. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause Beam Global’s actual results to be materially different from these forward-looking statements. Except to the extent required by law, Beam Global expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

    Media Contact
    Lisa Potok
    +1 858-327-9123
    Press@BeamForAll.com

    Investor Relations
    Luke Higgins
    +1 858-261-7646
    IR@BeamForAll.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: FirstCash Reports Record Second Quarter Operating Results; Strong Performance Across All Segments Drives Over 30% Year-to-Date EPS Growth; Increases Quarterly Cash Dividend 11%

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORT WORTH, Texas, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FirstCash Holdings, Inc. (“FirstCash” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: FCFS), the leading international operator of more than 3,000 retail pawn stores and a leading provider of retail point-of-sale payment solutions, today announced operating results for the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2025. The Company also announced that the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.42 per share, an increase of 11% over the previous quarterly dividend, which will be paid in August 2025.

    Mr. Rick Wessel, chief executive officer, stated, “FirstCash is pleased to report outstanding earnings results for the second quarter and year-to-date periods. Pawn demand remains extremely robust, with local currency same-store pawn receivables up 13% in both the U.S. and Latin America, driving strong earnings growth for both segments. AFF posted growth in originations for the second quarter and a segment earnings increase of 46% versus last year. Driven by strong cash flows, the Board of Directors increased the quarterly cash dividend by 11%, which further reflects the strength of our business and long-term earnings prospects.”

    Additionally, the Company expects to complete its previously announced acquisition of H&T Group plc (“H&T”) by the end of the third quarter of 2025, subject to receipt of the required approvals by the Financial Conduct Authority of the United Kingdom (“FCA”) and satisfaction of the other remaining closing conditions. H&T is the largest pawnbroker in the U.K. with 285 locations and would represent FirstCash’s first operations in Europe.

    This release contains adjusted financial measures, which exclude certain non-operating and/or non-cash income and expenses, that are non-GAAP financial measures. Please refer to the descriptions and reconciliations to GAAP of these and other non-GAAP financial measures at the end of this release.

        Three Months Ended June 30,
        As Reported (GAAP)   Adjusted (Non-GAAP)
    In thousands, except per share amounts   2025   2024   2025   2024
    Revenue   $ 830,622   $ 831,012   $ 830,622   $ 831,012
    Net income   $ 59,805   $ 49,073   $ 79,620   $ 61,898
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 1.34   $ 1.08   $ 1.79   $ 1.37
    EBITDA (non-GAAP measure)   $ 132,753   $ 117,651   $ 145,129   $ 121,882
    Weighted-average diluted shares     44,552     45,289     44,552     45,289
        Six Months Ended June 30,
        As Reported (GAAP)   Adjusted (Non-GAAP)
    In thousands, except per share amounts   2025   2024   2025   2024
    Revenue   $ 1,667,045   $ 1,667,382   $ 1,667,045   $ 1,667,382
    Net income   $ 143,396   $ 110,441   $ 172,399   $ 132,087
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 3.21   $ 2.44   $ 3.86   $ 2.91
    EBITDA (non-GAAP measure)   $ 295,714   $ 250,238   $ 308,009   $ 253,474
    Weighted-average diluted shares     44,670     45,338     44,670     45,338
     

    Consolidated Operating Highlights

    • Diluted earnings per share for the second quarter increased 24% over the prior-year quarter on a GAAP basis while adjusted diluted earnings per share increased 31% compared to the prior-year quarter.
    • Year-to-date diluted earnings per share increased 32% over the prior-year period on a GAAP basis and adjusted diluted earnings per share increased 33% compared to the prior-year period.
    • Net income for the second quarter increased 22% over the prior-year quarter on a GAAP basis while adjusted net income increased 29% compared to the prior-year quarter.
    • Year-to-date net income increased 30% over the prior-year period on a GAAP basis and adjusted net income increased 31% compared to the prior-year period.
    • Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter increased 19% compared to the prior-year quarter. On a year-to-date basis, adjusted EBITDA increased 22% compared to the comparative prior-year period.
    • For the trailing twelve month period ended June 30, 2025 the Company reported:
      • Revenues of $3.4 billion
      • Net income of $292 million on a GAAP basis and adjusted net income of $343 million
      • Adjusted EBITDA of $613 million
      • Operating cash flows of $555 million and adjusted free cash flows (a non-GAAP measure) of $267 million

    Store Base and Platform Growth

    • U.K. Pawn Acquisition Update
      • On July 2, 2025 the shareholders of H&T voted to approve the acquisition.
      • Pending approvals by the FCA and the satisfaction of other closing conditions, the Company expects the transaction to close by the end of the third quarter.
      • The total equity value for the H&T acquisition is approximately £291 million ($396 million USD using GBP/USD exchange rate of 1.36) which the Company intends to fund utilizing its revolving bank credit facility.
      • This combination of FirstCash and H&T will create the largest publicly traded pawn platform in the United States, Latin America and the United Kingdom with more than 3,300 total locations.
    • Other Pawn Store Additions
      • A total of 13 pawn locations were added in the second quarter and 25 stores added year-to-date.
      • Three U.S. stores were acquired in Illinois, bringing the total to 39 locations in that market. Additionally, one new location in Texas was opened during the second quarter. Year-to-date through June 30, 2025, a total of six new locations were opened or acquired in the U.S.
      • There were nine new store openings in Latin America, all of which are located in Mexico. Year-to-date through June 30, 2025, a total of 19 new locations were opened in Latin America.
      • The Company purchased the underlying real estate of 14 U.S. stores during the quarter, bringing the total number of company owned locations to 421 at quarter end.
      • As of June 30, 2025, the Company had 3,027 locations, comprised of 1,194 U.S. locations and 1,833 locations in Latin America. Additionally, two U.S. stores were acquired in July 2025 in separate transactions.
    • Retail POS Payment Solutions (AFF) Merchant Partnerships
      • At June 30, 2025, there were approximately 15,300 active retail and e-commerce merchant partner locations, representing a 19% increase in the number of active merchant locations compared to a year ago. Excluding furniture locations that closed in the prior year due to merchant partner bankruptcies, the number of active doors increased 29%.

    U.S. Pawn Segment Operating Results

    • Segment pre-tax operating income in the second quarter of 2025 was a record $98 million, an increase of $8 million, or 8%, compared to the prior-year quarter. The resulting segment pre-tax operating margin was 24% for the second quarter of 2025, which equaled the prior-year quarter.
    • Year-to-date segment pre-tax operating income increased by $24 million, or 13%, compared to the prior-year period. The pre-tax operating margin was 25% for the year-to-date period, which equaled the prior-year period.
    • Pawn receivables increased 12% in total at June 30, 2025 compared to the prior year, driven by an impressive 13% increase in same-store pawn receivables. On a two-year stacked basis, same-store pawn receivables were up 24%.
    • Pawn loan fees increased 9% for the second quarter both in total and on a same-store basis.
    • Retail merchandise sales increased 9% in the second quarter of 2025 compared to the prior-year quarter, while same-store retail sales increased 7% compared to the prior-year quarter.
    • Retail sales margins increased to 43% for the second quarter compared to 42% in the prior-year quarter. Annualized inventory turnover was 2.8 times for the trailing twelve months ended June 30, 2025, which equaled the inventory turnover during the same prior-year period. Inventories aged greater than one year at June 30, 2025 remained low at 2% of total inventories.

    Latin America Pawn Segment Operating Results

    Note: Certain growth rates below are calculated on a constant or local currency basis, a non-GAAP financial measure defined at the end of this release. The average Mexican peso to U.S. dollar exchange rate for the second quarter of 2025 was 19.5 pesos / dollar, an unfavorable change of 13% versus the comparable prior-year period, and for the six month period ended June 30, 2025 was 20.0 pesos / dollar, an unfavorable change of 17% versus the prior-year period.

    • Despite the 13% decrease in the average Mexican peso exchange rate, second quarter segment pre-tax operating income increased 10% on a U.S. dollar basis and totaled a record $41 million compared to last year. On a local currency basis, segment earnings increased 22% over last year, with resulting segment pre-tax operating margins of 20% for both measures, compared to 18% in the prior year.
    • Year-to-date segment pre-tax operating income totaled $72 million, a 5% increase on a U.S. dollar-basis compared to the prior-year period and an 18% increase on a local currency basis. The year-to-date pre-tax operating margin increased to 19% compared to 17% in the prior-year period.
    • Pawn receivables at June 30, 2025 increased 11% on a U.S. dollar basis while increasing 14% on a constant currency basis compared to the prior year. On a same-store basis, pawn receivables increased 10% on a U.S. dollar basis and increased 13% on a constant currency basis compared to the prior year.
    • While total and same-store pawn loan fees in the second quarter decreased 1% and 2% on a U.S. dollar-basis, respectively, they both increased 11% on a constant currency basis compared to the prior-year quarter.
    • Retail merchandise sales in the second quarter of 2025 increased 1% on a U.S. dollar-basis compared to the prior-year quarter while increasing 14% on a constant currency basis. On a same-store basis, second quarter retail merchandise sales were flat on a U.S. dollar basis while increasing 13% on a constant currency basis compared to the prior-year quarter.
    • Retail margins were 36% for the second quarter of 2025, which equaled the prior-year quarter. Annualized inventory turnover was 4.1 times for the trailing twelve months ended June 30, 2025 compared to 4.3 times in the prior-year period. Inventories aged greater than one year at June 30, 2025 remained extremely low at 1%.

    American First Finance (AFF) – Retail POS Payment Solutions Segment Operating Results

    • Second quarter segment pre-tax operating income totaled $38 million, an increase of 46% compared to the prior-year quarter. The growth in earnings was driven primarily by gross margin improvement and operating expense reductions. Year-to-date segment pre-tax operating income totaled $90 million, a 53% increase over the prior-year period which was $59 million.
    • While gross revenues for the second quarter decreased 14%, primarily due to the American Freight Warehouse (“A-Freight”) and Conn’s Home Plus (“Conn’s”) bankruptcies in late 2024, net revenue increased 2%, driven by growth in revenue from other merchant partners and lower net credit provisioning expenses.
    • Gross transaction volume of lease and loan originations during the second quarter increased 3%, compared to the second quarter of last year. Excluding 2024 originations from A-Freight and Conn’s, second quarter 2025 origination volume increased approximately 34%. For the year-to-date period, overall gross transaction volume decreased 2% over the same prior-year period and was up 29% excluding A-Freight and Conn’s.
    • As a percentage of the total gross transaction volume, the combined lease and loan loss provision expense was 29% for the second quarter of 2025 compared to 31% in the second quarter of 2024. The decrease reflected lower than expected charge-offs on older portfolio vintages which resulted in net reserve releases. The combined allowance as a percentage of combined leased merchandise and finance receivables at June 30, 2025 was 43% compared to 45% a year ago.
    • Operating expenses decreased 31% compared to the prior-year quarter, primarily due to the elimination of certain expenses associated with supporting the A-Freight and Conn’s relationships in the prior-year period along with continued realization of operating synergies, including greater efficiencies in technology and development infrastructure, coupled with other cost reduction initiatives.

    Cash Flow and Liquidity

    • Consolidated operating cash flows for the twelve month period ended June 30, 2025 grew 26% and totaled $555 million compared to $439 million in the same prior-year period, with significant contributions from each of the Company’s three business segments.
    • Adjusted free cash flows increased 21% to $267 million in the twelve month period ended June 30, 2025 compared to $220 million in the same prior-year period.
    • The operating cash flows helped fund significant growth in earning assets, continued investments in the pawn store platform and shareholder returns over the past twelve months with a nominal increase in net debt:
      • Pawn earning assets (pawn receivables and inventories) increased $99 million compared to last year.
      • A total of 15 pawn stores were acquired for a combined purchase price of $44 million.
      • 42 new pawn stores were added with a combined investment of $16 million in fixed assets and working capital.
      • Real estate purchases totaled $93 million as the Company purchased the underlying real estate at 60 of its existing pawn stores, bringing the number of Company-owned properties to 421 locations.
      • Shareholder returns comprised of stock repurchases and cash dividends of $127 million.
    • Net debt at June 30, 2025 was $1.6 billion, of which $1.5 billion is fixed rate debt with favorable interest rates ranging from 4.625% to 6.875% and maturity dates that do not begin until 2028 and continue into 2032. The outstanding balance under the Company’s $700 million revolving line of credit totaled $152 million at June 30, 2025.
    • Based on trailing twelve month results, the Company’s net debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio improved to 2.6x at June 30, 2025.

    Shareholder Returns

    • The Board of Directors declared a $0.42 per share third quarter cash dividend, which will be paid on August 29, 2025 to stockholders of record as of August 15, 2025. This represents an 11% increase over the previous quarterly dividend.
    • On an annualized basis, the dividend is now $1.68 per share, also representing an 11% increase over the previous annualized dividend of $1.52 per share. Any future dividends are subject to approval by the Company’s Board of Directors.
    • Over the past twelve months, the Company has repurchased 525,000 shares of common stock at a total cost of $60 million and paid out $68 million in cash dividends, representing a payout ratio of approximately 44% of net income over the same period.
    • The Company has $55 million available under the $200 million share repurchase program authorized in July 2023. Future share repurchases are subject to expected liquidity, acquisitions and other investment opportunities, debt covenant restrictions, market conditions and other relevant factors.
    • The Company generated a 14% return on equity and a 7% return on assets for the twelve months ended June 30, 2025. Using adjusted net income for the twelve months ended June 30, 2025, the adjusted return on equity was 17% while the adjusted return on assets was 8%.

    2025 Outlook

    Driven by the strong first half results and continuing customer demand for pawn loans, the outlook for 2025 remains highly positive, with expected year-over-year growth in income driven by the continued growth in earning asset balances coupled with store additions. While the H&T acquisition is now anticipated to close by the end of the third quarter of 2025, the estimates provided below do not yet include revenue and contributions from H&T. Anticipated conditions and trends for the remainder of 2025 include the following:

    Pawn Operations:

    • Pawn operations are expected to remain the primary earnings driver in 2025 as the Company expects segment income from the combined U.S. and Latin America pawn segments to be over 80% of total segment level pre-tax income for the full year.
    • The Company expects further growth in the pawn store base in 2025 through a combination of new store openings and potential small acquisitions.

    U.S. Pawn

    • Based on strong first half results and expected store additions, the outlook for anticipated revenue growth and margins has been increased for all metrics.
    • Same-store pawn loans at June 30, 2025 were up 13% compared to a year ago, with July balances to date up similarly. Given these trends, the outlook for pawn fee growth is now expected to be in a range of 10% to 12% for the full year versus the prior expectation of 9% to 11% for the full year.
    • Retail sales are expected to grow in a high single digit range in 2025 versus prior expectations of mid single digits. Retail sales margins are now targeted at the upper end of the 41% to 42% guidance range.

    Latin America Pawn

    • U.S. dollar-reported first half results for Latin America in 2025 were negatively impacted by the lower exchange rate for the Mexican peso during the first half of this year compared to last year. With the recent favorable movement in the peso and the better than expected growth in the underlying business, the Company is increasing its full year revenue outlook for the Latin America pawn segment.
    • Same-store pawn receivables at June 30, 2025 were up 10% on a U.S. dollar basis and up 13% on a constant currency basis, with July balances to date up similarly. Full year pawn fee growth is now expected to increase in a range of 10% to 12% on a local currency basis and is now projected to be flat to up slightly on a U.S. dollar basis versus prior expectations of flat to down slightly on a U.S. dollar basis.
    • Retail sales in Latin America are also expected to track similarly to pawn fees in 2025 with consistent retail margins.

    Retail POS Payment Solutions (AFF) Operations:

    • The forecast for full year origination volume for 2025 is expected to be relatively consistent with the 2024 volume. Excluding 2024 originations from Conn’s and A-Freight, origination volumes are expected to increase in a range of 20% to 25% over 2024, reflecting continued diversification outside the furniture vertical.
    • The outlook for full year net revenues has improved, with the revised forecast for net revenues now expected to decline only 6% to 8% compared to last year versus the previously forecasted decline of 8% to 12%.
    • The net lease and loan charge-off rates for the second half of 2025 are expected to remain consistent with the charge-off rates in the second half of last year. Quarterly operating expenses for the balance of 2025 are expected to remain generally consistent with the second quarter run rate.

    Tax Rates and Currency:

    • The full year 2025 effective income tax rate under current tax codes in the U.S. and Latin America is expected to range from 24.5% to 25.5%.
    • Each full point change in the exchange rate of the Mexican peso is projected to have an annual earnings impact of approximately $0.10 per share.

    Additional Commentary and Analysis

    Mr. Wessel further commented on FirstCash’s second quarter results and the outlook for the remainder of 2025, “Operating performance across all business segments continues to be incredibly strong, driving year-to-date earnings per share growth of 32% on a GAAP basis and a 33% increase on an adjusted basis. FirstCash also achieved another significant earnings milestone this quarter with adjusted EBITDA for the trailing twelve months exceeding $600 million for the first time in Company history.

    “The U.S. pawn segment has now recorded eight consecutive quarters of double-digit growth in same-store receivables with continuing demand remaining strong thus far in July. At the same time, we remain disciplined in managing loan-to-value ratios as evidenced by the improved U.S. retail margins in the second quarter. The demand for value priced merchandise remains strong as well with same-store retail sales up 7% for the most recent quarter.

    “In Latin America, we have seen tremendous growth in pawn receivables over the last three quarters, including a 13% increase in same-store pawn receivables in the second quarter. This trend continued to accelerate, with same-store pawn loan originations in Mexico up over 20% over the last thirty days. Our outlook for Latin America is further enhanced by the improved exchange rate for the Mexican peso since the last quarter, which has reduced the previously anticipated currency headwinds and improved our full year outlook for the region.

    “Solid performance at AFF further bolstered second quarter and year-to-date operating results for our Retail POS Payment Solutions segment. AFF now has over 15,000 active doors, an increase of 19% over a year ago. Coupled with a 12% increase in same-door originations, AFF fully offset the impact of the loss of two significant merchant partners to bankruptcy last year and realized an overall total increase in originations in the second quarter. Growth continues to be particularly robust in verticals such as elective medical and automotive services. Driven by the solid revenue performance and significant expense savings, profitability for AFF has been especially strong in the first half of the year.

    “Looking ahead, we continue to progress toward the closing of the H&T acquisition. H&T represents a highly complementary strategic fit as the U.K.’s largest pawnbroker, operating with a network of 285 stores, which will expand FirstCash’s geographic footprint into a new and attractive market further providing the Company with enhanced scale, operating efficiencies and long-term growth opportunities. We continue to believe in the financial and strategic rationale for expanding our international operations as part of our long-term growth strategy.

    “Lastly, based on strong earnings results, robust operating cash flows and the strength of its balance sheet, FirstCash continues to make significant investments in new stores, acquisitions and shareholder returns. To that end, we are again pleased to announce an increased quarterly cash dividend to be paid in August which is expected to provide an annualized payout of $1.68 per share further augmenting shareholder returns” concluded Mr. Wessel.

    About FirstCash

    FirstCash is the leading international operator of pawn stores focused on serving cash and credit-constrained consumers. FirstCash’s more than 3,000 pawn stores in the U.S. and Latin America buy and sell a wide variety of jewelry, electronics, tools, appliances, sporting goods, musical instruments and other merchandise, and make small non-recourse pawn loans secured by pledged personal property. FirstCash’s pawn segments in the U.S. and Latin America currently account for approximately 80% of annualized segment earnings, with the remainder provided by its wholly owned subsidiary, AFF, which provides lease-to-own and retail finance payment solutions for consumer goods and services.

    FirstCash is a component company in both the Standard & Poor’s MidCap 400 Index® and the Russell 2000 Index®. FirstCash’s common stock (ticker symbol “FCFS”) is traded on the Nasdaq, the creator of the world’s first electronic stock market. For additional information regarding FirstCash and the services it provides, visit FirstCash’s websites located at http://www.firstcash.com and http://www.americanfirstfinance.com.

    Forward-Looking Information

    This release contains forward-looking statements about the business, financial condition, outlook and prospects of FirstCash Holdings, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries (together, the “Company”), including the Company’s outlook for 2025 and the Company’s previously announced H&T acquisition. Forward-looking statements, as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “outlook,” “believes,” “projects,” “expects,” “may,” “estimates,” “should,” “plans,” “targets,” “intends,” “could,” “would,” “anticipates,” “potential,” “confident,” “optimistic,” or the negative thereof, or other variations thereon, or comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy, objectives, estimates, guidance, expectations, outlook and future plans. Forward-looking statements can also be identified by the fact these statements do not relate strictly to historical or current matters. Rather, forward-looking statements relate to anticipated or expected events, activities, trends or results. Because forward-looking statements relate to matters that have not yet occurred, these statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties.

    While the Company believes the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurances such expectations will prove to be accurate. Security holders are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Certain factors may cause results to differ materially from those anticipated by the forward-looking statements made in this release. Such factors and risks may include, without limitation, risks related to the extensive regulatory environment in which the Company operates, including uncertainty involving the current regulatory environment under the current presidential administration; risks associated with the legal and regulatory proceedings that the Company is a party to or may become a party to in the future; risks related to the Company’s acquisitions, including the failure of the Company’s acquisitions to deliver the estimated value and benefits expected by the Company and the ability of the Company to continue to identify and consummate acquisitions on favorable terms, if at all; risks related to the H&T acquisition, in particular, the ability to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals for the H&T acquisition from the FCA and to satisfy the other closing conditions in the expected timeframe, if at all, and the ability to achieve the anticipated benefits from the H&T acquisition; potential changes in consumer behavior and shopping patterns which could impact demand for the Company’s pawn loan, retail, lease-to-own (“LTO”) and retail finance products; labor shortages and increased labor costs; a deterioration in the economic conditions in the United States and Latin America, including as a result of inflation, elevated interest rates and trade policy, which potentially could have an impact on discretionary consumer spending and demand for the Company’s products; currency fluctuations, primarily involving the Mexican peso; competition the Company faces from other retailers and providers of retail payment solutions; the ability of the Company to successfully execute on its business strategies; contraction in sales activity at merchant partners of the Company’s retail point-of-sale (“POS”) payment solutions business; impact of store closures, financial difficulties or even bankruptcies at the merchant partners of the Company’s retail POS payment solutions business; the ability of the Company’s retail POS payment solutions business to continue to grow its base of merchant partners, including those outside of the furniture vertical; and other risks discussed and described in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the risks described in Part 1, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” thereof, and other reports filed with the SEC. Many of these risks and uncertainties are beyond the ability of the Company to control, nor can the Company predict, in many cases, all of the risks and uncertainties that could cause its actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this release speak only as of the date of this release, and the Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to report any updates or revisions to any such statement to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law.

    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
    (unaudited, in thousands)
     
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
      June 30,   June 30,
        2025       2024       2025       2024  
    Revenue:              
    Retail merchandise sales $ 385,125     $ 363,463     $ 756,181     $ 730,284  
    Pawn loan fees   190,822       181,046       382,693       360,581  
    Leased merchandise income   139,784       194,570       296,702       400,241  
    Interest and fees on finance receivables   76,075       56,799       149,488       114,186  
    Wholesale scrap jewelry sales   38,816       35,134       81,981       62,090  
    Total revenue   830,622       831,012       1,667,045       1,667,382  
                   
    Cost of revenue:              
    Cost of retail merchandise sold   230,326       218,147       454,450       441,676  
    Depreciation of leased merchandise   78,272       110,157       167,091       230,441  
    Provision for lease losses   32,543       47,653       60,105       90,663  
    Provision for loan losses   41,761       31,116       78,121       61,534  
    Cost of wholesale scrap jewelry sold   34,904       28,542       70,259       51,831  
    Total cost of revenue   417,806       435,615       830,026       876,145  
                   
    Net revenue   412,816       395,397       837,019       791,237  
                   
    Expenses and other income:              
    Operating expenses   222,493       228,369       437,079       449,505  
    Administrative expenses   59,263       46,602       107,786       90,620  
    Depreciation and amortization   25,864       26,547       51,366       52,574  
    Interest expense   26,337       25,187       53,808       50,605  
    Interest income   (527 )     (261 )     (1,756 )     (1,004 )
    (Gain) loss on foreign exchange   (1,271 )     1,437       (1,285 )     1,251  
    Merger and acquisition expenses   2,777       1,364       3,239       1,961  
    Other income, net   (3,199 )     (26 )     (5,514 )     (2,338 )
    Total expenses and other income   331,737       329,219       644,723       643,174  
                   
    Income before income taxes   81,079       66,178       192,296       148,063  
                   
    Provision for income taxes   21,274       17,105       48,900       37,622  
                   
    Net income $ 59,805     $ 49,073     $ 143,396     $ 110,441  
     
    Certain amounts in the consolidated statement of income for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 have been reclassified in order to conform to the 2025 presentation.
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (unaudited, in thousands)
     
      June 30,   December 31,
        2025       2024       2024  
    ASSETS          
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 101,467     $ 113,693     $ 175,095  
    Accounts receivable, net   76,062       72,158       73,325  
    Pawn loans   550,718       491,731       517,867  
    Finance receivables, net   154,518       105,401       147,501  
    Inventories   355,733       315,424       334,580  
    Leased merchandise, net   100,689       142,935       128,437  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   35,667       31,923       26,943  
    Total current assets   1,374,854       1,273,265       1,403,748  
               
    Property and equipment, net   750,862       661,005       717,916  
    Operating lease right of use asset   342,859       324,651       324,646  
    Goodwill   1,826,184       1,794,957       1,787,172  
    Intangible assets, net   204,643       253,910       228,858  
    Other assets   9,805       9,606       9,934  
    Deferred tax assets, net   5,042       5,014       4,712  
    Total assets $ 4,514,249     $ 4,322,408     $ 4,476,986  
               
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 145,035     $ 141,314     $ 171,540  
    Customer deposits and prepayments   80,848       76,452       72,703  
    Lease liability, current   100,845       97,809       95,161  
    Total current liabilities   326,728       315,575       339,404  
               
    Revolving unsecured credit facilities   152,000       150,000       198,000  
    Senior unsecured notes   1,532,865       1,529,870       1,531,346  
    Deferred tax liabilities, net   125,290       129,060       128,574  
    Lease liability, non-current   237,198       219,454       225,498  
    Total liabilities   2,374,081       2,343,959       2,422,822  
               
    Stockholders’ equity:          
    Common stock   575       575       575  
    Additional paid-in capital   1,760,179       1,760,986       1,767,569  
    Retained earnings   1,520,677       1,296,721       1,411,083  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (96,267 )     (84,366 )     (129,596 )
    Common stock held in treasury, at cost   (1,044,996 )     (995,467 )     (995,467 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   2,140,168       1,978,449       2,054,164  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 4,514,249     $ 4,322,408     $ 4,476,986  
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    SEGMENT RESULTS
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    The Company organizes its operations into three reportable segments as follows:

    • U.S. pawn
    • Latin America pawn
    • Retail POS payment solutions (AFF)

    Corporate expenses and income, which include administrative expenses, corporate depreciation and amortization, interest expense, interest income, gain on foreign exchange, merger and acquisition expenses, and other income, net, are presented on a consolidated basis and are not allocated to the segments. Intersegment transactions related to AFF’s LTO payment solution product offered in U.S. pawn stores are eliminated from consolidated totals.

    U.S. Pawn Operating Results and Margins (dollars in thousands)

      Three Months Ended        
      June 30,    
      2025
      2024   Increase
    Revenue:                  
    Retail merchandise sales $ 249,918     $ 230,093       9 %  
    Pawn loan fees   130,948       120,332       9 %  
    Wholesale scrap jewelry sales   28,740       26,311       9 %  
    Total revenue   409,606       376,736       9 %  
                       
    Cost of revenue:                  
    Cost of retail merchandise sold   143,149       132,449       8 %  
    Cost of wholesale scrap jewelry sold   26,265       21,269       23 %  
    Total cost of revenue   169,414       153,718       10 %  
                       
    Net revenue   240,192       223,018       8 %  
                       
    Segment expenses:                  
    Operating expenses   133,815       125,192       7 %  
    Depreciation and amortization   8,091       7,231       12 %  
    Total segment expenses   141,906       132,423       7 %  
                       
    Segment pre-tax operating income $ 98,286     $ 90,595       8 %  
                       
    Operating metrics:                  
    Retail merchandise sales margin 43 %   42 %        
    Net revenue margin 59 %   59 %        
    Segment pre-tax operating margin 24 %   24 %        
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    SEGMENT RESULTS (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    U.S. Pawn Operating Results and Margins (dollars in thousands)

      Six Months Ended        
      June 30,    
      2025    2024    Increase
    Revenue:                  
    Retail merchandise sales $ 501,143     $ 467,083       7 %  
    Pawn loan fees   268,896       243,306       11 %  
    Wholesale scrap jewelry sales   62,232       44,037       41 %  
    Total revenue   832,271       754,426       10 %  
                       
    Cost of revenue:                  
    Cost of retail merchandise sold   288,907       272,363       6 %  
    Cost of wholesale scrap jewelry sold   53,489       36,535       46 %  
    Total cost of revenue   342,396       308,898       11 %  
                       
    Net revenue   489,875       445,528       10 %  
                       
    Segment expenses:                  
    Operating expenses   262,766       244,087       8 %  
    Depreciation and amortization   15,691       14,244       10 %  
    Total segment expenses   278,457       258,331       8 %  
                       
    Segment pre-tax operating income $ 211,418     $ 187,197       13 %  
                       
    Operating metrics:                  
    Retail merchandise sales margin 42 %   42 %        
    Net revenue margin 59 %   59 %        
    Segment pre-tax operating margin 25 %   25 %        
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    SEGMENT RESULTS (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    U.S. Pawn Earning Assets and Portfolio Metrics (dollars in thousands, except as otherwise noted)

      As of June 30,    
      2025
      2024   Increase
    Earning assets:                  
    Pawn loans $ 400,143     $ 356,342       12 %  
    Inventories   252,885       223,428       13 %  
      $ 653,028     $ 579,770       13 %  
                       
    Average outstanding pawn loan amount (in ones) $ 286     $ 260       10 %  
                       
    Composition of pawn collateral:                  
    General merchandise 28 %   30 %        
    Jewelry 72 %   70 %        
      100 %   100 %        
                       
    Composition of inventories:                  
    General merchandise 39 %   43 %        
    Jewelry 61 %   57 %        
      100 %   100 %        
                       
    Percentage of inventory aged greater than one year 2 %   1 %        
                       
    Inventory turns (trailing twelve months cost of merchandise sales divided by average inventories) 2.8 times   2.8 times        
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    SEGMENT RESULTS (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Constant currency results are non-GAAP financial measures, which exclude the effects of foreign currency translation and are calculated by translating current-year results at prior-year average exchange rates. See the “Constant Currency Results” section below for additional discussion of constant currency operating results.

    Latin America Pawn Operating Results and Margins (dollars in thousands)

                          Constant Currency Basis
                          Three Months        
                    Ended        
        Three Months Ended           June 30,   Increase /
        June 30,   Increase /     2025     (Decrease)
          2025         2024     (Decrease)   (Non-GAAP)   (Non-GAAP)
    Revenue:                              
    Retail merchandise sales   $ 135,956       $ 134,445       1   %   $ 153,234       14   %
    Pawn loan fees     59,874         60,714       (1 ) %     67,497       11   %
    Wholesale scrap jewelry sales     10,076         8,823       14   %     10,076       14   %
    Total revenue     205,906         203,982       1   %     230,807       13   %
                                   
    Cost of revenue:                              
    Cost of retail merchandise sold     87,579         86,276       2   %     98,641       14   %
    Cost of wholesale scrap jewelry sold     8,639         7,273       19   %     9,811       35   %
    Total cost of revenue     96,218         93,549       3   %     108,452       16   %
                                   
    Net revenue     109,688         110,433       (1 ) %     122,355       11   %
                                   
    Segment expenses:                              
    Operating expenses     64,414         67,902       (5 ) %     72,340       7   %
    Depreciation and amortization     4,294         5,418       (21 ) %     4,804       (11 ) %
    Total segment expenses     68,708         73,320       (6 ) %     77,144       5   %
                                   
    Segment pre-tax operating income   $ 40,980       $ 37,113       10   %   $ 45,211       22   %
                                   
    Operating metrics:                              
    Retail merchandise sales margin 36  %   36  %         36  %        
    Net revenue margin 53  %   54  %         53  %        
    Segment pre-tax operating margin 20  %   18  %         20  %        
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    SEGMENT RESULTS (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Latin America Pawn Operating Results and Margins (dollars in thousands)

                          Constant Currency Basis
                          Six Months        
                    Ended        
        Six Months Ended           June 30,   Increase /
        June 30,   Increase /     2025     (Decrease)
          2025         2024     (Decrease)   (Non-GAAP)   (Non-GAAP)
    Revenue:                              
    Retail merchandise sales   $ 256,488       $ 265,294       (3 ) %   $ 296,887       12   %
    Pawn loan fees     113,797         117,275       (3 ) %     131,755       12   %
    Wholesale scrap jewelry sales     19,749         18,053       9   %     19,749       9   %
    Total revenue     390,034         400,622       (3 ) %     448,391       12   %
                                   
    Cost of revenue:                              
    Cost of retail merchandise sold     166,318         170,459       (2 ) %     192,333       13   %
    Cost of wholesale scrap jewelry sold     16,770         15,296       10   %     19,491       27   %
    Total cost of revenue     183,088         185,755       (1 ) %     211,824       14   %
                                   
    Net revenue     206,946         214,867       (4 ) %     236,567       10   %
                                   
    Segment expenses:                              
    Operating expenses     125,831         135,327       (7 ) %     144,841       7   %
    Depreciation and amortization     8,730         10,523       (17 ) %     10,008       (5 ) %
    Total segment expenses     134,561         145,850       (8 ) %     154,849       6   %
                                   
    Segment pre-tax operating income   $ 72,385       $ 69,017       5   %   $ 81,718       18   %
                                   
    Operating metrics:                              
    Retail merchandise sales margin 35  %   36  %         35  %        
    Net revenue margin 53  %   54  %         53  %        
    Segment pre-tax operating margin 19  %   17  %         18  %        
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    SEGMENT RESULTS (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Latin America Pawn Earning Assets and Portfolio Metrics (dollars in thousands, except as otherwise noted)

                          Constant Currency Basis
                          As of        
                          June 30,    
      As of June 30,       2025   Increase
      2025   2024   Increase   (Non-GAAP)   (Non-GAAP)
    Earning assets:                              
    Pawn loans $ 150,575     $ 135,389       11 %     $ 154,466     14 %  
    Inventories   102,848       91,996       12 %       105,501     15 %  
      $ 253,423     $ 227,385       11 %     $ 259,967     14 %  
                                   
    Average outstanding pawn loan amount (in ones) $ 96     $ 89       8 %     $ 98     10 %  
                                   
    Composition of pawn collateral:                              
    General merchandise 57 %   63 %                    
    Jewelry 43 %   37 %                    
      100 %   100 %                    
                                   
    Composition of inventories:                              
    General merchandise 59 %   69 %                    
    Jewelry 41 %   31 %                    
      100 %   100 %                    
                                   
    Percentage of inventory aged greater than one year 1 %   1 %                    
                                   
    Inventory turns (trailing twelve months cost of merchandise sales divided by average inventories) 4.1 times   4.3 times                    
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    SEGMENT RESULTS (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Retail POS Payment Solutions Operating Results (dollars in thousands)

      Three Months Ended        
      June 30,   Increase /
      2025   2024   (Decrease)
    Revenue:              
    Leased merchandise income $ 139,784   $ 194,570     (28 ) %
    Interest and fees on finance receivables   76,075     56,799     34   %
    Total revenue   215,859     251,369     (14 ) %
                   
    Cost of revenue:              
    Depreciation of leased merchandise   78,529     110,567     (29 ) %
    Provision for lease losses   32,667     47,824     (32 ) %
    Provision for loan losses   41,761     31,116     34   %
    Total cost of revenue   152,957     189,507     (19 ) %
                   
    Net revenue   62,902     61,862     2   %
                   
    Segment expenses:              
    Operating expenses   24,264     35,275     (31 ) %
    Depreciation and amortization   699     678     3   %
    Total segment expenses   24,963     35,953     (31 ) %
                   
    Segment pre-tax operating income $ 37,939   $ 25,909     46   %
      Six Months Ended        
      June 30,   Increase /
      2025   2024   (Decrease)
    Revenue:              
    Leased merchandise income $ 296,702   $ 400,241     (26 ) %
    Interest and fees on finance receivables   149,488     114,186     31   %
    Total revenue   446,190     514,427     (13 ) %
                   
    Cost of revenue:              
    Depreciation of leased merchandise   167,672     231,341     (28 ) %
    Provision for lease losses   60,271     91,004     (34 ) %
    Provision for loan losses   78,121     61,534     27   %
    Total cost of revenue   306,064     383,879     (20 ) %
                   
    Net revenue   140,126     130,548     7   %
                   
    Segment expenses:              
    Operating expenses   48,482     70,091     (31 ) %
    Depreciation and amortization   1,404     1,399       %
    Total segment expenses   49,886     71,490     (30 ) %
                   
    Segment pre-tax operating income $ 90,240   $ 59,058     53   %
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    SEGMENT RESULTS (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Retail POS Payment Solutions Gross Transaction Volumes (dollars in thousands)

      Three Months Ended           Six Months Ended        
      June 30,   Increase /   June 30,   Increase /
      2025   2024   (Decrease)   2025   2024   (Decrease)
    Leased merchandise $ 110,516   $ 146,778     (25 ) %   $ 204,822   $ 300,899     (32 ) %
    Finance receivables   149,943     105,258     42   %     291,205     207,422     40   %
    Total gross transaction volume $ 260,459   $ 252,036     3   %   $ 496,027   $ 508,321     (2 ) %
     

    Retail POS Payment Solutions Earning Assets (dollars in thousands)

      As of June 30,   Increase /
        2025       2024     (Decrease)
    Leased merchandise, net:              
    Leased merchandise, before allowance for lease losses $ 170,824     $ 246,457       (31 ) %
    Less allowance for lease losses   (69,972 )     (103,301 )     (32 ) %
    Leased merchandise, net $ 100,852     $ 143,156       (30 ) %
                   
    Finance receivables, net:              
    Finance receivables, before allowance for loan losses $ 277,392     $ 205,362       35   %
    Less allowance for loan losses   (122,874 )     (99,961 )     23   %
    Finance receivables, net $ 154,518     $ 105,401       47   %
     

    Portfolio Metrics

      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
      June 30,   June 30,
        2025       2024       2025       2024  
    Leased merchandise portfolio metrics:                      
    Provision rate (1) 30 %   33 %   29 %   30 %
    Average monthly net charge-off rate (2), (3) 6.2 %   5.4 %   6.2 %   5.4 %
    Delinquency rate (4) 23.2 %   23.0 %   23.2 %   23.0 %
                           
    Finance receivables portfolio metrics:                      
    Provision rate (1) 28 %   30 %   27 %   30 %
    Average monthly net charge-off rate (2) 4.6 %   4.5 %   4.4 %   4.7 %
    Delinquency rate (4) 20.6 %   20.0 %   20.6 %   20.0 %

    (1) Calculated as provision for lease or loan losses as a percentage of the respective gross transaction volume originated.
    (2) Calculated as charge-offs, net of recoveries, as a percentage of the respective average earning asset balance before allowance for lease or loan losses.

    (3) The increase in leased merchandised net charge-off rate for 2025 is the expected result given reduced originations of new leases in 2025.
    (4) Calculated as the percentage of the respective contractual earning asset balance owed that is 1 to 89 days past due (the Company charges off leases and finance receivables when they are 90 days or more contractually past due).

    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    PAWN STORE LOCATIONS AND MERCHANT PARTNER LOCATIONS
     

    Pawn Operations

    As of June 30, 2025, the Company operated 3,027 pawn store locations composed of 1,194 stores in 29 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, 1,731 stores in 32 states in Mexico, 72 stores in Guatemala, 18 stores in El Salvador and 12 stores in Colombia.

    The following tables detail pawn store count activity for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025:

      Three Months Ended June 30, 2025
      U.S.   Latin America   Total
    Total locations, beginning of period 1,197     1,826     3,023  
    New locations opened 1     9     10  
    Locations acquired 3         3  
    Consolidation of existing pawn locations (1) (7 )   (2 )   (9 )
    Total locations, end of period 1,194     1,833     3,027  
               
               
      Six Months Ended June 30, 2025
      U.S.   Latin America   Total
    Total locations, beginning of period 1,200     1,826     3,026  
    New locations opened 2     19     21  
    Locations acquired 4         4  
    Consolidation of existing pawn locations (1) (12 )   (12 )   (24 )
    Total locations, end of period 1,194     1,833     3,027  

    (1) Store consolidations were primarily acquired locations which have been combined with overlapping stores and for which the Company expects to maintain a significant portion of the acquired customer base in the consolidated location.

    Retail POS Payment Solutions

    As of June 30, 2025, AFF provided LTO and retail POS payment solutions for consumer goods and services through a network of approximately 15,300 active retail merchant partner locations. This compares to the active door count of approximately 12,800 locations at June 30, 2024.

    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    RECONCILIATIONS OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
    TO GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    The Company uses certain financial calculations such as adjusted net income, adjusted diluted earnings per share, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, free cash flow, adjusted free cash flow, adjusted return on equity, adjusted return on assets and constant currency results as factors in the measurement and evaluation of the Company’s operating performance and period-over-period growth. The Company derives these financial calculations on the basis of methodologies other than generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), primarily by excluding from a comparable GAAP measure certain items the Company does not consider to be representative of its actual operating performance. These financial calculations are “non-GAAP financial measures” as defined under the SEC rules. The Company uses these non-GAAP financial measures in operating its business because management believes they are less susceptible to variances in actual operating performance that can result from the excluded items, other infrequent charges and currency fluctuations. The Company presents these financial measures to investors because management believes they are useful to investors in evaluating the primary factors that drive the Company’s core operating performance and provide greater transparency into the Company’s results of operations. However, items that are excluded and other adjustments and assumptions that are made in calculating these non-GAAP financial measures are significant components in understanding and assessing the Company’s financial performance. These non-GAAP financial measures should be evaluated in conjunction with, and are not a substitute for, the Company’s GAAP financial measures. Further, because these non-GAAP financial measures are not determined in accordance with GAAP, and are thus susceptible to varying calculations, the non-GAAP financial measures, as presented, may not be comparable to other similarly-titled measures of other companies.

    The Company has adjusted the applicable financial calculations to exclude merger and acquisition expenses, amortization of acquired AFF intangible assets, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (“CFPB”) litigation settlement and certain other income and expenses. The Company does not consider these items to be related to the organic operations of the Company’s businesses or its continuing operations and are generally not relevant to assessing or estimating the long-term performance of the Company. In addition, excluding these items allows for more accurate comparisons of the financial results to prior periods. Merger and acquisition expenses include incremental costs directly associated with merger and acquisition activities, including professional fees, legal expenses, severance, retention and other employee-related costs, contract breakage costs and costs related to the consolidation of technology systems and corporate facilities, among others.

    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    RECONCILIATIONS OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
    TO GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share

    Management believes the presentation of adjusted net income and adjusted diluted earnings per share provides investors with greater transparency and provides a more complete understanding of the Company’s financial performance and prospects for the future by excluding items that management believes are non-operating in nature and are not representative of the Company’s core operating performance. In addition, management believes the adjustments shown below are useful to investors in order to allow them to compare the Company’s financial results for the current periods presented with the prior periods presented.

    The following tables provide a reconciliation between net income and diluted earnings per share calculated in accordance with GAAP to adjusted net income and adjusted diluted earnings per share, which are shown net of tax (in thousands, except per share amounts):

                      Trailing Twelve
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended   Months Ended
      June 30,   June 30,   June 30,
        2025       2024     2025       2024     2025     2024  
      In Thousands   In Thousands   In Thousands   In Thousands   In Thousands   In Thousands
    Net income, as reported $ 59,805     $ 49,073   $ 143,396     $ 110,441   $ 291,770   $ 237,174  
    Adjustments, net of tax:                      
    Merger and acquisition expenses   2,134       1,047     2,488       1,504     2,690     7,380  
    AFF purchase accounting and other adjustments   9,258       9,572     18,516       19,145     37,660     51,497  
    CFPB litigation settlement   9,390           9,390           9,390      
    Other (income) expenses, net   (967 )     2,206     (1,391 )     997     1,482     (343 )
    Adjusted net income $ 79,620     $ 61,898   $ 172,399     $ 132,087   $ 342,992   $ 295,708  
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
      June 30,   June 30,
        2025     2024   2025   2024
      Per Share   Per Share   Per Share   Per Share
    Diluted earnings per share, as reported $ 1.34     $ 1.08   $ 3.21     $ 2.44
    Adjustments, net of tax:              
    Merger and acquisition expenses   0.05       0.03     0.06       0.03
    AFF purchase accounting and other adjustments   0.21       0.21     0.41       0.42
    CFPB litigation settlement   0.21           0.21      
    Other (income) expenses, net   (0.02 )     0.05     (0.03 )     0.02
    Adjusted diluted earnings per share $ 1.79     $ 1.37   $ 3.86     $ 2.91
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    RECONCILIATIONS OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
    TO GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA) and Adjusted EBITDA

    The Company defines EBITDA as net income before income taxes, depreciation and amortization, interest expense and interest income and adjusted EBITDA as EBITDA adjusted for certain items, as listed below, that management considers to be non-operating in nature and not representative of its actual operating performance. The Company believes EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA are commonly used by investors to assess a company’s financial performance, and adjusted EBITDA is used as a starting point in the calculation of the consolidated total debt ratio as defined in the Company’s senior unsecured notes. The following table provides a reconciliation of net income to EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA (in thousands):

                                Trailing Twelve
        Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended   Months Ended
        June 30,   June 30,   June 30,
        2025   2024   2025   2024   2025   2024
    Net income   $ 59,805     $ 49,073     $ 143,396     $ 110,441     $ 291,770     $ 237,174  
    Income taxes     21,274       17,105       48,900       37,622       95,239       80,001  
    Depreciation and amortization     25,864       26,547       51,366       52,574       103,733       107,574  
    Interest expense     26,337       25,187       53,808       50,605       108,429       101,880  
    Interest income     (527 )     (261 )     (1,756 )     (1,004 )     (2,687 )     (1,548 )
    EBITDA     132,753       117,651       295,714       250,238       596,484       525,081  
    Adjustments:                                    
    Merger and acquisition expenses     2,777       1,364       3,239       1,961       3,506       9,600  
    AFF purchase accounting and other adjustments (1)                                   13,968  
    CFPB litigation settlement     11,000             11,000             11,000        
    Other (income) expenses, net     (1,401 )     2,867       (1,944 )     1,275       1,982       (486 )
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 145,129     $ 121,882     $ 308,009     $ 253,474     $ 612,972     $ 548,163  

    (1) For the twelve months ended June 30, 2024, amount represents other non-recurring costs included in administrative expenses related to a discontinued finance product.

    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    RECONCILIATIONS OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
    TO GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Free Cash Flow and Adjusted Free Cash Flow

    For purposes of its internal liquidity assessments, the Company considers free cash flow and adjusted free cash flow. The Company defines free cash flow as cash flow from operating activities less purchases of furniture, fixtures, equipment and improvements and net fundings/repayments of pawn loan and finance receivables, which are considered to be operating in nature by the Company but are included in cash flow from investing activities. Adjusted free cash flow is defined as free cash flow adjusted for merger and acquisition expenses paid that management considers to be non-operating in nature.

    Free cash flow and adjusted free cash flow are commonly used by investors as additional measures of cash generated by business operations that may be used to repay scheduled debt maturities and debt service or, following payment of such debt obligations and other non-discretionary items, that may be available to invest in future growth through new business development activities or acquisitions, repurchase stock, pay cash dividends or repay debt obligations prior to their maturities. These metrics can also be used to evaluate the Company’s ability to generate cash flow from business operations and the impact that this cash flow has on the Company’s liquidity. However, free cash flow and adjusted free cash flow have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for cash flow from operating activities or other income statement data prepared in accordance with GAAP. The following table reconciles cash flow from operating activities to free cash flow and adjusted free cash flow (in thousands):

                        Trailing Twelve
        Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended   Months Ended
        June 30,   June 30,   June 30,
          2025       2024       2025       2024       2025       2024  
    Cash flow from operating activities   $ 116,854     $ 106,187     $ 243,494     $ 228,719     $ 554,733     $ 439,192  
    Cash flow from certain investing activities:                        
    Pawn loans, net (1)     (50,032 )     (46,036 )     (30,592 )     (20,887 )     (81,704 )     (56,053 )
    Finance receivables, net     (35,411 )     (22,252 )     (55,977 )     (37,563 )     (157,728 )     (95,880 )
    Purchases of furniture, fixtures, equipment and improvements     (12,952 )     (16,237 )     (25,866 )     (42,664 )     (51,447 )     (74,464 )
    Free cash flow     18,459       21,662       131,059       127,605       263,854       212,795  
    Merger and acquisition expenses paid, net of tax benefit     2,134       1,047       2,488       1,504       2,690       7,380  
    Adjusted free cash flow   $ 20,593     $ 22,709     $ 133,547     $ 129,109     $ 266,544     $ 220,175  

    (1) Includes the funding of new loans net of cash repayments and recovery of principal through the sale of inventories acquired from forfeiture of pawn collateral.

    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    RECONCILIATIONS OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
    TO GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Adjusted Return on Equity and Adjusted Return on Assets

    Management believes the presentation of adjusted return on equity and adjusted return on assets provides investors with greater transparency and provides a more complete understanding of the Company’s financial performance by excluding items that management believes are non-operating in nature and not representative of the Company’s core operating performance.

    Annualized adjusted return on equity and adjusted return on assets is calculated as follows (dollars in thousands):

      Trailing Twelve
      Months Ended
      June 30, 2025
    Adjusted net income (1) $ 342,992  
         
    Average stockholders’ equity (average of five most recent quarter-end balances) $ 2,046,067  
    Adjusted return on equity (trailing twelve months adjusted net income divided by average equity) 17 %
         
    Average total assets (average of five most recent quarter-end balances) $ 4,426,553  
    Adjusted return on assets (trailing twelve months adjusted net income divided by average total assets) 8 %

    (1) See detail of adjustments to net income in the “Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share” section above.

    Constant Currency Results

    The Company’s reporting currency is the U.S. dollar, however, certain performance metrics discussed in this release are presented on a “constant currency” basis, which is considered a non-GAAP financial measure. The Company’s management uses constant currency results to evaluate operating results of business operations in Latin America, which are transacted in local currencies in Mexico, Guatemala and Colombia. The Company also has operations in El Salvador, where the reporting and functional currency is the U.S. dollar.

    The Company believes constant currency results provide valuable supplemental information regarding the underlying performance of its business operations in Latin America, consistent with how the Company’s management evaluates such performance and operating results. Constant currency results reported herein are calculated by translating certain balance sheet and income statement items denominated in local currencies using the exchange rate from the prior-year comparable period, as opposed to the current comparable period, in order to exclude the effects of foreign currency rate fluctuations for purposes of evaluating period-over-period comparisons. See the Latin America pawn segment tables elsewhere in this release for additional reconciliation of certain constant currency amounts to as reported GAAP amounts.

    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    RECONCILIATIONS OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
    TO GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Exchange Rates for the Mexican Peso, Guatemalan Quetzal and Colombian Peso

      June 30,   Favorable /
      2025   2024   (Unfavorable)
    Mexican peso / U.S. dollar exchange rate:              
    End-of-period 18.9   18.4     (3 ) %
    Three months ended 19.5   17.2     (13 ) %
    Six months ended 20.0   17.1     (17 ) %
                   
    Guatemalan quetzal / U.S. dollar exchange rate:              
    End-of-period 7.7   7.8     1   %
    Three months ended 7.7   7.8     1   %
    Six months ended 7.7   7.8     1   %
                   
    Colombian peso / U.S. dollar exchange rate:              
    End-of-period 4,070   4,148     2   %
    Three months ended 4,199   3,927     (7 ) %
    Six months ended 4,195   3,921     (7 ) %

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: FirstCash Reports Record Second Quarter Operating Results; Strong Performance Across All Segments Drives Over 30% Year-to-Date EPS Growth; Increases Quarterly Cash Dividend 11%

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORT WORTH, Texas, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FirstCash Holdings, Inc. (“FirstCash” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: FCFS), the leading international operator of more than 3,000 retail pawn stores and a leading provider of retail point-of-sale payment solutions, today announced operating results for the three and six month periods ended June 30, 2025. The Company also announced that the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.42 per share, an increase of 11% over the previous quarterly dividend, which will be paid in August 2025.

    Mr. Rick Wessel, chief executive officer, stated, “FirstCash is pleased to report outstanding earnings results for the second quarter and year-to-date periods. Pawn demand remains extremely robust, with local currency same-store pawn receivables up 13% in both the U.S. and Latin America, driving strong earnings growth for both segments. AFF posted growth in originations for the second quarter and a segment earnings increase of 46% versus last year. Driven by strong cash flows, the Board of Directors increased the quarterly cash dividend by 11%, which further reflects the strength of our business and long-term earnings prospects.”

    Additionally, the Company expects to complete its previously announced acquisition of H&T Group plc (“H&T”) by the end of the third quarter of 2025, subject to receipt of the required approvals by the Financial Conduct Authority of the United Kingdom (“FCA”) and satisfaction of the other remaining closing conditions. H&T is the largest pawnbroker in the U.K. with 285 locations and would represent FirstCash’s first operations in Europe.

    This release contains adjusted financial measures, which exclude certain non-operating and/or non-cash income and expenses, that are non-GAAP financial measures. Please refer to the descriptions and reconciliations to GAAP of these and other non-GAAP financial measures at the end of this release.

        Three Months Ended June 30,
        As Reported (GAAP)   Adjusted (Non-GAAP)
    In thousands, except per share amounts   2025   2024   2025   2024
    Revenue   $ 830,622   $ 831,012   $ 830,622   $ 831,012
    Net income   $ 59,805   $ 49,073   $ 79,620   $ 61,898
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 1.34   $ 1.08   $ 1.79   $ 1.37
    EBITDA (non-GAAP measure)   $ 132,753   $ 117,651   $ 145,129   $ 121,882
    Weighted-average diluted shares     44,552     45,289     44,552     45,289
        Six Months Ended June 30,
        As Reported (GAAP)   Adjusted (Non-GAAP)
    In thousands, except per share amounts   2025   2024   2025   2024
    Revenue   $ 1,667,045   $ 1,667,382   $ 1,667,045   $ 1,667,382
    Net income   $ 143,396   $ 110,441   $ 172,399   $ 132,087
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 3.21   $ 2.44   $ 3.86   $ 2.91
    EBITDA (non-GAAP measure)   $ 295,714   $ 250,238   $ 308,009   $ 253,474
    Weighted-average diluted shares     44,670     45,338     44,670     45,338
     

    Consolidated Operating Highlights

    • Diluted earnings per share for the second quarter increased 24% over the prior-year quarter on a GAAP basis while adjusted diluted earnings per share increased 31% compared to the prior-year quarter.
    • Year-to-date diluted earnings per share increased 32% over the prior-year period on a GAAP basis and adjusted diluted earnings per share increased 33% compared to the prior-year period.
    • Net income for the second quarter increased 22% over the prior-year quarter on a GAAP basis while adjusted net income increased 29% compared to the prior-year quarter.
    • Year-to-date net income increased 30% over the prior-year period on a GAAP basis and adjusted net income increased 31% compared to the prior-year period.
    • Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter increased 19% compared to the prior-year quarter. On a year-to-date basis, adjusted EBITDA increased 22% compared to the comparative prior-year period.
    • For the trailing twelve month period ended June 30, 2025 the Company reported:
      • Revenues of $3.4 billion
      • Net income of $292 million on a GAAP basis and adjusted net income of $343 million
      • Adjusted EBITDA of $613 million
      • Operating cash flows of $555 million and adjusted free cash flows (a non-GAAP measure) of $267 million

    Store Base and Platform Growth

    • U.K. Pawn Acquisition Update
      • On July 2, 2025 the shareholders of H&T voted to approve the acquisition.
      • Pending approvals by the FCA and the satisfaction of other closing conditions, the Company expects the transaction to close by the end of the third quarter.
      • The total equity value for the H&T acquisition is approximately £291 million ($396 million USD using GBP/USD exchange rate of 1.36) which the Company intends to fund utilizing its revolving bank credit facility.
      • This combination of FirstCash and H&T will create the largest publicly traded pawn platform in the United States, Latin America and the United Kingdom with more than 3,300 total locations.
    • Other Pawn Store Additions
      • A total of 13 pawn locations were added in the second quarter and 25 stores added year-to-date.
      • Three U.S. stores were acquired in Illinois, bringing the total to 39 locations in that market. Additionally, one new location in Texas was opened during the second quarter. Year-to-date through June 30, 2025, a total of six new locations were opened or acquired in the U.S.
      • There were nine new store openings in Latin America, all of which are located in Mexico. Year-to-date through June 30, 2025, a total of 19 new locations were opened in Latin America.
      • The Company purchased the underlying real estate of 14 U.S. stores during the quarter, bringing the total number of company owned locations to 421 at quarter end.
      • As of June 30, 2025, the Company had 3,027 locations, comprised of 1,194 U.S. locations and 1,833 locations in Latin America. Additionally, two U.S. stores were acquired in July 2025 in separate transactions.
    • Retail POS Payment Solutions (AFF) Merchant Partnerships
      • At June 30, 2025, there were approximately 15,300 active retail and e-commerce merchant partner locations, representing a 19% increase in the number of active merchant locations compared to a year ago. Excluding furniture locations that closed in the prior year due to merchant partner bankruptcies, the number of active doors increased 29%.

    U.S. Pawn Segment Operating Results

    • Segment pre-tax operating income in the second quarter of 2025 was a record $98 million, an increase of $8 million, or 8%, compared to the prior-year quarter. The resulting segment pre-tax operating margin was 24% for the second quarter of 2025, which equaled the prior-year quarter.
    • Year-to-date segment pre-tax operating income increased by $24 million, or 13%, compared to the prior-year period. The pre-tax operating margin was 25% for the year-to-date period, which equaled the prior-year period.
    • Pawn receivables increased 12% in total at June 30, 2025 compared to the prior year, driven by an impressive 13% increase in same-store pawn receivables. On a two-year stacked basis, same-store pawn receivables were up 24%.
    • Pawn loan fees increased 9% for the second quarter both in total and on a same-store basis.
    • Retail merchandise sales increased 9% in the second quarter of 2025 compared to the prior-year quarter, while same-store retail sales increased 7% compared to the prior-year quarter.
    • Retail sales margins increased to 43% for the second quarter compared to 42% in the prior-year quarter. Annualized inventory turnover was 2.8 times for the trailing twelve months ended June 30, 2025, which equaled the inventory turnover during the same prior-year period. Inventories aged greater than one year at June 30, 2025 remained low at 2% of total inventories.

    Latin America Pawn Segment Operating Results

    Note: Certain growth rates below are calculated on a constant or local currency basis, a non-GAAP financial measure defined at the end of this release. The average Mexican peso to U.S. dollar exchange rate for the second quarter of 2025 was 19.5 pesos / dollar, an unfavorable change of 13% versus the comparable prior-year period, and for the six month period ended June 30, 2025 was 20.0 pesos / dollar, an unfavorable change of 17% versus the prior-year period.

    • Despite the 13% decrease in the average Mexican peso exchange rate, second quarter segment pre-tax operating income increased 10% on a U.S. dollar basis and totaled a record $41 million compared to last year. On a local currency basis, segment earnings increased 22% over last year, with resulting segment pre-tax operating margins of 20% for both measures, compared to 18% in the prior year.
    • Year-to-date segment pre-tax operating income totaled $72 million, a 5% increase on a U.S. dollar-basis compared to the prior-year period and an 18% increase on a local currency basis. The year-to-date pre-tax operating margin increased to 19% compared to 17% in the prior-year period.
    • Pawn receivables at June 30, 2025 increased 11% on a U.S. dollar basis while increasing 14% on a constant currency basis compared to the prior year. On a same-store basis, pawn receivables increased 10% on a U.S. dollar basis and increased 13% on a constant currency basis compared to the prior year.
    • While total and same-store pawn loan fees in the second quarter decreased 1% and 2% on a U.S. dollar-basis, respectively, they both increased 11% on a constant currency basis compared to the prior-year quarter.
    • Retail merchandise sales in the second quarter of 2025 increased 1% on a U.S. dollar-basis compared to the prior-year quarter while increasing 14% on a constant currency basis. On a same-store basis, second quarter retail merchandise sales were flat on a U.S. dollar basis while increasing 13% on a constant currency basis compared to the prior-year quarter.
    • Retail margins were 36% for the second quarter of 2025, which equaled the prior-year quarter. Annualized inventory turnover was 4.1 times for the trailing twelve months ended June 30, 2025 compared to 4.3 times in the prior-year period. Inventories aged greater than one year at June 30, 2025 remained extremely low at 1%.

    American First Finance (AFF) – Retail POS Payment Solutions Segment Operating Results

    • Second quarter segment pre-tax operating income totaled $38 million, an increase of 46% compared to the prior-year quarter. The growth in earnings was driven primarily by gross margin improvement and operating expense reductions. Year-to-date segment pre-tax operating income totaled $90 million, a 53% increase over the prior-year period which was $59 million.
    • While gross revenues for the second quarter decreased 14%, primarily due to the American Freight Warehouse (“A-Freight”) and Conn’s Home Plus (“Conn’s”) bankruptcies in late 2024, net revenue increased 2%, driven by growth in revenue from other merchant partners and lower net credit provisioning expenses.
    • Gross transaction volume of lease and loan originations during the second quarter increased 3%, compared to the second quarter of last year. Excluding 2024 originations from A-Freight and Conn’s, second quarter 2025 origination volume increased approximately 34%. For the year-to-date period, overall gross transaction volume decreased 2% over the same prior-year period and was up 29% excluding A-Freight and Conn’s.
    • As a percentage of the total gross transaction volume, the combined lease and loan loss provision expense was 29% for the second quarter of 2025 compared to 31% in the second quarter of 2024. The decrease reflected lower than expected charge-offs on older portfolio vintages which resulted in net reserve releases. The combined allowance as a percentage of combined leased merchandise and finance receivables at June 30, 2025 was 43% compared to 45% a year ago.
    • Operating expenses decreased 31% compared to the prior-year quarter, primarily due to the elimination of certain expenses associated with supporting the A-Freight and Conn’s relationships in the prior-year period along with continued realization of operating synergies, including greater efficiencies in technology and development infrastructure, coupled with other cost reduction initiatives.

    Cash Flow and Liquidity

    • Consolidated operating cash flows for the twelve month period ended June 30, 2025 grew 26% and totaled $555 million compared to $439 million in the same prior-year period, with significant contributions from each of the Company’s three business segments.
    • Adjusted free cash flows increased 21% to $267 million in the twelve month period ended June 30, 2025 compared to $220 million in the same prior-year period.
    • The operating cash flows helped fund significant growth in earning assets, continued investments in the pawn store platform and shareholder returns over the past twelve months with a nominal increase in net debt:
      • Pawn earning assets (pawn receivables and inventories) increased $99 million compared to last year.
      • A total of 15 pawn stores were acquired for a combined purchase price of $44 million.
      • 42 new pawn stores were added with a combined investment of $16 million in fixed assets and working capital.
      • Real estate purchases totaled $93 million as the Company purchased the underlying real estate at 60 of its existing pawn stores, bringing the number of Company-owned properties to 421 locations.
      • Shareholder returns comprised of stock repurchases and cash dividends of $127 million.
    • Net debt at June 30, 2025 was $1.6 billion, of which $1.5 billion is fixed rate debt with favorable interest rates ranging from 4.625% to 6.875% and maturity dates that do not begin until 2028 and continue into 2032. The outstanding balance under the Company’s $700 million revolving line of credit totaled $152 million at June 30, 2025.
    • Based on trailing twelve month results, the Company’s net debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio improved to 2.6x at June 30, 2025.

    Shareholder Returns

    • The Board of Directors declared a $0.42 per share third quarter cash dividend, which will be paid on August 29, 2025 to stockholders of record as of August 15, 2025. This represents an 11% increase over the previous quarterly dividend.
    • On an annualized basis, the dividend is now $1.68 per share, also representing an 11% increase over the previous annualized dividend of $1.52 per share. Any future dividends are subject to approval by the Company’s Board of Directors.
    • Over the past twelve months, the Company has repurchased 525,000 shares of common stock at a total cost of $60 million and paid out $68 million in cash dividends, representing a payout ratio of approximately 44% of net income over the same period.
    • The Company has $55 million available under the $200 million share repurchase program authorized in July 2023. Future share repurchases are subject to expected liquidity, acquisitions and other investment opportunities, debt covenant restrictions, market conditions and other relevant factors.
    • The Company generated a 14% return on equity and a 7% return on assets for the twelve months ended June 30, 2025. Using adjusted net income for the twelve months ended June 30, 2025, the adjusted return on equity was 17% while the adjusted return on assets was 8%.

    2025 Outlook

    Driven by the strong first half results and continuing customer demand for pawn loans, the outlook for 2025 remains highly positive, with expected year-over-year growth in income driven by the continued growth in earning asset balances coupled with store additions. While the H&T acquisition is now anticipated to close by the end of the third quarter of 2025, the estimates provided below do not yet include revenue and contributions from H&T. Anticipated conditions and trends for the remainder of 2025 include the following:

    Pawn Operations:

    • Pawn operations are expected to remain the primary earnings driver in 2025 as the Company expects segment income from the combined U.S. and Latin America pawn segments to be over 80% of total segment level pre-tax income for the full year.
    • The Company expects further growth in the pawn store base in 2025 through a combination of new store openings and potential small acquisitions.

    U.S. Pawn

    • Based on strong first half results and expected store additions, the outlook for anticipated revenue growth and margins has been increased for all metrics.
    • Same-store pawn loans at June 30, 2025 were up 13% compared to a year ago, with July balances to date up similarly. Given these trends, the outlook for pawn fee growth is now expected to be in a range of 10% to 12% for the full year versus the prior expectation of 9% to 11% for the full year.
    • Retail sales are expected to grow in a high single digit range in 2025 versus prior expectations of mid single digits. Retail sales margins are now targeted at the upper end of the 41% to 42% guidance range.

    Latin America Pawn

    • U.S. dollar-reported first half results for Latin America in 2025 were negatively impacted by the lower exchange rate for the Mexican peso during the first half of this year compared to last year. With the recent favorable movement in the peso and the better than expected growth in the underlying business, the Company is increasing its full year revenue outlook for the Latin America pawn segment.
    • Same-store pawn receivables at June 30, 2025 were up 10% on a U.S. dollar basis and up 13% on a constant currency basis, with July balances to date up similarly. Full year pawn fee growth is now expected to increase in a range of 10% to 12% on a local currency basis and is now projected to be flat to up slightly on a U.S. dollar basis versus prior expectations of flat to down slightly on a U.S. dollar basis.
    • Retail sales in Latin America are also expected to track similarly to pawn fees in 2025 with consistent retail margins.

    Retail POS Payment Solutions (AFF) Operations:

    • The forecast for full year origination volume for 2025 is expected to be relatively consistent with the 2024 volume. Excluding 2024 originations from Conn’s and A-Freight, origination volumes are expected to increase in a range of 20% to 25% over 2024, reflecting continued diversification outside the furniture vertical.
    • The outlook for full year net revenues has improved, with the revised forecast for net revenues now expected to decline only 6% to 8% compared to last year versus the previously forecasted decline of 8% to 12%.
    • The net lease and loan charge-off rates for the second half of 2025 are expected to remain consistent with the charge-off rates in the second half of last year. Quarterly operating expenses for the balance of 2025 are expected to remain generally consistent with the second quarter run rate.

    Tax Rates and Currency:

    • The full year 2025 effective income tax rate under current tax codes in the U.S. and Latin America is expected to range from 24.5% to 25.5%.
    • Each full point change in the exchange rate of the Mexican peso is projected to have an annual earnings impact of approximately $0.10 per share.

    Additional Commentary and Analysis

    Mr. Wessel further commented on FirstCash’s second quarter results and the outlook for the remainder of 2025, “Operating performance across all business segments continues to be incredibly strong, driving year-to-date earnings per share growth of 32% on a GAAP basis and a 33% increase on an adjusted basis. FirstCash also achieved another significant earnings milestone this quarter with adjusted EBITDA for the trailing twelve months exceeding $600 million for the first time in Company history.

    “The U.S. pawn segment has now recorded eight consecutive quarters of double-digit growth in same-store receivables with continuing demand remaining strong thus far in July. At the same time, we remain disciplined in managing loan-to-value ratios as evidenced by the improved U.S. retail margins in the second quarter. The demand for value priced merchandise remains strong as well with same-store retail sales up 7% for the most recent quarter.

    “In Latin America, we have seen tremendous growth in pawn receivables over the last three quarters, including a 13% increase in same-store pawn receivables in the second quarter. This trend continued to accelerate, with same-store pawn loan originations in Mexico up over 20% over the last thirty days. Our outlook for Latin America is further enhanced by the improved exchange rate for the Mexican peso since the last quarter, which has reduced the previously anticipated currency headwinds and improved our full year outlook for the region.

    “Solid performance at AFF further bolstered second quarter and year-to-date operating results for our Retail POS Payment Solutions segment. AFF now has over 15,000 active doors, an increase of 19% over a year ago. Coupled with a 12% increase in same-door originations, AFF fully offset the impact of the loss of two significant merchant partners to bankruptcy last year and realized an overall total increase in originations in the second quarter. Growth continues to be particularly robust in verticals such as elective medical and automotive services. Driven by the solid revenue performance and significant expense savings, profitability for AFF has been especially strong in the first half of the year.

    “Looking ahead, we continue to progress toward the closing of the H&T acquisition. H&T represents a highly complementary strategic fit as the U.K.’s largest pawnbroker, operating with a network of 285 stores, which will expand FirstCash’s geographic footprint into a new and attractive market further providing the Company with enhanced scale, operating efficiencies and long-term growth opportunities. We continue to believe in the financial and strategic rationale for expanding our international operations as part of our long-term growth strategy.

    “Lastly, based on strong earnings results, robust operating cash flows and the strength of its balance sheet, FirstCash continues to make significant investments in new stores, acquisitions and shareholder returns. To that end, we are again pleased to announce an increased quarterly cash dividend to be paid in August which is expected to provide an annualized payout of $1.68 per share further augmenting shareholder returns” concluded Mr. Wessel.

    About FirstCash

    FirstCash is the leading international operator of pawn stores focused on serving cash and credit-constrained consumers. FirstCash’s more than 3,000 pawn stores in the U.S. and Latin America buy and sell a wide variety of jewelry, electronics, tools, appliances, sporting goods, musical instruments and other merchandise, and make small non-recourse pawn loans secured by pledged personal property. FirstCash’s pawn segments in the U.S. and Latin America currently account for approximately 80% of annualized segment earnings, with the remainder provided by its wholly owned subsidiary, AFF, which provides lease-to-own and retail finance payment solutions for consumer goods and services.

    FirstCash is a component company in both the Standard & Poor’s MidCap 400 Index® and the Russell 2000 Index®. FirstCash’s common stock (ticker symbol “FCFS”) is traded on the Nasdaq, the creator of the world’s first electronic stock market. For additional information regarding FirstCash and the services it provides, visit FirstCash’s websites located at http://www.firstcash.com and http://www.americanfirstfinance.com.

    Forward-Looking Information

    This release contains forward-looking statements about the business, financial condition, outlook and prospects of FirstCash Holdings, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries (together, the “Company”), including the Company’s outlook for 2025 and the Company’s previously announced H&T acquisition. Forward-looking statements, as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “outlook,” “believes,” “projects,” “expects,” “may,” “estimates,” “should,” “plans,” “targets,” “intends,” “could,” “would,” “anticipates,” “potential,” “confident,” “optimistic,” or the negative thereof, or other variations thereon, or comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy, objectives, estimates, guidance, expectations, outlook and future plans. Forward-looking statements can also be identified by the fact these statements do not relate strictly to historical or current matters. Rather, forward-looking statements relate to anticipated or expected events, activities, trends or results. Because forward-looking statements relate to matters that have not yet occurred, these statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties.

    While the Company believes the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurances such expectations will prove to be accurate. Security holders are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Certain factors may cause results to differ materially from those anticipated by the forward-looking statements made in this release. Such factors and risks may include, without limitation, risks related to the extensive regulatory environment in which the Company operates, including uncertainty involving the current regulatory environment under the current presidential administration; risks associated with the legal and regulatory proceedings that the Company is a party to or may become a party to in the future; risks related to the Company’s acquisitions, including the failure of the Company’s acquisitions to deliver the estimated value and benefits expected by the Company and the ability of the Company to continue to identify and consummate acquisitions on favorable terms, if at all; risks related to the H&T acquisition, in particular, the ability to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals for the H&T acquisition from the FCA and to satisfy the other closing conditions in the expected timeframe, if at all, and the ability to achieve the anticipated benefits from the H&T acquisition; potential changes in consumer behavior and shopping patterns which could impact demand for the Company’s pawn loan, retail, lease-to-own (“LTO”) and retail finance products; labor shortages and increased labor costs; a deterioration in the economic conditions in the United States and Latin America, including as a result of inflation, elevated interest rates and trade policy, which potentially could have an impact on discretionary consumer spending and demand for the Company’s products; currency fluctuations, primarily involving the Mexican peso; competition the Company faces from other retailers and providers of retail payment solutions; the ability of the Company to successfully execute on its business strategies; contraction in sales activity at merchant partners of the Company’s retail point-of-sale (“POS”) payment solutions business; impact of store closures, financial difficulties or even bankruptcies at the merchant partners of the Company’s retail POS payment solutions business; the ability of the Company’s retail POS payment solutions business to continue to grow its base of merchant partners, including those outside of the furniture vertical; and other risks discussed and described in the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the risks described in Part 1, Item 1A, “Risk Factors” thereof, and other reports filed with the SEC. Many of these risks and uncertainties are beyond the ability of the Company to control, nor can the Company predict, in many cases, all of the risks and uncertainties that could cause its actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this release speak only as of the date of this release, and the Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to report any updates or revisions to any such statement to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law.

    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
    (unaudited, in thousands)
     
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
      June 30,   June 30,
        2025       2024       2025       2024  
    Revenue:              
    Retail merchandise sales $ 385,125     $ 363,463     $ 756,181     $ 730,284  
    Pawn loan fees   190,822       181,046       382,693       360,581  
    Leased merchandise income   139,784       194,570       296,702       400,241  
    Interest and fees on finance receivables   76,075       56,799       149,488       114,186  
    Wholesale scrap jewelry sales   38,816       35,134       81,981       62,090  
    Total revenue   830,622       831,012       1,667,045       1,667,382  
                   
    Cost of revenue:              
    Cost of retail merchandise sold   230,326       218,147       454,450       441,676  
    Depreciation of leased merchandise   78,272       110,157       167,091       230,441  
    Provision for lease losses   32,543       47,653       60,105       90,663  
    Provision for loan losses   41,761       31,116       78,121       61,534  
    Cost of wholesale scrap jewelry sold   34,904       28,542       70,259       51,831  
    Total cost of revenue   417,806       435,615       830,026       876,145  
                   
    Net revenue   412,816       395,397       837,019       791,237  
                   
    Expenses and other income:              
    Operating expenses   222,493       228,369       437,079       449,505  
    Administrative expenses   59,263       46,602       107,786       90,620  
    Depreciation and amortization   25,864       26,547       51,366       52,574  
    Interest expense   26,337       25,187       53,808       50,605  
    Interest income   (527 )     (261 )     (1,756 )     (1,004 )
    (Gain) loss on foreign exchange   (1,271 )     1,437       (1,285 )     1,251  
    Merger and acquisition expenses   2,777       1,364       3,239       1,961  
    Other income, net   (3,199 )     (26 )     (5,514 )     (2,338 )
    Total expenses and other income   331,737       329,219       644,723       643,174  
                   
    Income before income taxes   81,079       66,178       192,296       148,063  
                   
    Provision for income taxes   21,274       17,105       48,900       37,622  
                   
    Net income $ 59,805     $ 49,073     $ 143,396     $ 110,441  
     
    Certain amounts in the consolidated statement of income for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 have been reclassified in order to conform to the 2025 presentation.
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (unaudited, in thousands)
     
      June 30,   December 31,
        2025       2024       2024  
    ASSETS          
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 101,467     $ 113,693     $ 175,095  
    Accounts receivable, net   76,062       72,158       73,325  
    Pawn loans   550,718       491,731       517,867  
    Finance receivables, net   154,518       105,401       147,501  
    Inventories   355,733       315,424       334,580  
    Leased merchandise, net   100,689       142,935       128,437  
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets   35,667       31,923       26,943  
    Total current assets   1,374,854       1,273,265       1,403,748  
               
    Property and equipment, net   750,862       661,005       717,916  
    Operating lease right of use asset   342,859       324,651       324,646  
    Goodwill   1,826,184       1,794,957       1,787,172  
    Intangible assets, net   204,643       253,910       228,858  
    Other assets   9,805       9,606       9,934  
    Deferred tax assets, net   5,042       5,014       4,712  
    Total assets $ 4,514,249     $ 4,322,408     $ 4,476,986  
               
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
    Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 145,035     $ 141,314     $ 171,540  
    Customer deposits and prepayments   80,848       76,452       72,703  
    Lease liability, current   100,845       97,809       95,161  
    Total current liabilities   326,728       315,575       339,404  
               
    Revolving unsecured credit facilities   152,000       150,000       198,000  
    Senior unsecured notes   1,532,865       1,529,870       1,531,346  
    Deferred tax liabilities, net   125,290       129,060       128,574  
    Lease liability, non-current   237,198       219,454       225,498  
    Total liabilities   2,374,081       2,343,959       2,422,822  
               
    Stockholders’ equity:          
    Common stock   575       575       575  
    Additional paid-in capital   1,760,179       1,760,986       1,767,569  
    Retained earnings   1,520,677       1,296,721       1,411,083  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (96,267 )     (84,366 )     (129,596 )
    Common stock held in treasury, at cost   (1,044,996 )     (995,467 )     (995,467 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   2,140,168       1,978,449       2,054,164  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 4,514,249     $ 4,322,408     $ 4,476,986  
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    SEGMENT RESULTS
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    The Company organizes its operations into three reportable segments as follows:

    • U.S. pawn
    • Latin America pawn
    • Retail POS payment solutions (AFF)

    Corporate expenses and income, which include administrative expenses, corporate depreciation and amortization, interest expense, interest income, gain on foreign exchange, merger and acquisition expenses, and other income, net, are presented on a consolidated basis and are not allocated to the segments. Intersegment transactions related to AFF’s LTO payment solution product offered in U.S. pawn stores are eliminated from consolidated totals.

    U.S. Pawn Operating Results and Margins (dollars in thousands)

      Three Months Ended        
      June 30,    
      2025
      2024   Increase
    Revenue:                  
    Retail merchandise sales $ 249,918     $ 230,093       9 %  
    Pawn loan fees   130,948       120,332       9 %  
    Wholesale scrap jewelry sales   28,740       26,311       9 %  
    Total revenue   409,606       376,736       9 %  
                       
    Cost of revenue:                  
    Cost of retail merchandise sold   143,149       132,449       8 %  
    Cost of wholesale scrap jewelry sold   26,265       21,269       23 %  
    Total cost of revenue   169,414       153,718       10 %  
                       
    Net revenue   240,192       223,018       8 %  
                       
    Segment expenses:                  
    Operating expenses   133,815       125,192       7 %  
    Depreciation and amortization   8,091       7,231       12 %  
    Total segment expenses   141,906       132,423       7 %  
                       
    Segment pre-tax operating income $ 98,286     $ 90,595       8 %  
                       
    Operating metrics:                  
    Retail merchandise sales margin 43 %   42 %        
    Net revenue margin 59 %   59 %        
    Segment pre-tax operating margin 24 %   24 %        
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    SEGMENT RESULTS (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    U.S. Pawn Operating Results and Margins (dollars in thousands)

      Six Months Ended        
      June 30,    
      2025    2024    Increase
    Revenue:                  
    Retail merchandise sales $ 501,143     $ 467,083       7 %  
    Pawn loan fees   268,896       243,306       11 %  
    Wholesale scrap jewelry sales   62,232       44,037       41 %  
    Total revenue   832,271       754,426       10 %  
                       
    Cost of revenue:                  
    Cost of retail merchandise sold   288,907       272,363       6 %  
    Cost of wholesale scrap jewelry sold   53,489       36,535       46 %  
    Total cost of revenue   342,396       308,898       11 %  
                       
    Net revenue   489,875       445,528       10 %  
                       
    Segment expenses:                  
    Operating expenses   262,766       244,087       8 %  
    Depreciation and amortization   15,691       14,244       10 %  
    Total segment expenses   278,457       258,331       8 %  
                       
    Segment pre-tax operating income $ 211,418     $ 187,197       13 %  
                       
    Operating metrics:                  
    Retail merchandise sales margin 42 %   42 %        
    Net revenue margin 59 %   59 %        
    Segment pre-tax operating margin 25 %   25 %        
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    SEGMENT RESULTS (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    U.S. Pawn Earning Assets and Portfolio Metrics (dollars in thousands, except as otherwise noted)

      As of June 30,    
      2025
      2024   Increase
    Earning assets:                  
    Pawn loans $ 400,143     $ 356,342       12 %  
    Inventories   252,885       223,428       13 %  
      $ 653,028     $ 579,770       13 %  
                       
    Average outstanding pawn loan amount (in ones) $ 286     $ 260       10 %  
                       
    Composition of pawn collateral:                  
    General merchandise 28 %   30 %        
    Jewelry 72 %   70 %        
      100 %   100 %        
                       
    Composition of inventories:                  
    General merchandise 39 %   43 %        
    Jewelry 61 %   57 %        
      100 %   100 %        
                       
    Percentage of inventory aged greater than one year 2 %   1 %        
                       
    Inventory turns (trailing twelve months cost of merchandise sales divided by average inventories) 2.8 times   2.8 times        
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    SEGMENT RESULTS (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Constant currency results are non-GAAP financial measures, which exclude the effects of foreign currency translation and are calculated by translating current-year results at prior-year average exchange rates. See the “Constant Currency Results” section below for additional discussion of constant currency operating results.

    Latin America Pawn Operating Results and Margins (dollars in thousands)

                          Constant Currency Basis
                          Three Months        
                    Ended        
        Three Months Ended           June 30,   Increase /
        June 30,   Increase /     2025     (Decrease)
          2025         2024     (Decrease)   (Non-GAAP)   (Non-GAAP)
    Revenue:                              
    Retail merchandise sales   $ 135,956       $ 134,445       1   %   $ 153,234       14   %
    Pawn loan fees     59,874         60,714       (1 ) %     67,497       11   %
    Wholesale scrap jewelry sales     10,076         8,823       14   %     10,076       14   %
    Total revenue     205,906         203,982       1   %     230,807       13   %
                                   
    Cost of revenue:                              
    Cost of retail merchandise sold     87,579         86,276       2   %     98,641       14   %
    Cost of wholesale scrap jewelry sold     8,639         7,273       19   %     9,811       35   %
    Total cost of revenue     96,218         93,549       3   %     108,452       16   %
                                   
    Net revenue     109,688         110,433       (1 ) %     122,355       11   %
                                   
    Segment expenses:                              
    Operating expenses     64,414         67,902       (5 ) %     72,340       7   %
    Depreciation and amortization     4,294         5,418       (21 ) %     4,804       (11 ) %
    Total segment expenses     68,708         73,320       (6 ) %     77,144       5   %
                                   
    Segment pre-tax operating income   $ 40,980       $ 37,113       10   %   $ 45,211       22   %
                                   
    Operating metrics:                              
    Retail merchandise sales margin 36  %   36  %         36  %        
    Net revenue margin 53  %   54  %         53  %        
    Segment pre-tax operating margin 20  %   18  %         20  %        
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    SEGMENT RESULTS (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Latin America Pawn Operating Results and Margins (dollars in thousands)

                          Constant Currency Basis
                          Six Months        
                    Ended        
        Six Months Ended           June 30,   Increase /
        June 30,   Increase /     2025     (Decrease)
          2025         2024     (Decrease)   (Non-GAAP)   (Non-GAAP)
    Revenue:                              
    Retail merchandise sales   $ 256,488       $ 265,294       (3 ) %   $ 296,887       12   %
    Pawn loan fees     113,797         117,275       (3 ) %     131,755       12   %
    Wholesale scrap jewelry sales     19,749         18,053       9   %     19,749       9   %
    Total revenue     390,034         400,622       (3 ) %     448,391       12   %
                                   
    Cost of revenue:                              
    Cost of retail merchandise sold     166,318         170,459       (2 ) %     192,333       13   %
    Cost of wholesale scrap jewelry sold     16,770         15,296       10   %     19,491       27   %
    Total cost of revenue     183,088         185,755       (1 ) %     211,824       14   %
                                   
    Net revenue     206,946         214,867       (4 ) %     236,567       10   %
                                   
    Segment expenses:                              
    Operating expenses     125,831         135,327       (7 ) %     144,841       7   %
    Depreciation and amortization     8,730         10,523       (17 ) %     10,008       (5 ) %
    Total segment expenses     134,561         145,850       (8 ) %     154,849       6   %
                                   
    Segment pre-tax operating income   $ 72,385       $ 69,017       5   %   $ 81,718       18   %
                                   
    Operating metrics:                              
    Retail merchandise sales margin 35  %   36  %         35  %        
    Net revenue margin 53  %   54  %         53  %        
    Segment pre-tax operating margin 19  %   17  %         18  %        
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    SEGMENT RESULTS (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Latin America Pawn Earning Assets and Portfolio Metrics (dollars in thousands, except as otherwise noted)

                          Constant Currency Basis
                          As of        
                          June 30,    
      As of June 30,       2025   Increase
      2025   2024   Increase   (Non-GAAP)   (Non-GAAP)
    Earning assets:                              
    Pawn loans $ 150,575     $ 135,389       11 %     $ 154,466     14 %  
    Inventories   102,848       91,996       12 %       105,501     15 %  
      $ 253,423     $ 227,385       11 %     $ 259,967     14 %  
                                   
    Average outstanding pawn loan amount (in ones) $ 96     $ 89       8 %     $ 98     10 %  
                                   
    Composition of pawn collateral:                              
    General merchandise 57 %   63 %                    
    Jewelry 43 %   37 %                    
      100 %   100 %                    
                                   
    Composition of inventories:                              
    General merchandise 59 %   69 %                    
    Jewelry 41 %   31 %                    
      100 %   100 %                    
                                   
    Percentage of inventory aged greater than one year 1 %   1 %                    
                                   
    Inventory turns (trailing twelve months cost of merchandise sales divided by average inventories) 4.1 times   4.3 times                    
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    SEGMENT RESULTS (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Retail POS Payment Solutions Operating Results (dollars in thousands)

      Three Months Ended        
      June 30,   Increase /
      2025   2024   (Decrease)
    Revenue:              
    Leased merchandise income $ 139,784   $ 194,570     (28 ) %
    Interest and fees on finance receivables   76,075     56,799     34   %
    Total revenue   215,859     251,369     (14 ) %
                   
    Cost of revenue:              
    Depreciation of leased merchandise   78,529     110,567     (29 ) %
    Provision for lease losses   32,667     47,824     (32 ) %
    Provision for loan losses   41,761     31,116     34   %
    Total cost of revenue   152,957     189,507     (19 ) %
                   
    Net revenue   62,902     61,862     2   %
                   
    Segment expenses:              
    Operating expenses   24,264     35,275     (31 ) %
    Depreciation and amortization   699     678     3   %
    Total segment expenses   24,963     35,953     (31 ) %
                   
    Segment pre-tax operating income $ 37,939   $ 25,909     46   %
      Six Months Ended        
      June 30,   Increase /
      2025   2024   (Decrease)
    Revenue:              
    Leased merchandise income $ 296,702   $ 400,241     (26 ) %
    Interest and fees on finance receivables   149,488     114,186     31   %
    Total revenue   446,190     514,427     (13 ) %
                   
    Cost of revenue:              
    Depreciation of leased merchandise   167,672     231,341     (28 ) %
    Provision for lease losses   60,271     91,004     (34 ) %
    Provision for loan losses   78,121     61,534     27   %
    Total cost of revenue   306,064     383,879     (20 ) %
                   
    Net revenue   140,126     130,548     7   %
                   
    Segment expenses:              
    Operating expenses   48,482     70,091     (31 ) %
    Depreciation and amortization   1,404     1,399       %
    Total segment expenses   49,886     71,490     (30 ) %
                   
    Segment pre-tax operating income $ 90,240   $ 59,058     53   %
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    SEGMENT RESULTS (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Retail POS Payment Solutions Gross Transaction Volumes (dollars in thousands)

      Three Months Ended           Six Months Ended        
      June 30,   Increase /   June 30,   Increase /
      2025   2024   (Decrease)   2025   2024   (Decrease)
    Leased merchandise $ 110,516   $ 146,778     (25 ) %   $ 204,822   $ 300,899     (32 ) %
    Finance receivables   149,943     105,258     42   %     291,205     207,422     40   %
    Total gross transaction volume $ 260,459   $ 252,036     3   %   $ 496,027   $ 508,321     (2 ) %
     

    Retail POS Payment Solutions Earning Assets (dollars in thousands)

      As of June 30,   Increase /
        2025       2024     (Decrease)
    Leased merchandise, net:              
    Leased merchandise, before allowance for lease losses $ 170,824     $ 246,457       (31 ) %
    Less allowance for lease losses   (69,972 )     (103,301 )     (32 ) %
    Leased merchandise, net $ 100,852     $ 143,156       (30 ) %
                   
    Finance receivables, net:              
    Finance receivables, before allowance for loan losses $ 277,392     $ 205,362       35   %
    Less allowance for loan losses   (122,874 )     (99,961 )     23   %
    Finance receivables, net $ 154,518     $ 105,401       47   %
     

    Portfolio Metrics

      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
      June 30,   June 30,
        2025       2024       2025       2024  
    Leased merchandise portfolio metrics:                      
    Provision rate (1) 30 %   33 %   29 %   30 %
    Average monthly net charge-off rate (2), (3) 6.2 %   5.4 %   6.2 %   5.4 %
    Delinquency rate (4) 23.2 %   23.0 %   23.2 %   23.0 %
                           
    Finance receivables portfolio metrics:                      
    Provision rate (1) 28 %   30 %   27 %   30 %
    Average monthly net charge-off rate (2) 4.6 %   4.5 %   4.4 %   4.7 %
    Delinquency rate (4) 20.6 %   20.0 %   20.6 %   20.0 %

    (1) Calculated as provision for lease or loan losses as a percentage of the respective gross transaction volume originated.
    (2) Calculated as charge-offs, net of recoveries, as a percentage of the respective average earning asset balance before allowance for lease or loan losses.

    (3) The increase in leased merchandised net charge-off rate for 2025 is the expected result given reduced originations of new leases in 2025.
    (4) Calculated as the percentage of the respective contractual earning asset balance owed that is 1 to 89 days past due (the Company charges off leases and finance receivables when they are 90 days or more contractually past due).

    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    PAWN STORE LOCATIONS AND MERCHANT PARTNER LOCATIONS
     

    Pawn Operations

    As of June 30, 2025, the Company operated 3,027 pawn store locations composed of 1,194 stores in 29 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, 1,731 stores in 32 states in Mexico, 72 stores in Guatemala, 18 stores in El Salvador and 12 stores in Colombia.

    The following tables detail pawn store count activity for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025:

      Three Months Ended June 30, 2025
      U.S.   Latin America   Total
    Total locations, beginning of period 1,197     1,826     3,023  
    New locations opened 1     9     10  
    Locations acquired 3         3  
    Consolidation of existing pawn locations (1) (7 )   (2 )   (9 )
    Total locations, end of period 1,194     1,833     3,027  
               
               
      Six Months Ended June 30, 2025
      U.S.   Latin America   Total
    Total locations, beginning of period 1,200     1,826     3,026  
    New locations opened 2     19     21  
    Locations acquired 4         4  
    Consolidation of existing pawn locations (1) (12 )   (12 )   (24 )
    Total locations, end of period 1,194     1,833     3,027  

    (1) Store consolidations were primarily acquired locations which have been combined with overlapping stores and for which the Company expects to maintain a significant portion of the acquired customer base in the consolidated location.

    Retail POS Payment Solutions

    As of June 30, 2025, AFF provided LTO and retail POS payment solutions for consumer goods and services through a network of approximately 15,300 active retail merchant partner locations. This compares to the active door count of approximately 12,800 locations at June 30, 2024.

    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    RECONCILIATIONS OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
    TO GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    The Company uses certain financial calculations such as adjusted net income, adjusted diluted earnings per share, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, free cash flow, adjusted free cash flow, adjusted return on equity, adjusted return on assets and constant currency results as factors in the measurement and evaluation of the Company’s operating performance and period-over-period growth. The Company derives these financial calculations on the basis of methodologies other than generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), primarily by excluding from a comparable GAAP measure certain items the Company does not consider to be representative of its actual operating performance. These financial calculations are “non-GAAP financial measures” as defined under the SEC rules. The Company uses these non-GAAP financial measures in operating its business because management believes they are less susceptible to variances in actual operating performance that can result from the excluded items, other infrequent charges and currency fluctuations. The Company presents these financial measures to investors because management believes they are useful to investors in evaluating the primary factors that drive the Company’s core operating performance and provide greater transparency into the Company’s results of operations. However, items that are excluded and other adjustments and assumptions that are made in calculating these non-GAAP financial measures are significant components in understanding and assessing the Company’s financial performance. These non-GAAP financial measures should be evaluated in conjunction with, and are not a substitute for, the Company’s GAAP financial measures. Further, because these non-GAAP financial measures are not determined in accordance with GAAP, and are thus susceptible to varying calculations, the non-GAAP financial measures, as presented, may not be comparable to other similarly-titled measures of other companies.

    The Company has adjusted the applicable financial calculations to exclude merger and acquisition expenses, amortization of acquired AFF intangible assets, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (“CFPB”) litigation settlement and certain other income and expenses. The Company does not consider these items to be related to the organic operations of the Company’s businesses or its continuing operations and are generally not relevant to assessing or estimating the long-term performance of the Company. In addition, excluding these items allows for more accurate comparisons of the financial results to prior periods. Merger and acquisition expenses include incremental costs directly associated with merger and acquisition activities, including professional fees, legal expenses, severance, retention and other employee-related costs, contract breakage costs and costs related to the consolidation of technology systems and corporate facilities, among others.

    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    RECONCILIATIONS OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
    TO GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share

    Management believes the presentation of adjusted net income and adjusted diluted earnings per share provides investors with greater transparency and provides a more complete understanding of the Company’s financial performance and prospects for the future by excluding items that management believes are non-operating in nature and are not representative of the Company’s core operating performance. In addition, management believes the adjustments shown below are useful to investors in order to allow them to compare the Company’s financial results for the current periods presented with the prior periods presented.

    The following tables provide a reconciliation between net income and diluted earnings per share calculated in accordance with GAAP to adjusted net income and adjusted diluted earnings per share, which are shown net of tax (in thousands, except per share amounts):

                      Trailing Twelve
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended   Months Ended
      June 30,   June 30,   June 30,
        2025       2024     2025       2024     2025     2024  
      In Thousands   In Thousands   In Thousands   In Thousands   In Thousands   In Thousands
    Net income, as reported $ 59,805     $ 49,073   $ 143,396     $ 110,441   $ 291,770   $ 237,174  
    Adjustments, net of tax:                      
    Merger and acquisition expenses   2,134       1,047     2,488       1,504     2,690     7,380  
    AFF purchase accounting and other adjustments   9,258       9,572     18,516       19,145     37,660     51,497  
    CFPB litigation settlement   9,390           9,390           9,390      
    Other (income) expenses, net   (967 )     2,206     (1,391 )     997     1,482     (343 )
    Adjusted net income $ 79,620     $ 61,898   $ 172,399     $ 132,087   $ 342,992   $ 295,708  
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
      June 30,   June 30,
        2025     2024   2025   2024
      Per Share   Per Share   Per Share   Per Share
    Diluted earnings per share, as reported $ 1.34     $ 1.08   $ 3.21     $ 2.44
    Adjustments, net of tax:              
    Merger and acquisition expenses   0.05       0.03     0.06       0.03
    AFF purchase accounting and other adjustments   0.21       0.21     0.41       0.42
    CFPB litigation settlement   0.21           0.21      
    Other (income) expenses, net   (0.02 )     0.05     (0.03 )     0.02
    Adjusted diluted earnings per share $ 1.79     $ 1.37   $ 3.86     $ 2.91
    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    RECONCILIATIONS OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
    TO GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA) and Adjusted EBITDA

    The Company defines EBITDA as net income before income taxes, depreciation and amortization, interest expense and interest income and adjusted EBITDA as EBITDA adjusted for certain items, as listed below, that management considers to be non-operating in nature and not representative of its actual operating performance. The Company believes EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA are commonly used by investors to assess a company’s financial performance, and adjusted EBITDA is used as a starting point in the calculation of the consolidated total debt ratio as defined in the Company’s senior unsecured notes. The following table provides a reconciliation of net income to EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA (in thousands):

                                Trailing Twelve
        Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended   Months Ended
        June 30,   June 30,   June 30,
        2025   2024   2025   2024   2025   2024
    Net income   $ 59,805     $ 49,073     $ 143,396     $ 110,441     $ 291,770     $ 237,174  
    Income taxes     21,274       17,105       48,900       37,622       95,239       80,001  
    Depreciation and amortization     25,864       26,547       51,366       52,574       103,733       107,574  
    Interest expense     26,337       25,187       53,808       50,605       108,429       101,880  
    Interest income     (527 )     (261 )     (1,756 )     (1,004 )     (2,687 )     (1,548 )
    EBITDA     132,753       117,651       295,714       250,238       596,484       525,081  
    Adjustments:                                    
    Merger and acquisition expenses     2,777       1,364       3,239       1,961       3,506       9,600  
    AFF purchase accounting and other adjustments (1)                                   13,968  
    CFPB litigation settlement     11,000             11,000             11,000        
    Other (income) expenses, net     (1,401 )     2,867       (1,944 )     1,275       1,982       (486 )
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 145,129     $ 121,882     $ 308,009     $ 253,474     $ 612,972     $ 548,163  

    (1) For the twelve months ended June 30, 2024, amount represents other non-recurring costs included in administrative expenses related to a discontinued finance product.

    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    RECONCILIATIONS OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
    TO GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Free Cash Flow and Adjusted Free Cash Flow

    For purposes of its internal liquidity assessments, the Company considers free cash flow and adjusted free cash flow. The Company defines free cash flow as cash flow from operating activities less purchases of furniture, fixtures, equipment and improvements and net fundings/repayments of pawn loan and finance receivables, which are considered to be operating in nature by the Company but are included in cash flow from investing activities. Adjusted free cash flow is defined as free cash flow adjusted for merger and acquisition expenses paid that management considers to be non-operating in nature.

    Free cash flow and adjusted free cash flow are commonly used by investors as additional measures of cash generated by business operations that may be used to repay scheduled debt maturities and debt service or, following payment of such debt obligations and other non-discretionary items, that may be available to invest in future growth through new business development activities or acquisitions, repurchase stock, pay cash dividends or repay debt obligations prior to their maturities. These metrics can also be used to evaluate the Company’s ability to generate cash flow from business operations and the impact that this cash flow has on the Company’s liquidity. However, free cash flow and adjusted free cash flow have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for cash flow from operating activities or other income statement data prepared in accordance with GAAP. The following table reconciles cash flow from operating activities to free cash flow and adjusted free cash flow (in thousands):

                        Trailing Twelve
        Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended   Months Ended
        June 30,   June 30,   June 30,
          2025       2024       2025       2024       2025       2024  
    Cash flow from operating activities   $ 116,854     $ 106,187     $ 243,494     $ 228,719     $ 554,733     $ 439,192  
    Cash flow from certain investing activities:                        
    Pawn loans, net (1)     (50,032 )     (46,036 )     (30,592 )     (20,887 )     (81,704 )     (56,053 )
    Finance receivables, net     (35,411 )     (22,252 )     (55,977 )     (37,563 )     (157,728 )     (95,880 )
    Purchases of furniture, fixtures, equipment and improvements     (12,952 )     (16,237 )     (25,866 )     (42,664 )     (51,447 )     (74,464 )
    Free cash flow     18,459       21,662       131,059       127,605       263,854       212,795  
    Merger and acquisition expenses paid, net of tax benefit     2,134       1,047       2,488       1,504       2,690       7,380  
    Adjusted free cash flow   $ 20,593     $ 22,709     $ 133,547     $ 129,109     $ 266,544     $ 220,175  

    (1) Includes the funding of new loans net of cash repayments and recovery of principal through the sale of inventories acquired from forfeiture of pawn collateral.

    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    RECONCILIATIONS OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
    TO GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Adjusted Return on Equity and Adjusted Return on Assets

    Management believes the presentation of adjusted return on equity and adjusted return on assets provides investors with greater transparency and provides a more complete understanding of the Company’s financial performance by excluding items that management believes are non-operating in nature and not representative of the Company’s core operating performance.

    Annualized adjusted return on equity and adjusted return on assets is calculated as follows (dollars in thousands):

      Trailing Twelve
      Months Ended
      June 30, 2025
    Adjusted net income (1) $ 342,992  
         
    Average stockholders’ equity (average of five most recent quarter-end balances) $ 2,046,067  
    Adjusted return on equity (trailing twelve months adjusted net income divided by average equity) 17 %
         
    Average total assets (average of five most recent quarter-end balances) $ 4,426,553  
    Adjusted return on assets (trailing twelve months adjusted net income divided by average total assets) 8 %

    (1) See detail of adjustments to net income in the “Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted Diluted Earnings Per Share” section above.

    Constant Currency Results

    The Company’s reporting currency is the U.S. dollar, however, certain performance metrics discussed in this release are presented on a “constant currency” basis, which is considered a non-GAAP financial measure. The Company’s management uses constant currency results to evaluate operating results of business operations in Latin America, which are transacted in local currencies in Mexico, Guatemala and Colombia. The Company also has operations in El Salvador, where the reporting and functional currency is the U.S. dollar.

    The Company believes constant currency results provide valuable supplemental information regarding the underlying performance of its business operations in Latin America, consistent with how the Company’s management evaluates such performance and operating results. Constant currency results reported herein are calculated by translating certain balance sheet and income statement items denominated in local currencies using the exchange rate from the prior-year comparable period, as opposed to the current comparable period, in order to exclude the effects of foreign currency rate fluctuations for purposes of evaluating period-over-period comparisons. See the Latin America pawn segment tables elsewhere in this release for additional reconciliation of certain constant currency amounts to as reported GAAP amounts.

    FIRSTCASH HOLDINGS, INC.
    RECONCILIATIONS OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
    TO GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (CONTINUED)
    (UNAUDITED)
     

    Exchange Rates for the Mexican Peso, Guatemalan Quetzal and Colombian Peso

      June 30,   Favorable /
      2025   2024   (Unfavorable)
    Mexican peso / U.S. dollar exchange rate:              
    End-of-period 18.9   18.4     (3 ) %
    Three months ended 19.5   17.2     (13 ) %
    Six months ended 20.0   17.1     (17 ) %
                   
    Guatemalan quetzal / U.S. dollar exchange rate:              
    End-of-period 7.7   7.8     1   %
    Three months ended 7.7   7.8     1   %
    Six months ended 7.7   7.8     1   %
                   
    Colombian peso / U.S. dollar exchange rate:              
    End-of-period 4,070   4,148     2   %
    Three months ended 4,199   3,927     (7 ) %
    Six months ended 4,195   3,921     (7 ) %

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI China: Beyond babysitting: How China’s grandparents are reinventing retirement

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

    Graduates perform during the graduation ceremony at Xinjiang Open University for Seniors in Urumqi, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, June 27, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Fei)

    With her silver hair neatly styled and a pearl necklace resting against a soft yellow blouse, Yin Song embodies the elegance of the pianist she’s always been. But the large studio headphones over her ears and the video camera in front of her suggest something different.

    At 74, “Grandma Piano,” as her online fans affectionately call her, now spends her time guiding audiences through the world of anime and video game music, sharing the same depth of feeling she once brought to Mozart and Chopin.

    A lifelong musician, Yin opened her social media account in 2022 to share her expertise. It wasn’t until she analyzed the music from the hit game “Black Myth: Wukong” that her channel suddenly took off. The “grandinfluencer” now has more than 600,000 followers on the video-sharing platform Bilibili.

    For Yin, the experience has been unexpectedly transformative. “We used to lead the young,” she said. “Now they lead us, and I want to keep running alongside them,” embracing new ideas and ways of connecting.

    Yin’s story reflects a subtle yet telling cultural shift. In a country where grandparents have long been expected to devote their retirement years to caring for grandchildren, an increasing number of older Chinese are quietly rewriting the script. They are embracing new roles as content creators, community volunteers, entrepreneurs, and part-time professionals. For many, retirement is no longer a retreat, but a second act.

    Yin is far from alone. By the end of 2024, over 30 million users aged 60 or above were logging in monthly on Xiaohongshu, one of China’s most popular social media platforms. In just two years, the number of senior content creators has tripled, generating more than 100 million posts.

    These older digital pioneers are challenging long-held stereotypes from grandmothers redefining fashion, to retired professors distilling philosophy into viral short videos, and rural elders sharing their pastoral lives.

    Digital engagement is only part of the story. Many seniors are also returning to work, seeking purpose beyond their pensions. Zhu Honghua, 70, a former Beijing accountant enjoyed a comfortable monthly pension of around 8,500 yuan (about 1,191 U.S. dollars) and a leisurely life with her husband after retirement.

    But the routine began to wear thin. When a business contact invited Zhu back to accounting, she jumped at the chance. “It’s not just about the money,” she said. “Having something meaningful to do every day is its own reward.”

    Zhu’s case is hardly an outlier. A growing body of data suggests that many older Chinese are not only willing but eager to return to work. A 2023 survey by the China Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics found that 45 percent of those aged between 60 and 69 expressed a desire to remain in or reenter the workforce.

    Research from the Tianjin Academy of Social Sciences revealed similar patterns: 62.1 percent of people aged 60 to 65 said they wanted to keep working, while among those approaching retirement, aged 55 to 59, the figure was even higher, at 72.7 percent.

    While motivations vary, nearly half of those seeking post-retirement work cited a need for purpose, according to a 2022 report on senior reemployment. Others aimed to apply their skills or chase new ambitions. A third said they hoped to ease financial pressure or afford a better quality of life.

    The surge of interest in post-retirement work coincides with China’s rapidly aging population. By the end of 2024, more than 310 million Chinese citizens were aged 60 or older, about 22 percent of the population. That share is expected to surpass 30 percent by 2035, when the number of seniors is projected to top 400 million.

    As waves of older workers reach retirement age over the coming years, policymakers and experts see both a warning and an opportunity. With educational attainment on the rise, China’s older adults are seen not only as dependents, but as a vast reservoir of experience, skills and resources that could help offset the country’s shrinking working-age population.

    China has taken steps to harness the power of its aging population. In its recent move, the government issued new guidelines this May, calling for more flexible and personalized job opportunities tailored to older adults, while pledging to dismantle outdated regulations that stand in their way.

    Local governments have moved quickly to implement the changes, building registries of senior talent, expanding employment services for retirees, and cultivating specialized human resource agencies to serve the growing “silver economy.”

    Signs of change are beginning to emerge in the labor market. Retirees with backgrounds in engineering, medicine, education and skilled trades are returning as consultants, trainers or part-time specialists, lending decades of experience to fields in need.

    “China has entered an aging society,” said Lu Jiehua, a sociology professor at Peking University. “Tapping into older human resources isn’t just about addressing demographic pressure. It’s a crucial strategy for extending the country’s demographic dividend.”  

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Week 2025@Seoul showcases arts and cultural strengths and diversity (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Week 2025@Seoul showcases arts and cultural strengths and diversity ???
         HK Week@Seoul will premiere tomorrow (July 25) with the pre-festival “Wu Guanzhong Art Sponsorship Overseas Exhibition Series: Wu Guanzhong: Between Black and White”, where 17 masterworks by the great Chinese painter Wu Guanzhong (1919-2010) from the collection of the Hong Kong Museum of Art will be exhibited for the first time in Korea, offering the audience a glimpse into his poetic world of ink and oil.
     
         The grand opening programme of HK Week@Seoul, “Romeo + Juliet” by Hong Kong Ballet, is choreographed by Septime Webre to reinterpret Shakespeare’s classic love story with Hong Kong in the 1960s as the backdrop, presenting Hong Kong’s East-meets-West artistic style.
     
         Dance highlights include the grand dance poem “A Dance of Celestial Rhythms” by the Hong Kong Dance Company, which integrates dance and lights inspired by the ancient Solar Terms; “Mr Blank 2.0” by the City Contemporary Dance Company, which explores disorientation and awakening of human nature through the interplay of physical space and digital projections; and “CollabAsia”, a collaboration between the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts and Sungkyunkwan University in Korea showcasing cross-cultural exchange between students.
     
         For music, the concert “Yan Huichang & Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra” will present various captivating music pieces in partnership with Korean musicians Kim Suin and Park Joonho as well as the Wizard Children’s Choir. The concert “Lio Kuokman, Yekwon Sunwoo & Hong Kong Philharmonic” will feature an orchestral concert led by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra’s Resident Conductor Lio Kuokman and Korean pianist Yekwon Sunwoo, performing a wide range of classical works from the contemporary and romantic eras.
     
          Pop culture will be highlighted by “ImagineLand@Seoul”, an outdoor concert bringing together Hong Kong and Korean singers, including Jonathan Wong and Korean singer Lena Park, for a vibrant showcase of pop music. The concert will also include classical music and original soundtracks from classic Korean dramas and Hong Kong movies. The concert will be followed by a screening of Hong Kong’s classic movie “An Autumn’s Tale” (1987), starring Chow Yun-fat and Cherie Chung.
     
         Film enthusiasts can enjoy two programmes. “‘Movies-to-GO’ – Border Crossings in Hong Kong Cinema – Korea” will screen two Hong Kong-Korean co-productions and four Hong Kong classic movies from the 1960s to 1980s, including the world premiere of a 4K digital restoration of “The Story of a Discharged Prisoner” (1967). “Making Waves – Navigators of Hong Kong Cinema” will screen more recent Hong Kong productions that reflect the city’s evolving cinematic voice.
     
         Two programmes supported by the Hong Kong Arts Development Council (HKADC) are “Travel of the Soul: Echoes after Time”, a dance piece by choreographer Terry Tsang collaborating with Korean dance luminaries, and “HKADC x BAC: Asian Modern Symphony Orchestra with Wilson Ng”, a concert where conductor Wilson Ng will lead musicians from Hong Kong, Korea and other parts of Asia to perform classical music spanning different eras and places, including a performance by renowned Hong Kong pianist Wong KaJeng.
     
         The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency will launch two exhibitions. The “Hong Kong Comics and Culture Exhibition” will present over 80 exhibits from Hong Kong’s martial arts-themed and satirical comic works, including classics such as “Old Master Q” and “My Boy”, as well as the successful cross-sectoral collaboration between Hong Kong’s comics and film and television. “LOCAL POWER Hong Kong Fashion Show and Exhibition in Seoul” will showcase approximately 110 fashion pieces by designers from Hong Kong and other cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and from Korea, while staging a fashion presentation blending AI technology with Cantopop and K-pop.
     
         Information on the dates and venues of the above programmes is set out in the Annex. Tickets for “Romeo + Juliet” and the concert “Yan Huichang & Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra” will be available for sale from tomorrow (July 25). Tickets for “A Dance of Celestial Rhythms”, the concert “Lio Kuokman, Yekwon Sunwoo & Hong Kong Philharmonic” and “Mr Blank 2.0” will be available for sale from August 8. For details, please visit www.hongkongweek.gov.hkIssued at HKT 16:55

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Celebrating youth and Ugandan cinema with a double premiere

    Source: APO


    .

    The youth-focused “Opportunities are Here” project premiered season two of its reality TV show, alongside the thriller, “You May Kiss the Bride Goodbye”

    The TV reality series follows the personal and professional journeys of young creatives as they learn, collaborate and navigate the high-pressure demands of film production. The series captures the reality of building a career in Uganda’s film sector, from brainstorming and budgeting to late-night edits and final screening.

    With mentors including actor and broadcaster Gaetano Kaggwa, filmmaker and scriptwriter Nana Kagga, actress and writer Cleopatra Koheirwe, and actor Michael Wawuyo Jr., the series is airing on NTV every Thursday at 8:30 pm.

    Supported by the Geneva-based UN small business agency, the International Trade Centre (ITC), and the European Union (EU), “Opportunities are Here” season two builds on the momentum of its acclaimed first season, which featured creative minds from across the continent, including Nollywood star Dakore Egbuson-Akande and Ugandan actors Gaetano Kaggwa, Nana Kagga and Cleopatra Koheirwe.

    H.E. Jan Sadek, the European Union Ambassador to Uganda, expressed his admiration for the work achieved through the programme, saying, “We see huge potential in Uganda’s creative industries. Projects like OAH (Opportunities are Here) are a chance to build skills, connect with others, and get your work seen. Young Ugandan creatives should not be afraid to aim for international platforms. Their unique perspective is what the world is looking for.”

    Since its inception, the “Opportunities are Here” project has reached over seven million people through media and campaigns, with over 11,140 creatives trained. This has further resulted in 13,595+ jobs created, with 135+ youth-led productions completed.

    Chief of “Youth, Women and Vulnerable Communities” at ITC, Raimund Moser says: “Over the last three years, we’ve seen that with the right skills, mentorship and platforms, youth can lead the way in redefining African cinema. This is not just about storytelling—it’s about job creation and raising the visibility of creative services as a sector with great growth potential.” 

    The premiere night also featured a new film, “You May Kiss the Bride Goodbye”, a psychological thriller featuring Hellen Lukoma, Mbabazi Catherine Uwera, Fidel Sankara, Allan Kutos Katongole and Nuwa Wamala Nnyanzi, among other Ugandan actors. 

    The film was written, co-directed and produced by seven young filmmakers who participated in seasons one and two. The team includes Kahbuya Vanessa (Kvan), Kavuma Vieri, Nodryn Evanci Kabuye, Elly E. Debuni, Illungole Emmanuel, Nsiima Chloe and Manirahari Colline. 

    This project brought together writers, actors and producers to create their first commercially viable film using a team-based approach, mirroring real-life production, guided by industry professionals, including Joel Tugaineyo (co-producer), Drake Steven Makanga (director), Loukman Ali (creative director) and Alex Ireeta (director of photography), among others. 

    In close collaboration with international film distributors, it was decided the film would be a thriller, a genre with high commercial potential. The filmmakers have been screening the movie in cinemas throughout Uganda in the past several weeks. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Trade Centre.

    MIL OSI Africa

  • EU’s von der Leyen says China ties are at ‘inflection point’ at tense summit

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for an “essential” rebalancing of trade ties with China during a tense summit on Thursday with President Xi Jinping, saying ties stood at an “inflection point”, according to a pool report.

    Expectations were low for the summit marking 50 years of diplomatic ties after weeks of escalating tension and wrangling over its format, with the duration abruptly halved to a single day at Beijing’s request.

    Von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa met Xi at the start of an event set to be dominated by thorny issues ranging from trade frictions to the Ukraine war.

    “As our cooperation has deepened, so have imbalances. We have reached an inflection point,” von der Leyen told Xi during the meeting in the Great Hall of the People.

    She was referring to the EU’s trade deficit with China, which ballooned to a historic 305.8 billion euros ($360 billion) last year.

    “Rebalancing of our bilateral relation is essential … It is vital for China and Europe to acknowledge our respective concerns and come forward with real solutions.”

    However, Xi urged the EU to “make correct strategic choices” during the meeting, state broadcaster CCTV said, in a veiled criticism of Brussels’ hawkish stance on China.

    “The more severe and complex the international situation, the more China and the EU must strengthen communication, enhance mutual trust and deepen cooperation,” Xi told von der Leyen and Costa, it said.

    “Chinese and European leaders should … make correct strategic choices that meet the expectations of the people.”

    The weeks before the summit were dominated by tit-for-tat trade disputes and hawkish European rhetoric, such as a July 8 accusation by von der Leyen that China was flooding global markets as a result of its overcapacity and “enabling Russia’s war economy”.

    Shortly before the summit, however, von der Leyen struck a more conciliatory tone, describing it as an opportunity to “both advance and rebalance our relationship” in a post on X on Thursday.

    “I’m convinced there can be a mutually beneficial cooperation,” von der Leyen added.

    The two EU officials are set to meet Chinese Premier Li Qiang later. Both sides are hoping to reach a modest joint statement on climate, currently one of the only bright spots in EU-China cooperation.

    State news agency Xinhua also appeared to downplay Beijing’s rivalry with the 27-member bloc, saying China was a “critical partner” for Europe, with a range of shared interests.

    “China is a critical partner to Europe, not a systemic rival,” it said in a commentary.

    The two shared interests in trade, climate, and global governance, it said, adding, “These areas of common ground should not be eclipsed by isolated points of friction.”

    The EU defines China as a “partner, competitor and systemic rival”, which frames its strategic approach to China policy.

    At the summit, European leaders are also expected to raise topics such as electric vehicles and Chinese industrial overcapacity.

    China launched rare earth export controls in April that disrupted supply chains worldwide, leading to temporary stoppages in European automotive production lines the following month.

    But its exports of rare earth magnets to the EU surged in June by 245% from May, to stand at 1,364 metric tons, though that was still 35% lower than the year-earlier figure, customs data showed.

    The EU is likely to seal a trade deal with the United States for a broad tariff of 15% on its exports after intense negotiations, avoiding a harsher 30% figure threatened by President Donald Trump.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI China: Poland edge China to reach Women’s VNL semifinals

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

    Host Poland battled past China in a thrilling five-set quarterfinal, winning 17-25, 25-20, 19-25, 25-19, 15-12 in the FIVB Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) on Wednesday evening in Lodz to secure a spot in the semifinals.

    Opposite hitter Magdalena Stysiak led the Polish side with 25 points, including 22 kills and three blocks. Outside hitter Martyna Czyrnianska added 16 points. For China, outside hitter Wu Mengjie delivered an impressive performance with a match-high 25 points, while Zhuang Yushan added 20.

    Coming off a 3-1 victory over China in a friendly on Saturday, Poland entered the match as slight favorites. However, it was China who came out strong in the opening set, fueled by Wu’s sharp attacks. She scored 10 points in the set, helping China establish a 19-14 lead before closing it out 25-17.

    China continued their momentum early in the second set, taking a 5-2 advantage after a spike from Chen Houyu. But Poland rallied back, drawing level at 14-14 thanks to a powerful attack from Martyna Lukasik. Momentum shifted in favor of the hosts as Czyrnianska registered a key block and Stysiak added timely offense to push Poland ahead. Lukasik sealed the set with back-to-back spikes, giving Poland a 25-20 win.

    In the third set, China capitalized on a string of unforced errors from Poland to race ahead 13-5. Maintaining their advantage throughout, China regained the lead in sets with a 25-19 win.

    The fourth set saw Poland respond with renewed energy. Paulina Damaske’s spike and service ace helped the home team build an 18-12 cushion. Although China fought back to narrow the gap to 21-19, Poland surged with four straight points to take the set 25-19, forcing a decider.

    In the tiebreak, Poland met the expectations of their home crowd at Atlas Arena. A block from Stysiak and another strong finish from Damaske gave them a 7-4 lead. Though China closed the deficit to 10-9 after a Stysiak error, Damaske delivered a key solo block to make it 13-10 and later sealed the match with a powerful spike, clinching the final set 15-12.

    “It was a tough challenge. We struggled during the match, so we’re very happy with the victory,” said Polish setter Alicja Grabka in a post-match interview with Polsat TV. “We overcame a difficult situation as we were behind. For me, playing in that kind of match was a dream come true. I’m very proud I could help the team.”

    Earlier in the day, Italy advanced to the semifinals after sweeping the United States 3-0 (25-22, 25-21, 28-26). Opposite spiker Paola Egonu starred with a match-high 20 points, while Avery Skinner led the Americans with 11.

    The remaining quarterfinal matchups will take place on Thursday, with Japan facing Turkiye and Brazil taking on Germany.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI: Australian Life Sciences Venture Capital firm Brandon Capital announces Fund Six final close totalling over A$439m

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MELBOURNE, Australia, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brandon Capital, Australasia’s leading life sciences venture capital firm, today announced the final close of its sixth fund at A$439 million.

    Joining existing investors Hesta, Host Plus, CSL and QIC are the WA Government and Australia’s sovereign investor in manufacturing capability, the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation (NRFC).

    This final close of Brandon BioCatalyst Fund Six (BB6) will see Brandon Capital continue to invest in emerging biomedical technologies with strong commercial potential, translating these exciting discoveries into high-growth firms that positively impact human health.

    To date, Brandon Capital has raised over A$1 billion across previous funds with notable Fund Six investments to date including AdvanCell (radiopharma), PolyActiva (glaucoma implant), Myricx Bio (ADC) and CatalYm (oncology).

    Dr Chris Nave, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Brandon Capital, “We’re excited to welcome the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation to our sixth fund, joining HESTA, Hostplus, CSL, QIC and the WA Government. Closing at $439 million, BB6 is our largest fund to date, and we remain committed to advancing breakthrough biomedical innovations through our unwavering scientific rigour and disciplined capital allocation, in pursuit of exceeding our investors’ expectations.”

    The firm has a track record of advancing its portfolio companies to commercialisation. Recent Brandon Capital portfolio company announcements include FDA approvals for a hypertension therapy from George Medicines and a left ventricular cardiac resynchronisation device developed by EBR Systems, with Q-Sera’s blood collection tubes that produce high-quality serum faster and more reliably, recently approved in Japan.

    Brandon Capital has an active portfolio of over 30 companies with 17 in clinical trials, four advancing or in-market, a promising preclinical pipeline and several actively contributing to Australia’s high-skilled manufacturing sector growth.

    Collectively supporting over 270 high-skilled Australian jobs are: surgical imaging innovator, OncoRes Medical, which has developed the first ‘real-time’ in cavity probe to improve cancer surgery outcomes; late-stage biotech PolyActiva, which is developing a long-term treatment for glaucoma, the second leading cause of blindness; needle-free patch for vaccine delivery Vaxxas, and radiopharmaceutical company AdvanCell, which is developing novel therapies for the treatment of a range of cancers.

    NRFC CEO David Gall said, “Medical science has long development timelines, and it is important for the NRFC to make early and considered investments in the sector to attract the talent and capital that we will need to build our local commercialisation capabilities. If we want medical science jobs and industries to exist in Australia in ten years, we need to invest in them today.”

    Brandon Capital, headquartered in Australia with offices in the UK and US, has established a transcontinental presence that strengthens collaboration across regions. Australian portfolio companies gain access to UK/EU/US capital, expertise, and pharma networks, while international companies benefit from Australia’s world-class clinical trial and research capabilities.

    About Brandon Capital – www.brandoncapital.vc

    Brandon Capital is Australasia’s leading life sciences venture capital firm, with offices in Australia, New Zealand, the US and the UK. Its unique model includes proprietary deal flow through Brandon BioCatalyst, a collaboration of over 50 of ANZ’s leading medical research institutions, and its immersive corporate services structure enables portfolio companies to focus on research commercialisation. With more than 30 active companies in its portfolio, Brandon Capital has been sourcing and supporting the transition of world-leading science into world-leading businesses for nearly two decades.

    For further information please contact

    Media – Australia
    Kirrily Davis, E: kdavis@bcpvc.com M: +61 (0)401 220228

    Media – International
    Sue Charles, Charles Consultants E: sue.charles@charles-consultants.com M: +44 (0)7968 726585

    Chris Gardner, E: Chris@CGComms.onmicrosoft.com M: +44 (0)7956 031077

    About the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation (NRFC)

    The NRFC invests to diversify and transform Australia’s industry and economy. It has $15 billion to invest using direct loans, equity investments and loan guarantees. The NRFC investment mandate covers seven priority areas including value-add in resources; transport; medical science; defence capability; renewables and low emission technologies; value-add in agriculture, forestry and fisheries; and enabling capabilities. 

    The NRFC’s role is to invest in Australian businesses and projects that design, refine and make in order to transform capability, grow jobs and a skilled workforce, and diversify our economy. NRFC is a corporate Commonwealth entity, established by the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation Act 2023 (NRFC Act) in September 2023.

    For more information, visit nrf.gov.au 

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Saudi Arabian delegation arrives in Damascus to participate in investment forum

    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

    DAMASCUS, July 24 (Xinhua) — A high-level Saudi delegation led by Investment Minister Khalid al-Falih arrived in Damascus on Wednesday to open the Saudi-Syrian Investment Forum, which is seen as a significant step toward restoring and expanding economic cooperation between the two countries, state news agency SANA reported.

    The delegation, sent at the initiative of Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, includes more than 130 businessmen and investors.

    As SANA notes, the purpose of the forum is to explore opportunities for bilateral cooperation and promote the signing of agreements that support sustainable development and mutual economic interests of the two countries.

    As part of the forum program, it is planned to launch a project for a white cement production plant in the city of Adra in the outskirts of Damascus.

    In an interview with Saudi Arabia’s Al Arabiya TV channel on Wednesday, Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Syria Faisal al-Majfal said the forum reflects the kingdom’s leadership’s commitment to supporting reconstruction, the resumption of state institutions and the territorial unity of Syria. –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: Dassault Systèmes: Q2 well aligned with objectives; Reaffirming 2025 growth outlook Advancing AI for software-defined industries

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release

    VELIZY-VILLACOUBLAY, FranceJuly 24, 2025

    Dassault Systèmes: Q2 well aligned with objectives; Reaffirming 2025 growth outlook

    Advancing AI for software-defined industries

    Dassault Systèmes (Euronext Paris: FR0014003TT8, DSY.PA) today reports its IFRS unaudited estimated financial results for the second quarter 2025 and first half ended June 30, 2025. The Group’s Board of Directors approved these estimated results on July 23, 2025. This press release also includes financial information on a non-IFRS basis and reconciliations with IFRS figures in the Appendix.

    Summary Highlights1  

    (unaudited, IFRS and non-IFRS unless otherwise noted,
    all growth rates in constant currencies)

    • 2Q25: Total revenue of €1.52 billion, up 6%, well aligned with objectives;
    • 2Q25: Software revenue up 6%, driven by subscription revenue up 10%;
    • 2Q25: 3DEXPERIENCE software revenue up 20% with good dynamics across industries;
    • 2Q25: Operating margin of 29.3% and diluted EPS non-IFRS up 4% to €0.30;
    • For the first six months, recurring revenue up 7% driven by subscription growth of 13%;
    • FY25: Reaffirming non-IFRS full-year objectives with total revenue growth of 6% to 8% and diluted EPS growth of 7% to 10%.

    Dassault Systèmes’ Chief Executive Officer Commentary

    Pascal Daloz, Dassault Systèmes’ Chief Executive Officer, commented:

    “The first half of the year reaffirmed the strength of our core Manufacturing sector, with resilient performance in Transportation & Mobility and strong growth in High-Tech. Aerospace & Defense also had an excellent start, with notable engagement at the Paris Air Show, underscoring our leadership in these strategic areas. In Life Sciences, our PLM solutions are playing more and more a critical role in driving the evolution toward smarter manufacturing and agile supply chains.

    As we look to the future, Dassault Systèmes is uniquely positioned to help clients navigate the increasingly complex and dynamic global landscape. Our focus on high-growth segments, particularly Space, Defense, Energy, and AI-driven cloud infrastructure, places us at the core of sovereignty and security challenges.

    With the introduction of 3D UNIV+RSES, presented at our Capital Markets Day, we are entering new high-value territories such as regulatory and compliance management. AI will be a key enabler in these areas, and early customer feedback has been exceptionally promising. With AI for software-defined industries, we are confident that our continued innovation will unlock new levels of value for our clients, reinforcing our role as a trusted partner in their transformation journeys.”

    Dassault Systèmes’ Chief Financial Officer Commentary

    (revenue and diluted EPS (“EPS”) growth rates in constant currencies,
    data on a non-IFRS basis)

    Rouven Bergmann, Dassault Systèmes’ Chief Financial Officer, commented:

    “In Q2, both total and software revenues grew by 6%, in line with our objectives. Year-to-date, we’ve seen a 5% increase in growth, with subscription rising 13%. Our performance across the Manufacturing sector has been resilient, particularly driven by the continued strength of SIMULIA, ENOVIA, and CATIA.

    On the operational front, we remain committed to strategic investments aimed at capturing long-term value, while protecting EPS. The acquisition of Ascon is a key step in accelerating the shift to software-defined manufacturing.

    Looking ahead, we maintain our outlook for full-year revenue growth between 6-8%, with EPS growth expected to range from 7-10%. Additionally, we’ve updated our currency assumptions for the second half of the year.”

    Financial Summary

    In millions of Euros,
    except per share data and percentages
      IFRS   IFRS
      Q2 2025 Q2 2024 Change Change in constant currencies   YTD 2025 YTD 2024 Change Change in constant currencies
    Total Revenue   1,521.6 1,495.8 2% 5%   3,094.6 2,995.4 3% 4%
    Software Revenue   1,372.7 1,346.5 2% 6%   2,805.4 2,699.4 4% 5%
    Operating Margin   15.9% 18.4% (2.6)pts     17.6% 20.0% (2.4)pts  
    Diluted EPS   0.17 0.21 (19)%     0.37 0.42 (14)%  
    In millions of Euros,
    except per share data and percentages
      Non-IFRS   Non-IFRS
      Q2 2025 Q2 2024 Change Change in constant currencies   YTD 2025 YTD 2024 Change Change in constant currencies
    Total Revenue   1,523.2 1,495.8 2% 6%   3,096.2 2,995.4 3% 5%
    Software Revenue   1,374.2 1,346.5 2% 6%   2,807.0 2,699.4 4% 5%
    Operating Margin   29.3% 29.9% (0.7)pts     30.1% 30.5% (0.4)pts  
    Diluted EPS   0.30 0.30 (1)% 4%   0.61 0.60 2% 5%

    Second Quarter 2025 Versus 2024 Financial Comparisons

    (unaudited, IFRS and non-IFRS unless otherwise noted,
    all revenue growth rates in constant currencies)

    • Total Revenue: Total revenue in the second quarter grew 5% in IFRS and 6% in non-IFRS, to €1.52 billion, and software revenue increased by 6% to €1.37 billion. Subscription & support revenue rose 6%; recurring revenue represented 80% of software revenue. Licenses and other software revenue rose 5% to €276 million. Services revenue increased 3% to €149 million, during the quarter.
    • Software Revenue by Geography: The Americas revenue increased by 2% to represent 37% of software revenue, with High-Tech and Industrial Equipment performing well. Europe grew by 10% to 39% of software revenue, reflecting an acceleration led by France and Southern Europe. In Asia, revenue rose 6% with strong double-digit growth in China. Asia represented 24% of software revenue at the end of the second quarter.
    • Software Revenue by Product Line:
      • Industrial Innovation software revenue rose 9% to €745 million. SIMULIA, CATIA and ENOVIA were the best contributors to growth. Industrial Innovation software represented 54% of software revenue, during the period.
      • Life Sciences software revenue was flat at €268 million, to account for 20% of software revenue.
      • Mainstream Innovation software revenue increased by 3% to €360 million in IFRS, and was up 4% to €361 million in non-IFRS, represented 26% of software revenue. SOLIDWORKS had a strong subscription growth, advancing its business model shift.
    • Software Revenue by Industry: Industrial Equipment, High Tech, Transportation & Mobility and Aerospace & Defense were the best contributors to growth this quarter. In Life Sciences, Dassault Systèmes’ PLM solutions are playing more and more a critical role in driving the evolution toward smarter manufacturing and agile supply chains. In fact, outside of the MEDIDATA product line, Life Sciences revenue grew mid-teens.
    • Key Strategic Drivers: 3DEXPERIENCE software revenue increased 20% and represented 41% of 3DEXPERIENCE Eligible software revenue. Cloud software revenue grew 6% in non-IFRS, representing 25% of software revenue during the period. 3DEXPERIENCE Cloud software revenue increased 15% in constant currencies.
    • Operating Income and Margin: IFRS operating income decreased 12%, to €242 million, as reported. Non-IFRS operating income decreased 0.4% at €446 million, as reported. The IFRS operating margin stood at 15.9% compared to 18.4% in the second quarter of 2024, mainly reflecting the effect of the employee shareholding plan “TOGETHER 2025” offered during the quarter. The non-IFRS operating margin totaled 29.3%, versus 29.9% in the same period of last year, with a negative currency impact of 50 basis points.
    • Earnings per Share: IFRS diluted EPS was €0.17, decreasing 19% as reported. Non-IFRS diluted EPS grew to €0.30, down 1% as reported, up 4% in constant currencies.

    First Half 2025 Versus 2024 Financial Comparisons

    (unaudited, IFRS and non-IFRS unless otherwise noted,
    all revenue growth rates in constant currencies)

    • Total Revenue: Total revenue grew 4% to €3.09 billion in IFRS, and was up 5% to €3.10 billion in non-IFRS. Software revenue increased 5% to €2.81 billion. Subscription and support revenue rose 7% to €2.33 billion; recurring revenue represented 83% of total software revenue. Licenses and other software revenue decreased 2% to €474 million. Services revenue was down 2% to €289 million.
    • Software Revenue by Geography: The Americas, Europe and Asia all grew 5%, representing respectively 40%, 37% and 23% of software revenue.
    • Software Revenue by Product Line:
      • Industrial Innovation software revenue rose 8% to €1.54 billion and represented 55% of software revenue. CATIA, SIMULIA and ENOVIA were among the strongest contributors to growth.
      • Life Sciences software revenue was flat to €561 million, representing 20% of software revenue.
      • Mainstream Innovation software revenue increased by 3% to €707 million in IFRS and to €708 million in non-IFRS. Mainstream Innovation represented 25% of software revenue.
    • Software Revenue by Industry: Aerospace & Defense, High Tech, Industrial Equipment and Transport & Mobility were among the strongest contributors to growth. In Life Sciences, Dassault Systèmes’ PLM solutions are playing more and more a critical role in driving the evolution toward smarter manufacturing and agile supply chains. In fact, outside of the MEDIDATA product line, Life Sciences revenue grew mid-teens.
    • Key Strategic Drivers: 3DEXPERIENCE software revenue increased by 19%, representing 40% of 3DEXPERIENCE Eligible software revenue. Cloud software revenue grew 7% in non-IFRS, and represented 25% of software revenue. 3DEXPERIENCE Cloud software revenue increased 26% in constant currencies.
    • Operating Income and Margin: IFRS operating income was down 9%, to €546 million, as reported. Non-IFRS operating income increased 2% to €932 million, as reported. IFRS operating margin totaled 17.6% compared to 20% for the same period in 2024, mainly reflecting the combined effect of the employee shareholding plan “TOGETHER 2025” and higher share-based compensation related social charges, notably in France, where the rate rose from 20% to 30% in the first half of 2025. Non-IFRS operating margin stood at 30.1% in the first half of 2025, compared to 30.5% in the same period last year, impacted by negative currency effect of 30 basis points.
    • Earnings per Share: IFRS diluted EPS was €0.37, a decrease of 14% as reported. Non-IFRS diluted EPS grew by 2% to €0.61, as reported, or 5% in constant currencies.
    • Cash Flow from Operations (IFRS): Cash flow from operations totaled €1.15 billion for the first six months of 2025, compared to €1.13 billion last year. Cash flow from operations was principally used for the acquisition of ContentServ for €202 million, repurchase of Treasury Shares for €225 million and dividend payments for €343 million.
    • Balance Sheet (IFRS): Dassault Systèmes’ net financial position totaled €1.51 billion as of June 30, 2025, an increase of €0.05 billion, compared to €1.46 billion for the year ended December 31, 2024. Cash and cash equivalents totaled €4.08 billion in the first half.

    Financial Objectives for 2025

    Dassault Systèmes’ third quarter and 2025 financial objectives presented below are given on a non-IFRS basis and reflect the principal 2025 currency exchange rate assumptions for the US dollar and Japanese yen as well as the potential impact from additional non-Euro currencies:

               
          Q3 2025 FY 2025  
      Total Revenue (billion) €1.485 – €1.535 €6.410 – €6.510  
      Growth 1 – 5% 3 – 5%  
      Growth ex FX 5 – 8% 6 – 8%  
               
      Software revenue growth * 5 – 9% 6 – 8%  
        Of which licenses and other software revenue growth * 7 – 14% 4 – 7%  
        Of which recurring revenue growth * 5 – 8% 7 – 8%  
      Services revenue growth *

    1 – 5%

    1 – 3%  
               
      Operating Margin 29.7% – 29.9% 32.2% – 32.4%  
               
      EPS Diluted €0.29 – €0.30 €1.32 – €1.35  
      Growth 0 – 4% 3 – 6%  
      Growth ex FX 5 – 9% 7 – 10%  
               
      US dollar $1.17 per Euro $1.13 per Euro  
      Japanese yen (before hedging) JPY 170.0 per Euro JPY 166.1 per Euro  
      * Growth in Constant Currencies      

    These objectives are prepared and communicated only on a non-IFRS basis and are subject to the cautionary statement set forth below.

    The 2025 non-IFRS financial objectives set forth above do not take into account the following accounting elements below and are estimated based upon the 2025 principal currency exchange rates above: contract liabilities write-downs estimated at approximately €4 million; share-based compensation expenses, including related social charges, estimated at approximately €324 million (these estimates do not include any new stock option or share grants issued after June 30, 2025); amortization of acquired intangibles and of tangibles reevaluation, estimated at approximately €336 million, largely impacted by the acquisition of MEDIDATA; and lease incentives of acquired companies at approximately €1 million.

    The above objectives also do not include any impact from other operating income and expenses, net principally comprised of acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses, and impairment of goodwill and acquired intangible assets; from one-time items included in financial revenue; from one-time tax effects; and from the income tax effects of these non-IFRS adjustments. Finally, these estimates do not include any new acquisitions or restructuring completed after June 30, 2025.

    Corporate Announcements

    Today’s Webcast and Conference Call Information

    Today, Thursday, July 24, 2025, Dassault Systèmes will host in Paris a webcasted presentation at 9:00 AM London Time / 10:00 AM Paris time, and will then host a conference call at 8:30 AM New York time / 1:30 PM London time / 2:30 PM Paris time. The webcasted presentation and conference calls will be available online by accessing investor.3ds.com.

    Additional investor information is available at investor.3ds.com or by calling Dassault Systèmes’ Investor Relations at +33.1.61.62.69.24.

    Investor Relations Events

    • Third Quarter 2025 Earnings Release: October 23, 2025
    • Fourth Quarter 2025 Earnings Release: February 11, 2026
    • First Quarter 2026 Earnings Release: April 23, 2026
    • Second Quarter 2026 Earnings Release: July 23, 2026

    Forward-looking Information

    Statements herein that are not historical facts but express expectations or objectives for the future, including but not limited to statements regarding the Group’s non-IFRS financial performance objectives are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on Dassault Systèmes management’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or performances may differ materially from those in such statements due to a range of factors.

    The Group’s actual results or performance may be materially negatively affected by numerous risks and uncertainties, as described in the “Risk Factors” section 1.9 of the 2024 Universal Registration Document (‘Document d’enregistrement universel’) filed with the AMF (French Financial Markets Authority) on March 18, 2025, available on the Group’s website www.3ds.com.

    In particular, please refer to the risk factor “Uncertain Global Environment” in section 1.9.1.1 of the 2024 Universal Registration Document set out below for ease of reference:

    “In light of the uncertainties regarding economic, business, social, health and geopolitical conditions at the global level, Dassault Systèmes’ revenue, net earnings and cash flows may grow more slowly, whether on an annual or quarterly basis, mainly due to the following factors:

    • the deployment of Dassault Systèmes’ solutions may represent a large portion of a customer’s investments in software technology. Decisions to make such an investment are impacted by the economic environment in which the customers operate. Uncertain global geopolitical, economic and health conditions and the lack of visibility or the lack of financial resources may cause some customers, e.g. within the automotive, aerospace, energy or natural resources industries, to reduce, postpone or cancel their investments, or to reduce or not renew ongoing paid maintenance for their installed base, which impact larger customers’ revenue with their respective sub-contractors;
    • the political, economic and monetary situation in certain geographic regions where Dassault Systèmes operates could become more volatile and negatively affect Dassault Systèmes’ business, and in particular its revenue, for example, due to stricter export compliance rules or the introduction of new customs barriers or controls on the exchange of goods and services;
    • continued pressure or volatility on raw materials and energy prices could also slow down Dassault Systèmes’ diversification efforts in new industries;
    • uncertainties regarding the extent and duration of costs inflation could adversely affect the financial position of Dassault Systèmes; and
    • the sales cycle of the Dassault Systèmes’ products – already relatively long due to the strategic nature of such investments for customers – could further lengthen.

    The occurrence of crises – health and political crises in particular – could have consequences both for the health and safety of Dassault Systèmes’ employees and for the Company. It could also adversely impact the financial situation or financing and supply capabilities of Dassault Systèmes’ existing and potential customers, commercial and technology partners, some of whom may be forced to temporarily close sites or to cease operations. A deteriorating economic environment could generate increased price pressure and affect the collection of receivables, which would negatively affect Dassault Systèmes’ revenue, financial performance and market position.

    Dassault Systèmes makes every effort to take into consideration this uncertain outlook. Dassault Systèmes’ business results, however, may not develop as anticipated. Furthermore, due to factors affecting sales of Dassault Systèmes’ products and services, there may be a substantial time lag between an improvement in global economic and business conditions and an upswing in the Company’s business results.”

    In preparing such forward-looking statements, the Group has in particular assumed an average US dollar to euro exchange rate of US$1.17 per €1.00 as well as an average Japanese yen to euro exchange rate of JPY170.0 to €1.00, before hedging for the third quarter 2025. The Group has assumed an average US dollar to euro exchange rate of US$1.13 per €1.00 as well as an average Japanese yen to euro exchange rate of JPY166.1 to €1.00, before hedging for the full year 2025. However, currency values fluctuate, and the Group’s results may be significantly affected by changes in exchange rates.

    Non-IFRS Financial Information

    Readers are cautioned that the supplemental non-IFRS financial information presented in this press release is subject to inherent limitations. It is not based on any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles and should not be considered in isolation from or as a substitute for IFRS measurements. The supplemental non-IFRS financial information should be read only in conjunction with the Company’s consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS. Furthermore, the Group’s supplemental non-IFRS financial information may not be comparable to similarly titled “non-IFRS” measures used by other companies. Specific limitations for individual non-IFRS measures are set forth in the Company’s 2024 Universal Registration Document filed with the AMF on March 18, 2025.

    In the tables accompanying this press release the Group sets forth its supplemental non-IFRS figures for revenue, operating income, operating margin, net income and diluted earnings per share, which exclude the effect of adjusting the carrying value of acquired companies’ deferred revenue, share-based compensation expense and related social charges, the amortization of acquired intangible assets and of tangibles reevaluation, certain other operating income and expense, net, including impairment of goodwill and acquired intangibles, the effect of adjusting lease incentives of acquired companies, certain one-time items included in financial revenue and other, net, and the income tax effect of the non-IFRS adjustments and certain one-time tax effects. The tables also set forth the most comparable IFRS financial measure and reconciliations of this information with non-IFRS information.

    FOR MORE INFORMATION

    Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform, 3D design software, 3D Digital Mock Up and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions: http://www.3ds.com

    ABOUT DASSAULT SYSTÈMES

    Dassault Systèmes is a catalyst for human progress. Since 1981, the company has pioneered virtual worlds to improve real life for consumers, patients and citizens. With Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform, 370 000 customers of all sizes, in all industries, can collaborate, imagine and create sustainable innovations that drive meaningful impact.
    For more information, visit www.3ds.com.

    Dassault Systèmes Investor Relations Team                FTI Consulting

    Beatrix Martinez: +33 1 61 62 40 73                        Arnaud de Cheffontaines: +33 1 47 03 69 48

                                                            Jamie Ricketts : +44 20 3727 1600

    investors@3ds.com

    Dassault Systèmes Press Contacts

    Corporate / France        Arnaud MALHERBE        arnaud.malherbe@3ds.com        +33 (0)1 61 62 87 73

    © Dassault Systèmes. All rights reserved. 3DEXPERIENCE, the 3DS logo, the Compass icon, IFWE, 3DEXCITE, 3DVIA, BIOVIA, CATIA, CENTRIC PLM, DELMIA, ENOVIA, GEOVIA, MEDIDATA, NETVIBES, OUTSCALE, SIMULIA and SOLIDWORKS are commercial trademarks or registered trademarks of Dassault Systèmes, a European company (Societas Europaea) incorporated under French law, and registered with the Versailles trade and companies registry under number 322 306 440, or its subsidiaries in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are owned by their respective owners. Use of any Dassault Systèmes or its subsidiaries trademarks is subject to their express written approval.

    APPENDIX TABLE OF CONTENTS

    Due to rounding, numbers presented throughout this and other documents may not add up precisely to the totals provided and percentages may not precisely reflect the absolute figures.    

    Glossary of Definitions

    Non-IFRS Financial Information

    Acquisitions and Foreign Exchange Impact

    Condensed consolidated statements of income

    Condensed consolidated balance sheet

    Condensed consolidated cash flow statement

    IFRS – non-IFRS reconciliation

    DASSAULT SYSTÈMES – Glossary of Definitions

    Information in Constant Currencies

    Dassault Systèmes has followed a long-standing policy of measuring its revenue performance and setting its revenue objectives exclusive of currency in order to measure in a transparent manner the underlying level of improvement in its total revenue and software revenue by activity, industry, geography and product lines. The Group believes it is helpful to evaluate its growth exclusive of currency impacts, particularly to help understand revenue trends in its business. Therefore, the Group provides percentage increases or decreases in its revenue and expenses (in both IFRS and non-IFRS) to eliminate the effect of changes in currency values, particularly the U.S. dollar and the Japanese yen, relative to the euro. When trend information is expressed “in constant currencies”, the results of the “prior” period have first been recalculated using the average exchange rates of the comparable period in the current year, and then compared with the results of the comparable period in the current year.

    While constant currency calculations are not considered to be an IFRS measure, the Group believes these measures are critical to understanding its global revenue results and to compare with many of its competitors who report their financial results in U.S. dollars. Therefore, Dassault Systèmes includes this calculation to compare IFRS and non-IFRS revenue figures for comparable periods. All information at constant currencies is expressed as a rounded percentage and therefore may not precisely reflect the absolute figures.

    Information on Growth excluding acquisitions (“organic growth”)

    In addition to financial indicators relating to the Group’s entire scope, Dassault Systèmes also provides growth information excluding acquisitions’ effects, and named organic growth. To do so, the Group’s data is restated to exclude acquisitions, from the date of the transaction, over a period of 12 months.

    Information on Industrial Sectors

    Dassault Systèmes provides broad end-to-end software solutions and services: its 3D UNIV+RSES (made of multiple virtual twin experiences) powered by the 3DEXPERIENCE platform combine modeling, simulation, data science, artificial intelligence and collaborative innovation to support companies in the three sectors it serves, namely Manufacturing Industries, Life Sciences & Healthcare, and Infrastructure & Cities.

    These three sectors comprise twelve industries:

    • Manufacturing Industries: Transportation & Mobility; Aerospace & Defense; Marine & Offshore; Industrial Equipment; High-Tech; Home & Lifestyle; Consumer Packaged Goods – Retail. In Manufacturing Industries, Dassault Systèmes helps customers virtualize their operations, improve data sharing and collaboration across their organization, reduce costs and time-to-market, and become more sustainable;
    • Life Sciences & Healthcare: Life Sciences & Healthcare. In this sector, the Group aims to address the entire cycle of the patient journey to lead the way toward precision medicine. To reach the broader healthcare ecosystem from research to commercial, the Group’s solutions connect all elements from molecule development to prevention to care, and combine new therapeutics, medical practices, and Medtech;
    • Infrastructure & Cities: Infrastructure, Energy & Materials; Architecture, Engineering & Construction; Business Services; Cities & Public Services. In Infrastructure & Cities, the Group supports the virtualization of the sector in making its industries more efficient and sustainable, and creating desirable living environments.

    Information on Product Lines

    The Group’s financial reporting on product lines includes the following information:

    • Industrial Innovation software revenue, which includes CATIA, ENOVIA, SIMULIA, DELMIA, GEOVIA, NETVIBES, and 3DEXCITE brands;
    • Life Sciences software revenue, which includes MEDIDATA and BIOVIA brands;
    • Mainstream Innovation software revenue, which includes its CENTRIC PLM and 3DVIA brands, as well as the SOLIDWORKS brand and its expanded offerings in design, simulation, PLM, and manufacturing.

    OUTSCALE has been a Dassault Systèmes brand since 2022, extending the portfolio of software applications. As the first sovereign and sustainable operator on the cloud, OUTSCALE enables governments and corporations from all sectors to achieve digital autonomy through a Cloud experience and with a world-class cyber governance.

    GEOs

    Eleven GEOs are responsible for driving the development of the Company’s business and implementing its customer‑centric engagement model. Teams leverage strong networks of local customers, users, partners, and influencers.

    These GEOs are structured into three groups:

    • the “Americas” group, made of two GEOs;
    • the “Europe” group, comprising Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and made of four GEOs;
    • the “Asia” group, comprising Asia and Oceania and made of five GEOs.

    3DEXPERIENCE Software Contribution

    To measure the relative share of 3DEXPERIENCE software in its revenues, Dassault Systèmes calculates the percentage contribution by comparing total 3DEXPERIENCE software revenue to software revenue for all product lines except SOLIDWORKS, MEDIDATA, CENTRIC PLM and other acquisitions (defined as “3DEXPERIENCE Eligible software revenue”).

    Cloud revenue

    Cloud revenue is generated from contracts that provide access to cloud-based solutions (SaaS), infrastructure as a service (IaaS), cloud solution development and cloud managed services. These offerings are delivered by Dassault Systèmes through its own cloud infrastructure or by third-party cloud providers. They are available through different deployment methods: Dedicated cloud, Sovereign cloud and International cloud. Cloud solutions are generally offered through subscription-based models or perpetual licenses with support and hosting services.

    DASSAULT SYSTÈMES

    NON-IFRS FINANCIAL INFORMATION

    (unaudited; in millions of Euros, except per share data, percentages, headcount and exchange rates)

    Non-IFRS key figures exclude the effects of adjusting the carrying value of acquired companies’ contract liabilities (deferred revenue), share-based compensation expense, including related social charges, amortization of acquired intangible assets and of tangible assets revaluation, lease incentives of acquired companies, other operating income and expense, net, including the acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses, and impairment of goodwill and acquired intangible assets, certain one-time items included in financial loss, net, certain one-time tax effects and the income tax effects of these non-IFRS adjustments.

    Comparable IFRS financial information and a reconciliation of the IFRS and non-IFRS measures are set forth in the separate tables within this Attachment.

    In millions of Euros, except per share data, percentages, headcount and exchange rates Non-IFRS reported
    Three months ended Six months ended
    June 30,

    2025

    June 30,

    2024

    Change Change in constant currencies June 30,

    2025

    June 30,

    2024

    Change Change in constant currencies
    Total Revenue € 1,523.2 € 1,495.8 2% 6% € 3,096.2 € 2,995.4 3% 5%
                     
    Revenue breakdown by activity                
    Software revenue 1,374.2 1,346.5 2% 6% 2,807.0 2,699.4 4% 5%
    Of which licenses and other software revenue 275.6 271.8 1% 5% 473.7 490.3 (3)% (2)%
    Of which subscription and support revenue 1,098.6 1,074.8 2% 6% 2,333.2 2,209.1 6% 7%
    Services revenue 148.9 149.2 (0)% 3% 289.2 296.1 (2)% (2)%
                     
    Software revenue breakdown by product line                
    Industrial Innovation 744.6 701.9 6% 9% 1,537.7 1,433.2 7% 8%
    Life Sciences 268.3 281.7 (5)% 0% 560.9 566.4 (1)% 0%
    Mainstream Innovation 361.3 363.0 (0)% 4% 708.3 699.7 1% 3%
                     
    Software Revenue breakdown by geography                
    Americas 505.0 525.5 (4)% 2% 1,116.2 1,079.1 3% 5%
    Europe 534.8 491.9 9% 10% 1,048.0 995.1 5% 5%
    Asia 334.4 329.1 2% 6% 642.8 625.2 3% 5%
                     
    Operating income € 446.1 € 447.8 (0)%   € 932.2 € 914.3 2%  
    Operating margin 29.3% 29.9%     30.1% 30.5%    
                     
    Net income attributable to shareholders € 391.0 € 397.1 (2)%   € 811.2 € 794.3 2%  
    Diluted earnings per share € 0.30 € 0.30 (1)% 4% € 0.61 € 0.60 2% 5%
                     
    Closing headcount 26,253 25,811 2%   26,253 25,811 2%  
                     
    Average Rate USD per Euro 1.13 1.08 5%   1.09 1.08 1%  
    Average Rate JPY per Euro 163.81 167.77 (2)%   162.12 164.46 (1)%  

    DASSAULT SYSTÈMES

    ACQUISITIONS AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE IMPACT

    (unaudited; in millions of Euros)

    In millions of Euros Non-IFRS reported o/w growth at constant rate and scope o/w change of scope impact at current year rate o/w FX impact on previous year figures
    June 30,

    2025

    June 30,

    2024

    Change
    Revenue QTD 1,523.2 1,495.8 27.4 72.6 7.5 (52.7)
    Revenue YTD 3,096.2 2,995.4 100.7 125.9 7.7 (32.9)

    DASSAULT SYSTÈMES

    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

    (unaudited; in millions of Euros, except per share data and percentages)

    In millions of Euros, except per share data and percentages IFRS reported
    Three months ended Six months ended
    June 30, June 30, June 30, June 30,
    2025 2024 2025 2024
    Licenses and other software revenue 275.6 271.8 473.7 490.3
    Subscription and Support revenue 1,097.1 1,074.8 2,331.7 2,209.1
    Software revenue 1,372.7 1,346.5 2,805.4 2,699.4
    Services revenue 148.9 149.2 289.2 296.1
    Total Revenue € 1,521.6 € 1,495.8 € 3,094.6 € 2,995.4
    Cost of software revenue (1) (120.1) (124.8) (249.3) (236.8)
    Cost of services revenue (144.6) (127.9) (275.7) (259.8)
    Research and development expenses (348.7) (326.1) (697.3) (637.5)
    Marketing and sales expenses (448.0) (423.8) (894.5) (844.1)
    General and administrative expenses (123.7) (111.6) (244.2) (216.7)
    Amortization of acquired intangible assets and of tangible assets revaluation (85.4) (92.3) (173.8) (185.6)
    Other operating income and expense, net (9.3) (13.2) (13.7) (15.0)
    Total Operating Expenses (1,279.9) (1,219.8) (2,548.4) (2,395.4)
    Operating Income € 241.7 € 276.0 € 546.1 € 600.0
    Financial income (loss), net 29.9 33.3 60.2 63.4
    Income before income taxes € 271.5 € 309.2 € 606.3 € 663.5
    Income tax expense (53.0) (47.7) (128.4) (116.0)
    Net Income € 218.6 € 261.5 € 477.9 € 547.5
    Non-controlling interest 4.9 1.2 6.1 1.0
    Net Income attributable to equity holders of the parent € 223.5 € 262.7 € 484.0 € 548.4
    Basic earnings per share 0.17 0.20 0.37 0.42
    Diluted earnings per share € 0.17 € 0.21 € 0.37 € 0.42
    Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in millions) 1,315.9 1,313.2 1,314.9 1,313.7
    Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in millions) 1,324.4 1,326.2 1,325.7 1,328.7

            (1) Excluding amortization of acquired intangible assets and of tangible assets revaluation.

    IFRS reported

     

    Three months ended June 30, 2025 Six months ended June 30, 2025
    Change (2) Change in constant currencies Change (2) Change in constant currencies
    Total Revenue 2% 5% 3% 4%
    Revenue by activity        
    Software revenue 2% 6% 4% 5%
    Services revenue (0)% 3% (2)% (2)%
    Software Revenue by product line        
    Industrial Innovation 6% 9% 7% 8%
    Life Sciences (5)% 0% (1)% 0%
    Mainstream Innovation (1)% 3% 1% 3%
    Software Revenue by geography        
    Americas (4)% 2% 3% 5%
    Europe 8% 10% 5% 5%
    Asia 2% 6% 3% 5%

                    (2) Variation compared to the same period in the prior year.

    DASSAULT SYSTÈMES

    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

    (unaudited; in millions of Euros)

    In millions of Euros IFRS reported
    June 30, December 31,
    2025 2024
    ASSETS    
    Cash and cash equivalents 4,083.7 3,952.6
    Trade accounts receivable, net 1,575.9 2,120.9
    Contract assets 40.1 30.1
    Other current assets 406.2 464.0
    Total current assets 6,105.9 6,567.6
    Property and equipment, net 903.5 945.8
    Goodwill and Intangible assets, net 7,030.3 7,687.1
    Other non-current assets 375.7 345.5
    Total non-current assets 8,309.4 8,978.3
    Total Assets € 14,415.3 € 15,545.9
    LIABILITIES    
    Trade accounts payable 183.2 259.9
    Contract liabilities 1,559.3 1,663.4
    Borrowings, current 534.0 450.8
    Other current liabilities 1,063.0 1,147.4
    Total current liabilities 3,339.5 3,521.5
    Borrowings, non-current 2,043.9 2,042.8
    Other non-current liabilities 836.0 900.9
    Total non-current liabilities 2,879.9 2,943.7
    Non-controlling interests 11.5 14.1
    Parent shareholders’ equity 8,184.3 9,066.6
    Total Liabilities € 14,415.3 € 15,545.9

    DASSAULT SYSTÈMES

    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT

    (unaudited; in millions of Euros)

    In millions of Euros IFRS reported
    Three months ended Six months ended
    June 30, June 30, Change June 30, June 30, Change
    2025 2024 2025 2024
    Net income attributable to equity holders of the parent 223.5 262.7 (39.3) 484.0 548.4 (64.4)
    Non-controlling interest (4.9) (1.2) (3.7) (6.1) (1.0) (5.1)
    Net income 218.6 261.5 (42.9) 477.9 547.5 (69.5)
    Depreciation of property and equipment 48.5 45.1 3.4 98.9 92.7 6.2
    Amortization of intangible assets 86.2 94.2 (8.0) 175.9 189.4 (13.5)
    Adjustments for other non-cash items 20.5 36.6 (16.1) 36.6 74.3 (37.7)
    Changes in working capital (39.4) 21.9 (61.3) 358.0 226.3 131.7
    Net Cash From Operating Activities € 334.3 € 459.3 € ( 124.9) € 1,147.3 € 1,130.2 € 17.2
                 
    Additions to property, equipment and intangibles assets (39.3) (50.6) 11.3 (95.3) (107.8) 12.5
    Payment for acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired (9.2) (11.2) 2.0 (202.9) (15.7) (187.2)
    Other 3.2 0.8 2.3 (34.6) 23.1 (57.7)
    Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities € (45.3) € (61.0) € 15.6 € (332.8) € (100.4) € (232.4)
                 
    Proceeds from exercise of stock options 7.4 13.9 (6.5) 29.6 35.2 (5.7)
    Cash dividends paid (342.6) (302.7) (39.9) (342.6) (302.7) (39.9)
    Repurchase and sale of treasury stock (144.7) (176.6) 31.8 (224.8) (307.7) 82.9
    Capital increase 111.3 111.3 111.3 111.3
    Acquisition of non-controlling interests 0.0 (0.0) 0.0 (0.2) (2.6) 2.5
    Proceeds from borrowings 121.3 121.3 81.0 81.0
    Repayment of borrowings (0.1) 0.1 (18.5) (0.2) (18.4)
    Repayment of lease liabilities (22.7) (18.3) (4.4) (45.4) (42.3) (3.0)
    Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities € (270.0) € (483.7) € 213.7 € (409.5) € (620.2) € 210.7
                 
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (178.1) 21.0 (199.1) (273.9) 53.6 (327.5)
                 
    Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents € (159.1) € (64.4) € (94.7) € 131.2 € 463.2 € (332.1)
                 
    Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period € 4,242.9 € 4,095.9   € 3,952.6 € 3,568.3  
    Cash and cash equivalents at end of period € 4,083.7 € 4,031.5   € 4,083.7 € 4,031.5  

    DASSAULT SYSTÈMES
    SUPPLEMENTAL NON-IFRS FINANCIAL INFORMATION
    IFRS – NON-IFRS RECONCILIATION
    (unaudited; in millions of Euros, except per share data and percentages)

    Readers are cautioned that the supplemental non-IFRS information presented in this press release is subject to inherent limitations. It is not based on any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles and should not be considered as a substitute for IFRS measurements. Also, the Group’s supplemental non-IFRS financial information may not be comparable to similarly titled “non-IFRS” measures used by other companies. Further specific limitations for individual non-IFRS measures, and the reasons for presenting non-IFRS financial information, are set forth in the Group’s Document d’Enregistrement Universel for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the AMF on March 18, 2025. To compensate for these limitations, the supplemental non-IFRS financial information should be read not in isolation, but only in conjunction with the Group’s consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS.

    In millions of Euros, except per share data and percentages Three months ended June 30, Change
    2025 Adjustment(1) 2025 2024 Adjustment(1) 2024 IFRS Non-IFRS(2)
    IFRS Non-IFRS IFRS Non-IFRS
    Total Revenue € 1,521.6 € 1.6 € 1,523.2 € 1,495.8 € 1,495.8 2% 2%
    Revenue breakdown by activity                
    Software revenue 1,372.7 1.6 1,374.2 1,346.5 1,346.5 2% 2%
    Licenses and other software revenue 275.6 275.6 271.8 271.8 1% 1%
    Subscription and Support revenue 1,097.1 1.6 1,098.6 1,074.8 1,074.8 2% 2%
    Recurring portion of Software revenue 80%   80% 80%   80%    
    Services revenue 148.9 148.9 149.2 149.2 (0)% (0)%
    Software Revenue breakdown by product line                
    Industrial Innovation 744.6 744.6 701.9 701.9 6% 6%
    Life Sciences 268.3 268.3 281.7 281.7 (5)% (5)%
    Mainstream Innovation 359.7 1.6 361.3 363.0 363.0 (1)% (0)%
    Software Revenue breakdown by geography                
    Americas 505.0 505.0 525.5 525.5 (4)% (4)%
    Europe 533.4 1.4 534.8 491.9 491.9 8% 9%
    Asia 334.3 0.1 334.4 329.1 329.1 2% 2%
    Total Operating Expenses € (1,279.9) € 202.9 € (1,077.1) € (1,219.8) € 171.9 € (1,047.9) 5% 3%
    Share-based compensation expense and related social charges (107.7) 107.7 (65.8) 65.8    
    Amortization of acquired intangible assets and of tangible assets revaluation (85.4) 85.4 (92.3) 92.3    
    Lease incentives of acquired companies (0.4) 0.4 (0.5) 0.5    
    Other operating income and expense, net (9.3) 9.3 (13.2) 13.2    
    Operating Income € 241.7 € 204.4 € 446.1 € 276.0 € 171.9 € 447.8 (12)% (0)%
    Operating Margin 15.9%   29.3% 18.4%   29.9%    
    Financial income (loss), net 29.9 0.6 30.4 33.3 0.5 33.8 (10)% (10)%
    Income tax expense (53.0) (32.8) (85.7) (47.7) (36.4) (84.1) 11% 2%
    Non-controlling interest 4.9 (4.7) 0.3 1.2 (1.6) (0.4) 300% (167)%
    Net Income attributable to shareholders € 223.5 € 167.6 € 391.0 € 262.7 € 134.4 € 397.1 (15)% (2)%
    Diluted Earnings Per Share (3) € 0.17 € 0.13 € 0.30 € 0.21 € 0.09 € 0.30 (19)% (1)%

    (1) In the reconciliation schedule above, (i) all adjustments to IFRS revenue data reflect the exclusion of the effect of adjusting the carrying value of acquired companies’ contract liabilities (deferred revenue); (ii) adjustments to IFRS operating expense data reflect the exclusion of the amortization of acquired intangible assets and of tangible assets revaluation, share-based compensation expense, including related social charges, lease incentives of acquired companies, as detailed below, and other operating income and expense, net including acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses, and impairment of goodwill and acquired intangible assets; (iii) adjustments to IFRS financial loss, net reflect the exclusion of certain one-time items included in financial loss, net, and; (iv) all adjustments to IFRS income data reflect the combined effect of these adjustments, plus with respect to net income and diluted earnings per share, certain one-time tax effects and the income tax effect of the non-IFRS adjustments.

    In millions of Euros, except percentages Three months ended June 30, Change
    2025

    IFRS

    Share-based compensation expense and related social charges Lease incentives of acquired companies 2025

    Non-IFRS

    2024

    IFRS

    Share-based compensation expense and related social charges Lease incentives of acquired companies 2024

    Non-IFRS

    IFRS Non-

    IFRS

    Cost of revenue (264.7) 13.9 0.1 (250.7) (252.8) 5.0 0.1 (247.6) 5% 1%
    Research and development expenses (348.7) 28.9 0.1 (319.7) (326.1) 20.4 0.2 (305.5) 7% 5%
    Marketing and sales expenses (448.0) 39.7 0.1 (408.2) (423.8) 23.2 0.1 (400.5) 6% 2%
    General and administrative expenses (123.7) 25.2 0.0 (98.5) (111.6) 17.2 0.0 (94.3) 11% 4%
    Total   € 107.7 € 0.4     € 65.8 € 0.5      

    (2) The non-IFRS percentage increase (decrease) compares non-IFRS measures for the two different periods. In the event there is non-IFRS adjustment to the relevant measure for only one of the periods under comparison, the non-IFRS increase (decrease) compares the non-IFRS measure to the relevant IFRS measure.
    (3) Based on a weighted average 1,324.4 million diluted shares for Q2 2025 and 1,326.2 million diluted shares for Q2 2024, and, for IFRS only, a diluted net income attributable to the sharehorlders of € 223.5 million for Q2 2025 (€ 276.7 million for Q2 2024). The Diluted net income attributable to equity holders of the Group corresponds to the Net Income attributable to equity holders of the Group adjusted by the impact of the share-based compensation plans to be settled either in cash or in shares at the option of the Group.

    DASSAULT SYSTÈMES
    SUPPLEMENTAL NON-IFRS FINANCIAL INFORMATION
    IFRS – NON-IFRS RECONCILIATION
    (unaudited; in millions of Euros, except per share data and percentages)

    Readers are cautioned that the supplemental non-IFRS information presented in this press release is subject to inherent limitations. It is not based on any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles and should not be considered as a substitute for IFRS measurements. Also, the Group’s supplemental non-IFRS financial information may not be comparable to similarly titled “non-IFRS” measures used by other companies. Further specific limitations for individual non-IFRS measures, and the reasons for presenting non-IFRS financial information, are set forth in the Group’s Document d’Enregistrement Universel for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the AMF on March 18, 2025. To compensate for these limitations, the supplemental non-IFRS financial information should be read not in isolation, but only in conjunction with the Group’s consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS.

    In millions of Euros, except per share data and percentages Six months ended June 30, Change
    2025 Adjustment(1) 2025 2024 Adjustment(1) 2024 IFRS Non-IFRS(2)
    IFRS Non-IFRS IFRS Non-IFRS
    Total Revenue € 3,094.6 € 1.6 € 3,096.2 € 2,995.4 € 2,995.4 3% 3%
    Revenue breakdown by activity                
    Software revenue 2,805.4 1.6 2,807.0 2,699.4 2,699.4 4% 4%
    Licenses and other software revenue 473.7 473.7 490.3 490.3 (3)% (3)%
    Subscription and Support revenue 2,331.7 1.6 2,333.2 2,209.1 2,209.1 6% 6%
    Recurring portion of Software revenue 83%   83% 82%   82%    
    Services revenue 289.2 289.2 296.1 296.1 (2)% (2)%
    Software Revenue breakdown by product line                
    Industrial Innovation 1,537.7 1,537.7 1,433.2 1,433.2 7% 7%
    Life Sciences 560.9 560.9 566.4 566.4 (1)% (1)%
    Mainstream Innovation 706.8 1.6 708.3 699.7 699.7 1% 1%
    Software Revenue breakdown by geography                
    Americas 1,116.1 0.1 1,116.2 1,079.1 1,079.1 3% 3%
    Europe 1,046.6 1.4 1,048.0 995.1 995.1 5% 5%
    Asia 642.7 0.1 642.8 625.2 625.2 3% 3%
    Total Operating Expenses € (2,548.4) € 384.4 € (2,164.0) € (2,395.4) € 314.3 € (2,081.1) 6% 4%
    Share-based compensation expense and related social charges (196.2) 196.2 (112.6) 112.6    
    Amortization of acquired intangible assets and of tangible assets revaluation (173.8) 173.8 (185.6) 185.6    
    Lease incentives of acquired companies (0.8) 0.8 (1.2) 1.2    
    Other operating income and expense, net (13.7) 13.7 (15.0) 15.0    
    Operating Income € 546.1 € 386.0 € 932.2 € 600.0 € 314.3 € 914.3 (9)% 2%
    Operating Margin 17.6%   30.1% 20.0%   30.5%    
    Financial income (loss), net 60.2 1.1 61.3 63.4 1.5 64.9 (5)% (6)%
    Income tax expense (128.4) (54.4) (182.8) (116.0) (68.0) (184.0) 11% (1)%
    Non-controlling interest 6.1 (5.6) 0.5 1.0 (1.9) (0.9) N/A (152)%
    Net Income attributable to shareholders € 484.0 € 327.2 € 811.2 € 548.4 € 245.9 € 794.3 (12)% 2%
    Diluted Earnings Per Share (3) € 0.37 € 0.25 € 0.61 € 0.42 € 0.17 € 0.60 (14)% 2%

    (1) In the reconciliation schedule above, (i) all adjustments to IFRS revenue data reflect the exclusion of the effect of adjusting the carrying value of acquired companies’ contract liabilities (deferred revenue); (ii) adjustments to IFRS operating expense data reflect the exclusion of the amortization of acquired intangible assets and of tangible assets revaluation, share-based compensation expense, including related social charges, lease incentives of acquired companies, as detailed below, and other operating income and expense, net including acquisition, integration and restructuring expenses, and impairment of goodwill and acquired intangible assets; (iii) adjustments to IFRS financial loss, net reflect the exclusion of certain one-time items included in financial loss, net, and; (iv) all adjustments to IFRS income data reflect the combined effect of these adjustments, plus with respect to net income and diluted earnings per share, certain one-time tax effects and the income tax effect of the non-IFRS adjustments.

    In millions of Euros, except percentages Six months ended June 30, Change
    2025

    IFRS

    Share-based compensation expense and related social charges Lease incentives of acquired companies 2025

    Non-IFRS

    2024

    IFRS

    Share-based compensation expense and related social charges Lease incentives of acquired companies 2024

    Non-IFRS

    IFRS Non-

    IFRS

    Cost of revenue (525.0) 18.8 0.2 (505.9) (496.5) 8.0 0.3 (488.2) 6% 4%
    Research and development expenses (697.3) 61.4 0.3 (635.7) (637.5) 38.3 0.6 (598.7) 9% 6%
    Marketing and sales expenses (894.5) 64.2 0.2 (830.1) (844.1) 36.8 0.2 (807.1) 6% 3%
    General and administrative expenses (244.2) 51.8 0.1 (192.3) (216.7) 29.5 0.1 (187.1) 13% 3%
    Total   € 196.2 € 0.8     € 112.6 € 1.2      

    (2) The non-IFRS percentage increase (decrease) compares non-IFRS measures for the two different periods. In the event there is non-IFRS adjustment to the relevant measure for only one of the periods under comparison, the non-IFRS increase (decrease) compares the non-IFRS measure to the relevant IFRS measure.
    (3) Based on a weighted average 1,325.7 million diluted shares for YTD 2025 and 1,328.7 million diluted shares for YTD 2024, and, for IFRS only, a diluted net income attributable to the sharehorlders of € 484.0 million for YTD 2025 (€ 562.3 million for YTD 2024). The Diluted net income attributable to equity holders of the Group corresponds to the Net Income attributable to equity holders of the Group adjusted by the impact of the share-based compensation plans to be settled either in cash or in shares at the option of the Group.


    1 IFRS figures for 2Q25: Total revenue of €1.52 billion, up 5%, and subscription revenue up 9%; Operating margin of 15.9% and diluted EPS of €0.17; IFRS figures for YTD25: total revenue of €3.09 billion, subscription revenue up 12%; Operating margin of 17.6% and diluted EPS of €0.37.  

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray, British Columbia Premier Eby, WA Small Businesses Speak Out About How Trump’s Reckless Trade War with Canada is Creating Chaos, Hurting Business, and Raising Costs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ICYMI: Senator Murray Hears from Mayors and Business Leaders About How Trump’s Trade War is Hurting Border Communities in Northwest Washington

    AP: Trump’s 35% Canada tariff plan deepens a rift between the neighbors

    ***WATCH HERE; DOWNLOAD HERE***

    Washington, D.C. –  Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, held a virtual press conference with British Columbia Premier David Eby and Washington state business leaders to sound the alarm on how President Trump’s trade war with Canada is driving down business and creating chaos for families, small businesses, and economies on both sides of the border.

    Canada is the second-largest export market for Washington state, exporting $7.9 billion in goods and $2.2 billion in services annually. Washington state imports $17.8 billion in goods from Canada each year, with energy imports accounting for 54 percent of that total. 608 Canadian-owned companies employ 25,050 workers in Washington state. Canada is also the largest source of international visitors to the U.S., accounting for 20.4 million visits and $20.5 billion in spending in 2024. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics reported a 35 percent drop in border crossings into the U.S. through the Peace Arch and Pacific Highway Crossings in Washington state this May, compared to the same month last year. Additional data on trade between Washington state and Canada is available HERE.  

    President Trump recently announced a plan to impose 35 percent tariffs across-the-board on imports from Canada beginning August 1st. This comes after Trump has already applied 50 percent tariffs on steel and aluminum—of which Canada is the largest exporter to the United States—and 25 percent duties on cars, excluding U.S. made parts. Yesterday, after a meeting with Canada’s political leaders—including Premier Eby—Prime Minister Mark Carney downplayed the chances of success in talks aimed at reaching a trade deal with President Trump.

    “Canada isn’t just a trading partner for us—it is our ally, and they are our neighbor. We have friends, and families that span that northern border. We have supply lines and businesses that depend on the open flow of trade, tourism, and goodwill between our countries,” Senator Murray said at the press conference today. “Canada is one of our largest trading partners—accounting for, every year, nearly $8 billion in exports including our seafood, apples, and airplane parts and more than $2 billion in cross-border tourism and business. Not to mention we actually import nearly $18 billion in goods from Canada each year. So, for us, having Trump throw a tantrum with these tariffs is really throwing a wrench into our businesses that have operated for decades, and throwing communities on both sides of the border into chaos, and really throwing our neighborly way of life into jeopardy.”

    “Here’s what Trump needs to understand: this is not reality TV. It is actual reality,” Senator Murray continued. “These aren’t people playing ‘businessman’—they are trying to run actual businesses, that employ actual Americans. Unlike him, they don’t thrive on outrage. And they do not want any drama, they need certainty, they need common sense. And they need policies that bring in customers, not drive them away, and bring prices down, not drive them up. So, I want you all to know I am going to keep fighting in Congress to put an end to these pointless tariffs that are making life harder for people on both sides of our border. And I will keep pushing for legislation to reassert Congress’s power over tariff policy. It is beyond clear we cannot entrust this responsibility to a President who is toggling economic policies on and off like a kid with a joystick.”

    “We have a long and happy relationship with the American people; they’re our friends, our family members and coworkers. President Trump’s actions have broken our trust with his government, but they’ll never shake our relationship with our closest neighbours. I am grateful for Senator Murray’s leadership at this time in calling out a President that ran on an affordability agenda and is now bringing in tariffs that are raising the price of everyday goods for hard working families,” said David Eby, Premier of British Columbia.  

    “President Trump seems to have created the 51st state that he was talking about, which is the great state of uncertainty. And this is affecting all of us and that we predict that in 2025 alone, that tariffs will cost SEL $100 million in unanticipated federal taxes. These $100 million, divided by our 7000 owners, is a hit of $14,000 per employee around the world. And I agree so much with Senator Murray that the best thing we can do is to support the efforts by Democrats and Republicans in both the House and the Senate to restore congressional control over tariffs and block this President and future ones from abusing executive orders, especially here in the case of free trade,” saidDr. Ed Schweitzer, founder of Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories in Pullman.

    “Maintaining good relations with our northern neighbors is paramount to our maritime industry. Along with being a key supplier for vital parts of the industry, our relations also impact negotiations, such as the Pacific Salmon Treaty being negotiated right now. These negotiations and trade rely on goodwill and good relations, and we cannot state enough how much we value our Canadian partners in all sectors of our maritime industry here in the United States,” said Dan Tucker, Executive Director of the Whatcom Working Waterfront Coalition.

    Washington state has one of the most trade-dependent economies of any state in the country, with 40 percent of jobs in the state tied to international commerce. Washington state is the top U.S. producer of apples, blueberries, hops, pears, spearmint oil, and sweet cherries—all of which risk losing vital export markets due to retaliatory tariffs from key trading partners including Canada. Additionally, more than 12,000 small and medium-sized companies in Washington state export goods and will struggle to absorb the impact of retaliatory tariffs. Trump’s tariffs during his first term were extremely costly for Washington state—for example, India imposed a 20 percent retaliatory tariff on U.S. apples, causing Washington apple shipments to India to fall by 99 percent and growers to lose hundreds of millions of dollars in exports.

    Senator Murray has been a vocal opponent of Trump’s chaotic trade war and has been constantly lifting up the voices of people in every corner of Washington state who are being harmed by this administration’s approach to trade. Senator Murray continues to call on Republicans to end Trump’s trade war—which Congress has the power to do—and take back Congress’ Constitutionally-granted power to impose tariffs. Earlier this year—among many other events—Senator Murray brought together leaders across Washington state to highlight how Trump’s ongoing trade war is already a devastating hit to Washington state’s economy, businesses, and our agriculture sector, and held a roundtable discussion in Blaine on how Trump’s chaotic trade war and senseless tariffs are specifically hurting Washington state’s border communities and local businesses. Senator Murray has also taken to the Senate floor to lay out how Trump’s chaotic trade war is seriously threatening our economy, American businesses, families’ retirement savings, and so much else.

    Senator Murray’s full remarks, as delivered, are below and video is HERE:

    “Thank you everyone for joining us today.

    “You know for a so-called businessman, President Trump doesn’t seem to know the first thing about running a business—then again, maybe that explains his six bankruptcies. But besides that, every time Trump opens his mouth, he is demonstrating that he doesn’t understand how tariffs work and doesn’t care if his absurd tax hikes are hurting our economy and our small businesses. The reality is plain as day. Especially in places like Washington state where we are on the front line of a trade war with our neighbors that nobody asked for.

    “Canada isn’t just a trading partner for us—it is our ally, and they are our neighbor. We have friends, and families that span that northern border. We have supply lines and businesses that depend on the open flow of trade, tourism, and goodwill between our countries.

    “Canada is one of our largest trading partners—accounting for, every year, nearly $8 billion in exports including our seafood, apples, and airplane parts and more than $2 billion in cross-border tourism and business. Not to mention we actually import nearly $18 billion in goods from Canada each year.  

    “So, for us, having Trump throw a tantrum with these tariffs is really throwing a wrench into our businesses that have operated for decades, and throwing communities on both sides of the border into chaos, and really throwing our neighborly way of life into jeopardy.

    “How are farmers supposed to stay afloat when Trump just jacked up the cost of the supplies they need, at the same time that he is driving some of their best customers away?

    “How are businesses and factories supposed to keep the lights on when their supply chains are being disrupted, and their inputs—like energy, and steel, and aluminum—keep getting more expensive?

    “How are hotels and towns that are fueled by tourism supposed to keep their doors open, when cancellations are going up, bookings are going down, and 75 percent of Canadian travelers who weregoing to visit the U.S. are deciding they’d now rather go somewhere the President doesn’t constantly attack?

    “So, let’s be clear, these aren’t hypothetical questions. They are the cold, hard realities Trump is forcing onto our communities. It doesn’t take much imagination to see how hard Trump’s trade war is making life for people—especially for our border communities.

    “All you have to do is listen. Talk to ferry operators, who are feeling the squeeze of reduced travel. Talk to community leaders in Bellingham and Whatcom County, where 12 percent of taxable retail sales came from Canadians. Talk to business owners in Point Roberts, which just completely depends on Canadian trade and tourism.

    “I have been telling this over and over to my colleagues and anyone who will listen. If you want to understand the real cost of what is happening, come to Washington state, talk to people on the front lines of this pointless, painful trade war.

    “And that’s exactly why we are having this call today. To put a spotlight on what we are seeing on both sides of the border; to make more of these voices heard; to raise the alarm; and maybe even offer a little economics lesson to Trump—since he appears to need it.

    “When you raise the costs for small businesses—which is exactly what tariffs do, when you drive away loyal customers, and trading partners—which is exactly what happens when you toss up barriers and toss out insults—you make life harder, and you raise costs for everyday Americans. It is very clear that President Trump wants to treat tariffs like a reality TV show, constantly playing up the outrage and the uncertainty of the ‘Will he? Won’t he?’ drama that he seems to like living in. But the questions that I am hearing when I talk to folks home in Washington state, are more like, ‘Why on Earth would he do this?’ and ‘What the heck is he thinking?’ and ‘How am I going to be able to afford this?’

    “Because here’s what Trump needs to understand: this is not reality TV. This is actual reality. These aren’t peopleplaying ‘businessman’—they are trying to run actual businesses, that employ actual Americans. Unlike him, they don’t thrive on outrage. And they do not want any drama, they need certainty, they need common sense. And they need policies that bring in customers, not drive them away, and bring prices down, not drive them up.

    “So, I want you all to know I am going to keep fighting in Congress to put an end to these pointless tariffs that are making life harder for people on both sides of our border. And I will keep pushing for legislation to reassert Congress’s power over tariff policy.

    “It is beyond clear we cannot entrust this responsibility to a President who is toggling economic policies on and off like a kid with a joystick.

    “We have got to keep talking about this, which is why we are having this call today, until more of my Republican colleagues get the message. And I thank everybody who’s participating in this today to talk about what you are seeing.

    “So, I’m joined on this call by British Columbia Premier David Eby, he will be speaking next. As I’ve told him in the past, I appreciate our relationship and thank you for working with us on this. It’s a joy to have you on this call.”

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI China: China unveils guideline on advancing high-quality development of copyright sector

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

    China unveils guideline on advancing high-quality development of copyright sector

    China has unveiled a guideline on accelerating the high-quality development of the copyright industry, calling for strong protection related to new sectors by optimizing relevant legal systems and policies.

    The 20-article guideline was issued on Wednesday by the National Copyright Administration on its website, aiming to comprehensively enhance the levels of the country’s copyright creation, utilization, protection, management, and services.

    While pledging to strengthen copyright protection in news fields such as blockchain, big data, cloud computing and artificial intelligence, the guideline also requires greater efforts to protect copyrights in areas such as sports events, entertainment shows and livestreaming.

    Additionally, copyright protection should be further enhanced in the fields of film and television, online audiovisual content, internet literature, e-commerce and search engines, according to the guideline.

    It also orders copyright administrators nationwide to increase information sharing and piracy clues with judicial, cyberspace, cultural and market regulation authorities, so that the copyright industry can be promoted in a healthy manner.

    Furthermore, it calls on all copyright regulators across the country to actively participate in multilateral cooperation with international organizations, including the World Intellectual Property Organization and the World Trade Organization, holding high-level copyright conversations with nations involved in the Belt and Road Initiative.

    It emphasizes the importance of enhancing the awareness of copyright protection among young people, encouraging better use of various new media platforms and innovative approaches to help children understand more about copyrights.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrests – Aggravated robberies and ram raids – Darwin Northern Suburbs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police Force has arrested four youths following multiple aggravated robberies and a ram raid in the northern suburbs overnight.

    Around 10:35pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre (JESCC) received a report that a woman had allegedly been threatened with an edged weapon and had her silver Mitsubishi ASX stolen outside her residence on Aralia Street.

    It is alleged that victim was sitting in her parked vehicle when she was approached by two youths, one of which threatened her with an edged weapon and demanded the keys to the vehicle. They subsequently fled the scene in the Mitsubishi ASX.

    The victim was not physically harmed during the incident.

    Around 12:05am, the JESCC received a report that three youths entered a residence on Carnoustie Circuit before being confronted by the occupants. The offenders then threated the occupants with a machete and demanded money and vehicle keys before fleeing the scene in a Mitsubishi ASX.

    The offenders subsequently drove to a shopping complex on Yanula Drive where they allegedly used the stolen vehicle to ram through the rear gate of the premises and cause significant property damage before fleeing the scene.

    A short time later, the stolen Mitsubishi, occupied by three youths, was allegedly used to ram the roller door of a bottle shop on Baroalba Street, Leanyer. Once inside the group stole a quantity of alcohol and fled the scene.

    Police later observed the stolen vehicle travelling towards Darwin City on Tiger Brennan Drive. A pursuit was initiated, however, was terminated shortly after the stolen Mitsubishi attempted to ram the police vehicle. At this time, it was identified that two female youths were also occupied the offending vehicle.

    CCTV operators later observed the offenders abandon the vehicle on Voyager Street, Stuart Park. A large quantity of alcohol was located inside the vehicle.

    General duties officers, Strike Force Trident and the Dog Operations Unit deployed to the area and arrested two females aged 13 and 14, and two males aged 14 and 17. The fifth offender remains outstanding.

    At the time of arrest, one of the offenders was armed with a large machete and another was in possession of a bottle of alcohol believed to have been stolen during the ram raid.

    Three of the youths have been charged in relation to the offending:

    • A 17-year-old male has been charged with multiple property related offences, weapons offences, aggravated robbery, ram raid and traffic offences.
    • A 14-year-old male was charged with multiple aggravated robbery offences, property offences, ram raid, going armed in public and traffic offences.
    • A 14-year-old female was charged with Drive/use motor vehicle without consent, Possess stolen property and armed with offensive weapon.

    The 13-year-old female will be dealt with under the provisions of the Youth Justice Act 2005.

    Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number P25196901. Anonymous reports can be made via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or through https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Overhauling unsustainable electoral laws

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is overhauling outdated and unsustainable electoral laws including stopping same-day enrolment, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says. 

    “Allowing late enrolments, however well intentioned, has placed too much strain on the system. The final vote count used to take two weeks, last election it took three.  

    “If we leave things as they are, it could well take even longer in future elections. The 20-day timeframe for a final result will likely already be challenging to achieve at the next election without changes. 

    “Therefore, the Government has agreed to close enrolment before advance voting begins. People will need to make sure they enrol or update their enrolment details by midnight on the Sunday, before advance voting opens on Monday morning. 

    “This is a significant, but necessary change. The Electoral Commission will have plenty of time to run an education campaign to ensure people understand the new requirements. For Australia’s federal election earlier this year, the enrolment deadline was 26 days before election day. I have every confidence New Zealand can manage within the 13-day deadline. 

    “We’ve also agreed to a range of other changes, including creating a new offence to strengthen the rules around treating near voting places. There has been some confusion in the past around what is and isn’t treating. This will make the rules crystal clear.

    “The donation threshold for reporting the names of party donors is also being adjusted from $5,000 to $6,000, to account for inflation.”

    Key changes include: 

    • Closing enrolment 13 days before election day to reduce pressure on post-election timeframes.
    • Requiring 12 days of advance voting at each election.
    • Introducing automatic enrolment updates so the Electoral Commission can update people’s enrolment details using data from other government agencies.
    • Enabling greater use of digital communication by removing postal requirements for enrolment.
    • Creating a new offence that prohibits the provision of free food, drink or entertainment within 100 metres of a voting place while voting is taking place. It will be punishable by a fine of up to $10,000.
    • Reinstating a total ban on prisoner voting. 

    The Bill makes a wide range of other changes including:  

    • Enabling special vote processing to begin earlier. 
    • Increasing the Electoral Commission’s board from three to up to seven members.
    • Setting a single deadline for all candidate nominations.
    • Changing party registration requirements and timeframes.
    • Providing flexibility on the contact details that can be included in promoter statements.

    The Government is progressing a separate bill to amend the Constitution Act 1986 to ensure the continuity of executive government in the post-election period. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI: Northfield Bancorp, Inc. Announces Second Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOTABLE ITEMS FOR THE QUARTER INCLUDE:

    • DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE WERE $0.24 FOR THE CURRENT QUARTER COMPARED TO $0.19 FOR THE TRAILING QUARTER, AND $0.14 FOR THE SECOND QUARTER OF 2024.
    • NET INTEREST MARGIN INCREASED BY 19 BASIS POINTS TO 2.57% FOR THE CURRENT QUARTER COMPARED TO 2.38% FOR THE TRAILING QUARTER, AND BY 48 BASIS POINTS COMPARED TO 2.09% FOR THE SECOND QUARTER OF 2024, DRIVEN BY LOWER FUNDING COSTS AND HIGHER YIELDS ON INTEREST-EARNING ASSETS.
    • COST OF DEPOSITS, EXCLUDING BROKERED DEPOSITS, AT JUNE 30, 2025 WAS 1.88% AS COMPARED TO 1.94% AT MARCH 31, 2025.
    • ASSET QUALITY IMPROVED WITH NON-PERFORMING LOANS TO TOTAL LOANS AT 0.36% AT JUNE 30, 2025 COMPARED TO 0.48% AT MARCH 31, 2025.
    • THE COMPANY MAINTAINED STRONG LIQUIDITY WITH OVER $800 MILLION IN UNPLEDGED AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE SECURITIES AND LOANS READILY AVAILABLE-FOR-PLEDGE OF APPROXIMATELY $1 BILLION.
    • A $10.0 MILLION REPURCHASE PLAN APPROVED ON APRIL 23, 2025 WAS COMPLETED DURING THE CURRENT QUARTER AS THE COMPANY REPURCHASED 862,469 SHARES.
    • CASH DIVIDEND DECLARED OF $0.13 PER SHARE OF COMMON STOCK, PAYABLE ON AUGUST 20, 2025, TO STOCKHOLDERS OF RECORD AS OF AUGUST 6, 2025.

    WOODBRIDGE, N.J., July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NORTHFIELD BANCORP, INC. (Nasdaq:NFBK) (the “Company”), the holding company for Northfield Bank, reported net income of $9.6 million, or $0.24 per diluted share, for the three months ended June 30, 2025, compared to $7.9 million, or $0.19 per diluted share, for the three months ended March 31, 2025, and $6.0 million, or $0.14 per diluted share, for the three months ended June 30, 2024. For the six months ended June 30, 2025, net income totaled $17.4 million, or $0.43 per diluted share, compared to $12.2 million, or $0.29 per diluted share, for the six months ended June 30, 2024. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, net income included $580,000 of additional tax expense related to options that expired in May 2025. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, net income included $795,000 of additional tax expense related to options that expired in June 2024, and $683,000 of severance expense. The increase in net income for the current quarter and the six months ended June 30, 2025, as compared to the comparable prior year periods was primarily due to an increase in net interest income, attributable to lower funding costs and higher yields on loans and securities, partially offset by an increase in the provision for credit losses on loans.

    Commenting on the quarter, Steven M. Klein, the Company’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, noted, “Our strong financial results reflect the continued execution of our strategic initiatives, focused on prudent and disciplined lending and deposit gathering, net interest margin expansion, and expense discipline.” Mr. Klein further noted, “I’m pleased to report that we continue to deploy our substantial capital base, including through stock repurchases of $15.0 million for the year and the declaration of a quarterly cash dividend of $0.13 per common share, payable August 20, 2025, to stockholders of record on August 6, 2025.”

    Results of Operations

    Comparison of Operating Results for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2025 and 2024

    Net income was $17.4 million and $12.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024, respectively. Significant variances from the comparable prior year period are as follows: a $9.6 million increase in net interest income, a $4.9 million increase in the provision for credit losses on loans, a $1.3 million increase in non-interest income, a $920,000 decrease in non-interest expense, and a $1.7 million increase in income tax expense.

    Net interest income for the six months ended June 30, 2025, increased $9.6 million, or 17.0%, to $66.2 million, from $56.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024 due to a $6.0 million decrease in interest expense and a $3.6 million increase in interest income. The decrease in interest expense was primarily due to a decrease in the average balance of interest-bearing liabilities of $141.5 million, or 3.3%, as well as a decrease in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities, which decreased by 18 basis points to 2.74% for the six months ended June 30, 2025, from 2.92% for the six months ended June 30, 2024. The average balance of interest-bearing liabilities decreased primarily due to a $378.9 million, or 35.2%, decrease in the average balance of borrowed funds, partially offset by a $237.2 million, or 7.5%, increase in the average balance of interest-bearing deposits, primarily certificates of deposit. The decrease in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities was driven primarily by an eight basis point decrease in the cost of interest-bearing deposits to 2.47% from 2.55% and a four basis point decrease in the cost of borrowings to 3.83% from 3.87%. The increase in interest income was primarily due to a 25 basis point increase in the yield on interest-earning assets, due to higher yields on mortgage-backed securities and loans, partially offset by a $128.0 million, or 2.3%, decrease in the average balance of interest-earning assets. The decrease was primarily due to decreases in the average balance of loans of $175.5 million, the average balance of other securities of $275.8 million, and the average balance of interest-earning deposits in financial institutions of $128.1 million, partially offset by an increase in the average balance of mortgage-backed securities of $453.4 million. The changes reflect the purchase of higher-yielding mortgage-related securities with excess cash and proceeds from the maturities of other securities.

    Net interest margin increased by 42 basis points to 2.48% for the six months ended June 30, 2025, from 2.06% for the six months ended June 30, 2024. The increase in net interest margin was primarily due to higher yields on loans and mortgage-backed securities, coupled with a decrease in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest income for the six months ended June 30, 2025, included $609,000 of interest income related to the settlement of a non-accrual loan in May 2025. The Company accreted interest income related to purchased credit-deteriorated (“PCD”) loans of $469,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2025, as compared to $747,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2024. Net interest income for the six months ended June 30, 2025, also included loan prepayment income of $767,000 as compared to $561,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2024.

    The provision for credit losses on loans increased by $4.9 million to $4.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025, compared to a benefit of $203,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2024, primarily due to an increase in general reserves related to a worsening macroeconomic forecast in the current quarter within our Current Expected Credit Loss (“CECL”) model, an increase in specific reserves of $1.2 million, changes in model assumptions including a reduction in prepayment speeds, and higher net charge-offs. Partially offsetting the increase in reserves was a decline in loan balances. Net charge-offs were $3.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025, primarily due to $3.2 million in net charge-offs on small business unsecured commercial and industrial loans, as compared to net charge-offs of $2.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024. Management continues to closely monitor the small business unsecured commercial and industrial loan portfolio, which totaled $24.0 million at June 30, 2025.

    Non-interest income increased by $1.3 million, or 21.0%, to $7.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025, compared to $6.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024. The increase was primarily due to an increase in income on bank-owned life insurance of $1.4 million, primarily related to the exchange of certain policies in the fourth quarter of 2024 which have higher yields, partially offset by a $178,000 decrease in gains on trading securities. Gains on trading securities in the six months ended June 30, 2025, were $709,000, as compared to gains of $887,000 in the six months ended June 30, 2024. The trading portfolio is utilized to fund the Company’s deferred compensation obligation to certain employees and directors of the plan. The participants of this plan, at their election, defer a portion of their compensation. Gains and losses on trading securities have no effect on net income since participants benefit from, and bear the full risk of changes in the trading securities market values. Therefore, the Company records an equal and offsetting amount in compensation expense, reflecting the change in the Company’s obligations under the plan.

    Non-interest expense decreased by $920,000, or 2.0%, to $44.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025, compared to $45.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024. The decrease was primarily due to a $650,000 decrease in employee compensation and benefits, primarily due to severance expense of $683,000 which was recorded during the six months ended June 30, 2024, and a $178,000 decrease in deferred compensation expense, which is described above, and had no effect on net income. Partially offsetting the decreases were higher salary expense related to annual merit increases and higher stock compensation expense as the prior year included a credit of $461,000 related to performance stock awards not expected to vest. Additionally, there was a $456,000 decrease in advertising expense attributable to a change in marketing strategy and the timing of specific deposit and lending campaigns, and a $311,000 decrease in other expense. Partially offsetting the decreases was a $485,000 increase in professional fees related to outsourced audit services and recruitment fees.

    The Company recorded income tax expense of $7.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025, compared to $5.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024. The effective tax rate for the six months ended June 30, 2025, was 29.3% compared to 31.2% for the six months ended June 30, 2024. In May 2025, options granted in 2015 expired and resulted in additional tax expense of $580,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2025, as compared to options granted in 2014 that expired in June 2024 and resulted in additional tax expense of $795,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2024.

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

    Net income was $9.6 million and $6.0 million for the quarters ended June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024, respectively. Significant variances from the comparable prior year quarter are as follows: a $5.7 million increase in net interest income, a $2.7 increase in the provision for credit losses on loans, a $1.7 million increase in non-interest income, and a $1.1 million increase in income tax expense.

    Net interest income for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, increased $5.7 million, or 19.9%, to $34.4 million, from $28.7 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, due to a $3.5 million decrease in interest expense and a $2.2 million increase in interest income. The decrease in interest expense was primarily due to a decrease in the average balance of interest-bearing liabilities of $177.0 million, or 4.1%, as well as a decrease in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities which decreased by 22 basis points to 2.73% for the three months ended June 30, 2025, from 2.95% for the three months ended June 30, 2024. The average balance of interest-bearing liabilities decreased primarily due to a $344.2 million, or 33.1% decrease in the average balance of borrowed funds, partially offset by a $167.0 million, or 5.2%, increase in the average of interest-bearing deposits. The decrease in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities was driven by an 18 basis point decrease in the cost of interest-bearing deposits to 2.42% from 2.60%, partially offset by a 10 basis point increase in the cost of borrowed funds to 3.98% from 3.88%. The increase in interest income was primarily due to a 28 basis point increase in the yield on interest-earning assets due to higher yields on mortgage-backed securities and loans, partially offset by a $151.7 million, or 2.8%, decrease in the average balance of interest-earning assets. The decrease was primarily due to decreases in the average balance of other securities of $277.3 million, the average balance of loans of $183.3 million and the average balance of interest-earning deposits in financial institutions of $112.0 million, partially offset by an increase in the average balance of mortgage-backed securities of $422.3 million. The changes reflect the purchase of higher-yielding mortgage-related securities with excess cash and proceeds from the maturities of other securities.

    Net interest margin increased by 48 basis points to 2.57% for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, from 2.09% for the quarter ended June 30, 2024. The increase in net interest margin was primarily due to higher yields on loans and mortgage-backed securities, coupled with a decrease in the cost of interest-bearing liabilities. Net interest income for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, included $609,000 of interest income related to the settlement of a non-accrual loan in May 2025. The Company accreted interest income related to PCD loans of $247,000 for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, as compared to $321,000 for the quarter ended June 30, 2024. Net interest income for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, included loan prepayment income of $522,000, as compared to $210,000 for the quarter ended June 30, 2024.

    The provision for credit losses on loans increased by $2.7 million to $2.1 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, from a benefit of $618,000 for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, primarily due to an increase in general reserves related to a worsening macroeconomic forecast in the current quarter within our CECL model, an increase in specific reserves of $1.2 million, and changes in model assumptions, including a reduction in prepayment speeds. Partially offsetting the increase in reserves was a decline in loan balances and lower net charge-offs. Net charge-offs were $887,000 for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, primarily due to $879,000 in net charge-offs on small business unsecured commercial and industrial loans, as compared to net charge-offs of $1.6 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2024.

    Non-interest income increased by $1.7 million, or 58.3%, to $4.5 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, from $2.9 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2024. The increase was primarily due to increases of $820,000 in gains on trading securities and $760,000 in income on bank-owned life insurance, primarily related to the exchange of certain policies in the fourth quarter of 2024 which have higher yields. Gains on trading securities in the three months ended June 30, 2025, were $1.0 million as compared to gains of $188,000 in the quarter ended June 30, 2024.

    Non-interest expense remained stable at $23.0 million for both quarters ended June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024.

    The Company recorded income tax expense of $4.3 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, compared to $3.2 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2024. The effective tax rate for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, was 31.0% compared to 35.0% for the quarter ended June 30, 2024. In May 2025, options granted in 2015 expired and resulted in additional tax expense of $580,000 for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, as compared to options granted in 2014 that expired in June 2024 and resulted in additional tax expense of $795,000 for the quarter ended June 30, 2024.

    Comparison of Operating Results for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025

    Net income was $9.6 million and $7.9 million for the quarters ended June 30, 2025, and March 31, 2025, respectively. Significant variances from the prior quarter are as follows: a $2.6 million increase in net interest income, a $496,000 decrease in the provision for credit losses on loans, a $1.5 million increase in non-interest income, a $1.5 million increase in non-interest expense, and a $1.4 million increase in income tax expense.

    Net interest income for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, increased by $2.6 million, or 8.2%, to $34.4 million, from $31.8 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, due to a $2.3 million increase in interest income and a $272,000 decrease in interest expense. The increase in interest income was primarily due to a 17 basis point increase in the yield on interest-earning assets, partially offset by a $49.1 million decrease in the average balance of interest-earning assets, primarily due to decreases in the average balance of loans of $62.4 million, the average balance of other securities of $61.5 million, and the average balance of interest-earning deposits in financial institutions of $39.5 million, which were partially offset by an increase in the average balance of mortgage-backed securities of $114.1 million. The changes reflect the purchase of higher-yielding mortgage-related securities with excess cash and proceeds from the maturities of other securities. The decrease in interest expense was primarily due to a $66.1 million, or 1.6%, decrease in the average balance of interest-bearing liabilities largely attributable to a $67.8 million decrease in the average balance of interest-bearing deposits.

    Net interest margin increased by 19 basis points to 2.57% for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, from 2.38% for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, primarily due to higher yields on loans and mortgage-backed securities. Net interest income for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, included $609,000 of interest income related to the settlement of a non-accrual loan in May 2025. Net interest income for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, included loan prepayment income of $522,000 as compared to $245,000 for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. The Company accreted interest income related to PCD loans of $247,000 for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, as compared to $223,000 for the quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    The provision for credit losses on loans decreased by $496,000 to $2.1 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, from $2.6 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. The decrease in the provision for the current quarter was primarily due to lower net charge-offs and a decline in loan balances, partially offset by an increase in specific reserves of $569,000 and an increase in general reserves due to a worsening macroeconomic forecast in the current quarter within our CECL model. Net charge-offs were $887,000 for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, as compared to net charge-offs of $2.8 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    Non-interest income increased by $1.5 million, or 49.8%, to $4.5 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, from $3.0 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. The increase was primarily due to a $1.3 million increase in gains on trading securities, net. For the quarter ended June 30, 2025, gains on trading securities, net, were $1.0 million, compared to losses of $299,000 for the quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    Non-interest expense increased by $1.5 million, or 7.2%, to $23.0 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, from $21.4 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. The increase was primarily due to a $2.0 million increase in compensation and employee benefits, of which $1.3 million was attributable to an increase in deferred compensation expense and has no effect on net income due to offsetting gains on trading securities. The remaining increase in compensation and employee benefits was primarily due to higher salary expense related to an increase in headcount during the current quarter as well as recognizing a full quarter of merit-related increases as compared to one month in the prior quarter. Additionally, there was a $280,000 increase in data processing costs attributable to an increase in core system expenses. Partially offsetting the increases were decreases of $205,000 in occupancy expense, $169,000 in professional fees, $210,000 in other expense, and $156,000 in credit loss expense/(benefit) for off-balance sheet exposure. The decrease in credit loss expense/(benefit) for off-balance sheet exposure was due to a benefit of $53,000 recorded during the quarter ended June 30, 2025, as compared to a provision of $103,000 recorded during the quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    The Company recorded income tax expense of $4.3 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, compared to $2.9 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. The effective tax rate for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 was 31.0%, compared to 27.0% for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. During the quarter ended June 30, 2025, options granted in 2015 expired and resulted in additional tax expense of $580,000, contributing to the higher effective tax rate for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 compared to the quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    Financial Condition

    Total assets increased by $12.9 million, or 0.2%, to $5.68 billion at June 30, 2025, from $5.67 billion at December 31, 2024. The increase was primarily due to an increase in available-for-sale debt securities of $200.2 million, or 18.2%, partially offset by decreases in loans receivable of $106.5 million, or 2.6%, cash and cash equivalents of $70.2 million, or 41.8% and other assets of $9.6 million, or 20.4%.

    Cash and cash equivalents decreased by $70.1 million, or 41.8%, to $97.6 million at June 30, 2025, from $167.7 million at December 31, 2024, as excess liquidity was deployed into purchasing higher-yielding mortgage-backed securities. Balances fluctuate based on the timing of receipt of security and loan repayments and the redeployment of cash into higher-yielding assets such as loans and securities, or the funding of deposit outflows or borrowing maturities.

    Loans held-for-investment, net, decreased by $101.6 million, or 2.5%, to $3.92 billion at June 30, 2025 from $4.02 billion at December 31, 2024, primarily due to a decrease in multifamily real estate loans, partially offset by increases in one-to-four family residential mortgage and home equity and lines of credit loans. The decrease in loan balances reflects the Company’s continued strategic focus on managing concentration risk within its commercial and multifamily real estate loan portfolios, while maintaining disciplined loan pricing. Multifamily loans decreased $114.4 million, or 4.4%, to $2.48 billion at June 30, 2025 from $2.60 billion at December 31, 2024, commercial and industrial loans decreased $4.9 million, or 3.0%, to $158.5 million at June 30, 2025 from $163.4 million at December 31, 2024, commercial real estate loans decreased $3.7 million, or 0.4%, to $886.1 million at June 30, 2025 from $889.8 million at December 31, 2024, and construction and land loans decreased $3.6 million, or 10.0%, to $32.3 million at June 30, 2025 from $35.9 million at December 31, 2024. Partially offsetting these decreases were increases in home equity and lines of credit of $12.8 million, or 7.3%, to $186.8 million at June 30, 2025 from $174.1 million at December 31, 2024, and one-to-four family residential loans of $12.5 million, or 8.3%, to $162.8 million at June 30, 2025 from $150.2 million at December 31, 2024.

    As of June 30, 2025, non-owner occupied commercial real estate loans (as defined by regulatory guidance) to total risk-based capital was estimated at approximately 416%. Management believes that Northfield Bank (the “Bank”) maintains appropriate risk management practices including risk assessments, board-approved underwriting policies and related procedures, which includes monitoring Bank portfolio performance, performing market analysis (economic and real estate), and stressing of the Bank’s commercial real estate portfolio under severe, adverse economic conditions. Although management believes the Bank has implemented appropriate policies and procedures to manage its commercial real estate concentration risk, the Bank’s regulators could require it to implement additional policies and procedures or could require it to maintain higher levels of regulatory capital, which might adversely affect its loan originations, the Company’s ability to pay dividends, and overall profitability.

    Our real estate portfolio includes credit risk exposure to loans collateralized by office buildings and multifamily properties in New York subject to some form of rent regulation limiting rent increases for rent stabilized multifamily properties. At June 30, 2025, office-related loans represented $178.8 million, or 4.6% of our total loan portfolio, with an average balance of $1.8 million (although we have originated these type of loans in amounts substantially greater than this average) and a weighted average loan-to-value ratio of 58%. Approximately 39% were owner-occupied. The geographic locations of the properties collateralizing our office-related loans are: 49.9% in New York, 48.6% in New Jersey and 1.5% in Pennsylvania. At June 30, 2025, our largest office-related loan had a principal balance of $90.0 million (with a net active principal balance for the Bank of $29.3 million as we have a 33.3% participation interest), was secured by an office facility located in Staten Island, New York, and was performing in accordance with its original contractual terms. At June 30, 2025, multifamily loans that have some form of rent stabilization or rent control totaled $434.1 million, or 11% of our total loan portfolio, with an average balance of $1.7 million (although we have originated these type of loans in amounts substantially greater than this average) and a weighted average loan-to-value ratio of 50%. At June 30, 2025, our largest rent-regulated loan had a principal balance of $16.6 million, was secured by an apartment building located in Staten Island, New York, and was performing in accordance with its original contractual terms. Management continues to closely monitor its office and rent-regulated portfolios. For further details on our rent-regulated multifamily portfolio see “Asset Quality”.

    PCD loans totaled $9.0 million and $9.2 million at June 30, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively. The majority of the remaining PCD loan balance consists of loans acquired as part of a Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation-assisted transaction. The Company accreted interest income of $247,000 and $469,000 attributable to PCD loans for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, respectively, compared to $321,000 and $747,000 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, respectively. PCD loans had an allowance for credit losses of approximately $2.7 million at June 30, 2025.

    Loan balances are summarized as follows (dollars in thousands):

      June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024
    Real estate loans:          
    Multifamily $ 2,483,078   $ 2,567,913   $ 2,597,484
    Commercial mortgage   886,135     882,600     889,801
    One-to-four family residential mortgage   162,750     146,791     150,217
    Home equity and lines of credit   186,848     181,354     174,062
    Construction and land   32,300     40,284     35,897
    Total real estate loans   3,751,111     3,818,942     3,847,461
    Commercial and industrial loans   158,539     162,133     163,425
    Other loans   2,008     1,411     2,165
    Total commercial and industrial and other loans   160,547     163,544     165,590
    Loans held-for-investment, net (excluding PCD)   3,911,658     3,982,486     4,013,051
    PCD loans   8,955     9,043     9,173
    Total loans held-for-investment, net $ 3,920,613   $ 3,991,529   $ 4,022,224
                     

    Other assets decreased by $9.6 million, or 20.4%, to $37.4 million at June 30, 2025, from $46.9 million at December 31, 2024. The decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease in deferred tax assets primarily due to a decrease in unrealized losses on the securities available-for-sale portfolio.

    The Company’s available-for-sale debt securities portfolio increased by $200.2 million, or 18.2%, to $1.30 billion at June 30, 2025, from $1.10 billion at December 31, 2024. The increase was primarily attributable to purchases of securities, partially offset by paydowns and maturities. At June 30, 2025, $1.27 billion of the portfolio consisted of residential mortgage-backed securities issued or guaranteed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or Ginnie Mae. In addition, the Company held $29.7 million in corporate bonds, substantially all of which were investment grade, $684,000 in municipal bonds and $613,000 in U.S. Government agency securities at June 30, 2025. Unrealized losses, net of tax, on available-for-sale debt securities and held-to-maturity securities approximated $14.6 million and $276,000, respectively, at June 30, 2025, and $21.8 million and $400,000, respectively, at December 31, 2024.

    Equity securities were $6.3 million at June 30, 2025 and $14.3 million at December 31, 2024. Equity securities are primarily comprised of an investment in a Small Business Administration (“SBA”) Loan Fund. This investment is utilized by the Bank as part of its Community Reinvestment Act program. The decrease in equity securities was primarily due to a redemption, at par, of $5.0 million of our investment in the SBA Loan Fund during the quarter ended June 30, 2025.

    Total liabilities increased $7.3 million, or 0.1%, to $4.97 billion at June 30, 2025, from $4.96 billion at December 31, 2024. The increase was primarily attributable to an increase in borrowings of $165.5 million, partially offset by a decrease in deposits of $152.3 million. The Company routinely utilizes brokered deposits and borrowed funds to manage interest rate risk, the cost of interest-bearing liabilities, and funding needs related to loan originations and deposit activity.

    Deposits decreased $152.3 million, or 3.7%, to $3.99 billion at June 30, 2025 as compared to $4.14 billion at December 31, 2024. Brokered deposits decreased by $188.4 million, or 71.5%, as the Company placed less reliance on brokered deposits, which were used as a lower-cost alternative to borrowings in the quarter ended December 31, 2024. Deposits, excluding brokered deposits, increased $36.0 million, or 0.9%. The increase in deposits, excluding brokered deposits, was primarily attributable to increases of $73.7 million in transaction accounts and $9.6 million in time deposits, partially offset by decreases of $29.2 million in savings accounts, and $18.0 million in money market accounts. Growth in transaction accounts and time deposits was primarily due to new municipal relationships and new commercial customer relationships.

    Estimated gross uninsured deposits at June 30, 2025 were $1.87 billion. This total includes fully collateralized uninsured governmental deposits and intercompany deposits of $940.6 million, leaving estimated uninsured deposits of approximately $929.2 million, or 23.1%, of total deposits. At December 31, 2024, estimated uninsured deposits, excluding fully collateralized uninsured governmental deposits and intercompany deposits, totaled $896.5 million, or 21.7% of total deposits.

    Deposit account balances are summarized as follows (dollars in thousands):

      June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024
    Transaction:          
    Non-interest bearing checking $ 735,811   $ 722,994   $ 706,976
    Negotiable orders of withdrawal and interest-bearing checking   1,331,060     1,367,219     1,286,154
    Total transaction   2,066,871     2,090,213     1,993,130
    Savings and money market:          
    Savings   874,927     899,674     904,163
    Money market   254,154     271,566     272,145
    Total savings   1,129,081     1,171,240     1,176,308
    Certificates of deposit:          
    $250,000 and under   573,612     602,959     580,940
    Over $250,000   141,623     144,255     124,681
    Brokered deposits   75,000     123,289     263,418
    Total certificates of deposit   790,235     870,503     969,039
    Total deposits $ 3,986,187   $ 4,131,956   $ 4,138,477
                     

    Included in the table above are business and municipal deposit account balances as follows (dollars in thousands):

      June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024
               
    Business customers $ 907,464   $ 891,545   $ 885,769
    Municipal (governmental) customers $ 892,652   $ 929,611   $ 859,319
                     

    Borrowed funds increased to $893.5 million at June 30, 2025, from $727.8 million at December 31, 2024. The increase in borrowings for the period was primarily due to a $55.0 million increase in borrowings under an overnight line of credit, and a $110.5 million increase in other borrowings. Management utilizes borrowings to mitigate interest rate risk, for short-term liquidity, and to a lesser extent from time to time, as part of leverage strategies.

    The following table sets forth borrowing maturities (excluding overnight borrowings and subordinated debt) and the weighted average rate by year at June 30, 2025 (dollars in thousands):

    Year   Amount   Weighted Average Rate
    2025   $295,684   4.44%
    2026   148,000   4.36%
    2027   173,000   3.19%
    2028   154,288   3.96%
        $770,972   4.05%
             

    Total stockholders’ equity increased by $5.6 million to $710.3 million at June 30, 2025, from $704.7 million at December 31, 2024. The increase was attributable to net income of $17.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025, an $11.9 million increase in accumulated other comprehensive income associated with an increase in the estimated fair value of our debt securities available-for-sale portfolio, and a $2.0 million increase in equity award activity, partially offset by $15.0 million in stock repurchases and $10.7 million in dividend payments. On February 26, 2025, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a $5.0 million stock repurchase program, and on April 23, 2025, the Board of Directors approved a $10.0 million stock repurchase program. During the six months ended June 30, 2025, the Company repurchased 1.3 million shares of its common stock outstanding at an average price of $11.52 for a total of $15.0 million pursuant to the approved stock repurchase plans. As of June 30, 2025, the Company has no outstanding repurchase program.

    The Company’s most liquid assets are cash and cash equivalents, corporate bonds, and unpledged mortgage-related securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, Fannie Mae, or Freddie Mac, that we can either borrow against or sell. We also have the ability to surrender bank-owned life insurance contracts. The surrender of these contracts would subject the Company to income taxes and penalties for increases in the cash surrender values over the original premium payments. We also have the ability to obtain additional funding from the Federal Home Loan Bank and Federal Reserve Bank of New York utilizing unencumbered and unpledged securities and multifamily loans. The Company expects to have sufficient funds available to meet current commitments in the normal course of business. The Company’s on-hand liquidity ratio as of June 30, 2025 was 18.3%.

    The Company had the following primary sources of liquidity at June 30, 2025 (dollars in thousands):

    Cash and cash equivalents(1)   $ 85,652
    Corporate bonds(2)   $ 15,525
    Multifamily loans(2)   $ 1,074,872
    Mortgage-backed securities (issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, Fannie Mae, or Freddie Mac)(2)   $ 791,369
         
    (1) Excludes $12.0 million of cash at Northfield Bank.
    (2) Represents estimated remaining borrowing potential.
     

    The Company and the Bank utilize the Community Bank Leverage Ratio (“CBLR”) framework. At June 30, 2025, the Company’s and the Bank’s estimated CBLR ratios were 12.09% and 12.56%, respectively, which exceeded the minimum requirement to be considered well-capitalized of 9%.

    Asset Quality

    The following table details total non-accrual loans (excluding PCD), non-performing assets, loans over 90 days delinquent on which interest is accruing, and accruing loans 30 to 89 days delinquent at June 30, 2025, March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 (dollars in thousands):

      June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024
    Non-accrual loans:          
    Held-for-investment          
    Real estate loans:          
    Multifamily $ 2,521     $ 2,565     $ 2,609  
    Commercial mortgage   4,555       4,565       4,578  
    Home equity and lines of credit   1,264       1,267       1,270  
    Commercial and industrial   4,517       4,972       5,807  
    Total non-accrual loans   12,857       13,369       14,264  
    Loans delinquent 90 days or more and still accruing:          
    Held-for-investment          
    Real estate loans:          
    Multifamily               164  
    Commercial mortgage   74              
    One-to-four family residential   871       878       882  
    Home equity and lines of credit   177       140       140  
    Commercial and industrial   121              
    Total loans held-for-investment delinquent 90 days or more and still accruing   1,243       1,018       1,186  
    Non-performing loans held-for-sale:          
    Commercial mortgage         4,397       4,397  
    Commercial and industrial         500       500  
    Total non-performing loans held-for-sale         4,897       4,897  
    Total non-performing loans   14,100       19,284       20,347  
    Total non-performing assets $ 14,100     $ 19,284     $ 20,347  
    Non-performing loans to total loans   0.36 %     0.48 %     0.51 %
    Non-performing assets to total assets   0.25 %     0.34 %     0.36 %
    Accruing loans 30 to 89 days delinquent $ 4,076     $ 6,845     $ 9,336  
                           

    The decrease in non-performing loans held-for-sale from March 31, 2025, and December 31, 2024, was due to repayment of the loans in full from a settlement agreement in bankruptcy.

    Accruing Loans 30 to 89 Days Delinquent

    Loans 30 to 89 days delinquent and on accrual status totaled $4.1 million, $6.8 million and $9.3 million at June 30, 2025, March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively. The following table sets forth delinquencies for accruing loans by type and by amount at June 30, 2025, March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 (dollars in thousands):

      June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024
    Held-for-investment          
    Real estate loans:          
    Multifamily $ 1,230   $ 1,296   $ 2,831
    Commercial mortgage   14     147     78
    One-to-four family residential   741     2,584     2,407
    Home equity and lines of credit   1,398     1,141     1,472
    Commercial and industrial loans   693     1,674     2,545
    Other loans       3     3
    Total delinquent accruing loans held-for-investment $ 4,076   $ 6,845   $ 9,336
                     

    PCD Loans (Held-for-Investment)

    The Company accounts for PCD loans at estimated fair value using discounted expected future cash flows deemed to be collectible on the date acquired. Based on its detailed review of PCD loans and experience in loan workouts, management believes it has a reasonable expectation about the amount and timing of future cash flows and accordingly has classified PCD loans ($9.0 million at June 30, 2025 and $9.2 million at December 31, 2024, respectively) as accruing, even though they may be contractually past due. At June 30, 2025, 2.3% of PCD loans were past due 30 to 89 days, and 25.5% were past due 90 days or more, as compared to 2.1% and 24.9%, respectively, at December 31, 2024.

    Our multifamily loan portfolio at June 30, 2025 totaled $2.48 billion, or 63% of our total loan portfolio, of which $434.1 million, or 11%, of our total loan portfolio included loans collateralized by properties in New York with units subject to some percentage of rent regulation. The table below sets forth details about our multifamily loan portfolio in New York (dollars in thousands).

    % Rent
    Regulated
      Balance   % Portfolio
    Total NY
    Multifamily
    Portfolio
      Average
    Balance
      Largest Loan   LTV*   Debt Service
    Coverage Ratio
    (DSCR)*
      30-89 Days
    Delinquent
      Non-Accrual   Special
    Mention
      Substandard
    0   $ 294,926   40.5 %   $ 1,229   $ 16,361   50.6 %   1.50x   $ 155   $ 481   $   $ 1,015
    >0-10     4,673   0.6       1,558     2,097   50.6     1.33                
    >10-20     18,258   2.5       1,404     2,818   48.4     1.59                
    >20-30     19,159   2.6       2,129     5,417   48.1     1.55                
    >30-40     15,884   2.2       1,324     3,012   43.2     1.74                
    >40-50     21,438   2.9       1,261     2,701   46.7     1.68                
    >50-60     9,222   1.3       1,537     2,299   39.1     1.80                
    >60-70     21,815   3.0       2,727     11,102   53.2     1.50                
    >70-80     22,038   3.0       2,449     4,855   47.3     1.55                
    >80-90     19,547   2.7       1,150     3,113   45.9     1.66             1,118    
    >90-100     282,037   38.7       1,730     16,594   51.3     1.54         2,040     3,608     4,342
    Total   $ 728,997   100.0 %   $ 1,467   $ 16,594   50.2 %   1.54x   $ 155   $ 2,521   $ 4,726   $ 5,357
                                                               

    The table below sets forth our New York rent-regulated loans by county (dollars in thousands).

    County   Balance   LTV*   DSCR*
    Bronx   $ 116,252   50.9%   1.51x
    Kings     184,424   49.4%   1.58
    Nassau     2,145   35.7%   2.13
    New York     48,532   46.0%   1.62
    Queens     37,359   44.1%   1.69
    Richmond     32,031   59.8%   1.41
    Westchester     13,327   58.4%   1.44
    Total   $ 434,070   49.9%   1.56x
                 
    *  Weighted Average
     

    None of the loans that are rent-regulated in New York are interest only. During the remainder of 2025, 13 loans with an aggregate principal balance of $23.6 million will re-price.

    About Northfield Bank

    Northfield Bank, founded in 1887, operates 37 full-service banking offices in Staten Island and Brooklyn, New York, and Hunterdon, Middlesex, Mercer, and Union counties, New Jersey. For more information about Northfield Bank, please visit www.eNorthfield.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements: This release may contain certain “forward looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and may be identified by the use of such words as “may,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “should,” “plan,” “estimate,” “predict,” “continue,” and “potential” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, estimates with respect to the financial condition, results of operations and business of Northfield Bancorp, Inc. Any or all of the forward-looking statements in this release and in any other public statements made by Northfield Bancorp, Inc. may turn out to be wrong. They can be affected by inaccurate assumptions Northfield Bancorp, Inc. might make or by known or unknown risks and uncertainties as described in our SEC filings, including, but not limited to, those related to general economic conditions, particularly in the market areas in which the Company operates, competition and demand for financial services in our market area, competition among depository and other financial institutions, including with respect to fees and interest rates, fluctuations in residential and commercial real estate values and market conditions, changes in liquidity, the size and composition of our deposit portfolio and the percentage of uninsured deposits in the portfolio, our ability to access cost-effective funding, changes in laws or government regulations or policies affecting financial institutions, including changes in the monetary policies of the U.S. Treasury and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the imposition of tariffs or other domestic or international governmental policies and retaliatory responses, changes in the quality and/or composition of our loan and securities portfolios, prepayment speeds, charge-offs and/or credit loss provisions, changes in the value of our goodwill or other intangible assets, changes in regulatory fees, assessments and capital requirements, inflation and changes in the interest rate environment that reduce our margins, reduce the fair value of financial instruments or reduce our ability to originate loans, the failure to maintain current technologies and to successfully implement future information technology enhancements, cyber security and fraud risks against our information technology and those of our third-party providers, the ability of third-party providers to perform their obligations to us, the effects of war, conflict, and acts of terrorism, our ability to successfully integrate acquired entities, and adverse changes in the securities markets. Consequently, no forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Northfield Bancorp, Inc. does not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this release, or conform these statements to actual events.

     
    (Tables follow)
    NORTHFIELD BANCORP, INC.
    SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL AND OTHER DATA
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) (unaudited)
     
                   
      At or For the Three Months Ended   At or For the Six Months Ended
      June 30,   March 31,   June 30,
      2025   2024   2025   2025   2024
    Selected Financial Ratios:                  
    Performance Ratios (1)                  
    Return on assets (ratio of net income to average total assets) 0.68 %   0.41 %   0.56 %   0.62 %   0.42 %
    Return on equity (ratio of net income to average equity) 5.41     3.45     4.52     4.97     3.52  
    Average equity to average total assets 12.56     12.00     12.43     12.50     12.02  
    Interest rate spread 1.94     1.44     1.76     1.84     1.41  
    Net interest margin 2.57     2.09     2.38     2.48     2.06  
    Efficiency ratio (2) 59.02     72.89     61.57     60.22     72.16  
    Non-interest expense to average total assets 1.63     1.60     1.53     1.58     1.58  
    Non-interest expense to average total interest-earning assets 1.72     1.68     1.61     1.66     1.65  
    Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities 130.31     128.47     129.42     129.87     128.57  
    Asset Quality Ratios:                  
    Non-performing assets to total assets 0.25     0.30     0.34     0.25     0.30  
    Non-performing loans (3) to total loans (4) 0.36     0.42     0.48     0.36     0.42  
    Allowance for credit losses to non-performing loans (5) 256.15     200.96     242.73     256.15     200.96  
    Allowance for credit losses to total loans held-for-investment, net (6) 0.92     0.85     0.87     0.92     0.85  
                                 

    (1)  Annualized where appropriate.
    (2)  The efficiency ratio represents non-interest expense divided by the sum of net interest income and non-interest income.
    (3)  Non-performing loans consist of non-accruing loans and loans 90 days or more past due and still accruing (excluding PCD loans), and are included in total loans held-for-investment, net.
    (4)  Includes originated loans held-for-investment, PCD loans, acquired loans and loans held-for-sale.
    (5)  Excludes loans held-for-sale.
    (6)  Includes originated loans held-for-investment, PCD loans, and acquired loans.

     
    NORTHFIELD BANCORP, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts) (unaudited)
     
      June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   December 31, 2024
    ASSETS:          
    Cash and due from banks $ 11,985     $ 12,523     $ 13,043  
    Interest-bearing deposits in other financial institutions   85,652       89,139       154,701  
    Total cash and cash equivalents   97,637       101,662       167,744  
    Trading securities   14,052       13,003       13,884  
    Debt securities available-for-sale, at estimated fair value   1,300,975       1,246,473       1,100,817  
    Debt securities held-to-maturity, at amortized cost   8,454       8,883       9,303  
    Equity securities   6,278       10,855       14,261  
    Loans held-for-sale         4,897       4,897  
    Loans held-for-investment, net   3,920,613       3,991,529       4,022,224  
    Allowance for credit losses   (36,120 )     (34,921 )     (35,183 )
    Net loans held-for-investment   3,884,493       3,956,608       3,987,041  
    Accrued interest receivable   19,241       19,648       19,078  
    Bank-owned life insurance   179,134       177,398       175,759  
    Federal Home Loan Bank of New York stock, at cost   43,664       38,350       35,894  
    Operating lease right-of-use assets   26,157       27,345       27,771  
    Premises and equipment, net   20,842       21,431       21,985  
    Goodwill   41,012       41,012       41,012  
    Other assets   37,352       42,435       46,932  
    Total assets $ 5,679,291     $ 5,710,000     $ 5,666,378  
               
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:          
    LIABILITIES:          
    Deposits $ 3,986,187     $ 4,131,956     $ 4,138,477  
    Federal Home Loan Bank advances and other borrowings   831,920       709,159       666,402  
    Subordinated debentures, net of issuance costs   61,554       61,498       61,442  
    Lease liabilities   30,286       31,630       32,209  
    Advance payments by borrowers for taxes and insurance   25,287       29,270       24,057  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities   33,783       35,338       39,095  
    Total liabilities   4,969,017       4,998,851       4,961,682  
               
    STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:          
    Total stockholders’ equity   710,274       711,149       704,696  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 5,679,291     $ 5,710,000     $ 5,666,378  
               
    Total shares outstanding   41,819,988       42,676,274       42,903,598  
    Tangible book value per share(1) $ 16.00     $ 15.70     $ 15.46  
                           

    (1)  Tangible book value per share is calculated based on total stockholders’ equity, excluding intangible assets (goodwill and core deposit intangibles), divided by total shares outstanding as of the balance sheet date. Core deposit intangibles were $45, $57 and $69 at June 30, 2025, March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively, and are included in other assets.

     
    NORTHFIELD BANCORP, INC.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
    (Dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts) (unaudited)
     
      For the Three Months Ended   For the Six Months Ended
      June 30,   March 31,   June 30,
        2025       2024       2025       2025     2024  
    Interest income:                  
    Loans $ 46,661     $ 45,967     $ 45,283     $ 91,944   $ 92,014  
    Mortgage-backed securities   13,888       7,355       12,009       25,897     11,753  
    Other securities   442       3,506       797       1,239     7,347  
    Federal Home Loan Bank of New York dividends   728       935       862       1,590     1,905  
    Deposits in other financial institutions   706       2,457       1,141       1,847     5,849  
    Total interest income   62,425       60,220       60,092       122,517     118,868  
    Interest expense:                  
    Deposits   20,285       20,664       21,191       41,476     39,937  
    Borrowings   6,916       10,041       6,291       13,207     20,704  
    Subordinated debt   828       828       819       1,647     1,656  
    Total interest expense   28,029       31,533       28,301       56,330     62,297  
    Net interest income   34,396       28,687       31,791       66,187     56,571  
    Provision/(benefit) for credit losses   2,086       (618 )     2,582       4,668     (203 )
    Net interest income after provision/(benefit) for credit losses   32,310       29,305       29,209       61,519     56,774  
    Non-interest income:                  
    Fees and service charges for customer services   1,685       1,570       1,620       3,305     3,185  
    Income on bank-owned life insurance   1,736       976       1,639       3,375     1,940  
    Gains on available-for-sale debt securities, net         1                 1  
    Gains/(losses) on trading securities, net   1,008       188       (299 )     709     887  
    Gain on sale of loans         51                 51  
    Other   97       73       62       159     176  
    Total non-interest income   4,526       2,859       3,022       7,548     6,240  
    Non-interest expense:                  
    Compensation and employee benefits   13,728       13,388       11,775       25,503     26,153  
    Occupancy   3,328       3,222       3,533       6,861     6,775  
    Furniture and equipment   411       477       414       825     961  
    Data processing   2,402       2,177       2,122       4,524     4,324  
    Professional fees   903       681       1,072       1,975     1,490  
    Advertising   294       482       250       544     1,000  
    Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insurance   618       649       617       1,235     1,237  
    Credit (benefit) loss expense for off-balance sheet exposures   (53 )     103       103       50     186  
    Other   1,339       1,814       1,549       2,888     3,199  
    Total non-interest expense   22,970       22,993       21,435       44,405     45,325  
    Income before income tax expense   13,866       9,171       10,796       24,662     17,689  
    Income tax expense   4,295       3,214       2,920       7,215     5,518  
    Net income $ 9,571     $ 5,957     $ 7,876     $ 17,447   $ 12,171  
    Net income per common share:                  
    Basic $ 0.24     $ 0.14     $ 0.19       0.43     0.29  
    Diluted $ 0.24     $ 0.14     $ 0.19       0.43     0.29  
    Basic average shares outstanding   40,183,613       41,999,541       40,864,529       40,522,193     42,181,306  
    Diluted average shares outstanding   40,204,833       42,002,650       40,922,829       40,561,953     42,203,715  
     
    NORTHFIELD BANCORP, INC.
    ANALYSIS OF NET INTEREST INCOME
    (Dollars in thousands) (unaudited)
     
      For the Three Months Ended
      June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   June 30, 2024
      Average
    Outstanding
    Balance
      Interest   Average
    Yield/
    Rate (1)
      Average
    Outstanding
    Balance
      Interest   Average
    Yield/
    Rate (1)
      Average
    Outstanding
    Balance
      Interest   Average
    Yield/
    Rate (1)
    Interest-earning assets:                                  
    Loans (2) $ 3,944,822   $ 46,661   4.74 %   $ 4,007,266   $ 45,283   4.58 %   $ 4,128,105   $ 45,967   4.48 %
    Mortgage-backed securities (3)   1,246,843     13,888   4.47       1,132,715     12,009   4.30       824,498     7,355   3.59  
    Other securities (3)   56,559     442   3.13       118,082     797   2.74       333,855     3,506   4.22  
    Federal Home Loan Bank of New York stock   37,225     728   7.84       36,929     862   9.47       38,707     935   9.72  
    Interest-earning deposits in financial institutions   79,463     706   3.56       118,983     1,141   3.89       191,470     2,457   5.16  
    Total interest-earning assets   5,364,912     62,425   4.67       5,413,975     60,092   4.50       5,516,635     60,220   4.39  
    Non-interest-earning assets   280,107             277,586             265,702        
    Total assets $ 5,645,019           $ 5,691,561           $ 5,782,337        
                                       
    Interest-bearing liabilities:                                  
    Savings, NOW, and money market accounts $ 2,491,340   $ 12,227   1.97 %   $ 2,502,664   $ 12,148   1.97 %   $ 2,490,372   $ 13,183   2.13 %
    Certificates of deposit   867,268     8,058   3.73       923,713     9,043   3.97       701,272     7,481   4.29  
    Total interest-bearing deposits   3,358,608     20,285   2.42       3,426,377     21,191   2.51       3,191,644     20,664   2.60  
    Borrowed funds   696,874     6,916   3.98       695,281     6,291   3.67       1,041,035     10,041   3.88  
    Subordinated debt   61,517     828   5.40       61,461     819   5.40       61,294     828   5.43  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   4,116,999     28,029   2.73       4,183,119     28,301   2.74       4,293,973     31,533   2.95  
    Non-interest bearing deposits   723,693             706,217             691,384        
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities   95,047             94,819             103,082        
    Total liabilities   4,935,739             4,984,155             5,088,439        
    Stockholders’ equity   709,280             707,406             693,898        
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 5,645,019           $ 5,691,561           $ 5,782,337        
                                       
    Net interest income     $ 34,396           $ 31,791           $ 28,687    
    Net interest rate spread (4)         1.94 %           1.76 %           1.44 %
    Net interest-earning assets (5) $ 1,247,913           $ 1,230,856           $ 1,222,662        
    Net interest margin (6)         2.57 %           2.38 %           2.09 %
    Average interest-earning assets to interest-bearing liabilities         130.31 %           129.42 %           128.47 %

    (1)  Average yields and rates are annualized.
    (2)  Includes non-accruing loans.
    (3)  Securities available-for-sale and other securities are reported at amortized cost.
    (4)  Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the weighted average yield on interest-earning assets and the weighted average cost of interest-bearing liabilities.
    (5)  Net interest-earning assets represent total interest-earning assets less total interest-bearing liabilities.
    (6)  Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average total interest-earning assets.

       
      For the Six Months Ended
      June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024
      Average
    Outstanding
    Balance
      Interest   Average
    Yield/
    Rate (1)
      Average
    Outstanding
    Balance
      Interest   Average
    Yield/
    Rate (1)
    Interest-earning assets:                      
    Loans (2) $ 3,975,872   $ 91,944   4.66 %   $ 4,151,387   $ 92,014   4.46 %
    Mortgage-backed securities (3)   1,190,095     25,897   4.39       736,654     11,753   3.21  
    Other securities (3)   87,150     1,239   2.87       362,917     7,347   4.07  
    Federal Home Loan Bank of New York stock   37,078     1,590   8.65       39,153     1,905   9.78  
    Interest-earning deposits in financial institutions   99,114     1,847   3.76       227,177     5,849   5.18  
    Total interest-earning assets   5,389,309     122,517   4.58       5,517,288     118,868   4.33  
    Non-interest-earning assets   278,852             266,065        
    Total assets $ 5,668,161           $ 5,783,353        
                           
    Interest-bearing liabilities:                      
    Savings, NOW, and money market accounts $ 2,496,970   $ 24,375   1.97 %   $ 2,477,334   $ 25,514   2.07 %
    Certificates of deposit   895,335     17,101   3.85       677,800     14,423   4.28  
    Total interest-bearing deposits   3,392,305     41,476   2.47       3,155,134     39,937   2.55  
    Borrowed funds   696,082     13,207   3.83       1,074,957     20,704   3.87  
    Subordinated debt   61,489     1,647   5.40       61,266     1,656   5.44  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities $ 4,149,876     56,330   2.74     $ 4,291,357     62,297   2.92  
    Non-interest bearing deposits   715,003             695,512        
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities   94,934             101,339        
    Total liabilities   4,959,813             5,088,208        
    Stockholders’ equity   708,348             695,145        
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 5,668,161           $ 5,783,353        
                           
    Net interest income     $ 66,187           $ 56,571    
    Net interest rate spread (4)         1.84 %           1.41 %
    Net interest-earning assets (5) $ 1,239,433           $ 1,225,931        
    Net interest margin (6)         2.48 %           2.06 %
    Average interest-earning assets to interest-bearing liabilities         129.87 %           128.57 %
                           

    (1)  Average yields and rates are annualized.
    (2)  Includes non-accruing loans.
    (3)  Securities available-for-sale and other securities are reported at amortized cost.
    (4)  Net interest rate spread represents the difference between the weighted average yield on interest-earning assets and the weighted average cost of interest-bearing liabilities.
    (5)  Net interest-earning assets represent total interest-earning assets less total interest-bearing liabilities.
    (6)  Net interest margin represents net interest income divided by average total interest-earning assets.

    Company Contact:
    William R. Jacobs
    Chief Financial Officer
    Tel: (732) 499-7200 ext. 2519

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to two papers assessing off-the-shelf health tests sold in UK shops

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in The BMJ assesses direct-to-consumer self-tests sold in the UK.

    Prof Amitava Banerjee, Professor of Clinical Data Science and Honorary Consultant Cardiologist, Institute of Health Informatics, UCL, said:

    “Direct-to-consumer, self-tests are increasingly used by people with and without disease for screening and are widely available from high street vendors.  In these rigorous, real-world studies led by the University of Birmingham, we see two main findings.  First, across 30 self-tests in 19 conditions from infertility and menopause to raised cholesterol and anaemia, there is a not enough information for consumers to judge when and why to do the test, and how to interpret or how to act on the results.  Second, the evidence and the support from clinical guidelines to use these tests is often lacking, suggesting that regulatory oversight needs to be improved.

    “Sometimes people use self-tests because they “feel it is better to know” and they are trying to inform their health and healthcare decisions.  This research shows that these self-tests are often not providing relevant knowledge or information and they are not informing decisions in the right way.  Therefore, all stakeholders need to consider the quality of self-tests and information available to members of the public or health professionals before recommending their use, whether in the health and wellness space or in diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease.”

    Rachel Richardson, Acting Head of Methods Support, Evidence Production and Methods Directorate, The Cochrane Collaboration, said:

    “This well-conducted research shines a welcome light on an area of healthcare which appears to be inadequately regulated.”

    Prof Kevin McConway, Emeritus Professor of Applied Statistics, The Open University, said:

    “I think the findings of these new studies on self-tests for health conditions, available (at a cost) in supermarkets, high street chemists and online, are scary and concerning.  I don’t doubt the findings of the researchers, that many of the available tests don’t make it clear who could make good use of them, how accurate the results might be, or what someone should do in the light of their results.

    “These are good studies in my view.  The researchers do list some limitations in the discussion sections of the papers, in particular that their samples of tests were obtained two years ago and were not specifically intended to be a sample of what was available across the country, but given what they do say about where they got the tests, I’d be surprised if they aren’t pretty much the same anywhere nowadays.  Also, the researchers didn’t check with representatives of the public whether the instructions were as unhelpful to understanding as they believe they were, but I don’t think this affects their conclusions.

    “I’m certainly not saying that tests like this should be banned, or even radically discouraged.  The authors of these research papers aren’t saying that either.  Experience during the heights of the Covid pandemic showed how useful home testing could be, particularly when access to other information about one’s health might not be easily available (as can still be the case at some GP practices, for instance).  And, generally as a default position, I don’t like telling people they can’t do something that they want to do – though only in the light of clear, transparent and easily available information on the pros and cons, and in the presence of adequate regulation.  These studies make it clear that users of many self-tests aren’t given easy access to relevant information, and that the regulation isn’t appropriate at present.

    “I’ll just mention one particular aspect, because it’s one that I have studied and written about myself.  This is about why the findings are important, not about the quality of the research.  No diagnostic or screening test for a health condition can be 100% accurate.  There will inevitably be false positives – people with a positive test result for the condition who actually don’t have the condition – and false negatives – people with a negative test result for a condition who actually do have the condition.  These are aspects of accuracy, though discussions of that word don’t always make it clear enough that there are two different ways in which a test result can be wrong.

    “You probably recall some of the interest and media discussion about these things in relation to Covid testing.  Not all of the discussion was logical or well argued, but it clearly and correctly drew attention to the fact that test results can be wrong sometimes.

    “Fewer than half of the self-tests examined by the researchers gave any information at all on the box about accuracy of the results.  Even when they did give information about accuracy on the box or in the instructions inside, the information was sometimes itself not accurate, or was based on the results of laboratory studies under careful conditions, not on findings on use of the tests by people who are not health professionals.

    “But even if all the tests had given information about accuracy, and all that information was reliable, there can still be problems. I’ll describe how.

    “Because there are two kinds of wrong results from tests – false positives and false negatives – we need to look at two aspects of the chance of making an error.  One common way of doing this, that was used in some of the self-test instructions, is as follows.  Findings from the development and use of the test can estimate the probability that someone, who is known to have the health condition in question, will have a true positive test result rather than a false negative result.  (In the jargon, that probability is called the test sensitivity – but trust me, knowing the jargon doesn’t help understanding.)  Another finding from test development and use is an estimate of the chance that a person, who is known not to have the condition on question, will have a true negative test result rather than a false positive result.  (That’s called the test specificity.)

    “The trouble is that these two probabilities are the probability of the person having a positive or a negative test result, in the position where we know whether they really have the health condition.  But you don’t do these tests if you know already whether you have the health condition.  So these probabilities are the wrong way round.  What people (and health professionals) want to know is, for example, if we know someone has a positive test result, what’s the chance that they really have the health condition that is being tested for.  Or, if we know someone has a negative test result, what’s the chance that they really don’t have the health condition?  (There are jargon names for those too – the positive predictive value and the negative predictive value, but again I don’t think those names help much, as there’s too much risk of confusion.)  And I’m sure that’s the kind of thing someone would want to know if they buy a self-test and see what result it gives for them.

    “However, the first lot of probabilities, the sensitivity and specificity, are different from the second lot, the predictive values.  If I tell you that the chance that a person, known already to have the health condition, will have positive test result is 98%, that doesn’t tell you what the chance is that a person, who has a positive test result, actually has the health condition.  That second probability is almost certainly not 98%, and in many circumstances it would be very much less than 98%.  To get from one set of probabilities to the other, you would need more information, such as how likely it is that the person has the condition if we don’t yet know the test result.

    “Just to rub in that these two probabilities aren’t the same, consider the following silly story.  You find a man in the street in London.  You happen to know he is the Pope.  What’s the chance that he is a Roman Catholic?  Obviously, 100%.  But now suppose the thing you know ,and the thing you want to know the chance of, are the other way round.  You know, somehow, that a different man in the London street is a Roman Catholic.  What’s the chance that he is the Pope?  Well, very much less than 100%.  It matters, a lot, which thing you already know and which thing you want the probability for.

    “So, in testing you get different probabilities if you know whether the person being tested has the health conditions, and want the probability that the test will be positive, from if you know what the person’s test result is, and want the probability that they have the health condition.  And only one of these probabilities – the second one – tells you what a test result is really saying about the chance of having the health condition.

    “There has been a lot of research in the past on how people, including health professionals and also non-professionals that might buy one of these self-tests, understand the findings, when they are given some information about the probabilities.  Several studies, for instance, found that many doctors and health professionals weren’t using the information on probabilities when the person’s health status is already known (the sensitivity and specificity) properly in trying to answer the question of how likely it is that someone, with a positive test result, actually has the health condition.  And if doctors might not be getting it right, how could a non-expert be expected to interpret their own test results properly?

    “The position on that maybe isn’t as grim as it sounds, though.  Other research has indicated that there are ways of getting the information across so that it’s useable by non-experts.  That has been done by several groups, including the Winton Centre for Risk and Evidence Communication in Cambridge (which has now closed, though its findings are still available), groups led by the psychologist Gerd Gigerenzer in Berlin, and many others.  Somehow, those communication findings need to be incorporated, as well as they can be, in the instructions for these tests.  But that will require more and better regulation.

    “Also, some doctors in primary health, including Jessica Watson and Margaret McCartney, who wrote the editorial accompanying these two new research papers in the BMJ, have worked on ways of helping people to understand test results – though you’d need to ask them how much of their findings could transfer easily to something that could be written clearly in test instructions rather than used in direct communication between health professionals and patients.”

    Paper 1: ‘Direct-to-consumer self-tests sold in the UK in 2023: cross sectional review of information on intended use, instructions for use, and post-test decision making’ by Clare Davenport et al. was published in the BMJ at 23:30 UK time on Wednesday 23 July 2025. 

    DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2025-085546

    Paper 2: ‘Direct-to-consumer self-tests sold in the UK in 2023: cross sectional review of regulation and evidence of performance’ by Bethany Hillier et al. was published in the BMJ at 23:30 UK time on Wednesday 23 July 2025. 

    DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2025-085547

    Declared interests

    Prof Amitava Banerjee: “AB declares no relevant conflicts of interest.”

    Prof Kevin McConway: “I have no conflicts of interest to declare.”

    Rachel Richardson: “I have no interests to declare.”

    This Roundup was accompanied by an SMC Briefing

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Law Business and Media – MinterEllisonRuddWatts advises Warner Bros. Discovery on sale of Discovery NZ to Sky

    Source: MinterEllisonRuddWatts

    MinterEllisonRuddWatts is pleased to have advised Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. on the sale of its New Zealand subsidiary, Discovery NZ Limited, to Sky Network Television Limited (Sky).
    The transaction, announced this week, involves the sale of 100% of the shares in Discovery NZ to Sky, with completion expected on 1 August 2025.
    Discovery NZ operates the broadcast-video-on-demand (BVOD) platform ThreeNow, free-to-air channel Three, and a suite of FAST channels in New Zealand.
    As part of the deal, Warner Bros. Discovery and Sky have entered into a significant and ongoing content supply agreement, ensuring continued access to premium content for New Zealand audiences.
    Michael Brooks, Managing Director Australia and New Zealand for Warner Bros. Discovery commented: “This is a fantastic outcome for both Warner Bros. Discovery and Sky. While Discovery NZ is no longer commercially viable as a standalone asset in our New Zealand portfolio, we see the value Three and ThreeNow can bring to Sky’s offering. The transaction includes a content supply agreement that benefits both parties.”
    MinterEllisonRuddWatts advised Warner Bros. Discovery on all legal aspects of the transaction, including deal structuring, negotiation of the share sale agreement, transitional services arrangements, employment aspects, content supply arrangements and regulatory engagement.
    Corporate Partner Mark Forman who led the deal, says: “We are proud to have supported Warner Bros. Discovery in this strategic divestment. The transaction reflects our firm’s expertise in cross-border M&A and media sector transactions, and we are pleased to have helped deliver a successful outcome that creates a unique opportunity for Sky.”
    The law firm’s deal team included Mark Forman, Tayla Johnston, James Marriner, Nick Stewart, Caitlin Reid, Jennifer Hambleton, Gillian Service, Joshua Kimpton, Simon Akozu, Andrew Ryan, Chris Young, Briar Richardson, David Gilbert, Tom Maasland, Sean Gollin, and Kate Lane.
    MinterEllisonRuddWatts is a top tier New Zealand law firm known for providing clients with technically excellent legal solutions and innovative advice. We are trusted advisors and work alongside our clients to ensure success. We are proud to be a New Zealand law firm offering a global outlook. Our offices in Auckland and Wellington can access an international network through our firm’s strategic alliance with MinterEllison, a leading firm in the Asia-Pacific. The firm supports numerous charitable endeavours and organisations through its pro bono and fundraising initiatives.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Open Days an exciting sneak preview into the new Adelaide University experience

    Source:

    24 July 2025

    The new Adelaide University is set to host its first ever Open Days, offering future students and their families a glimpse into the transformative new institution ahead of its official opening in 2026.

    About 17,000 attendees are expected to visit city, metropolitan and regional campuses across July and August to discover degrees, meet future lecturers, explore world-class teaching and research facilities, and get a taste of campus life.

    The new university – built on the collective expertise, strengths and achievements of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia – will commence its first year of operations as a world top 100 university and member of Australia’s prestigious and research-intensive Group of Eight (Go8).

    The city Open Day will take place on Sunday 27 July, with around 15,000 people expected to immerse themselves in activities and information as they explore the vibrant city campuses ahead of domestic student applications opening on 4 August.

    The heart of the action will be in the east, at what’s set to become the Adelaide City East Campus (the University of Adelaide and UniSA’s city east campuses with a temporary Adelaide University makeover) including focused study area hubs, live music, fun activities and competitions with prizes to be won, surrounded by an abundance of food options.

    Future students can join talks from and panel discussions with academics and hear from current students and industry leaders. Criminology crime walks, virtual reality demonstrations, and co-captaining a replica commercial aircraft are some of the activities expected to excite senses.

    A dedicated First Nations hub will showcase Adelaide University’s commitment to Aboriginal education as well as the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pathway, and a Welcome Lounge where visitors can meet with Elders.

    Adelaide City West Campus will be a place to discover more, including study hubs for fine art, design and architecture, and tours of world-class health facilities as well as our future focused on-campus museum, MOD. and the South Australian School of Art (SASA) Gallery.

    Visitors can plan ahead and create their own personalised digital itinerary.  A fleet of e-scooters will be available for use free of charge on the day, helping visitors travel between the East and West campuses.

    “This first Open Day is an opportunity for our future students to experience what makes the new Adelaide University so distinct and exciting and how it will deliver Australia’s most accessible, contemporary and future-focused learning,” say Professors Peter Høj AC and David Lloyd, co-Vice Chancellors, Adelaide University.

    “We want to give visitors a taste of the new Adelaide University culture and on-campus experience, and we’re delighted with how our staff and student volunteers have rallied together to set that scene and convey the energy of campus life.

    “Over the last two years the foundation institutions have co-designed Australia’s newest cutting-edge curriculum with a model that incorporates industry informed face-to-face learning, expanded work integrated and practical learning opportunities and a sector-leading digital learning platform.

    “Adelaide University will empower students with a world-class education and nurture local talent and so they can follow their dreams. We can’t wait to give future students an up close and personal insight into our new university.”

    The metropolitan and regional campus Open Days will take place in August, allowing future students to get all the information they need to start planning their future.

    Magill Open Day on 13 August will allow visitors to explore the lush parklands and industry standard facilities at Magill Campus, and discover where degrees in teaching and education, arts, humanities and social sciences, psychology and social work, and creative, media and communication can take them.

    Roseworthy Open Day on 17 August will showcase the animal-focused campus with tours of the vet teaching hospital, equine centre and working farm.

    Mawson Lakes Open Day on 17 August will be a hub for STEM and education degrees, with exceptional teaching and research facilities including virtual learning environments and robotics laboratories ready to experience.

    Mount Gambier Open Day will take place on 3 August and Whyalla on 31 August, showcasing local study options, modern facilities and expert educators.

    For more information on Adelaide University’s Open Days and to build your own itinerary visit the website: adelaideuni.edu.au/open-day

    Ends

    Further enquiries

    Adelaide University

    Melissa Keogh: Tel: +61 403 659 154 Email: melissa.keogh@unisa.edu.au

    adelaideuni.edu.au

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Transcript – ABC 7.30 with Sarah Ferguson

    Source: Murray Darling Basin Authority

    SARAH FERGUSON: I just want to change the tone very slightly here because we are used to politicians appearing to be thick-skinned. The execution of power demands it, and I should say this is not a reflection on Barnaby Joyce. I just wanted to change the tone. Because tonight we’ll see a slightly different side of Education Minister Jason Clare, who today introduced the Government’s childcare legislation and who is tasked with fixing the crisis in childcare that’s left some of our youngest children vulnerable. He joined me earlier. 

    Jason Clare, welcome.

    JASON CLARE: Thank you.

    FERGUSON: So, new legislation today, it gives you the power to cut off subsidies to childcare centres using the big stick. What is the threshold for taking that decision?

    CLARE: Well, it depends on the seriousness of what’s happening in a centre. If we’re concerned that there’s an imminent threat to the safety of children in a centre, that centre can be shut down today —

    FERGUSON. So, that already exists?

    CLARE: That already exists. And state regulators can and do, do that. But if we’ve got centres that are not meeting that standard, that quality and safety standard, there’ll be the capacity, because of this legislation, for the Secretary of my department to issue a show cause notice to a centre to explain why they are not meeting that standard, otherwise the funding will be cut off within 28 days. But there’s also the flexibility in the legislation to set conditions. So, the Secretary could also say, you must do a number of things in order to maintain your funding. That flexibility is important here to make sure that we target the right centres. And I’ve got to tell you, there’s a bit of work going on right now before the legislation’s passed between my department and state regulators to make sure that we’ve got a list of the centres that we can and will target with this legislation.

    FERGUSON. So, that’s the question. How do you know which of Australia’s 15,000 centres to target? So tell me about that work?

    CLARE: Well, they know. State regulators know this because they rate centres —

    FERGUSON: Yes, but do they? Because the numbers on the frequency of testing, some of them haven’t been. I think the average is every four years. Some centres haven’t been tested for 10 years. So, what information are they relying on?

    CLARE: Well, they know through the centres that they’ve rated that there’s about 4 per cent of centres that aren’t meeting that minimum safety standard and that can be everything from an exit sign through to lack of supervision. They also know the centres where they’ve set conditions for them themselves, and they’ve told them, you’ve got a couple of months to meet the grade, meet the standard and then they come back a couple of months later and they haven’t. They’re the sort of centres that the states are telling us they want to use this legislation to pull the funding from.

    FERGUSON: I suppose the question is, is this plan built on shaky foundations? Given that the way the system works, the way the accreditation is done, the way the testing is done, there are such huge gaps in it. Yes, there may be centres that have been identified by the states and territories. What about all those centres, some of them, that haven’t been visited for 10 years? What about those centres that have waivers? Where do they fit in?

    CLARE: Well, this is where states need to step up. You know, the Commonwealth needs to step up. All centres need to step up here if we’re going to make sure that this legislation does what we want it to do. But, you know, Sarah, I’m also not here to say that this is a silver bullet, that this is going to guarantee that every child’s safe just because of this legislation. I spent a good part of the day dealing with some mothers of children who were sexually assaulted and abused in centres that were already at that standard. That doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t be using the power that the Commonwealth has, with all the funding we provide to centres, to say to centres, if you’re not at that standard, we’re going to remove the funding. At its core, this is not about cutting off funding to centres and shutting centres down. If it works the way it should work, it’ll send a message to the people who run these centres that you’ve got to get to that standard or the money’s going to be turned off.

    FERGUSON. So, what do you do? You say you want the states to do more, but what do you do about the fact that there clearly aren’t enough regulators available in the states and territories to look at all of those 15,000 centres? There are too many with very long gaps, never, never tested, or the little gaps that I was talking about. So, you know, there aren’t enough regulators in the states to visit those centres. So, what do you do about that?

    CLARE: There’s two things. The regulators already tell us they know where to target this legislation at the centres that they repeatedly go to, and they’re not meeting standards. But there’s also more work that the states need to do to build that workforce. And we’ve seen Queensland, South Australia and Victoria announce an extra investment in their regulators. That’s a good thing. There’s work that’s got to be done right across the country. And it’s not just this legislation; it’s not just the work of regulators. It’s the things we talked about a couple of weeks ago. It’s about a register so that we know where workers are from centre to centre and from state to state. It’s about CCTV and how that works. If we’re going to roll that out, we’ve got to make sure we do it in the right way, so that the sort of predators we’re all worried about in our centres can’t use that sort of information for all the wrong reasons. And it’s about the sort of training that we provide to the most important people who work in those centres. One of the things I’m very conscious of in this job is that with everything that’s happened in the last couple of weeks, the people who work in our centres, the good, honest, hard-working people who love our kids, look after our kids, including mine in centres, feel tarnished, feel tarred by this. People have been spat on in the streets for wearing their uniform. They’re the best asset we’ve got here to keep our kids safe, 99.9 per cent of them are those people.

    FERGUSON: You’re clearly worried about those people, aren’t you?

    CLARE: I am, I am. They do some of the most important work in the world. When my wife fell pregnant for the second time, we showed an ultrasound to my little boy, Jack, and told him he was going to be a big brother. And we thought, you know, he’d be really excited. First thing he said was, I can’t wait to tell Kelly. Kelly is the woman that looked after him at childcare, and it told me that this is not an ordinary job. These are very special people, and they’re as hurt and as angry as everybody else out there. And I’ve got to use this role and this responsibility and this opportunity to tell Australia how important they are as well. But we’ve got to equip them with the skills that they need and to identify a predator lying in clear sight who might be grooming a child or grooming them. And that’s what mandatory child safety training is all about.

    FERGUSON: Just come back to the way the system works, because you’re bringing your personal experience to that. It’s important. It’s something that’s clearly moved you because you’ve been very lucky to have excellent childcare staff. But do you think that they are also being let down by the standard system? It’s been in place for a long time. Is it still adequate for what we need to address what is a crisis in the childcare system?

    CLARE: No. No.

    FERGUSON: So do you need to – Well, I’m asking about the system of standards itself. For example, as you know, the way things stand at the moment, a childcare centre cannot be failed for its performance. Do you need to have at least a standard of failure?

    CLARE: Well, it sort of is, but there’s euphemisms about how you describe it.

    FERGUSON: Isn’t it time we got rid of all of the euphemisms in this area?

    CLARE: The point is, and it’s- I think it’s pretty bloody obvious that the system has failed parents here and that we’ve all got a responsibility to step up. That’s the Commonwealth Government, that’s State Governments, that’s the people who run these centres as well. Part of this legislation is the power to cut off funding. Part of it is also the power to advise parents or to publish information to tell the mums and dads whose children are at these centres that unless the standards improve at that centre, we’re going to cut off their funding. Not just them, but also to pass that same information on to the board members who run these companies and the stock exchange. You know, the big-

    FERGUSON: Do you think those big companies, in particular the private equity involved in childcare and some of the big companies with multiple centres, do you think these people have been indifferent to the suffering of children in those centres?

    CLARE: Money talks, and unfortunately, some organisations have put profit ahead of the safety of our children. Now I’m happy for –

    FERGUSON: (Interjecting) Will any of those companies, those groups, still be operating in Australia?

    CLARE: If they don’t meet the standards that we set as a nation, that parents expect and that our kids deserve, no. If they meet those standards, then that’s good. What this legislation’s about is sending a very clear message. You know what the standards are. If you don’t meet them, then there’s no place for you in the childcare system in Australia —

    FERGUSON: (Interjecting) I want to be very clear about the standards because I’m raising questions about the nature of the standards themselves. This whole system that you are creating depends on the standards themselves being strong and effective. Do those standards themselves, the way we rate childcare centres, do they need to be overhauled?

    CLARE: I think the standards are sound. I think the rating system is sound. I think there’s more work that needs to be done by the states to make sure that we’re rating centres properly. Now that doesn’t mean –

    FERGUSON: (Interjecting) Frequently enough? 

    CLARE: — And more frequently, and it happens differently in different states. So, there’s- please don’t interpret this as me blaming the states. We’ve all got a responsibility here, whether it’s Labor Governments, Liberal Governments, State or Federal. Good work’s been done. But not enough, not fast enough. There’s more work that needs to be done if we’re serious about making sure that we keep the kids that are walking through and sometimes being carried through the doors of our childcare centres safe.

    FERGUSON: Jason Clare, thank you very much for answering the questions and also sharing that story about yourself. I appreciate it.

    CLARE: Thank you.

    FERGUSON: Thank you. 

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Grassley Ask For Unanimous Consent To Pass Their Bill To Crack Down On Pharmaceutical Advertisements

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    July 23, 2025

    The Senators’ bill would force Big Pharma to disclose prices when advertising prescription drugs, the UC request was blocked by a Senate Republican

    WASHINGTON – Today on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) asked for unanimous consent (UC) to pass their bipartisan Drug-price Transparency for Consumers (DTC) Act, a bipartisan bill that would require price disclosures on advertisements for prescription drugs in order to empower patients and reduce Americans’ colossal spending on medications. The United States is one of only two industrialized countries in the world that allow drug advertising. Despite prior support for the measure from the Trump Administration, the request was blocked by a Senate Republican.

     

    “You know the ads with the catchy jingle and flashy images of patients rock climbing, golfing, dancing, [or] parading? Big Pharma spends more than $6 billion a year to flood the airwaves with ads for the latest wonder-drug. Why? Why would they spend this much money to advertise [these drugs]? They [Big Pharma] spend such astronomical sums to promote their drugs because it increases their profit margins. Big Pharma thinks that if they hit you hard enough and often enough ad on TV, not only will you be able to pronounce but [you’ll also be able to] spell Xarelto. You’ll also [be able to] tell your doctor ‘that is my favorite blood thinner, I’ve seen that ad over and over again.’ Don’t take my word for it. The American Medical Association said ‘direct-to-consumer advertising inflates demand for new and expensive drugs, even when these drugs may not be appropriate,’” Durbin said.

     

    “When President Biden announced the 15 drugs that Medicare will negotiate for discounts, most Americans knew the names, maybe even knew the jingle: Ozempic, Trelegy, Ibrance, and Otezla. Sound familiar? Pharma spent hundreds of millions of dollars each year for you to ‘ask your doctor’ about these drugs. The result? Medicare spent $22 billion last year alone on these four heavily advertised medications,” said Durbin.

     

    Last week, Durbin released a report about a new telehealth-advertising scheme launched by Pfizer and Eli Lilly. The report revealed relationships between drug companies seeking to sell their medications, and the telehealth companies hand-picked by these pharmaceutical giants, appear intended to steer patients toward particular medications. As the pharmaceutical industry floods the airwaves with commercials to increase demand for high-cost medications, these new telehealth platforms appear intended to churn out prescriptions to patients with just a few clicks online.

     

    Durbin continued, “With online promotions and new websites, Pharma is urging patients to ‘click here’ to speak with a doctor. But those telehealth doctors are handpicked, they’ve been recruited, and paid for by the drug companies. Pharma is funneling patients to their chosen health care providers, to influence prescriptions for costly drugs. This raises concerns about conflicts of interest and inappropriate prescribing of drugs. All of this is a result of Pharma’s rampant advertising spree.”

     

    Since 2017, Durbin has worked with Grassley to introduce bipartisan legislation to crack down on DTC advertisements. One-third of all commercials displayed on TV are of drugs from prescription drug companies. In 2023, Illinois company AbbVie spent $315 million on TV ads for Rinvoq, an eczema and arthritis drug. Nowhere in the commercial do they disclose it’s more than $6,100 per month.

     

    Durbin continued, “It’s time to end Big Pharma’s secrecy. If they are going to advertise a drug, they also need to [mention] to the American public how much it costs. It’s basic. No gimmicks, no tricks. Just the truth by advertising [what]… the drug companies publish as the official price.”

     

    Durbin continued, “Our common sense plan to require price disclosures in direct-to-consumer drug ads has already passed the Senate once before, in 2018… we knew that 88 percent of Americans support what we’re doing: disclosure of price. In fact, because of our work on this measure, Donald Trump made a statement: ‘Big announcement today: Drug companies have to come clean about their prices in TV ads. Historic transparency for American patients is here. If drug companies are ashamed of those prices—lower them!’”

    “Big Pharma hates being honest with patients about the price of their drugs. They fear it’s going to cut into their profits. Patients, American citizens, and others deserve lower drug prices. The Trump Administration has called on Congress to rein in these deceptive drug advertisements. But Big Pharma is looking for one Senator to come down and object to the passage of this common sense bill. I hope we can pass it right now to deliver real relief at the pharmacy counter,” Durbin concluded.

     

    The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has found that prescription drugs advertised directly to consumers accounted for 58 percent of Medicare’s spending on drugs between 2016 and 2018, while a 2023 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that two-thirds of advertised drugs offered “low therapeutic value.” By requiring direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertisements forprescription drugs to include a disclosure of the list price, patients can make informed choices when inundated with drug commercials and pharmaceutical companies may reconsider their pricing and advertising tactics. In recent years, the pharmaceutical industry has sued to keep the prices of their drugs out of their TV advertisements.

     

    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here.

     

    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here.

     

    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the floor is available here for TV Stations.

     

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News

  • India’s media sector booms with regional growth and digital expansion: govt

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India’s media and broadcasting sector is undergoing a dynamic transformation, driven by steady growth in traditional platforms and rapid advancement in the digital space.

    In a statement presented in the Lok Sabha, Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan highlighted key developments across print, television, and public broadcasting.

    The number of registered publications has increased from 1.05 lakh in 2014-15 to 1.55 lakh in 2024- 25, reflecting the strong rise of regional and vernacular media. Private satellite television channels have also grown from 821 to 908 over the same period, underscoring the sector’s resilience and adaptability.

    Doordarshan’s Free Dish platform now carries 92 private channels along with 50 DD channels, offering content in multiple regional languages. This multilingual outreach has played a crucial role in bridging the information gap in remote and underserved areas.

    The platform’s expansion is part of a larger strategy to democratize access to news and entertainment. Under the Broadcasting Infrastructure and Network Development (BIND) Scheme 2021- 26, Prasar Bharati continues to modernize its transmission infrastructure.

    As part of this initiative, three new transmitters have been approved for Himachal Pradesh- including a 5kW unit in Mandi and 1kW FM transmitters in Chamba and Dharampur.

    With a total outlay of ₹2,539 crore, the BIND scheme aims to modernize All India Radio and Doordarshan facilities, expand FM coverage to over 80 percent of the population, and strengthen signal reach in strategically important border areas.