Category: Europe

MIL-OSI Russia: Tested on the ground: Scientists from the State University of Management conducted research as part of a major scientific project

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

From April 22 to 25, research fellows from the State University of Management Dmitry Rybakov, Ilya Shponarsky and Vladimir Kutkov, together with colleagues from the Omsk Agrarian Scientific Center (OANC), are conducting joint work to create a prototype of a digital service for coordinating modern agricultural production.

As part of the implementation of a major scientific project, a working group on the territory of the scientific and production enterprise “Boyevoe” in the Omsk region conducted design studies to identify the needs for target modules of the developed platform and determine the parameters of integration with the information systems of the OANC.

The major scientific project “Ensuring food security of the country based on the creation of software and hardware systems and intelligent platform digital solutions in the field of development of agro-industrial technologies of the full life cycle” is being implemented within the framework of a grant from the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia for conducting major scientific projects in priority areas of scientific and technological development in 2024-2026.

Let us recall that at the meeting of the consortium for the implementation of a major scientific project, areas of cooperation with project co-executors in the field of mechanical engineering technologies, reverse engineering, development and implementation of technological processes for applying wear-resistant coatings, as well as prospects for creating advanced digital services and new types of modern import-substituting products for the agricultural sector were identified.

Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 04/24/2025

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: The United States operates the world’s largest nuclear power plant fleet

Source: US Energy Information Administration

In-brief analysis

April 24, 2025

In 2024, U.S. utilities operated 94 nuclear reactors with a total net generating capacity of nearly 97 gigawatts (GW), the largest commercial nuclear power generation fleet in the world. The next three countries with the largest programs were France with 57 units (63.0 GW), China with 57 units (55.3 GW), and Russia with 36 units (28.6 GW). Nuclear power continues to account for 19% of U.S. power sector electricity generation.

America’s nuclear reactor fleet consists of 54 power plants, each of which has one to four operating units. Plant Vogtle in Georgia is the largest nuclear power plant with four reactors and a total generating capacity of around 4.5 GW. The R.E. Ginna plant in New York is the smallest nuclear power plant with its one 0.6-GW reactor.

After Georgia Power added one reactor in 2023 and another in 2024, Plant Vogtle became the largest U.S. nuclear power plant, with Units 3 and 4 each having a generating capacity of 1.1 GW. Before the recent addition of the reactors at Vogtle, the Palo Verde plant (3.9 GW) in Arizona was the largest nuclear facility in the United States. The two reactors at Vogtle and one reactor at Watts Bar in Tennessee are the only new nuclear reactors to come online in the United States since 1996.

Twelve U.S. nuclear power reactors have permanently closed since 2013. However, plant operators have maintained consistently high annual capacity factors, which measure how much time units are operating. U.S. nuclear capacity factors have increased in part because of shorter refueling and maintenance outages and improved operational experience.

Some newer policies aim to support continued operations at nuclear power plants. In January 2024, the U.S. Department of Energy provided credits to support the continued operation of the Diablo Canyon Power Plant in California. In 2024, the electricity produced at Diablo Canyon (2.2 GW) accounted for 9% of California’s total electricity generation. More recently, the U.S. Department of Energy approved a loan to support restarting the Palisades nuclear power plant in Michigan. If realized, Palisades would become the first previously retired nuclear power plant in the United States to return to operating status.

Our Electric Power Monthly and Electric Power Annual products compile data from multiple electricity surveys of nuclear power and other electricity generation sources in the United States. Our Hourly Electric Grid Monitor provides near real-time information on the operating status of the grid in the Lower 48 states, and our Status of U.S. Nuclear Outages dashboard compiles daily information on nuclear plants’ operating status based on data reported to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Our Preliminary Monthly Electric Generator Inventory compiles detailed information on attributes of operating, planned, and retired utility-scale generators.

Principal contributor: Slade Johnson

MIL OSI USA News –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Global Drone Usage and Adoption Continues to Skyrocket While Largely Benefiting the Agriculture Industry

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

PALM BEACH, Fla., April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – Drones are being utilized in many markets and one of the ones that is expected to continue to rise is the agriculture drones market. The need to boost agricultural productivity and the labor shortage drive the agriculture drones market growth. Traditional farming faces labor shortages, increasing the demand for advanced agriculture technologies that enhance productivity and minimize manual labor. For instance, the USDA’s 2022 Census of Agriculture revealed a loss of 141,733 farms in the US from 2017 to 2022, highlighting the urgent need for solutions to improve efficiency and promote sustainable farming practices. According to a report from MarketsAndMarkets the global agriculture drones market which grew to from USD 2.01 billion in 2024 is expected to reach a CAGR of 32.0% during the forecast period (2029). The report said: “Partnerships and the introduction of new products will present profitable prospects for industry participants in the coming five years. Favorable government policies, subsidies, and regulations coupled with increasing investments by market players drive the usage of digital agriculture tools like drones. The US FAA’s exemptions for the use of agriculture drones are anticipated to hold several opportunities for the market. Favorable government policies, subsidies, and regulations coupled with increasing investments by market players to drive the usage of digital agriculture tools like drones are acting as drivers for the agriculture drone market. Public-private partnerships create innovation in developing tailored solutions to known problems, especially in agriculture, which receives research and development funding from government initiatives. Extension education and training are also brought about, which educates the farmer concerning the capabilities of the drones thus making the farmer able to utilize the tools appropriately.” Active Companies in the drone industry today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), Corteva, Inc. (NYSE: CTVA), Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT), Safe Pro Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAI), AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. (NYSE: UAVS).

MarketsAndMarkets concluded: “Furthermore, governments’ propensity for sustainability in environmental matters helps the cause of drones meant to stretch resources applied in terms of water and fertilizers… Simplified regulatory frameworks facilitate easier adoption, enabling farmers to implement drone technology into their operations without extensive bureaucratic hurdles. Monetary benefits, such as subsidies and tax exemptions, greatly help reduce the input costs of drones, hence enabling more farmers to adopt the technology.”

ZenaTech (NASDAQ:ZENA) ZenaDrone Granted FAA Part 137 Approval for Agricultural Drone Operations Addressing a $6 Billion Global Agricultural Drone Market Growing to $24 Billion by 2032 – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”), a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS and Quantum Computing solutions, announces its subsidiary ZenaDrone has received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct commercial agricultural operations under the rules and regulations of 14 CFR Part 137 for crop spraying and precision agriculture. This approval allows ZenaDrone to commence final testing and deployment of the ZenaDrone 1000 drone for aerial spraying of pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, fertilizers, and seeds for agricultural, environmental and government customers. The company plans to sell these solutions through its Drone as a Service, or DaaS, business model as well as selling the drone hardware and solution directly to larger commercial farms, agribusinesses, and cooperatives.

“FAA part 137 approval now enables our team to finish final testing and commence sales of our agriculture solutions. Drones offer a more precise, efficient, cost effective and safer alternative to traditional methods while reducing chemical use, crop damage, and manual work, as well as being able to reach hard-to-access areas. We plan, test, then deploy our solutions through our DaaS model in the US first, followed by Ireland where we have a history of pioneering development work in agricultural drones,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D.

According to Fortune Business Insights the global agriculture drone market is projected to grow from USD 6.10 billion in 2024 to USD 23.78 billion by 2032, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.5%. This growth reflects a growing demand for precision agriculture, advances in drone technology, cost-effectiveness, government support and incentive programs, and growing awareness and education.

The ZenaDrone 1000 is an autonomous drone, in a VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) quadcopter design with a total of eight rotors on its two fixed wings; it is considered a medium-sized drone measuring 12X7 feet in size. It is designed for stable flight, maneuverability, heavy lift capabilities up to 40 kilos, incorporating innovative software technology, AI, sensors, and purpose-built attachments like crop spraying, along with rugged and compact hardware featuring foldable wings enabling the drone to fit into the back of a truck.

ZenaTech’s DaaS business will incorporate the ZenaDrone 1000 and the IQ series of multifunction autonomous drones to provide a variety of service solutions from land surveys to power line inspections or power washing, made accessible and cost effective through an Uber-like business model on a regular subscription or pay-per-use basis. Customers can conveniently access drones for eliminating manual or time-consuming tasks achieving superior results, such as for surveying, inspections, security and law enforcement, or precision farming applications, without having to buy, operate, or maintain the drones themselves. Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

Other recent developments in the markets include:

Puna Bio recently announced that it had closed a new round of founding led by Corteva, Inc., Corteva, Inc. (NYSE: CTVA) through its Corteva Catalyst platform. The investment from one of the world´s leading agricultural technology companies, and other investors, will support the further development of Puna Bio’s product portfolio based on extremophile organisms.

Unlike traditional pesticides and fertilizers, Puna Bio’s innovative products are based on natural solutions that enhance nutrient uptake, tolerance to stress and crop quality. Their biological (non-GMO) seed treatments are based on the unique capabilities of extremophiles isolated from the highest and driest desert on Earth, La Puna of Argentina.

“Our solution, based on ancient bacteria dating back 3.5 billion years, maximizes productivity by 10 to 15 percent in fertile soils and revitalizes degraded soils that would normally be too acidic or salinized to be productive,” explains Franco Martínez Levis, Puna Bio’s CEO and co-founder. “With so much of the world’s agricultural land on the path to degradation and weather patterns becoming more extreme worldwide, our discovery platform ensures that we can continue feeding the global population in a sustainable way.”

Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT), a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations, recently announced that the Company has entered into securities purchase agreements with certain institutional investors for the purchase and sale of 4,724,412 shares of common stock, pursuant to a registered direct offering, expected to result in gross proceeds of approximately $30 million, before deducting placement agent fees and other offering expenses. The offering is expected to close on or about April 11, 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

The Company intends to use net proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes, including working capital. Northland Capital Markets is acting as the exclusive placement agent for the transaction.

The offering is being made pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-283242), which was declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on December 11, 2024. A final prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus relating to the registered direct offering will be filed with the SEC and will be available on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. Additionally, when available, electronic copies of the final prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be obtained, when available, from Northland Securities, Inc., 150 South Fifth Street, Suite 3300, Minneapolis, MN.

Safe Pro Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAI) recently announced that its SpotlightAITM OnSite (OnSite) real-time, edge-based, small object threat detection technology, has successfully completed operations in active minefields in Ukraine. This successful deployment highlights the Company’s patented capability to rapidly identify and instantly map live explosive threats including small anti-personnel cluster munitions and landmines scattered over large areas. Building on over two years of real-world battlefield testing, this milestone in the Company’s development roadmap demonstrates the ability to deliver edge-based small object threat detection reducing a soldier’s cognitive load and representing the next generation of force protection. To view a video of SpotlightAITM Onsite please click here.

“Evolving threats like remote mining where everyday drones are strategically delivering small mines is a new critical threat profile that our edge-based system is uniquely designed to address. Our recent operational success confirmed that our AI models can reduce the cognitive load on soldiers who are already heavily tasked and may not have the time to recognize explosive threats in their path. This a significant step forward on the Edge where drone-based small object threat detection for force protection is responding to the rapidly changing modern battlefield. Building upon our unmatched real-world experience in detecting, identifying and locating small explosive threats in Ukraine, we believe OnSite can deliver a new level of enhanced situational awareness that will allow military, government and humanitarian personnel to safely conduct their critical missions with greatly enhanced safety,” said Dan Erdberg, Chairman and CEO of Safe Pro Group Inc. “The increasing number of countries exiting the Ottawa Convention on anti-personnel landmines will likely lead to an increased proliferation of deadly anti-personnel mines and that is why we are committed to the further development and deployment of our patented technology so that we can help protect our soldiers and our allies.”

AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. (NYSE: UAVS) recently announced the launch of its eBee VISION next generation application software featuring a variety of critical updates. Of particular note, is the capability for manual position updates with map referencing to provide precise navigation even in GNSS-denied areas where satellite signals are unavailable or unreliable due to various factors.

AgEagle CEO Bill Irby commented, “Of the many new features provided in our latest software update, overcoming GNSS-denied shortfalls marks a significant leap forward in drone operations especially for defense personnel, public safety agencies and industrial teams working in high-stakes, GNSS-denied environments. Whether operating in dense urban centers, near critical installations, or in contested zones with active signal interference, our global eBee VISION customers can now maintain full navigational command of their drone using only the camera and map-based interface. This feature directly addresses a core challenge faced by tactical and industrial drone operators in today’s complex mission environments. Our technical team will continue to work relentlessly on refinements and ongoing advancements to ensure AgEagle remains at the forefront of UAV innovation.”

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The MIL Network –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Pope Francis: ‘ethical helmsman’ whose feel for international relations steered church in turbulent times

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sara Silvestri, Senior Lecturer & UG Programme Director, Department of International Politics, City St George’s, University of London

I met Pope Francis in 2016. It was part of a symposium of the former Pontifical Council for Migrants and Itinerant People (now recast by Francis as the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development). I presented some of my work on migration – as attention to migrants and refugees was a central theme of his pontificate, more prominently than for his predecessor, whom I had also met a few years earlier.

After the conference proceedings, we had an official audience, next to the Sistine Chapel: Francis made a speech and we greeted him one by one. I had my 21 month-old daughter with me that day, thinking of the rare opportunity we would both enjoy.

But I’d underestimated the length of the formalities involved. My daughter screamed “Open the doors, let me out!” through the whole of the pope’s speech. I was distraught, but Francis responded very gently to the disruption. He stopped in the middle of the speech and commented how sweet and lovely it was to hear the voice of a child. I could feel it was not just a platitude – he meant it.

In the disarray that is current global politics, with the world wracked by conflict and injustice, the papacy of Francis I has been a beacon of hope.

In a world that appears to be rearranging itself around the principle that might is right, where the whims and the prejudices of strongmen leaders are blindly followed by millions, he represented the most important ethical helm there is. He did this not by taking on ideological positions but by sticking in a steadfast manner to his message that mercy trumps bullies and that compassion will always prevail over hatred.

The image of Francis delivering a sermon from a pulpit designed to look like a ship’s helm when he visited the island of Lampedusa in 2013 strikes me as very symbolic of his papacy. In his first official trip as pope, Francis drew attention to the marginalised, migrants and refugees inspired by the parable of the good Samaritan. But he did so not in a way that patronised migrants as victims or reduced the church to a humanitarian agency.

He launched into a loud condemnation of the economic and political structures that forced those people on to boats. He railed against the people and conditions that effectively enabled those deaths in the huge cemetery that the Mediterranean has become. Expressing his “closeness” to migrants and determined to “challenge our consciences” and the “globalisation of indifference”, he warned we are all complicit in Cain’s killing of his brother.

Critics may carp that he hasn’t really effected any significant change within or outside the church. That while moves were made towards reforms of church attitudes towards women priests and LGBTQ+ issues, real progress has still to be achieved.

That despite his appeals, death keeps swallowing human lives in the Mediterranean and in conflict zones. Despite his championing of environmental causes, forests are still burning.

But it was not his job to run global politics. While he was, technically, a head of state of Vatican City, he did not see himself as a politician. The instructions for his funeral reiterate this: simple, “as a disciple of Christ” and not like “the powerful of the world”.

He saw his role as a spiritual shepherd trying to serve and protect his flock. His vision of Christianity was about mercy and freedom of conscience, with the church’s place close to the “existential peripheries” of the world, not to the centres of power.

His final message, delivered on Easter Day 2025, is particularly telling. It states: “Evil has not disappeared from history; it will remain until the end, but it no longer has the upper hand; it no longer has power over those who accept the grace of this day.”

This in my view sums up the enormous power that Francis unstintingly asserted among Catholics: the power of unconditional love and mercy – not in an idealised form, but well aware of the presence of evil in the world and respectful of individual freedom.

Reaching across faiths

Because of his courage and the political-but-non-political position that enabled him to speak of ethical issues at the heart of political decisions, Francis became widely respected by religious and political leaders. He was loved by ordinary people from all walks of life and, importantly, belief systems, although some were puzzled by his informal style.

In 2019 he made a joint declaration with the imam of Al-Azhar in Cairo, Ahmed Al-Tayeb, entitled Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together. This, and his 2020 encyclical Fratelli Tutti, which is subtitled “on fraternity and social friendship”, gave impetus to inter-faith dialogue. As he put it: “God has created all human beings equal in rights, duties and dignity, and has called them to live together as brothers and sisters.”

The last push Francis gave to the Church between 2021 and 2024 was the Synod on Synodality. This was a major enterprise which aimed to revive the sense of global community of believers and witnesses. It stressed the importance of praying together and exercising discernment in important decisions by acknowledging diversity, listening to each other and to the Holy Spirit.

Interpersonal communication and embracing mercy in order to achieve the common good were two key themes of Francis’ pontificate. He was concerned with the dangers of our individualistic “throwaway culture” and aware of the contradictions of a globalised world where loneliness prevails.

Francis did not solve the problem of carbon emissions, he did not stop wars in Ukraine, Palestine or Yemen. He did not make women priests or deacons, and did not fully embrace the LGBTQ+ community, despite some initial inching towards this.

But he made a space to reflect about all those issues, removing the church from a pedestal, centring it on the joyful message of the Gospel and “bringing it out” to all the people – Catholics and non Catholics alike.

That, in itself, is an immense achievement in the long history and slow transformation of the church.

Dr Sara Silvestri is Senior Lecturer in International Politics at City, St George’s University of London where she teaches religion and politics and runs the Europe research cluster. She is also a Bye Fellow of St Edmund’s College, Cambridge University, is affiliated with the Interfaith Research Programme in the Divinity Faculty, University of Cambridge, and is a Trustee of the Council on Christian Approaches to Defence and Disarmament. Sara Silvestri has received funding from ESRC, British Academy, Luce Foundation, the King Baudouin Foundation, the Plater Trust, Caritas Internationalis, the European Commission.

– ref. Pope Francis: ‘ethical helmsman’ whose feel for international relations steered church in turbulent times – https://theconversation.com/pope-francis-ethical-helmsman-whose-feel-for-international-relations-steered-church-in-turbulent-times-255153

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Jeffing: how this run-walk method could help you train for a marathon

Source: The Conversation – UK – By James Thie, Senior Lecturer Sport Coaching and Performance, Cardiff Metropolitan University

Jeff Galloway originally developed his run training method in 1974. Valery Zotev/Shutterstock

Even if you’re a runner, you may not have heard the term “Jeffing” before. It’s a method of alternating between running and walking and it’s become a popular way to train for long-distance races.

It’s particularly timely, as we appear to be in the middle of a second running boom, the first having taken off in the 1970s and 80s. You can see it in the popularity of parkrun, the rise in mass participation events, and the seemingly endless market for running shoes, watches and other gear.

But despite all this enthusiasm, the idea of running can still be off-putting for many people. Some believe that unless they can run continuously at a certain pace or distance, they aren’t a “real runner”, especially when they find themselves comparing their progress with others.

That’s where Jeffing comes in. This walk-run technique allows people to keep moving forward at their own pace. It balances effort and recovery in a way that makes endurance running more accessible to a wider range of people and abilities.

But where did Jeffing come from?

Jeff Galloway pictured in 2015.
Lance Cpl. Timothy Turner/Wikimedia

The concept was invented by American Olympian and coach, Jeff Galloway in the 1970s. It’s a strategic way of combining walking and running, sometimes with jogging too.

Galloway describes it as a revolutionary approach that reduces fatigue, prevents injuries and makes running more enjoyable. “By alternating between running and walking runners can go farther, recover faster, and feel stronger during and after their workouts,” he says.

In this sense, Jeffing shares some similarities with “fartlek”, which is Swedish for “speed play”. Fartlek is a training method that was developed in 1930s Sweden by cross-country runners looking to improve their performance. It also involves alternating bursts of fast and slow running.

Research shows that there were significant improvements in cardiovascular and speed endurance in just 12 weeks of fartlek training.

The difference is that Jeffing operates at a lower intensity, and the walking breaks allow the body to recover more fully.

What are the benefits of Jeffing?

One of the biggest advantages of Jeffing is that it can help you go further. Because the body’s energy stores aren’t being depleted all at once, many runners find they can cover longer distances than they may have managed with continuous running. Studies show that this may have more benefits than shorter and more intense exercise.

It also lowers the risk of injury because the reduced intensity puts less stress on joints and muscles. This makes Jeffing a popular option for people returning from injury or illness, or anyone keen to stay injury-free while training.

Recovery tends to be quicker, too. Since the body is under less strain, runners often report feeling less fatigued afterwards. This may make it easier to stick to a training plan without burning out.

Jeffing is especially welcoming for beginners. Galloway originally developed the method in 1974 while coaching a group of new runners. After ten weeks of following the walk-run approach, every one of them completed either a 5k or 10k race. The technique is still used by runners of all abilities, including those tackling full marathons.

Jeffing also helps shift the focus away from pace and distance and onto how your own body feels. Galloway’s advice in the early years included the “huff and puff” rule: if you can hear yourself breathing hard, take more frequent walk breaks.

On the other hand, for people who prefer structure, the method can be done with a stopwatch. A run can be chopped up into manageable segments, such as 30 seconds running and 30 seconds walking, as Galloway explains:

By going to a 30 second run / 30 second walk … they run faster without any extra effort because they are only walking for 30 seconds. If that feels good, use it for a while then start creeping up the amount of running while keeping the walking at 30 seconds. After several weeks, you may settle in on something like 45 seconds run/30 seconds walk, or you may just run faster during your 30 seconds of running.

Runners in the 2024 London Marathon.
mikecphoto/Shutterstock

Is Jeffing for you?

Although popular, this approach to running won’t appeal to everyone. Some runners may feel that breaking up a continuous run with walk breaks interrupts their rhythm or makes them feel like they’re not really running. But from my perspective as a runner and athletics coach, anything that helps more people participate in exercise should be welcomed.

Many marathon runners will be using Jeffing as a way to prepare for their next event. They may use the technique in a structured way or just instinctively walking when they need to, to help them reach the finish line.

So whether you increase the running time or just stick with short bursts, Jeffing may let you run in a way that suits your body – and that’s what really counts.

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

– ref. Jeffing: how this run-walk method could help you train for a marathon – https://theconversation.com/jeffing-how-this-run-walk-method-could-help-you-train-for-a-marathon-254837

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: “Themis of the 21st Century” united students from five universities

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Winners and Prize Winners

On April 21, at the Faculty of Forensic Science and Law in Construction and Transport of the St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, another “crime” was solved as part of the “Themis of the 21st Century” Olympiad.

This year, the Olympiad “Themis of the 21st Century” became inter-university for the first time and was held in the format of a quest. Five teams participated in the quest: “Conclusions Don’t Burn” (SPbGASU), “Gatchina Gendarmes” (Gatchina State University), “Sledkom” (St. Petersburg Academy of the Investigative Committee), “Expert Element” (St. Petersburg University of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia), “Veshdok” (second name – “Expert Five”, St. Petersburg University of the State Fire Service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia).

The “Gatchina Gendarmes” were accompanied by fans who actively supported the guys throughout the event.

“Today we are holding a knowledge festival, where you will be able to demonstrate your creative potential, ability to make unconventional decisions, team spirit and all those positive qualities that are not always possible to demonstrate during the educational process. I hope we will see a fair and beautiful game. May the strongest win!” – Dmitry Ivanov, Dean of the FSEiPST, encouraged the participants of the quest.

Having exchanged traditional greetings, the teams began investigating the murder of an antique dealer and the mysterious disappearance of a 13th-century Byzantine icon. The students examined the crime scene, conducted a trace examination, questioned witnesses and built their own version of events. The quest resulted in the announcement of a verdict for the criminal, who fully acknowledged his guilt and repented.

The announcement of the verdict allowed the teams to understand the correctness of the version put forward and, accordingly, the correctness of the completion of the final task.

For each task, the jury awarded points to the teams. The jury included Associate Professor of the Forensic Science Department, Academic Secretary of the Faculty of the Federal Service for Economics and Social Development of the Russian Federation (FSESiPST) of St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering Elena Kuzbagarova, Associate Professor of the Criminal Law Disciplines Department of Gatchina State University Albina Bachieva, Lecturer of the Forensic Science and Research Department of the St. Petersburg University of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia Nadezhda Gorbunova, Senior Lecturer of the Forensic Science and Engineering and Technical Expertise Department of the St. Petersburg University of the State Fire Service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia Oleg Abramumov, Associate Professor of the Forensic Science Department of St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering Alexey Kopanev.

Based on the results of completing the tasks, the gap between the teams was minimal: they were separated by two or three points, which indicates good preparation and the active role of the leaders.

The places were distributed as follows:

fifth place – “Material Evidence”; fourth place – “Gatchina Gendarmes”; third place – “Conclusions Don’t Burn”; second place – “Expert Element”; first place – “Investigative Committee”.

The organizers awarded valuable gifts to the participants of the quest and those who were involved in it as actors – students of the Faculty of Social and Economic Development and Social Sciences of St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering Ekaterina Ryzhikova, Igor Stepanov, Maxim Semenov and Daria Kulabukhova.

Students shared their opinions on what helped them solve the complex case and what the difficulties were.

“Practical experience helped us. We had already been in practice, and felt more confident during interrogation. Theoretical knowledge, a good atmosphere at the event, and the team also helped – this is also important. We clearly understood who to assign what to, quickly distributed who does what,” said Sledkom team member Yuri Churintsev.

“The main difficulty was that too little time was given to complete the tasks. But we will try to win next time,” promised the captain of the “Conclusions Don’t Burn” team, Ulyana Nasonova.

The team leaders also expressed their gratitude for the invitation to participate in the Olympiad and the good organization. In particular, Albina Bachieva said: “Many thanks to the university for this wonderful day. We really liked the teams, each had its own highlight.”

“We took an honorable fifth place. However, I think that next year we will participate in the Olympiad at the St. Petersburg University of the Ministry of Internal Affairs in the same composition and win a prize. Many thanks to the organizers of the quiz: everything went very well, at a high level of organization. You created a holiday for us and our cadets,” Oleg Abramumov noted.

“Interesting format of the event, great teams, good preparation. I hope that in the future you will come to our events and invite us again,” said Nadezhda Gorbunova.

Summing up the results, the jury chair Elena Kuzbagarova said that the Olympiad had become a kind of testing ground, allowing to identify the strengths of the participants and determine the directions for further development of science and practice: “Today’s Olympiad demonstrated the high level of preparedness of our students, demonstrated the best examples of a creative approach to solving complex professional problems. For students, participation in the Olympiad is an opportunity not only to test their knowledge in criminology, forensic examination, traceology, criminal procedure, but also to meet colleagues from other universities, expand their professional horizons, better prepare for future professional activity, increase self-esteem and self-confidence, and establish useful professional connections. I wish the participants success in their studies and future professional activity, new achievements and interesting discoveries. Let the knowledge gained become a solid foundation for your career and a guarantee of a successful future!”

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Competition for filling positions of faculty members

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering –

In accordance with Article 332 of the Labor Code of the Russian Federation and in connection with the availability of vacant positions of professorial and teaching staff for the 2025/2026 academic year from September 1, 2025, the Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering announces a competitive selection to fill the following positions:

assistant; senior lecturer; associate professor; professor.

By department:

architectural and urban planning heritage; architectural design; architectural and building structures; water use and ecology; geodesy, land management and cadastres; geotechnics; urban planning; design of the architectural environment; reinforced concrete and stone structures; computer science; information systems and technologies; history and theory of architecture; history and philosophy; landscape architecture; mathematics; intercultural communication; construction management; metal and wooden structures; ground transport and technological machines; descriptive geometry and engineering graphics; construction organization; jurisprudence; legal regulation of urban planning and transport; drawing; structural mechanics; structural physics, electric power engineering and electrical engineering; forensic examinations; heat and gas supply and ventilation; technical operation of vehicles; construction production technology; technology of building materials and metrology; technosphere safety; transport systems and road and bridge construction; economics of construction and housing and communal services; economic security.

The term for which an employment contract will be concluded for each of the above-mentioned positions to be filled, corresponding to the term of election by competition, is three years (until August 31, 2028).

The competition procedure is determined by the order of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation dated December 4, 2023 No. 1138 “On approval of the Regulation on the procedure for filling the positions of teaching staff related to the faculty” and “Regulations on the organization and procedure for election by competition to positions of teaching staff at SPbGASU” (approved by the decision of the Academic Council of SPbGASU dated June 27, 2024, protocol No. 6 (as amended on April 24, 2025)).

The qualification requirements are defined:

The Unified Qualification Handbook of Positions of Managers, Specialists, and Employees (approved by the Order of the Ministry of Health and Social Development of the Russian Federation dated January 11, 2011, No. 1n); the requirements for passing the competitive selection of the teaching staff of SPbGASU (approved by the decision of the Academic Council of SPbGASU dated June 27, 2024, protocol No. 6).

To participate in the competitive selection, it is necessary to submit an application electronically through the personal account portal between April 24 and May 26, 2025 (HTTPS: // Portal.SPBGASU.ru/ – for employees of SPbGASU, HTTPS: //Conquispps.SPBGASU.ru/ – for applicants who are not employees of SPbGASU) the following documents:

an application addressed to the rector of the university; a copy of the higher education document; a copy of the candidate/doctor of science diploma (if any); a copy of the associate professor/professor certificate (if any); documents confirming the length of service in scientific and pedagogical work (a certificate of teaching experience or a copy of the work record book, certified at the place of work) – for applicants who are not full-time employees of SPbGASU; a list of scientific and educational-methodical works for the last three years; consent to the processing of personal data; documents confirming the absence of restrictions on employment in the field of education (certificate of no criminal record).

The procedure and deadlines for making changes to the terms of the competition, as well as its cancellation:

Amendments to the terms of the competition, as well as its cancellation, are formalized by order of the rector until May 26, 2025.

In case of a positive decision of the commission, the originals of the competition documents and educational documents are provided by the competition participant upon conclusion of an employment contract to the Human Resources Department from June 27 to August 31, 2025 at the address: 190005, St. Petersburg, 2-ya Krasnoarmeyskaya St., Bldg. 4, office 125, 126. Tel. 316-42-13.

The competition will be held in person.

Place, date and time of the competition: June 25, 2025 at 10:00, St. Petersburg, 2-ya Krasnoarmeyskaya st., bldg. 4, room 216.

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

MIL OSI Russia News –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: OLAF intelligence supports Lithuanian Customs in major sanctions evasion probe

Source: European Anti-Fraud Offfice

Press release no. 8/2025
PDF version

On 10 April, investigators from the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) joined officers from the Lithuanian Customs Criminal Service (MKT) in a successful raid on a company suspected of violating EU sanctions.

The investigation targeted a business allegedly involved in the illegal export of sanctioned goods to Russia and Belarus. While the items in question were lawfully manufactured in various EU Member States, it is believed the company rerouted them through Central Asian countries to circumvent EU sanctions.

During the inspection, significant quantities of potentially sanctioned commodities, large sums of money and weapons were seized. Prior to the raid, OLAF provided intelligence and analytical support that proved instrumental in uncovering a suspected scheme to evade EU export restrictions. Preliminary findings also suggest the company may have facilitated similar operations for other firms.

The pre-trial investigation, led by the Vilnius Regional Prosecutor’s Office, estimates the value of the seized goods at approximately €1.5 million.

OLAF provided investigative support, advanced analytical tools and relevant data throughout the investigation. As the investigation remains ongoing, OLAF is also liaising with authorities in both EU and non-EU countries to verify the export routes and trace the final destination of the goods. The intelligence gathered will support other EU Member States in discovering potential new illicit trade flows of sanctioned goods.

OLAF Director-General Ville Itälä said: “OLAF remains committed to supporting EU Member States in upholding sanctions and protecting the financial interests of the Union. In this case, OLAF provided investigative intelligence and analysis, while also acting as a bridge between the different national authorities involved. We are glad to have been able to support our Lithuanian colleagues in such a crucial effort as the enforcement of the EU’s export sanctions. Together we help strengthen the security of the EU.”

_{OLAF mission, mandate and competences:}
_{OLAF’s mission is to detect, investigate and stop fraud with EU funds.}

_{OLAF fulfils its mission by:}
_{•    carrying out independent investigations into fraud and corruption involving EU funds, so as to ensure that all EU taxpayers’ money reaches projects that can create jobs and growth in Europe;}
_{•    contributing to strengthening citizens’ trust in the EU Institutions by investigating serious misconduct by EU staff and members of the EU Institutions;}
_{•    developing a sound EU anti-fraud policy.}

_{In its independent investigative function, OLAF can investigate matters relating to fraud, corruption and other offences affecting the EU financial interests concerning:}
_{•    all EU expenditure: the main spending categories are Structural Funds, agricultural policy and rural development funds, direct expenditure and external aid;}
_{•    some areas of EU revenue, mainly customs duties;}
_{•    suspicions of serious misconduct by EU staff and members of the EU institutions.}

_{Once OLAF has completed its investigation, it is for the competent EU and national authorities to examine and decide on the follow-up of OLAF’s recommendations. All persons concerned are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in a competent national or EU court of law.}

For further details:

Pierluigi CATERINO
Spokesperson
European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF)
Phone: +32(0)2 29-52335
Email: olaf-media ec [dot] europa [dot] eu (olaf-media[at]ec[dot]europa[dot]eu)
https://anti-fraud.ec.europa.eu
LinkedIn: European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF)
Bluesky: euantifraud.bsky.social

_{If you’re a journalist and you wish to receive our press releases in your inbox, please}_{leave us your contact data}_.

MIL OSI Europe News –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Portsmouth museum to host ancient Sudan talk by British Museum curator

Source: City of Portsmouth

A fascinating talk about the Kingdom of Kush is being hosted at Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery, as its ancient Sudan exhibition draws to a close.

On Wednesday 30 April, British Museum curator Dr Loretta Kilroe’s ‘In the presence of giants’ talk will look at giraffe symbolism in the Kingdom of Kush, as well as other important themes in Kushite iconography, as part of the Ancient Sudan: enduring heritage exhibition programme.

The British Museum touring exhibition is in its last few weeks at the museum and is due to close on Saturday 11 May.

The free exhibition focuses on the Kingdom of Kush, which flourished in Sudan nearly 3,000 years ago and at its height was one of the largest empires in the ancient world. It examines this ancient culture’s skilled craftmanship, distinct religious beliefs and the important role of women, as well as exploring the rich culture of modern Sudan.

Portsmouth City Council Leader Cllr Steve Pitt said:

“We’ve been privileged to host the British Museum spotlight loan exhibition, which has been a big success.

“Highlights include beautiful examples of ceramics, a carved stone offering table and a striking bronze depiction of a goddess.

“For those who haven’t seen it yet, this is a chance to both visit the exhibition and hear directly from the British Museum’s curator of this important collection, so I’d encourage people not to miss it.”

Alongside these ancient items on loan from the British Museum, the exhibition features poems from Sudanese refugees in partnership with the Rural Refugee Network and items from members of the Sudanese Community In and Around Portsmouth group, including a tabag and a traditional Sudanese bridal gown.

The talks will be at 12.30pm and 5.30pm and will last for approximately an hour with time for questions at the end.

It is free but booking is advised. To book call Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery on 023 9283 4779 or visit the museum and ask at the front desk.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: West Bancorporation, Inc. Announces First Quarter 2025 Financial Results and Declares Quarterly Dividend

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa, April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — West Bancorporation, Inc. (Nasdaq: WTBA; the “Company”), parent company of West Bank, today reported first quarter 2025 net income of $7.8 million, or $0.46 per diluted common share, compared to fourth quarter 2024 net income of $7.1 million, or $0.42 per diluted common share, and first quarter 2024 net income of $5.8 million, or $0.35 per diluted common share. On April 23, 2025, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.25 per common share. The dividend is payable on May 21, 2025, to stockholders of record on May 7, 2025.

David Nelson, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, commented, “In the first quarter of 2025, we have continued to see improvements in net interest margin and efficiency ratio compared to 2024, resulting in a significant improvement in net income compared to the first quarter of 2024. We are pleased with our progress in our balance sheet repricing efforts. Loan growth was modest in the first quarter, as expected with the current economic uncertainty.”

David Nelson added, “One thing that remains the same is our best-in-class credit quality metrics. We had no loans past due greater than 90 days at March 31, 2025, and only one loan past due greater than 30 days with an insignificant balance of $181 thousand. We continue to identify high-quality opportunities for growing our core customer base in all of our markets.”

First Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights

	Quarter Ended March 31, 2025	Quarter Ended December 31, 2024	Quarter Ended March 31, 2024
Net income (in thousands)	$7,842	$7,097	$5,809
Return on average equity	13.84%	12.24%	10.63%
Return on average assets	0.81%	0.68%	0.61%
Efficiency ratio (a non-GAAP measure)	56.37%	60.79%	62.04%
Nonperforming assets to total assets	0.00%	0.00%	0.01%

First Quarter 2025 Compared to Fourth Quarter 2024 Overview

Loans increased $11.6 million in the first quarter of 2025, primarily due to an increase in commercial loans and commercial real estate loans, partially offset by a decline in construction loans.
No credit loss expense on loans was recorded in the first quarter of 2025, compared to credit loss expense on loans of $1.0 million recorded in the fourth quarter of 2024. The credit loss expense on loans in the fourth quarter of 2024 was due to an adjustment to qualitative factors in the commercial real estate loan segment.
The allowance for credit losses to total loans was 1.01 percent at both March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. Nonaccrual loans at March 31, 2025 consisted of one loan with a balance of $181 thousand, compared to one loan with a balance of $133 thousand at December 31, 2024.
Deposits decreased $33.1 million, or 1.0 percent, in the first quarter of 2025. Brokered deposits totaled $335.5 million at March 31, 2025, compared to $266.4 million at December 31, 2024, an increase of $69.1 million. Excluding brokered deposits, deposits decreased $102.2 million, or 3.3 percent, during the first quarter of 2025. The decline in deposits was due to normal cash flow fluctuations of our core depositors. As of March 31, 2025, estimated uninsured deposits, which exclude deposits in the IntraFi^® reciprocal network, brokered deposits and public funds protected by state programs, accounted for approximately 28.0 percent of total deposits.
Net interest margin, on a fully tax-equivalent basis (a non-GAAP measure), was 2.28 percent for the first quarter of 2025, compared to 1.98 percent for the fourth quarter of 2024. Net interest income for the first quarter of 2025 was $20.9 million, compared to $19.4 million for the fourth quarter of 2024. The increase in net interest margin and net interest income was primarily due to a decrease in deposit rates, driven by the Federal Reserve’s reductions of the federal funds target rate in the fourth quarter of 2024. The cost of deposits decreased 38 basis points in the first quarter of 2025, compared to the fourth quarter of 2024.
The efficiency ratio (a non-GAAP measure) was 56.37 percent for the first quarter of 2025, compared to 60.79 percent for the fourth quarter of 2024. The improvement in the efficiency ratio was primarily due to the increase in net interest income and decrease in noninterest expense, partially offset by a decrease in trust services income.
The tangible common equity ratio was 5.97 percent as of March 31, 2025, compared to 5.68 percent as of December 31, 2024. The increase in the tangible common equity ratio was due to retained net income and the decrease in accumulated other comprehensive loss, which was the result of an increase in the market value of our available for sale securities portfolio.

Income tax expense increased $2.8 million in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the fourth quarter of 2024. This was primarily due to recording an income tax benefit of $1.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2024 for an energy related investment tax credit associated with the construction of the Company’s new headquarters building.

First Quarter 2025 Compared to First Quarter 2024 Overview

Loans increased $36.3 million at March 31, 2025, or 1.2 percent, compared to March 31, 2024. The increase is primarily due to the increase in commercial real estate loans, partially offset by decreases in commercial loans and construction loans.
Deposits increased $259.5 million, or 8.5 percent, at March 31, 2025, compared to March 31, 2024. Included in deposits were brokered deposits totaling $335.5 million at March 31, 2025, compared to $396.4 million at March 31, 2024. Excluding brokered deposits, deposits increased $320.4 million, or 12.0 percent, as of March 31, 2025, compared to March 31, 2024. Deposit growth included a mix of public funds and commercial and consumer deposits and was used to reduce wholesale funding, build liquidity and fund loan growth.
Borrowed funds decreased to $391.4 million at March 31, 2025, compared to $639.7 million at March 31, 2024. The decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease of $198.5 million in federal funds purchased and other short-term borrowings and a decrease of $45.0 million in Federal Home Loan Bank advances. The decrease in borrowed funds balances was due to the increase in deposits since March 31, 2024. The reduction in the Federal Home Loan Bank advances was due to the maturity of two advances with a total balance of $45.0 million. One of these advances, with a balance of $25.0 million, was hedged with a long-term interest rate swap, which matured and was not renewed.
The efficiency ratio (a non-GAAP measure) was 56.37 percent for the first quarter of 2025, compared to 62.04 percent for the first quarter of 2024. The improvement in the efficiency ratio in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the first quarter of 2024 was primarily due to the increase in net interest income, partially offset by an increase in noninterest expense. Occupancy and equipment expense increased primarily due to the occupancy costs associated with the Company’s newly constructed headquarters.
Net interest margin, on a fully tax-equivalent basis (a non-GAAP measure), was 2.28 percent for the first quarter of 2025, compared to 1.88 percent for the first quarter of 2024. Net interest income for the first quarter of 2025 was $20.9 million, compared to $16.8 million for the first quarter of 2024. The increase in net interest margin and net interest income was primarily due to the decrease in deposit rates. The cost of deposits decreased by 42 basis points in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the first quarter of 2024. Also contributing to the improvement was an increase in average deposit balances of $335.2 million, in comparing the same time periods, which resulted in the reduction of higher-cost borrowed funds and an increase in interest-bearing deposits with other financial institutions.

The Company filed its report on Form 10-Q with the Securities and Exchange Commission today. Please refer to that document for a more in-depth discussion of the Company’s financial results. The Form 10-Q is available on the Investor Relations section of West Bank’s website at www.westbankstrong.com.

The Company will discuss its results in a conference call scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Central Time on Thursday, April 24, 2025. The telephone number for the conference call is 800-715-9871. The conference ID for the conference call is 7846129. A recording of the call will be available until May 8, 2025, by dialing 800-770-2030. The conference ID for the replay call is 7846129, followed by the # key.

About West Bancorporation, Inc. (Nasdaq: WTBA)

West Bancorporation, Inc. is headquartered in West Des Moines, Iowa. Serving customers since 1893, West Bank, a wholly-owned subsidiary of West Bancorporation, Inc., is a community bank that focuses on lending, deposit services, and trust services for small- to medium-sized businesses and consumers. West Bank has six offices in the Des Moines, Iowa metropolitan area, one office in Coralville, Iowa, and four offices in Minnesota in the cities of Rochester, Owatonna, Mankato and St. Cloud.

Certain statements in this report, other than purely historical information, including estimates, projections, statements relating to the Company’s business plans, objectives and expected operating results, and the assumptions upon which those statements are based, are “forward-looking statements” within the meanings of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements may appear throughout this report. These forward-looking statements are generally identified by the words “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “future,” “confident,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “strategy,” “plan,” “opportunity,” “will be,” “will likely result,” “will continue” or similar references, or references to estimates, predictions or future events. Such forward-looking statements are based upon certain underlying assumptions, risks and uncertainties. Because of the possibility that the underlying assumptions are incorrect or do not materialize as expected in the future, actual results could differ materially from these forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties that may affect future results include: interest rate risk, including the effects of changes in interest rates; fluctuations in the values of the securities held in our investment portfolio, including as a result of changes in interest rates; competitive pressures, including from non-bank competitors such as credit unions, “fintech” companies and digital asset service providers; pricing pressures on loans and deposits; our ability to successfully manage liquidity risk; changes in credit and other risks posed by the Company’s loan portfolio, including declines in commercial or residential real estate values or changes in the allowance for credit losses dictated by new market conditions, accounting standards or regulatory requirements; the concentration of large deposits from certain clients, including those who have balances above current FDIC insurance limits; the imposition of domestic or foreign tariffs or other governmental policies impacting the global supply chain and the value of products produced by our commercial borrowers; changes in local, national and international economic conditions, including the level and impact of inflation, and future monetary policies of the Federal Reserve in response thereto, and possible recession; the effects of recent developments and events in the financial services industry, including the large-scale deposit withdrawals over a short period of time that resulted in several bank failures; changes in legal and regulatory requirements, limitations and costs; changes in customers’ acceptance of the Company’s products and services; the occurrence of fraudulent activity, breaches or failures of our or our third-party partners’ information security controls or cyber-security related incidents, including as a result of sophisticated attacks using artificial intelligence and similar tools; unexpected outcomes of existing or new litigation involving the Company; the monetary, trade and other regulatory policies of the U.S. government; acts of war or terrorism, including the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, widespread disease or pandemics, or other adverse external events; risks related to climate change and the negative impact it may have on our customers and their businesses; changes to U.S. tax laws, regulations and guidance; potential changes in federal policy and at regulatory agencies as a result of the 2024 presidential election; new or revised accounting policies and practices, as may be adopted by state and federal regulatory agencies, the Financial Accounting Standards Board, the Securities and Exchange Commission or the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board; talent and labor shortages and employee turnover; and any other risks described in the “Risk Factors” sections of reports filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update such forward-looking statements to reflect current or future events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

WEST BANCORPORATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Financial Information (unaudited)
(in thousands)
	As of
CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS	March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			March 31, 2024
Assets
Cash and due from banks	$	39,253		$	28,750		$	34,157		$	27,994		$	27,071
Interest-bearing deposits		171,357			214,728			123,646			121,825			120,946
Securities available for sale, at fair value		546,619			544,565			597,745			588,452			605,735
Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost		15,216			15,129			17,195			21,065			26,181
Loans		3,016,471			3,004,860			3,021,221			2,998,774			2,980,133
Allowance for credit losses		(30,526	)		(30,432	)		(29,419	)		(28,422	)		(28,373	)
Loans, net		2,985,945			2,974,428			2,991,802			2,970,352			2,951,760
Premises and equipment, net		110,270			109,985			106,771			101,965			95,880
Bank-owned life insurance		45,272			44,990			44,703			44,416			44,138
Other assets		72,737			82,416			72,547			89,046			90,981
Total assets	$	3,986,669		$	4,014,991		$	3,988,566		$	3,965,115		$	3,962,692

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Deposits	$	3,324,518		$	3,357,596		$	3,278,553		$	3,180,922		$	3,065,030
Federal funds purchased and other short-term borrowings		—			—			—			85,500			198,500
Other borrowings		391,445			392,629			438,814			439,998			441,183
Other liabilities		32,833			36,891			35,846			34,812			34,223
Stockholders’ equity		237,873			227,875			235,353			223,883			223,756
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	3,986,669		$	4,014,991		$	3,988,566		$	3,965,115		$	3,962,692

	For the Quarter Ended
AVERAGE BALANCES	March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			March 31, 2024
Assets	$	3,944,789		$	4,135,049		$	3,973,824		$	3,964,109		$	3,812,199
Loans		3,016,119			3,007,558			2,991,272			2,994,492			2,949,672
Deposits		3,284,394			3,434,234			3,258,669			3,123,282			2,956,635
Stockholders’ equity		229,874			230,720			227,513			219,771			219,835

WEST BANCORPORATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Financial Information (unaudited)
(in thousands)
	As of
LOANS	March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			March 31, 2024
Commercial	$	531,267		$	514,232		$	512,884		$	526,589		$	544,293
Real estate:
Construction, land and land development		451,230			508,147			520,516			496,864			465,247
1-4 family residential first mortgages		86,292			87,858			89,749			92,230			108,065
Home equity		21,961			19,294			17,140			15,264			14,020
Commercial		1,909,330			1,861,195			1,870,132			1,856,301			1,839,580
Consumer and other		19,323			17,287			14,261			15,234			12,844
		3,019,403			3,008,013			3,024,682			3,002,482			2,984,049
Net unamortized fees and costs		(2,932	)		(3,153	)		(3,461	)		(3,708	)		(3,916	)
Total loans	$	3,016,471		$	3,004,860		$	3,021,221		$	2,998,774		$	2,980,133
Less: allowance for credit losses		(30,526	)		(30,432	)		(29,419	)		(28,422	)		(28,373	)
Net loans	$	2,985,945		$	2,974,428		$	2,991,802		$	2,970,352		$	2,951,760

CREDIT QUALITY
Pass	$	3,011,231		$	2,999,531		$	3,016,493		$	2,994,310		$	2,983,618
Watch		7,991			8,349			7,956			7,651			142
Substandard		181			133			233			521			289
Doubtful		—			—			—			—			—
Total loans	$	3,019,403		$	3,008,013		$	3,024,682		$	3,002,482		$	2,984,049

DEPOSITS
Noninterest-bearing demand	$	519,771		$	541,053		$	525,332		$	530,441		$	521,377
Interest-bearing demand		517,409			543,855			438,402			443,658			449,946
Savings and money market – non-brokered		1,490,189			1,517,510			1,481,840			1,483,264			1,315,698
Money market – brokered		143,423			126,381			123,780			97,259			119,840
Total nonmaturity deposits		2,670,792			2,728,799			2,569,354			2,554,622			2,406,861
Time – non-brokered		461,655			488,760			407,109			353,269			381,646
Time – brokered		192,071			140,037			302,090			273,031			276,523
Total time deposits		653,726			628,797			709,199			626,300			658,169
Total deposits	$	3,324,518		$	3,357,596		$	3,278,553		$	3,180,922		$	3,065,030

BORROWINGS
Federal funds purchased and other short-term borrowings	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	85,500		$	198,500
Subordinated notes, net		79,959			79,893			79,828			79,762			79,697
Federal Home Loan Bank advances		270,000			270,000			315,000			315,000			315,000
Long-term debt		41,486			42,736			43,986			45,236			46,486
Total borrowings	$	391,445		$	392,629		$	438,814		$	525,498		$	639,683

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Preferred stock	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
Common stock		3,000			3,000			3,000			3,000			3,000
Additional paid-in capital		35,072			35,619			34,960			34,322			33,685
Retained earnings		282,247			278,613			275,724			273,981			272,997
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(82,446	)		(89,357	)		(78,331	)		(87,420	)		(85,926	)
Total stockholders’ equity	$	237,873		$	227,875		$	235,353		$	223,883		$	223,756

WEST BANCORPORATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Financial Information (unaudited)
(in thousands)
	For the Quarter Ended
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024		March 31, 2024
Interest income:
Loans, including fees	$	40,988	$	41,822		$	42,504	$	41,700	$	40,196
Securities:
Taxable		2,788		2,959			3,261		3,394		3,416
Tax-exempt		743		795			806		808		810
Interest-bearing deposits		1,617		3,740			2,041		1,666		148
Total interest income		46,136		49,316			48,612		47,568		44,570
Interest expense:
Deposits		21,423		25,706			26,076		23,943		21,559
Federal funds purchased and other short-term borrowings		—		—			115		1,950		2,183
Subordinated notes		1,105		1,106			1,112		1,105		1,108
Federal Home Loan Bank advances		2,235		2,522			2,748		2,718		2,325
Long-term debt		518		560			601		622		645
Total interest expense		25,281		29,894			30,652		30,338		27,820
Net interest income		20,855		19,422			17,960		17,230		16,750
Credit loss expense		—		1,000			—		—		—
Net interest income after credit loss expense		20,855		18,422			17,960		17,230		16,750
Noninterest income:
Service charges on deposit accounts		471		462			459		462		460
Debit card usage fees		446		471			500		490		458
Trust services		777		1,051			828		794		776
Increase in cash value of bank-owned life insurance		282		287			287		278		274
Realized securities losses, net		—		(1,172	)		—		—		—
Other income		267		331			285		322		331
Total noninterest income		2,243		1,430			2,359		2,346		2,299
Noninterest expense:
Salaries and employee benefits		7,004		7,107			6,823		7,169		6,489
Occupancy and equipment		1,963		2,095			1,926		1,852		1,447
Data processing		617		752			771		754		714
Technology and software		786		743			722		731		700
FDIC insurance		587		699			711		631		519
Professional fees		308		301			239		244		257
Director fees		206		170			223		236		199
Other expenses		1,592		1,532			1,477		1,577		1,543
Total noninterest expense		13,063		13,399			12,892		13,194		11,868
Income before income taxes		10,035		6,453			7,427		6,382		7,181
Income taxes		2,193		(644	)		1,475		1,190		1,372
Net income	$	7,842	$	7,097		$	5,952	$	5,192	$	5,809

Basic earnings per common share	$	0.47	$	0.42		$	0.35	$	0.31	$	0.35
Diluted earnings per common share	$	0.46	$	0.42		$	0.35	$	0.31	$	0.35

WEST BANCORPORATION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARY
Financial Information (unaudited)

	As of and for the Quarter Ended
COMMON SHARE DATA	March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			March 31, 2024
Earnings per common share (basic)	$	0.47		$	0.42		$	0.35		$	0.31		$	0.35
Earnings per common share (diluted)		0.46			0.42			0.35			0.31			0.35
Dividends per common share		0.25			0.25			0.25			0.25			0.25
Book value per common share⁽¹⁾		14.06			13.54			13.98			13.30			13.31
Closing stock price		19.94			21.65			19.01			17.90			17.83
Market price/book value⁽²⁾		141.82	%		159.90	%		135.98	%		134.59	%		133.96	%
Price earnings ratio⁽³⁾		10.46			12.96			13.65			14.36			12.77
Annualized dividend yield⁽⁴⁾		5.02	%		4.62	%		5.26	%		5.59	%		5.61	%

REGULATORY CAPITAL RATIOS
Consolidated:
Total risk-based capital ratio		12.18	%		12.11	%		11.95	%		11.85	%		11.78	%
Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio		9.59			9.51			9.39			9.30			9.23
Tier 1 leverage capital ratio		8.36			7.93			8.15			8.08			8.36
Common equity tier 1 ratio		9.02			8.95			8.83			8.74			8.67
West Bank:
Total risk-based capital ratio		12.90	%		12.86	%		12.73	%		12.66	%		12.63	%
Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio		11.99			11.96			11.86			11.79			11.76
Tier 1 leverage capital ratio		10.46			9.97			10.29			10.25			10.65
Common equity tier 1 ratio		11.99			11.96			11.86			11.79			11.76

KEY PERFORMANCE RATIOS AND OTHER METRICS
Return on average assets⁽⁵⁾		0.81	%		0.68	%		0.60	%		0.53	%		0.61	%
Return on average equity⁽⁶⁾		13.84			12.24			10.41			9.50			10.63
Net interest margin^(7)(13)		2.28			1.98			1.91			1.86			1.88
Yield on interest-earning assets^(8)(13)		5.04			5.02			5.16			5.13			4.99
Cost of interest-bearing liabilities		3.25			3.57			3.84			3.83			3.70
Efficiency ratio^(9)(13)		56.37			60.79			63.28			67.14			62.04
Nonperforming assets to total assets⁽¹⁰⁾		0.00			0.00			0.01			0.01			0.01
ACL ratio⁽¹¹⁾		1.01			1.01			0.97			0.95			0.95
Loans/total assets		75.66			74.84			75.75			75.63			75.20
Loans/total deposits		90.73			89.49			92.15			94.27			97.23
Tangible common equity ratio⁽¹²⁾		5.97			5.68			5.90			5.65			5.65

^{(1) Includes accumulated other comprehensive loss.}
^{(2) Closing stock price divided by book value per common share.}
^{(3) Closing stock price divided by annualized earnings per common share (basic).}
^{(4) Annualized dividend divided by period end closing stock price.}
^{(5) Annualized net income divided by average assets.}
^{(6) Annualized net income divided by average stockholders’ equity.}
^{(7) Annualized tax-equivalent net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.}
^{(8) Annualized tax-equivalent interest income on interest-earning assets divided by average interest-earning assets.}
^{(9) Noninterest expense (excluding other real estate owned expense and write-down of premises) divided by noninterest income (excluding net securities gains/losses and gains/losses on disposition of premises and equipment) plus tax-equivalent net interest income.}
^{(10) Total nonperforming assets divided by total assets.}
^{(11) Allowance for credit losses on loans divided by total loans.}
^{(12) Common equity less intangible assets (none held) divided by tangible assets.}
^{(13) A non-GAAP measure.}

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

This report contains references to financial measures that are not defined in GAAP. Such non-GAAP financial measures include the Company’s presentation of net interest income and net interest margin on a fully taxable equivalent (FTE) basis and the presentation of the efficiency ratio on an adjusted and FTE basis, excluding certain income and expenses. Management believes these non-GAAP financial measures provide useful information to both management and investors to analyze and evaluate the Company’s financial performance. These measures are considered standard measures of comparison within the banking industry. Additionally, management believes providing measures on a FTE basis enhances the comparability of income arising from taxable and nontaxable sources. Limitations associated with non-GAAP financial measures include the risks that persons might disagree as to the appropriateness of items included in these measures and that different companies might calculate these measures differently. These non-GAAP disclosures should not be considered an alternative to the Company’s GAAP results. The following table reconciles the non-GAAP financial measures of net interest income and net interest margin on a fully taxable equivalent basis and efficiency ratio on an adjusted and FTE basis.

(in thousands)	For the Quarter Ended
	March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			March 31, 2024
Reconciliation of net interest income and net interest margin on a FTE basis to GAAP:
Net interest income (GAAP)	$	20,855		$	19,422		$	17,960		$	17,230		$	16,750
Tax-equivalent adjustment ⁽¹⁾		66			16			29			55			82
Net interest income on a FTE basis (non-GAAP)		20,921			19,438			17,989			17,285			16,832
Average interest-earning assets		3,717,441			3,910,978			3,749,688			3,731,674			3,595,954
Net interest margin on a FTE basis (non-GAAP)		2.28	%		1.98	%		1.91	%		1.86	%		1.88	%

Reconciliation of efficiency ratio on an adjusted and FTE basis to GAAP:
Net interest income on a FTE basis (non-GAAP)	$	20,921		$	19,438		$	17,989		$	17,285		$	16,832
Noninterest income		2,243			1,430			2,359			2,346			2,299
Adjustment for realized securities losses, net		—			1,172			—			—			—
Adjustment for losses on disposal of premises and equipment, net		8			—			26			21			—
Adjusted income		23,172			22,040			20,374			19,652			19,131
Noninterest expense		13,063			13,399			12,892			13,194			11,868
Efficiency ratio on an adjusted and FTE basis (non-GAAP) ⁽²⁾		56.37	%		60.79	%		63.28	%		67.14	%		62.04	%

^{(1) Computed on a tax-equivalent basis using a federal income tax rate of 21 percent, adjusted to reflect the effect of the nondeductible interest expense associated with owning tax-exempt securities and loans. Management believes the presentation of this non-GAAP measure provides supplemental useful information for proper understanding of the financial results, as it enhances the comparability of income arising from taxable and nontaxable sources.}
^{(2) The efficiency ratio expresses noninterest expense as a percent of fully taxable equivalent net interest income and noninterest income, excluding specific noninterest income and expenses. Management believes the presentation of this non-GAAP measure provides supplemental useful information for proper understanding of the Company’s financial performance. It is a standard measure of comparison within the banking industry. A lower ratio is more desirable.}

For more information contact:
Jane Funk, Executive Vice President, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer (515) 222-5766

The MIL Network –

April 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: Hanmi Financial Declares Cash Dividend of $0.27 per share
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LOS ANGELES, April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hanmi Financial Corporation (NASDAQ: HAFC, or “Hanmi”), the parent company of Hanmi Bank (the “Bank”), today announced that its Board of Directors declared a cash dividend on its common stock for the 2025 second quarter of $0.27 per share. The dividend will be paid on May 21, 2025, to stockholders of record as of the close of business on May 5, 2025.

About Hanmi Financial Corporation

Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Hanmi Financial Corporation owns Hanmi Bank, which serves multi-ethnic communities through its network of 32 full-service branches, five loan production offices and three loan centers in California, Texas, Illinois, Virginia, New Jersey, New York, Colorado, Washington and Georgia. Hanmi Bank specializes in real estate, commercial, SBA and trade finance lending to small and middle market businesses. Additional information is available at www.hanmi.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements, which are included in accordance with the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact are “forward-looking statements” for purposes of federal and state securities laws, including, but not limited to, statements about our anticipated future operating and financial performance, financial position and liquidity, business strategies, regulatory and competitive outlook, investment and expenditure plans, capital and financing needs and availability, plans and objectives of management for future operations, developments regarding our capital and strategic plans, and other similar forecasts and statements of expectation and statements of assumption underlying any of the foregoing. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” or “continue,” or the negative of such terms and other comparable terminology. Although we believe that our forward-looking statements to be reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to differ from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These factors include the following:
- a failure to maintain adequate levels of capital and liquidity to support our operations;
- general economic and business conditions internationally, nationally and in those areas in which we operate, including any potential recessionary conditions;
- volatility and deterioration in the credit and equity markets;
- changes in consumer spending, borrowing and savings habits;
- availability of capital from private and government sources;
- demographic changes;
- competition for loans and deposits and failure to attract or retain loans and deposits;
- inflation and fluctuations in interest rates that reduce our margins and yields, the fair value of financial instruments, the level of loan originations or prepayments on loans we have made and make, the level of loan sales and the cost we pay to retain and attract deposits and secure other types of funding;
- our ability to enter new markets successfully and capitalize on growth opportunities;
- the current or anticipated impact of military conflict, terrorism or other geopolitical events;
- the effect of potential future supervisory action against us or Hanmi Bank and our ability to address any issues raised in our regulatory exams;
- risks of natural disasters;
- legal proceedings and litigation brought against us;
- a failure in or breach of our operational or security systems or infrastructure, including cyberattacks;
- the failure to maintain current technologies;
- risks associated with Small Business Administration loans;
- failure to attract or retain key employees;
- our ability to access cost-effective funding;
- the imposition of tariffs or other domestic or international governmental policies;
- changes in liquidity, including the size and composition of our deposit portfolio and the percentage of uninsured deposits in the portfolio;
- fluctuations in real estate values;
- changes in accounting policies and practices;
- changes in governmental regulation, including, but not limited to, any increase in FDIC insurance premiums and changes in the monetary policies of the U.S. Treasury and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System;
- the ability of Hanmi Bank to make distributions to Hanmi Financial Corporation, which is restricted by certain factors, including Hanmi Bank’s retained earnings, net income, prior distributions made, and certain other financial tests;
- strategic transactions we may enter into;
- the adequacy of and changes in the methodology for computing our allowance for credit losses;
- our credit quality and the effect of credit quality on our credit losses expense and allowance for credit losses;
- changes in the financial performance and/or condition of our borrowers and the ability of our borrowers to perform under the terms of their loans and other terms of credit agreements;
- our ability to control expenses; and
- cyber security and fraud risks against our information technology and those of our third-party providers and vendors.
In addition, we set forth certain risks in our reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including, Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K that we will file hereafter, which could cause actual results to differ from those projected. We undertake no obligation to update such forward-looking statements except as required by law.

Investor Contacts:
Romolo (Ron) Santarosa
Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
213-427-5636

Lisa Fortuna
Investor Relations
Financial Profiles, Inc.
lfortuna@finprofiles.com
310-622-8251

Source: Hanmi Bank

The MIL Network –
April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Global Agriculture Drones Market Projected to Reach $8.03 Billion By 2029 with Significant Growth Still Expected

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

PALM BEACH, Fla., April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – Many experts see the global agriculture drones market to continue its substantial growth through this decade and maybe beyond. One such industry watcher, MarketsANDMarkets reported that: “The global agriculture drones market was projected to grow to $2.01 Billion in 2024 and reach $8.03 Billion by 2029. High adoption of aerial data collection tools in agriculture holds immense opportunity for the agriculture drones market. As farmers want to boost yields and their uses in resource optimization, precision agricultural tools are in increased demand; drones offer sensors and timely data for crop health and soil conditions. Efficiencies and accuracies increase the appealability of aerial data collection, and more farmers are adopting drone technology. Drones combined with emerging technologies in the form of machine learning and AI make them robust for position and to improve broadband agricultural data systems. Moreover, many industries use drones, and the adoption rate of tools required to collect aerial data is high in the construction, agriculture, and mining industries. Moreover, as farmers emphasize yield optimization and resource utilization more, the use of precision agriculture tools and drones increases. Drones have advanced sensors and real-time data for monitoring crop health and soil conditions. Their efficiency and accuracy appeal to more farmers who have become open to drone technology.”   Active Companies in the drone industry today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO), Unusual Machines, Inc. (NYSE American: UMAC), Sidus Space (NASDAQ: SIDU), AgriFORCE Growing Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ: AGRI).

MarketsANDMarkets continued: “The cereals & grains segment is growing substantially in the agriculture drones market. Cereals like wheat, corn, and rice are staple crops that require precise management to optimize yields, which makes drones more important. Drones can perform aerial surveys, crop health monitoring, and soil condition assessment, thus supporting farmers in informed decisions that may yield maximum productivity and resource utilization. Moreover, precision agriculture development is quite useful for producing cereals and grains. Agriculture drones conduct aerial surveys; thorough data acquisition and actionable insight generation will assist farmers in undertaking focused interventions such as precise irrigation and fertilization. This is resource efficient, cost-reducing, and productivity-enhancing in absolute terms. Moreover, with environmental objectives driving this agenda, increasing the importance of sustainability works well for the cereals & grains segment, with drones monitoring inputs more efficiently for management. The rising trend of digital agriculture, whereby decisions are made based on data, also builds a case for drones in the segment. Thus, considering the above parameters, based on farm produce, the cereals & grains segment is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR during the studied period.”

ZenaTech (NASDAQ:ZENA) ZenaDrone Granted FAA Part 137 Approval for Agricultural Drone Operations Addressing a $6 Billion Global Agricultural Drone Market Growing to $24 Billion by 2032 – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”), a technology company specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), enterprise SaaS and Quantum Computing solutions, announces its subsidiary ZenaDrone has received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct commercial agricultural operations under the rules and regulations of 14 CFR Part 137 for crop spraying and precision agriculture. This approval allows ZenaDrone to commence final testing and deployment of the ZenaDrone 1000 drone for aerial spraying of pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, fertilizers, and seeds for agricultural, environmental and government customers. The company plans to sell these solutions through its Drone as a Service, or DaaS, business model as well as selling the drone hardware and solution directly to larger commercial farms, agribusinesses, and cooperatives.

“FAA part 137 approval now enables our team to finish final testing and commence sales of our agriculture solutions. Drones offer a more precise, efficient, cost effective and safer alternative to traditional methods while reducing chemical use, crop damage, and manual work, as well as being able to reach hard-to-access areas. We plan, test, then deploy our solutions through our DaaS model in the US first, followed by Ireland where we have a history of pioneering development work in agricultural drones,” said CEO Shaun Passley, Ph.D.

According to Fortune Business Insights the global agriculture drone market is projected to grow from USD 6.10 billion in 2024 to USD 23.78 billion by 2032, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.5%. This growth reflects a growing demand for precision agriculture, advances in drone technology, cost-effectiveness, government support and incentive programs, and growing awareness and education.

The ZenaDrone 1000 is an autonomous drone, in a VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) quadcopter design with a total of eight rotors on its two fixed wings; it is considered a medium-sized drone measuring 12X7 feet in size. It is designed for stable flight, maneuverability, heavy lift capabilities up to 40 kilos, incorporating innovative software technology, AI, sensors, and purpose-built attachments like crop spraying, along with rugged and compact hardware featuring foldable wings enabling the drone to fit into the back of a truck.

ZenaTech’s DaaS business will incorporate the ZenaDrone 1000 and the IQ series of multifunction autonomous drones to provide a variety of service solutions from land surveys to power line inspections or power washing, made accessible and cost effective through an Uber-like business model on a regular subscription or pay-per-use basis. Customers can conveniently access drones for eliminating manual or time-consuming tasks achieving superior results, such as for surveying, inspections, security and law enforcement, or precision farming applications, without having to buy, operate, or maintain the drones themselves.   Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

Other recent developments in the markets include:

Draganfly Inc. (NASDAQ: DPRO), an industry-leading developer of drone solutions and systems, recently announced the formation of its Public Safety Advisory Board. This new initiative reinforces Draganfly’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge, mission-critical technologies that support enforcement and public safety agencies worldwide. Renowned global public safety expert and Homeland Security advisor Paul Goldenberg will serve as the inaugural Chair of the Board.

With more than 30 years of experience in law enforcement, global security, and national intelligence, Goldenberg brings unparalleled expertise to the role. Recently named America’s Most Influential Person in Homeland Security, he has advised U.S. Presidents, members of Congress, and international security bodies on counterterrorism, cybercrime, and public safety. As a former senior member of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Advisory Council (HSAC), Goldenberg led pivotal initiatives, including the DHS Cybersecurity Task Force and the Countering Foreign Influence Task Force. He currently serves as Chief Advisor for Policy and International Policing at the Rutgers University Miller Center on Policing, a Distinguished Visiting Fellow for Transnational Security at the University of Ottawa, and a member of the National Sheriffs’ Association Southern Border Security Committee.

Unusual Machines, Inc. (NYSE American: UMAC), a drone and drone components manufacturer, recently announced it filed its Form 10-K with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 and provided the following letter to its shareholders from CEO Allan Evans.

Dear Shareholders, This shareholder letter follows the completion of our fiscal year 2024. This is our first year being public. It has been an excellent fourth quarter and an incredible year. We continue to see great interest in the company and receive questions from shareholders. We would like to take this opportunity to provide context and deeper insights into our operations and what these represent for Unusual Machines’ future.

Unusual Machines revenue for the fourth quarter revenue was over $2.0 million which represents a sequentially quarter over quarter increase of approximately 31%. This is our best revenue quarter of all time (again) and was done while improving gross margins slightly to 28%. With the launch of our Blue Framework products, approximately 15% of our Q4 revenue was from enterprise sales. Our total revenue of $5.65M for FY2024 exceeded our target of $5M for 2024 by 13%. This growth was achieved without customer concentration as no single customer represented more than 5% of our total revenue for 2024.

Sidus Space (NASDAQ: SIDU) recently announced the unveiling of near real-time vessel detection and classification capability to be enabled by its hybrid 3D printed LizzieSat® satellite platform. Processing data directly onboard LizzieSat® through Sidus Orlaith™ AI Ecosystem, which includes FeatherEdge™ edge computing hardware, and the OrbitfyEdge software from Little Place Labs, represents a significant advancement in space-based maritime intelligence.

In January 2025, Sidus and Little Place Labs (LPL) formed a strategic partnership and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop integrated satellite solutions based on edge computing and AI applications. This collaboration aims to meet the growing needs of a global customer base and is expected to provide accurate vessel detection and classification within one hour of satellite observation.

AgriFORCE Growing Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ: AGRI) recently announced significant progress in its Radical Clean Solutions (RCS) division, acquired in August 2024.   The RCS division has been awarded a U.S. patent (Patent No. 17/713,959), dated today, for its design of agricultural integrated systems for Radicals Hydroxyl generation units. This innovative technology provides growers of fruits, vegetables, and other plants with a chemical-free solution for reducing mold, viruses, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It can be integrated into existing heating and ventilation systems or used as a standalone unit. Additionally, the system helps lower levels of gases such as ethylene, thereby slowing the ripening process and extending the shelf life of produce.

Roger M. Slotkin, founder of RCS and on behalf of our RCS division, stated:   “We have applied for multiple patents related to the application of our technologies across various sectors, including agriculture. Our solutions provide businesses with a chemical-free, safe, and effective method for mitigating viruses, mold, and other pathogens—without harm to people, pets, or plants. Over the coming months, we anticipate the approval of several additional patents.”

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The MIL Network –

April 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc. Announces Financial Results for the First Quarter of the Year Ending December 31, 2025 and Declaration of a Quarterly Dividend

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

ASHEVILLE, N.C., April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE: HTB) (“Company”), the holding company of HomeTrust Bank (“Bank”), today announced preliminary net income for the first quarter of the year ending December 31, 2025 and approval of its quarterly cash dividend.

For the quarter ended March 31, 2025 compared to the quarter ended December 31, 2024:

net income was $14.5 million compared to $14.2 million;
diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) was $0.84 compared to $0.83;
annualized return on assets (“ROA”) was 1.33% compared to 1.27%;
annualized return on equity (“ROE”) was 10.52% compared to 10.32%;
net interest margin was 4.18% compared to 4.09%;
provision for credit losses was $1.5 million compared to a benefit of $855,000;
quarterly cash dividends continued at $0.12 per share totaling $2.1 million for both periods; and
14,800 shares of Company common stock were repurchased during the quarter at an average price of $33.64 compared to none in the prior quarter.

The Company also announced today that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.12 per common share payable on May 29, 2025 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on May 15, 2025.

“We are pleased to report another quarter of strong financial results,” said Hunter Westbrook, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our top quartile net interest margin expanded to 4.18% as the reduction in our funding costs outpaced a slight decline in our asset yields. This improvement reflects our focus on financial performance rather than loan growth for the sake of growth.

“During the first quarter, we transitioned our common stock listing to the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker ‘HTB’, which we believe will provide greater exposure for our Company and long-term value for our stockholders. We also announced the sale of our two branches and exit from Knoxville, Tennessee, which will tighten our geographic footprint, improve our branch efficiencies, and allow us to better allocate capital to support long-term growth in other core markets.

“In response to the recent turbulence in the economic environment, we currently do not anticipate a significant impact upon our business, but we are committed to working with our customers to provide the banking support that may be needed. As in past periods of uncertainty, we are confident that the resilience of our balance sheet and customers, coupled with our conservative approach to risk management, will position HomeTrust to succeed.”

WEBSITE: WWW.HTB.COM

Comparison of Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024
Net Income. Net income totaled $14.5 million, or $0.84 per diluted share, for the three months ended March 31, 2025 compared to $14.2 million, or $0.83 per diluted share, for the three months ended December 31, 2024, an increase of $331,000, or 2.3%. Results for the three months ended March 31, 2025 benefited from a $3.0 million decrease in noninterest expense, partially offset by a $2.4 million increase in the provision for credit losses. Details of the changes in the various components of net income are further discussed below.

Net Interest Income. The following table presents the distribution of average assets, liabilities and equity, as well as interest income earned on average interest-earning assets and interest expense paid on average interest-bearing liabilities. All average balances are daily average balances. Nonaccruing loans have been included in the table as loans carrying a zero yield.

	Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2025					December 31, 2024
(Dollars in thousands)	Average Balance Outstanding		Interest Earned / Paid		Yield / Rate	Average Balance Outstanding		Interest Earned / Paid		Yield / Rate
Assets
Interest-earning assets
Loans receivable⁽¹⁾	$	3,802,003	$	58,613	6.25%	$	3,890,775	$	62,224	6.36%
Debt securities available for sale		152,659		1,787	4.75		147,023		1,621	4.39
Other interest-earning assets⁽²⁾		206,242		3,235	6.36		160,064		2,353	5.85
Total interest-earning assets		4,160,904		63,635	6.20		4,197,862		66,198	6.27
Other assets		266,141					263,750
Total assets	$	4,427,045				$	4,461,612
Liabilities and equity
Interest-bearing liabilities
Interest-bearing checking accounts	$	573,316	$	1,324	0.94%	$	559,033	$	1,271	0.90%
Money market accounts		1,345,575		9,177	2.77		1,343,609		10,038	2.97
Savings accounts		183,354		38	0.08		180,546		40	0.09
Certificate accounts		951,715		9,824	4.19		1,005,914		11,225	4.44
Total interest-bearing deposits		3,053,960		20,363	2.70		3,089,102		22,574	2.91
Junior subordinated debt		10,129		205	8.21		10,104		223	8.87
Borrowings		12,301		160	5.28		14,689		196	5.31
Total interest-bearing liabilities		3,076,390		20,728	2.73		3,113,895		22,993	2.94
Noninterest-bearing deposits		719,522					731,745
Other liabilities		70,821					68,261
Total liabilities		3,866,733					3,913,901
Stockholders’ equity		560,312					547,711
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	4,427,045				$	4,461,612
Net earning assets	$	1,084,514				$	1,083,967
Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities		135.25%					134.81%
Non-tax-equivalent
Net interest income			$	42,907				$	43,205
Interest rate spread					3.47%					3.33%
Net interest margin⁽³⁾					4.18%					4.09%
Tax-equivalent⁽⁴⁾
Net interest income			$	43,325				$	43,594
Interest rate spread					3.51%					3.37%
Net interest margin⁽³⁾					4.22%					4.13%

(1)  Average loans receivable balances include loans held for sale and nonaccruing loans.
(2)  Average other interest-earning assets consist of FRB stock, FHLB stock, SBIC investments and deposits in other banks.
(3)  Net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.
(4)  Tax-equivalent results include adjustments to interest income of $418 and $389 for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively, calculated based on a combined federal and state tax rate of 24%.

Total interest and dividend income for the three months ended March 31, 2025 decreased $2.6 million, or 3.9%, compared to the three months ended December 31, 2024, which was driven by a $3.6 million, or 5.8%, decrease in loan interest income primarily due to a decline in the average balance, a decrease in accretion income on acquired loans of $881,000, or 73.3%, and fewer days in the current quarter. In addition, income on SBIC investments increased $452,000, or 54.0%, due to investment appreciation.

Total interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2025 decreased $2.3 million, or 9.9%, compared to the three months ended December 31, 2024. The decrease was the result of a decline in the average balance of certificate accounts, specifically brokered deposits, a decline in the average cost of funds across funding categories, and fewer days in the current quarter.

The following table shows the effects that changes in average balances (volume), including the difference in the number of days in the periods compared, and average interest rates (rate) had on the interest earned on interest-earning assets and interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities:

	Increase / (Decrease) Due to				Total Increase / (Decrease)
(Dollars in thousands)	Volume		Rate		Total Increase / (Decrease)
Interest-earning assets
Loans receivable	$	(2,559)	$	(1,052)	$	(3,611)
Debt securities available for sale		27		139		166
Other interest-earning assets		616		266		882
Total interest-earning assets		(1,916)		(647)		(2,563)
Interest-bearing liabilities
Interest-bearing checking accounts		7		46		53
Money market accounts		(164)		(697)		(861)
Savings accounts		—		(2)		(2)
Certificate accounts		(796)		(605)		(1,401)
Junior subordinated debt		(3)		(15)		(18)
Borrowings		(35)		(1)		(36)
Total interest-bearing liabilities		(991)		(1,274)		(2,265)
Decrease in net interest income					$	(298)

Provision for Credit Losses. The provision for credit losses is the amount of expense that, based on our judgment, is required to maintain the allowance for credit losses (“ACL”) at an appropriate level under the current expected credit losses model.

The following table presents a breakdown of the components of the provision (benefit) for credit losses:

	Three Months Ended
(Dollars in thousands)	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024		$ Change		% Change
Provision (benefit) for credit losses
Loans	$	800	$	(975)	$	1,775	182%
Off-balance-sheet credit exposure		740		120		620	517
Total provision (benefit) for credit losses	$	1,540	$	(855)	$	2,395	280%

For the quarter ended March 31, 2025, the “loans” portion of the provision for credit losses was the result of the following, offset by net charge-offs of $1.3 million during the quarter:

$0.6 million benefit driven by changes in the loan mix.
The slight improvement in the projected economic forecast, specifically the national unemployment rate, was offset by changes in qualitative adjustments. Of note, we retained the $2.2 million qualitative allocation for the potential impact of Hurricane Helene upon our loan portfolio established in the quarter ended September 30, 2024.
$0.1 million increase in specific reserves on individually evaluated loans.

For the quarter ended December 31, 2024, the “loans” portion of the provision (benefit) for credit losses was the result of the following, offset by net charge-offs of $1.9 million during the quarter:

$1.3 million benefit driven by changes in the loan mix and a $50.6 million decrease in the loan portfolio.
$0.7 million benefit due to changes in the projected economic forecast, specifically the national unemployment rate, and changes in qualitative adjustments. Of note, we retained the $2.2 million qualitative allocation for the potential impact of Hurricane Helene upon our loan portfolio established in the prior quarter.
$0.9 million decrease in specific reserves on individually evaluated credits.

For the quarter ended March 31, 2025, the amount recorded for off-balance-sheet credit exposure was the result of an increase in the balance of loan commitments and changes in the loan mix and projected economic forecast as outlined above. For the quarter ended December 31, 2024, the amount recorded for off-balance-sheet credit exposure was the result of a decrease in the balance of loan commitments and changes in the loan mix and projected economic forecast as outlined above.

Noninterest Income. Noninterest income for the three months ended March 31, 2025 decreased $216,000, or 2.6%, when compared to the quarter ended December 31, 2024. Changes in the components of noninterest income are discussed below:

	Three Months Ended
(Dollars in thousands)	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024		$ Change		% Change
Noninterest income
Service charges and fees on deposit accounts	$	2,244	$	2,326	$	(82)	(4)%
Loan income and fees		721		728		(7)	(1)
Gain on sale of loans held for sale		1,908		1,068		840	79
Bank owned life insurance (“BOLI”) income		842		842		—	—
Operating lease income		1,379		2,259		(880)	(39)
Other		933		1,020		(87)	(9)
Total noninterest income	$	8,027	$	8,243	$	(216)	(3)%

Gain on sale of loans held for sale: The increase was primarily driven by HELOCs sold during the period. There were $89.4 million of HELOCs originated for sale which were sold during the current quarter with gains of $1.1 million compared to no sales in the prior quarter. There were $18.8 million of residential mortgage loans sold for a gain of $473,000 during the current quarter compared to $23.8 million sold with gains of $269,000 in the prior quarter. There were $4.6 million in sales of the guaranteed portion of SBA commercial loans with gains of $366,000 for the current quarter compared to $10.2 million sold and gains of $733,000 for the prior quarter. Our hedging of mandatory commitments on the residential mortgage loan pipeline resulted in a gain of $13,000 for the current quarter compared to a gain of $66,000 for the prior quarter.
Operating lease income: The decrease was primarily the result of a $306,000 increase in losses incurred on the sale of, and a $529,000 increase in the valuation allowance against, previously leased equipment.

Noninterest Expense. Noninterest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2025 decreased $3.0 million, or 9.0%, when compared to the three months ended December 31, 2024. Changes in the components of noninterest expense are discussed below:

	Three Months Ended
(Dollars in thousands)	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024		$ Change		% Change
Noninterest expense
Salaries and employee benefits	$	17,699	$	17,234	$	465	3%
Occupancy expense, net		2,511		2,476		35	1
Computer services		2,805		3,110		(305)	(10)
Operating lease depreciation expense		1,868		2,068		(200)	(10)
Telephone, postage and supplies		546		541		5	1
Marketing and advertising		452		234		218	93
Deposit insurance premiums		511		556		(45)	(8)
Core deposit intangible amortization		515		567		(52)	(9)
Contract renewal consulting fee		—		2,965		(2,965)	(100)
Other		4,054		4,258		(204)	(5)
Total noninterest expense	$	30,961	$	34,009	$	(3,048)	(9)%

Computer services: As noted below, in the prior quarter we finalized the multiyear renewal of our largest core processing contract. The decrease in expense quarter-over-quarter is a reflection of the improved vendor pricing negotiated through this effort.
Marketing and advertising: The increase in expense was the result of a reduction in advertising in the prior quarter due to the election and holiday season.
Contract renewal consulting fee: In the prior quarter we paid a fee to a consultant to negotiate the multiyear renewal of our largest core processing contract, with no similar fee in the current quarter.

Income Taxes. The amount of income tax expense is influenced by the amount of pre-tax income, tax-exempt income, changes in the statutory rate and the effect of changes in valuation allowances maintained against deferred tax benefits. The effective tax rates for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 were 21.1% and 22.3%, respectively.

Balance Sheet Review
Total assets decreased by $37.4 million to $4.6 billion and total liabilities decreased by $51.1 million to $4.0 billion, respectively, at March 31, 2025 as compared to December 31, 2024. These changes can be traced to the use of loan sale proceeds and a $61.5 million increase in customer deposits to pay down brokered deposits by $104.3 million and borrowings by $11.0 million.

Stockholders’ equity increased $13.7 million to $565.4 million at March 31, 2025 as compared to December 31, 2024. Activity within stockholders’ equity included $14.5 million in net income and $1.0 million in stock-based compensation and stock option exercises, partially offset by $2.1 million in cash dividends declared and $498,000 in stock repurchases. In addition, accumulated other comprehensive income improved primarily due to a $1.1 million reduction of the unrealized loss on available for sale securities as a result of a decrease in market interest rates.

As of March 31, 2025, the Bank was considered “well capitalized” in accordance with its regulatory capital guidelines and exceeded all regulatory capital requirements.

Asset Quality
The ACL on loans was $44.7 million, or 1.23% of total loans, at March 31, 2025 compared to $45.3 million, or 1.24% of total loans, at December 31, 2024. The drivers of this change are discussed in the “Comparison of Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024 – Provision for Credit Losses” section above.

Net loan charge-offs totaled $1.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025 compared to $1.9 million and $2.3 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and March 31, 2024, respectively. Annualized net charge-offs as a percentage of average loans were 0.14% for the three months ended March 31, 2025 as compared to 0.19% and 0.24% for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and March 31, 2024, respectively.

Nonperforming assets, made up of nonaccrual loans and repossessed assets, decreased by $753,000, or 2.6%, to $28.0 million, or 0.61% of total assets, at March 31, 2025 compared to $28.8 million, or 0.63% of total assets, at December 31, 2024. Owner occupied commercial real estate (“CRE”) made up the largest portion of nonperforming assets at $8.6 million and $8.5 million, respectively, at these same dates. One relationship made up $5.0 million of the totals at both dates but no loss is anticipated. In addition, equipment finance loans made up $5.1 million and $4.7 million, respectively, at these same dates, concentrated in the transportation sector. The ratio of nonperforming loans to total loans was 0.74% at March 31, 2025 compared to 0.76% at December 31, 2024.

The ratio of classified assets to total assets decreased to 0.85% at March 31, 2025 from 1.06% at December 31, 2024 as classified assets decreased $10.0 million, or 20.5%, to $38.8 million at March 31, 2025 compared to $48.8 million at December 31, 2024. The largest portfolios of classified assets at March 31, 2025 included $12.9 million of owner-occupied CRE loans, $6.6 million of 1-4 family residential real estate loans, $5.4 million of equipment finance loans, $4.2 million of commercial and industrial loans, $4.2 million of HELOCs, and $3.8 million of non-owner occupied CRE loans.

Lastly, in an effort to assist customers in their post-Hurricane Helene recovery and clean-up efforts, in the prior quarter we granted payment deferrals of up to six months to provide short-term relief to impacted customers. The outstanding balance of these deferrals declined from $136.0 million at December 31, 2024 to $109.9 million at March 31, 2025 and $68.4 million at April 21, 2025. The Company retained the prior quarter $2.2 million ACL allocation for the potential impact of the storm on this portion of our loan portfolio. To date, no charge-offs have been recognized which were directly related to Hurricane Helene.

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

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

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)

(Dollars in thousands)	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024⁽¹⁾		September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024		March 31, 2024
Assets
Cash	$	14,303	$	18,778	$	18,980	$	18,382	$	16,134
Interest-bearing deposits		285,522		260,441		274,497		275,808		364,359
Cash and cash equivalents		299,825		279,219		293,477		294,190		380,493
Certificates of deposit in other banks		25,806		28,538		29,290		32,131		33,625
Debt securities available for sale, at fair value		150,577		152,011		140,552		134,135		120,807
FHLB and FRB stock		13,602		13,630		18,384		19,637		13,691
SBIC investments, at cost		17,746		15,117		15,489		15,462		14,568
Loans held for sale, at fair value		2,175		4,144		2,968		1,614		2,764
Loans held for sale, at the lower of cost or fair value		151,164		202,018		189,722		224,976		220,699
Total loans, net of deferred loan fees and costs		3,648,609		3,648,299		3,698,892		3,701,454		3,648,152
Allowance for credit losses – loans		(44,742)		(45,285)		(48,131)		(49,223)		(47,502)
Loans, net		3,603,867		3,603,014		3,650,761		3,652,231		3,600,650
Premises and equipment held for sale, at the lower of cost or fair value		8,240		616		616		616		616
Premises and equipment, net		62,347		69,872		69,603		69,880		70,588
Accrued interest receivable		18,269		18,336		17,523		18,412		16,944
Deferred income taxes, net		9,288		10,735		10,100		10,512		11,222
BOLI		91,715		90,868		90,021		89,176		88,369
Goodwill		34,111		34,111		34,111		34,111		34,111
Core deposit intangibles, net		6,080		6,595		7,162		7,730		8,297
Other assets		63,248		66,606		68,130		66,051		67,183
Total assets	$	4,558,060	$	4,595,430	$	4,637,293	$	4,670,864	$	4,684,011
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity
Liabilities
Deposits	$	3,736,360	$	3,779,203	$	3,761,588	$	3,707,779	$	3,799,807
Junior subordinated debt		10,145		10,120		10,096		10,070		10,045
Borrowings		177,000		188,000		260,013		364,513		291,513
Other liabilities		69,106		66,349		65,592		64,874		69,473
Total liabilities		3,992,611		4,043,672		4,097,289		4,147,236		4,170,838
Stockholders’ equity
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized, none issued or outstanding		—		—		—		—		—
Common stock, $0.01 par value, 60,000,000 shares authorized⁽²⁾		176		175		175		175		175
Additional paid in capital		176,682		176,693		175,495		172,907		172,919
Retained earnings		393,026		380,541		368,383		357,147		346,598
Unearned Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) shares		(3,835)		(3,966)		(4,099)		(4,232)		(4,364)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		(600)		(1,685)		50		(2,369)		(2,155)
Total stockholders’ equity		565,449		551,758		540,004		523,628		513,173
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	4,558,060	$	4,595,430	$	4,637,293	$	4,670,864	$	4,684,011

(1) Derived from audited financial statements.
(2) Shares of common stock issued and outstanding were 17,552,626 at March 31, 2025; 17,527,709 at December 31, 2024; 17,514,922 at September 30, 2024; 17,437,326 at June 30, 2024; and 17,444,787 at March 31, 2024.

Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)

	Three Months Ended
(Dollars in thousands)	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024
Interest and dividend income
Loans	$	58,613	$	62,224
Debt securities available for sale		1,787		1,621
Other investments and interest-bearing deposits		3,235		2,353
Total interest and dividend income		63,635		66,198
Interest expense
Deposits		20,363		22,574
Junior subordinated debt		205		223
Borrowings		160		196
Total interest expense		20,728		22,993
Net interest income		42,907		43,205
Provision (benefit) for credit losses		1,540		(855)
Net interest income after provision (benefit) for credit losses		41,367		44,060
Noninterest income
Service charges and fees on deposit accounts		2,244		2,326
Loan income and fees		721		728
Gain on sale of loans held for sale		1,908		1,068
BOLI income		842		842
Operating lease income		1,379		2,259
Other		933		1,020
Total noninterest income		8,027		8,243
Noninterest expense
Salaries and employee benefits		17,699		17,234
Occupancy expense, net		2,511		2,476
Computer services		2,805		3,110
Operating lease depreciation expense		1,868		2,068
Telephone, postage and supplies		546		541
Marketing and advertising		452		234
Deposit insurance premiums		511		556
Core deposit intangible amortization		515		567
Contract renewal consulting fee		—		2,965
Other		4,054		4,258
Total noninterest expense		30,961		34,009
Income before income taxes		18,433		18,294
Income tax expense		3,894		4,086
Net income	$	14,539	$	14,208

Per Share Data

	Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024
Net income per common share⁽¹⁾
Basic	$	0.84	$	0.83
Diluted	$	0.84	$	0.83
Average shares outstanding
Basic		17,011,359		16,983,751
Diluted		17,113,424		17,084,943
Book value per share at end of period	$	32.21	$	31.48
Tangible book value per share at end of period⁽²⁾	$	30.00	$	29.24
Cash dividends declared per common share	$	0.12	$	0.12
Total shares outstanding at end of period		17,552,626		17,527,709

(1) Basic and diluted net income per common share have been prepared in accordance with the two-class method.
(2) See Non-GAAP reconciliations below for adjustments.

Selected Financial Ratios and Other Data

	Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2025	December 31, 2024
Performance ratios⁽¹⁾
Return on assets (ratio of net income to average total assets)	1.33%	1.27%
Return on equity (ratio of net income to average equity)	10.52	10.32
Yield on earning assets	6.20	6.27
Rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities	2.73	2.94
Average interest rate spread	3.47	3.33
Net interest margin⁽²⁾	4.18	4.09
Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities	135.25	134.81
Noninterest expense to average total assets	2.84	3.03
Efficiency ratio	60.79	66.10
Efficiency ratio – adjusted⁽³⁾	60.29	59.89

(1)  Ratios are annualized where appropriate.
(2)  Net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.
(3)  See Non-GAAP reconciliations below for adjustments.

	At or For the Three Months Ended
	March 31, 2025	December 31, 2024	September 30, 2024	June 30, 2024	March 31, 2024
Asset quality ratios
Nonperforming assets to total assets⁽¹⁾	0.61%	0.63%	0.64%	0.54%	0.43%
Nonperforming loans to total loans⁽¹⁾	0.74	0.76	0.78	0.68	0.55
Total classified assets to total assets	0.85	1.06	0.99	0.91	0.80
Allowance for credit losses to nonperforming loans⁽¹⁾	165.96	163.68	166.51	194.80	235.18
Allowance for credit losses to total loans	1.23	1.24	1.30	1.33	1.30
Net charge-offs to average loans (annualized)	0.14	0.19	0.42	0.27	0.24
Capital ratios
Equity to total assets at end of period	12.41%	12.01%	11.64%	11.21%	10.96%
Tangible equity to total tangible assets⁽²⁾	11.65	11.25	10.88	10.44	10.18
Average equity to average assets	12.66	12.28	12.02	11.78	11.51

(1) Nonperforming assets include nonaccruing loans and repossessed assets. There were no accruing loans more than 90 days past due at the dates indicated. At March 31, 2025, $7.5 million, or 27.9%, of nonaccruing loans were current on their loan payments as of that date.
(2) See Non-GAAP reconciliations below for adjustments.

Loans

(Dollars in thousands)	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024		September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024		March 31, 2024
Commercial real estate
Construction and land development	$	247,539	$	274,356	$	300,905	$	316,050	$	304,727
Commercial real estate – owner occupied		570,150		545,490		544,689		545,631		532,547
Commercial real estate – non-owner occupied		867,711		866,094		881,340		892,653		881,143
Multifamily		118,094		120,425		114,155		92,292		89,692
Total commercial real estate		1,803,494		1,806,365		1,841,089		1,846,626		1,808,109
Commercial
Commercial and industrial		349,085		316,159		286,809		266,136		243,732
Equipment finance		380,166		406,400		443,033		461,010		462,649
Municipal leases		163,554		165,984		158,560		152,509		151,894
Total commercial		892,805		888,543		888,402		879,655		858,275
Residential real estate
Construction and land development		56,858		53,683		63,016		70,679		85,840
One-to-four family		631,537		630,391		627,845		621,196		605,570
HELOCs		199,747		195,288		194,909		188,465		184,274
Total residential real estate		888,142		879,362		885,770		880,340		875,684
Consumer		64,168		74,029		83,631		94,833		106,084
Total loans, net of deferred loan fees and costs		3,648,609		3,648,299		3,698,892		3,701,454		3,648,152
Allowance for credit losses – loans		(44,742)		(45,285)		(48,131)		(49,223)		(47,502)
Loans, net	$	3,603,867	$	3,603,014	$	3,650,761	$	3,652,231	$	3,600,650

Deposits

(Dollars in thousands)	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024		September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024		March 31, 2024
Core deposits
Noninterest-bearing accounts	$	721,814	$	680,926	$	684,501	$	683,346	$	773,901
NOW accounts		573,745		575,238		534,517		561,789		600,561
Money market accounts		1,357,961		1,341,995		1,345,289		1,311,940		1,308,467
Savings accounts		184,396		181,317		179,762		185,499		191,302
Total core deposits		2,837,916		2,779,476		2,744,069		2,742,574		2,874,231
Certificates of deposit		898,444		999,727		1,017,519		965,205		925,576
Total	$	3,736,360	$	3,779,203	$	3,761,588	$	3,707,779	$	3,799,807

Non-GAAP Reconciliations
In addition to results presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles utilized in the United States (“GAAP”), this earnings release contains certain non-GAAP financial measures, which include: the efficiency ratio, tangible book value, tangible book value per share and the tangible equity to tangible assets ratio. The Company believes these non-GAAP financial measures and ratios as presented are useful for both investors and management to understand the effects of certain items and provide an alternative view of its performance over time and in comparison to its competitors. These non-GAAP measures have inherent limitations, are not required to be uniformly applied and are not audited. They should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for total stockholders’ equity or operating results determined in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

Set forth below is a reconciliation to GAAP of the Company’s efficiency ratio:

	Three Months Ended
(Dollars in thousands)	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024
Noninterest expense	$	30,961	$	34,009
Less: contract renewal consulting fee		—		2,965
Noninterest expense – adjusted	$	30,961	$	31,044

Net interest income	$	42,907	$	43,205
Plus: tax-equivalent adjustment		418		389
Plus: noninterest income		8,027		8,243
Net interest income plus noninterest income – adjusted	$	51,352	$	51,837

Efficiency ratio		60.79%			66.10%
Efficiency ratio – adjusted		60.29%			59.89%

Set forth below is a reconciliation to GAAP of tangible book value and tangible book value per share:

	As of
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024		September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024		March 31, 2024
Total stockholders’ equity	$	565,449	$	551,758	$	540,004	$	523,628	$	513,173
Less: goodwill, core deposit intangibles, net of taxes		38,793		39,189		39,626		40,063		40,500
Tangible book value	$	526,656	$	512,569	$	500,378	$	483,565	$	472,673
Common shares outstanding		17,552,626		17,527,709		17,514,922		17,437,326		17,444,787
Book value per share	$	32.21	$	31.48	$	30.83	$	30.03	$	29.42
Tangible book value per share	$	30.00	$	29.24	$	28.57	$	27.73	$	27.10

Set forth below is a reconciliation to GAAP of tangible equity to tangible assets:

	As of
(Dollars in thousands)	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024		September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024		March 31, 2024
Tangible equity⁽¹⁾	$	526,656	$	512,569	$	500,378	$	483,565	$	472,673
Total assets		4,558,060		4,595,430		4,637,293		4,670,864		4,684,011
Less: goodwill, core deposit intangibles, net of taxes		38,793		39,189		39,626		40,063		40,500
Total tangible assets	$	4,519,267	$	4,556,241	$	4,597,667	$	4,630,801	$	4,643,511

Tangible equity to tangible assets

11.65%

11.25%

10.88%

10.44%

10.18%

(1) Tangible equity (or tangible book value) is equal to total stockholders’ equity less goodwill and core deposit intangibles, net of related deferred tax liabilities.

The MIL Network –

April 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: Smackover Lithium’s South West Arkansas Project Receives Unanimous Vote of Approval to Establish the Phase I Brine Production Unit from the Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LEWISVILLE, Ark., April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Smackover Lithium, a Joint Venture (“JV”) between Standard Lithium Ltd. (“Standard Lithium” or the “Company”) (TSXV:SLI) (NYSE:A:SLI) and Equinor, is pleased to announce that the brine production unit, now formally named the Reynolds Unit, for Phase I of its South West Arkansas (“SWA”) Project has been unanimously approved by the Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission (“AOGC”) with no objections or opposition in a hearing that was open to all stakeholders from the community.

“We thank the AOGC for their due diligence in reviewing our application and for their swift approval,” said Standard Lithium’s President and COO, Dr. Andy Robinson, who provided testimony at the hearing. “The establishment of the Reynolds brine unit is another key milestone our team has now successfully completed as we march towards a final investment decision for the SWA Project, and also a necessary statutory requirement as we look to set a royalty for the unit in late May.”

“Gaining regulatory approval for our first brine unit is an important step in our project timeline. We look forward to working with the AOGC and community stakeholders to establish a competitive royalty rate for this unit and continue momentum with the SWA Project,” said Allison Kennedy Thurmond, VP of US Lithium at Equinor.

The Reynolds unit is 20,854 acres in size and is planned to produce 22,500 tonnes per year of battery-quality lithium carbonate once in full commercial production, expected in 2028. For more information about the SWA Project and Smackover Lithium, please visit www.smackoverlithium.com

About Standard Lithium Ltd.

Standard Lithium is a leading near-commercial lithium development company focused on the sustainable development of a portfolio of large, high-grade lithium-brine properties in the United States. The Company prioritizes projects characterized by the highest quality resources, robust infrastructure, skilled labor, and streamlined permitting. Standard Lithium aims to achieve sustainable, commercial-scale lithium production via the application of a scalable and fully integrated Direct Lithium Extraction (“DLE”) and purification process. The Company’s flagship projects are located in the Smackover Formation, a world-class lithium brine asset, focused in Arkansas and Texas. In partnership with global energy leader Equinor, Standard Lithium is advancing the South West Arkansas project, a greenfield project located in southern Arkansas, and actively exploring promising lithium brine prospects in East Texas. Standard Lithium also holds an interest in certain mineral leases in the Mojave Desert in San Bernardino County, California.

Standard Lithium trades on both the TSX Venture Exchange and the NYSE American under the symbol “SLI”. Please visit the Company’s website at www.standardlithium.com.

About Equinor

Equinor is an international energy company committed to long-term value creation in a low-carbon future. Equinor’s portfolio of projects encompasses oil and gas, renewables and low-carbon solutions, with an ambition of becoming a net-zero energy company by 2050. Headquartered in Norway, Equinor is the leading operator on the Norwegian continental shelf and is present in around 30 countries worldwide. Our partnership with Standard Lithium to mature DLE projects builds on our broad US energy portfolio of oil and gas, offshore wind, low carbon solutions and battery storage projects.

For more information on Equinor in the US, please visit: Equinor in the US – Equinor

Investor and Media Inquiries

Chris Lang
Standard Lithium Ltd.
+1 604 409 8154
investors@standardlithium.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain certain “Forward-Looking Statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “target”, “plan”, “forecast”, “may”, “schedule” and other similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information may relate to intended development timelines, future prices of commodities, accuracy of mineral or resource exploration activity, reserves or resources, regulatory or government requirements or approvals, the reliability of third party information, continued access to mineral properties or infrastructure, fluctuations in the market for lithium and its derivatives, changes in exploration costs and government regulation in Canada and the United States, and other factors or information. Such statements represent the Company’s current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.

The MIL Network –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: YJB response to government’s PAVA announcement
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

YJB response to government’s PAVA announcement

The YJB’s response to the Ministry of Justice’s announcement that PAVA (synthetic pepper spray) will be issued at Young Offender Institutions that hold children.
The Youth Justice Board

Keith Fraser, Chair of the Youth Justice Board, says:

The Youth Justice Board (YJB) does not support the use of PAVA in youth custody due to the overall detrimental effect on children and the distinct lack of evidence that its use improves safety. Our advice to the government, based on robust evidence, is that PAVA spray is not effective in reducing violence or in preventing children offending or reoffending. In fact, its use could be harmful.

The YJB has not seen any evidence that would justify this decision, and this move is a further indication that the current model for youth custody is not working.

We will be writing to the Minister to express our extreme disappointment at this decision, reaffirm our advice and to voice our specific concerns. In particular, we are concerned that there is a significant risk that children from ethnic minority communities, particularly Black boys, children with speech, language, communication needs, and those who are neurodivergent will be unfairly targeted. We are concerned that the introduction will erode trust and relationships, undermining safety and rehabilitation efforts.

We urge the government to instead invest in sustained reform, to include increased staff levels, improved staff training and retention, effective behaviour management strategies and evidence-based programmes to improve safety. In the longer-term, there should be a move towards smaller, locally-based units staffed by professionals who are specially trained to work with children with complex needs. These units should prioritise education and training to support children to be positive members of society and will contribute to making communities safer.

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Published 24 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sign up now for Buskfest 2025 in Banbridge

Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

L-R: Banshee, the overall winner from last year, Chris Nelmes, The Boulevard Banbridge, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Sarah Duffy, Ralph McLean, BBC Radio Ulster, Banshee member and Michael Donaghy, Banbridge Chamber of Commerce.

Calling all musicians, performers, and music lovers! Buskfest, one of the most anticipated musical events of the year, is back in Banbridge on Saturday 14 June 2025, and buskers of all ages and genres are being asked to sign up for a chance to perform, compete, and win incredible prizes.

With a total prize pot of £3,500 and other exciting prizes, this year’s Buskfest promises to be bigger and better than ever before. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a first-time busker, this is your chance to showcase your talent to a lively crowd in the heart of Banbridge. The event is free to both buskers and visitors and offers a fantastic family-friendly atmosphere.

BBC Radio Ulster’s Ralph McLean, one of the event’s esteemed judges said,

“Buskfest is one of my favourite musical days of the year and in my opinion, the biggest and best celebration of busking around. What makes it so special is the platform it gives performers of all kinds to step out, be heard, and connect with an audience.

“Every year, I’m blown away by the range and quality of talent on show. Whether you’re a solo singer, a band, or something in between, there’s a space for you here. Judging is never easy, but it’s always inspiring and I can’t wait to see Banbridge come alive once again with music on every corner.”

Registration for this year’s Buskfest is now open at buskfest.com and will close on 13 June 2025.

On the day of the event, all participating buskers must check in at the Old Town Hall between 11.30am and 1.00pm to claim their performance pitch. The streets will come alive with music from 2.00pm to 5.00pm, followed by the prize giving and evening concert from 5.00pm to 8.30pm in the town centre. The finale will feature a stellar line-up of local talent, including Banshee – last year’s overall winner – The Reilly’s, and headliners The Nooks.

Not only will buskers have the opportunity to win part of the £3,500 prize pot, but they’ll also be part of an incredible celebration of music, community, and creativity. The event will feature free family-friendly activities in the afternoon, ensuring fun for all ages.

Buskfest is an event that brings people together through the power of live music, and we want you to be a part of it. To register visit buskfest.com.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City-wide ban and fines for fouling and poor dog control to start

Source: City of York

From 1 June 2025, Council officers will be able to fine people found urinating in public, or not controlling or picking up after their dogs.

Discretionary powers to act against these offences committed anywhere in York have been awarded by the Council who, this week on Tuesday 22 April, agreed a new, city-wide Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).

This decision follows a public consultation from December to February. During it, over 90% of the 1,026 people who took part, agreed with the proposals.

Evidence from North Yorkshire Police, BID Street Rangers and members of the public can be used to support the issue of fines for people behaving anti-socially and creating health hazards.

Once the evidence has been provided, the fines will be mailed to offenders as fixed penalty notices. By introducing these PSPO fines, the number of slow, costly and work-intensive prosecutions will be reduced.

For a breach of the PSPO by urinating or defecating in public, for not controlling a dog or not picking up after it, fines of £100 will be issued. This level of fine reflects the health hazards and administrative costs these offences incur, and enables us to resolve offences more quickly. It also represents a £25 increase to fines for dog fouling, mirroring increases to fines for littering.

The fines will contribute to a safer, better-managed and vibrant night-time economy, and are expected to help tackle alcohol-related anti-social behaviour in the city centre, supporting the city’s Purple Flag status.

Exemptions to these fines will be made for people who are registered blind or partially-sighted, and for people in charge of a registered assistance dog.

Cllr Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Safer Communities at City of York Council, said:

We want these offences to stop. They create health hazards and an unwelcome environment for people simply going about their daily business. This decision means we have a stronger deterrent, and a more timely and proportionate enforcement approach.

“People should use toilets in the pubs and cafés they’ve visited, and control and pick up after their dogs. For those who we find not doing so, our officers will be able to take immediate action with fines which will reflect the associated risks and costs.

“We will continue to work with partners, including the police and York BID who, like us, can provide supporting evidence. Together, we will take an intelligence-led approach to enforcement, targeting known hot-spot areas at key times.”

Superintendent Ed Haywood-Noble, North Yorkshire Police’s senior operational commander for York and Selby, said:

The Public Spaces Protection Order in York enhances our collective power to take direct action against individuals and groups whose behaviour have a detrimental impact.

“We have a strong partnership with our City of York Council colleagues through the Community Safety Hub, which tackles crime and anti-social behaviour. We will continue to do all we can to improve the safety and quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors to our magnificent city.”

The full report was discussed at the Council’s Executive meeting on 22 April at 4:30pm.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reminder of no local elections in Leeds on Thursday 1 May

Source: City of Leeds

This is a fallow year for Leeds so no local elections taking place

Leeds City Council has issued a reminder to voters that there are no local elections taking place in the city on Thursday 1 May. As part of the elections cycle, once every four years there are no local elections held. This is called a fallow year, and occurs this year in the Leeds schedule.

Details of the local elections cycle and how it works:

• Every Leeds City Council ward is represented by three councillors who are each elected to serve a four-year term.
• Their terms are staggered so that only one councillor is elected per ward in each local election.
• This system is called voting by thirds, because a third of councillors are elected each year, over a four-year cycle.
• Leeds had local elections in 2022, 2023 and 2024, so 2025 is the scheduled fallow year.

The next local elections to be held in Leeds are scheduled to take place next year on Thursday 7 May 2026, when the elections cycle resumes with a one-third election and 33 seats on Leeds City Council available.

ENDS

For media enquiries please contact:

Leeds City Council communications and marketing,

Email: communicationsteam@leeds.gov.uk

Tel: 0113 378 6007

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Reusable period products given out at Leeds leisure centres

Source: City of Leeds

Leeds City Council’s leisure centres are supporting visitors and staff to make the switch to reusable period products and removing the barrier of periods when being active.

Together with period poverty charity Freedom 4 Girls, Active Leeds are giving out free sustainable products at their leisure centres across Leeds over the next few months.

1 in 10 girls in the UK can’t afford period products, and a lack of access can mean missing school, work and physical activity.

Members of staff at Leeds leisure centres have shared their experiences of how periods have impacted them at work, whether it is the fear of leaking, getting caught short and not having products with them at work, navigating perimenopause and irregular periods or struggling with feeling confident to do their job whilst on their period.

Over the next few months, Active Leeds and Freedom 4 Girls are providing the opportunity for staff and visitors to explore and take home sustainable period products, removing both financial and cultural barriers to physical activity. They are also asking for help to stock the leisure centres’ period stations through donations of disposable or sustainable menstrual products.

At the two pilot events that have already taken place, teams handed out 208 free sustainable products including 121 period pants, 57 period swimwear and 30 reusable pads. In exchange for the free products, they collected over 100 packets and boxes of disposable products, to be able to offer free period products for all visitors at the Active Leeds sites.

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “This initiative is about more than just access to reusable and sustainable period products, it’s about normalising conversations, building confidence, and ensuring that no one is left behind because of their period.

“Following the success of the pilot events, we’re looking forward to rolling this out across more leisure centres over the next few months.”

Events will take place at the following leisure centres:

Kirkstall Leisure Centre – 21 May

Armley Leisure Centre – 22 May

Garforth Leisure Centre – 11 June

Rothwell Leisure Centre – 12 June

Middleton Leisure Centre – 25 June

Pudsey Leisure Centre – 26 June

Scott Hall Leisure Centre – 9 July

Fearnville Leisure Centre – 10 July

John Smeaton Leisure Centre – 16 July

Morley Leisure Centre – 17 July

Find out more about Active Leeds at https://active.leeds.gov.uk/.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: FMQs: Scottish Government urged to halt controversial industrial salmon farm at Loch Long

Source: Scottish Greens

24 Apr 2025 Nature

The Loch Long industrial development will scar the landscape.

More in Nature

The First Minister has been urged to ensure local people are listened to in their campaign against destructive proposals for an industrial salmon farm development at Loch Long.

Scottish Green MSP Ariane Burgess has led a campaign that has seen over 4300 people lodging objections via a web portal created by the Scottish Greens.

The controversial proposal was rejected by the National Park Authority in 2022. It was appealed by the developers almost 12 months ago, with the Scottish Government taking the rare decision to “call” it in.

In her first question to the First Minister, Ms Burgess said:

“To ask the First Minister whether he will provide an update on when the Scottish Government expects to respond to the Loch Long salmon farm planning application.”

In his response the First Minister did not provide a timeframe for the decision.

In her second question, Ms Burgess said:

“The industrial salmon farm development proposed for Loch Long will scar the loch’s coastline and harm its wildlife.

“It has been opposed by the community, the local planning authority, and even the industry. But we have now been waiting over a year for the Government’s response after the application was called in.

“First Minister – more than 4,000 people have written to the Government asking it to protect Loch Long from this damaging development. Will the First Minister personally ensure that my constituents voices will be listened to?”

Only 2 miles from Loch Lomond, at the heart of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Loch Long is an iconic landscape. It’s home to seals, otters and seabirds, as well as linking with the Endrick Water Special Area of Conservation, which hosts a fragile population of endangered Atlantic Salmon.

The final decision now lies with the Scottish Government and Cabinet Secretary Shona Robison.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Port Meadow incident: appeal for information following death of foal

Source: City of Oxford

Published: Thursday, 24 April 2025

Oxford City Council is appealing to the public for information following two serious incidents involving powered paragliders disturbing livestock on Port Meadow.

On 10 April, a powered paraglider was seen flying low and erratically over the Meadow, causing distress to a group of horses. Tragically, a young foal was injured during this incident. Despite the best efforts of those caring for it, the foal did not recover from its injuries and has since been put to sleep.

A second incident occurred on 20 April, at approximately 7:30pm, when three paragliders were seen swooping low and noisily over the Meadow, causing further distress to the animals on site. Witnesses reported that the horses were visibly panicked, running erratically around the area in fear.

Both incidents have been reported to Thames Valley Police’s Rural Crime Team, which is now gathering evidence. The matter is being taken extremely seriously, and legal action will be pursued against those responsible.

We are urging anyone with information about these incidents, or who may know the identity of the individuals involved, to come forward.

Please report any relevant details to the Police Rural Crime Team by calling 101.

Comment

“These reckless actions have not only caused significant distress to the animals and local residents but may have also resulted in the tragic and avoidable loss of a foal. We are asking those responsible to stop this dangerous behaviour immediately, and for the public’s help in identifying them.

“The safety of the animals, residents, and visitors to Port Meadow is of utmost importance, and we will continue to work closely with the police and community to prevent further incidents.
Tom Hook, Deputy Chief Executive

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: NATO Emergency Management Exercise “BULGARIA 2025”

Source: NATO

NATO’s Euro-Atlantic Disaster Response Coordination Centre (EADRCC) and the Directorate General Fire Safety and Civil Protection (DG FSCP) of Bulgaria’s Ministry of Interior are organizing NATO’s 20th Emergency Management exercise, “BULGARIA 2025”. The conduct of BULGARIA 2025 will be from 7 September 2025 to 12 September 2025.

On the 25 September 2024, NATO’s Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Operations, Ms. Burcu San, and the Director General for Fire Safety and Civil Protection at the Ministry of Interior of Bulgaria, Mr. Aleksandar Dzhartov, announced that the Republic of Bulgaria will host NATO’s 20th Emergency Management exercise.

EADRCC exercises are among the largest and most complex multinational emergency management activities in the world. They play a critical role in the disaster preparedness of all participants, from Allies and partners to international organizations. As such, BULGARIA 2025 will put in play a range of disciplines to build the resilience, interoperability, and response capabilities of the participants. Other objectives of the exercise include enhancing civil-military cooperation in crisis response and strengthening cooperation between Allies and partners, among others. BULGARIA 2025 also provides a platform for participants to share knowledge and good practice in disaster and emergency response.

EADRCC exercises are shaped by the participants and their priorities; their specific objectives are integrated into the exercise scenario.

A Core Planning Team, with experts from 14 countries brought together by NATO and the host nation, are developing the exercise scenario to assure every participating team is challenged adequately. The Core Planning Team will also lead the conduct and evaluation of the exercise.

The conduct of the exercise is scheduled for 7-12 September 2025, followed by a Lessons Identified Conference on 10 and 11 February 2026.

For more information on the exercise: BULGARIA 2025 factsheet

MIL Security OSI –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Australian Oilseeds Issues Annual Shareholder Letter

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

COOTAMUNDRA, Australia, April 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Australian Oilseeds Holdings Limited, a manufacturer and seller of sustainable edible oils to customers globally, today issued a letter to shareholders from Gary Seaton, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, that highlights recent performance and future milestones.

Dear Fellow Shareholders,

Across the globe, 2024 presented serious challenges including the ongoing war in Ukraine and serious conflicts in the Middle East and growing geopolitical discord, notably with China. Our hearts go out to those whose lives are profoundly affected by these events.

Despite the unsettling geopolitical discord, we are pleased with our progress since launching the Company, as a Nasdaq listed company, and its unique products of Non-GMO cold-pressed and chemically-free processed oils.

Within the last 12 months, we have sold our products through the majority of retailers in Australia, including Woolworths and Coles, the two largest supermarket chains in Australia, as well as Costco and Independent Grocers of Australia, an Australian chain of supermarkets (IGA), with sales and awareness gradually increasing. In addition to our expanding market presence in Australia, the Company has also been successful in exporting and marketing its products in Japan, China and Vietnam.

Throughout the last year, we have demonstrated the power of our mission and guiding principles, as well as the value of being there for our customers. The result was continued healthy growth across our products and geographic expansion. Fiscal 2024 results were strong with revenues increasing by more than 16% driven by strong demand for our cold pressed canola oils. Our gross margin improved by 40 basis points and we delivered Adjusted EBITDA growth of nearly 16%. Our business momentum continues to build and we remain deeply committed to our mission as well as driving long-term value for our Shareholders.

We believe we are well positioned for the future and anticipate several key milestones as we continue to execute our growth strategy. Within the next six months we expect that our Good Earth Oils brands of Australian Canola Oil and Olive oil will be launched in Taiwan and India. We are also expecting significant growth in China over the next 12 months as we benefit from Australia’s preferential duty for its products into China compared to Canada and USA, which have current import duties of 100% and 124% respectively. Finally, we intend to launch our products in the USA subject to clarity on the current tariff structure for Australian imports into the USA – the current tariff structure on Australian Canola Oil into the USA is 10%.

I would like to express my deep gratitude to our Shareholders and our employees. We appreciate your continued support as we continue our exciting journey of taking chemicals out of the food supply chain and promoting healthy Canola Oil and Olive oil to consumers around the world along with the concept of regenerative farming.

Sincerely,
Gary Seaton
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

About Australian Oilseeds Holdings Limited. Australian Oilseeds Holdings Limited, a Cayman Islands exempted company (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: COOT) through its subsidiaries, including Australian Oilseeds Investments Pty Ltd., an Australian proprietary company, tis focused on the manufacture and sale of sustainable oilseeds (e.g., seeds grown primarily for the production of edible oils) and is committed to working with all suppliers in the food supply chain to eliminate chemicals from the production and manufacturing systems to supply quality products to customers globally. The Company engages in the business of processing, manufacture and sale of non-GMO oilseeds and organic and non-organic food-grade oils, for the rapidly growing oilseeds market, through sourcing materials from suppliers focused on reducing the use of chemicals in consumables in order to supply healthier food ingredients, vegetable oils, proteins and other products to customers globally. Over the past 20 years, the Company’s cold pressing oil plant has grown to become the largest in Australia, pressing strictly GMO-free conventional and organic oilseeds.

Contact
Australian Oilseeds Holdings Limited
126-142 Cowcumbla Street
Cootamundra New South Wales 2590
Attn: Amarjeet Singh, CFO
Email: amarjeet.s@energreennutrition.com.au

Investor Relations Contact
Reed Anderson
(646) 277-1260
reed.anderson@icrinc.com

The MIL Network –

April 25, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Independent Directors of Phillips 66 Issue Letter to Investors and Their Stewardship Teams

Source: Phillips

Encourages Honest, Independent Interrogation of Facts
Raises Key Questions Stewardship Teams and Investors Should Reach Their Own Conclusions On

HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Phillips 66 (NYSE:PSX) today sent a letter from the Independent Directors of the Board to the Company’s shareholders and to independent proxy advisors, particularly those involved in assessing corporate governance topics.
In conjunction with today’s letter, Phillips 66 published a new video to phillips66delivers.com. The video provides shareholders a unique perspective into how the Board approaches overseeing the Company’s strategy, monitoring progress against that strategy, allocating capital, engaging with shareholders and driving long-term value for Phillips 66 shareholders.
The full text of the Board’s letter to investors and their stewardship teams follows:
Dear Phillips 66 Shareholders,
Due to the unique nature of shareholder engagement in 2025 and our concerns with the agenda Elliott is pushing, this letter is written directly to the stewardship teams, proxy advisers and all shareholders who prioritize strong corporate governance. This letter is intended to highlight critical areas for consideration that uniquely pertain to corporate governance, independence and transparency.
It is our strongly held view that two core tenets of best-in-class corporate governance are transparency and independence. Transparency allows shareholders to make informed decisions with full, complete and straight-forward information. Independence ensures that a Board is impartial, unbiased and objective in its pursuit of protecting the interests of all shareholders.
We have been surprised and concerned by the actions taken by Elliott in pursuit of its campaign to break-up Phillips 66. These actions, in our view, reveal a concerning disregard for good corporate governance, raise important questions of independence and demonstrate an alarming pattern of opaque disclosure.
There are serious questions about Elliott’s expectation of director loyalty.
Elliott is seeking to replace Bob Pease, a Board member it supported only one year ago.
Does this sudden switch in support, and Elliott’s own acknowledgment of its effort to have one-on-one conversations with Bob during the time he has been on our Board, suggest an expectation of loyalty to the activist and its thesis instead of fair evaluation of what is in the best interest of all shareholders?
Elliott, who is compensating its purportedly independent nominees, denied Phillips 66 access to those nominees for interview and evaluation, despite multiple attempts from Phillips 66. In fact, one of Elliott’s nominees told representatives of Phillips 66 that he was instructed not to engage directly and instead referred the Board to Elliott itself.
Does this action further reveal an expectation of loyalty rather than true independence?
Elliott’s competitive interests merit careful attention.
Elliott’s subsidiary, Amber Energy, is in pursuit of a direct Phillips 66 competitor, CITGO. That pursuit has been ongoing for more than a year, and Elliott’s most recent bid for CITGO is valued meaningfully above the amount of Elliott’s investment in Phillips 66.
Elliott’s public solicitation materials do not clearly mention its pursuit of CITGO, or that multiple members of the Amber Energy leadership team have been directly involved in soliciting Phillips 66 shareholders.
On Elliott’s recent podcast episode, John Pike confirmed that the same Elliott professionals on their energy team invest in public equities and private situations. In other words, the same team that is investing in Phillips 66 is also leading the CITGO process.
At what point does pursuit of control of a company while trying influence the strategy of a direct competitor raise conflicts of interest concerns? Has Elliott adequately disclosed this competitive position to Phillips 66 shareholders? Should shareholders have legitimate concerns about how Elliott’s interests may differ from those of other Phillips 66 shareholders?
Elliott and affiliated parties have provided misleading, incomplete disclosure.
The CEO of Elliott’s Amber Energy, Gregory Goff, issued a public letter claiming to be merely an investor in Phillips 66 in support of Elliott’s campaign. The day prior to this letter, Mr. Goff had entered into an agreement with Elliott where Mr. Goff’s solicitation expenses would be paid for by Elliott. Mr. Goff’s letter does not mention Amber Energy or its ongoing pursuit of CITGO, and it does not mention this agreement with Elliott.
Why is Mr. Goff misleadingly soliciting Phillips 66 shareholders in his capacity as “a 40-year energy industry veteran and shareholder of Phillips 66” and not in his capacity as an interested Elliott employee? More importantly, why was that relationship not fully and clearly disclosed to Phillips 66 shareholders in the letter?
A number of Elliott’s nominees have close personal ties to Mr. Goff, including decades of direct work experience. Much like everything related to Elliott’s Amber Energy, these relationships call into question Elliott’s nominees’ independence.
Given Amber Energy’s role in the campaign against Phillips 66 and Mr. Goff’s highly misleading public solicitation, should shareholders have concerns about the honesty of Elliott’s disclosures or the independence of Elliott’s nominees?
Elliott has put forth illegal corporate governance demands, masked by misleading communications.
As you know, we are fully committed to declassifying the Board so that each of our directors is up for election each year. Our last attempt to do so received approval from 73% of outstanding shares. With the attention this annual meeting is receiving, we are hoping that voter turnout will be higher than ever to achieve this important governance milestone.
But unlike Elliott, we want to do so legally, completely and without subjecting the Company to litigation and reputational harm.
Elliott is asking us to devise a slipshod workaround to declassify the Board in a de facto manner, without obtaining the required stockholder vote to do so. Put simply, if implemented, Elliott’s annual resignation proposal would contravene Delaware law, our Company’s charter and by-laws and our Board’s fiduciary duty to shareholders. Some resignation policies are acceptable, but not those with the specific purpose of evading a corporate charter. We will not establish the dangerous precedent of conveniently disregarding and circumventing our fundamental governing documents.
Don’t just take our word for it – a leading academic has said the proposal is “certainly creative; it is also, for three distinct reasons, illegal.”1We also received an advisory letter from a top Delaware law firm stating that, by implementing Elliott’s proposal, the Board would violate Delaware law and be exposed to potential claims for breaches of fiduciary duty. This leading law firm advised the Board not to implement Elliott’s proposal if passed.
Legal experts have also commented that shareholders are not accustomed to seeing proposals that violate state law because the SEC allows companies to exclude shareholder proposals submitted under Exchange Act Rule 14a-8 that would, if implemented, cause the company to violate applicable law. The difference, here, is that Elliott has included its proposal withinits ownproxy solicitation, which bypasses the SEC’s Rule 14a-8 vetting process and allows Elliott to present its proposal and the 2025 Annual Meeting. The Company never had a chance to exclude the proposal, which we believe we would have achieved under Rule 14a-8 based on the legal advice given by a leading Delaware law firm that the Company does not have the power to implement the proposal.
Do not be misled by Elliott’s claims that its mandatory resignation policy is legal because directors are already free to resign at any time, or its statements that its proposal is just voluntary. Any director canchooseto resign at any time, but a company policyrequiringsuch resignations to achieve de facto declassification is plainly illegal under well-settled Delaware law and our charter.Read for yourself – the plain text of Elliott’s proposal is arequirement, and the fact that directors can refuse to comply with it does not make it legitimate:“RESOLVED, that stockholders request that the Board adopt an annual election policy for directors, requiring each incumbent director (including directors with terms not set to expire at the next annual meeting) to deliver to the Board a letter of resignation effective at the next annual meeting of stockholders, each year prior to the nomination of director candidates for election at the annual meeting.”
Why is Elliott distracting from our actual efforts to declassify in a legal manner? Why does Elliott feel that companies should treat their governing documents as optional? Why does Elliott want shareholders to act as lawyers, rather than submitting its proposal in a manner that would have allowed the SEC to review it for illegality? What Pandora’s box would be opened if shareholders approved proposals that companies would have to breach their duties to implement?
Elliott’s lawsuit further exhibits its lack of transparency and preference for theatrics over engagement.
Do not believe Elliott’s misleading claims that this Board ever intended to reduce the size of the class standing for election. Unlike Elliott’s proposal, which treats our charter as an option, we respect our governing documents and their requirement that our classes be as nearly equal as possible.
Had Elliott waited just one more day – until March 26, the date Elliott was entitled to learn about our slate under the universal proxy rules – they would have seen that. Instead, they sought selective disclosure from us about our slate and then filed a lawsuit to compel what we were always planning to do – have four seats up for election this year.
Why did Elliott knowingly file a distracting lawsuit when it knew we would reveal our slate the next day in accordance with the universal proxy rules? Why did Elliott think it was entitled to selective disclosure?
In the spirit of transparency and strong corporate governance, we encourage you to gather all of the facts, assess these questions holistically and independently and reach your own conclusions.
Sincerely,
Independent Directors of the Phillips 66 Board of Directors
About Phillips 66
Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX) is a leading integrated downstream energy provider that manufactures, transports and markets products that drive the global economy. The company’s portfolio includes Midstream, Chemicals, Refining, Marketing and Specialties, and Renewable Fuels businesses. Headquartered in Houston, Phillips 66 has employees around the globe who are committed to safely and reliably providing energy and improving lives while pursuing a lower-carbon future. For more information, visit phillips66.com or follow @Phillips66Co on LinkedIn.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws relating to Phillips 66’s operations, strategy and performance. Words such as “anticipated,” “committed,” “estimated,” “expected,” “planned,” “scheduled,” “targeted,” “believe,” “continue,” “intend,” “will,” “would,” “objective,” “goal,” “project,” “efforts,” “strategies” and similar expressions that convey the prospective nature of events or outcomes generally indicate forward-looking statements. However, the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements included in this news release are based on management’s expectations, estimates and projections as of the date they are made. These statements are not guarantees of future events or performance, and you should not unduly rely on them as they involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecast in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements include: changes in governmental policies or laws that relate to our operations, including regulations that seek to limit or restrict refining, marketing and midstream operations or regulate profits, pricing, or taxation of our products or feedstocks, or other regulations that restrict feedstock imports or product exports; our ability to timely obtain or maintain permits necessary for projects; fluctuations in NGL, crude oil, refined petroleum, renewable fuels and natural gas prices, and refining, marketing and petrochemical margins; the effects of any widespread public health crisis and its negative impact on commercial activity and demand for refined petroleum or renewable fuels products; changes to worldwide government policies relating to renewable fuels and greenhouse gas emissions that adversely affect programs including the renewable fuel standards program, low carbon fuel standards and tax credits for renewable fuels; potential liability from pending or future litigation; liability for remedial actions, including removal and reclamation obligations under existing or future environmental regulations; unexpected changes in costs for constructing, modifying or operating our facilities; our ability to successfully complete, or any material delay in the completion of, any asset disposition, acquisition, shutdown or conversion that we have announced or may pursue, including receipt of any necessary regulatory approvals or permits related thereto; unexpected difficulties in manufacturing, refining or transporting our products; the level and success of drilling and production volumes around our midstream assets; risks and uncertainties with respect to the actions of actual or potential competitive suppliers and transporters of refined petroleum products, renewable fuels or specialty products; lack of, or disruptions in, adequate and reliable transportation for our products; failure to complete construction of capital projects on time or within budget; our ability to comply with governmental regulations or make capital expenditures to maintain compliance with laws; limited access to capital or significantly higher cost of capital related to illiquidity or uncertainty in the domestic or international financial markets, which may also impact our ability to repurchase shares and declare and pay dividends; potential disruption of our operations due to accidents, weather events, including as a result of climate change, acts of terrorism or cyberattacks; general domestic and international economic and political developments, including armed hostilities (such as the Russia-Ukraine war), expropriation of assets, and other diplomatic developments; international monetary conditions and exchange controls; changes in estimates or projections used to assess fair value of intangible assets, goodwill and property and equipment and/or strategic decisions with respect to our asset portfolio that cause impairment charges; investments required, or reduced demand for products, as a result of environmental rules and regulations; changes in tax, environmental and other laws and regulations (including alternative energy mandates); political and societal concerns about climate change that could result in changes to our business or increase expenditures, including litigation-related expenses; the operation, financing and distribution decisions of equity affiliates we do not control; and other economic, business, competitive and/or regulatory factors affecting Phillips 66’s businesses generally as set forth in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Phillips 66 is under no obligation (and expressly disclaims any such obligation) to update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Additional Information
On April 8, 2025, Phillips 66 filed a definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A (the “Proxy Statement”) and accompanying WHITE proxy card with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) in connection with its 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the “2025 Annual Meeting”) and its solicitation of proxies for Phillips 66’s director nominees and for other matters to be voted on. This communication is not a substitute for the Proxy Statement or any other document that Phillips 66 has filed or may file with the SEC in connection with any solicitation by Phillips 66. PHILLIPS 66 SHAREHOLDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT (AND ANY AMENDMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) AND ACCOMPANYING WHITE PROXY CARD AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT SOLICITATION MATERIALS FILED WITH THE SEC AS THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Shareholders may obtain copies of the Proxy Statement, any amendments or supplements to the Proxy Statement and other documents (including the WHITE proxy card) filed by Phillips 66 with the SEC without charge from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed by Phillips 66 with the SEC also may be obtained free of charge at Phillips 66’s investor relations website at https://investor.phillips66.com or upon written request sent to Phillips 66, 2331 CityWest Boulevard, Houston, TX 77042, Attention: Investor Relations.
Certain Information Regarding Participants
Phillips 66, its directors, its director nominees and certain of its executive officers and employees may be deemed to be participants in connection with the solicitation of proxies from Phillips 66 shareholders in connection with the matters to be considered at the 2025 Annual Meeting. Information regarding the names of such persons and their respective interests in Phillips 66, by securities holdings or otherwise, is available in the Proxy Statement, which was filed with the SEC on April 8, 2025, including in the sections captioned “Beneficial Ownership of Phillips 66 Securities” and “Appendix C: Supplemental Information Regarding Participants in the Solicitation.” To the extent that Phillips 66’s directors and executive officers who may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation have acquired or disposed of securities holdings since the applicable “as of” date disclosed in the Proxy Statement, such transactions have been or will be reflected on Statements of Changes in Ownership of Securities on Form 4 or Initial Statements of Beneficial Ownership of Securities on Form 3 filed with the SEC. These documents are or will be available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.
1 Andrew Verstein, “How Not to De‑Classify a Board,” The CLS Blue Sky Blog, April 22, 2025. https://clsbluesky.law.columbia.edu/2025/04/22/how-not-to-de%E2%80%91classify-a-board/

Source: Phillips 66

MIL OSI Economics –

April 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Westminster Insight – Women and Girls in Sport Conference

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Speech

Westminster Insight – Women and Girls in Sport Conference

Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock delivered the keynote speech at the Westminster Insight – Women and Girls in Sport Conference

Thank you all for being here and inviting me to speak to you today. I am sorry I can’t be with you in person.

I want to talk to you today about the remarkable growth of women’s sport that we have witnessed in recent years, and what the Government is doing to build on this momentum.

I would like to begin by sharing some statistics. In 2024, UK Women’s Sport attracted audiences of over 44.17 million, an increase of nearly 40% in just two years. Over 2.6 million people attended a women’s sport event in person in 2023, an increase of 23% from the previous year.

Globally, Deloitte predicts that revenue generated by women’s elite sports will reach at least $2.35 billion, or £1.8 billion, in 2025, with revenues predicted to have risen by 240% in 4 years.

This is, of course, good news for economic growth and for those playing women’s elite sport. But most importantly the impact that it will have on women and girls across the country will be profound.

Inspiring women and girls across the country to take part in sport is hugely important to me as Sports Minister.

Girls need to know from a young age that they belong in sport. That is why we want to review and shape our education system to inspire girls from an early age to get active and build a lifelong love and affinity for sport.

To achieve this goal, Government is driving progress across women’s sport: from investing in grassroots facilities to supporting national campaigns.

It also means action on the elite end of sport, from hosting major events to supporting action to professionalise women’s sport.

Bringing all of these elements together is our strategy for women and girl’s sport. Let me take you through each of those in turn.

Firstly, we want more women and girls than ever to stay physically and mentally fit and healthy.

In order to do this, we need to keep evolving and challenging the way we think of women in sporting environments in order to understand what challenges and motivates them.

Sport England campaigns like This Girl Can has inspired nearly 4 million women to get active and 8 out of 10 women say that the campaign has boosted their confidence.

We want women to have options and variety available to them within their local area.

Getting this right starts with inclusion. Statistics show that for women on lower incomes from under-represented groups, the challenges and feelings of not being included are even greater.

When we support women’s sport, we will support women and girls right across our communities – not just elite athletes however important they are

Secondly, we know that in order to reach women and girls from all walks of life, equal access to high quality PE and school sports has a fundamental role to play.

I have seen first hand the value of school sports in my own constituency in Barnsley South. It was great to visit High View Primary Centre Centre in Wombwell a few weeks ago to watch the FA’s annual Biggest Ever Football Session, and I have enjoyed seeing the impact that events such as the Daily Mile can have on local children across Barnsley.

So, through our expert-led review of the curriculum, we are going to ensure that every child has the opportunity to engage in a broad range of subjects, including PE and sport. I’ve been working closely with the Minister for Schools and with National Governing Bodies across a range of issues, and we are committed to ensuring that all children can access high-quality sport and physical activity across the school day.

We also know that access to facilities, player welfare standards and suitable kit and equipment are all key parts of ensuring women and girls have the opportunity to excel.

On 21 March, we announced an investment of £100 million to fund grassroots facilities throughout the UK. £98 million of this will support projects in 2025/26.

This funding will support more women and girls to take part in the sports that they love, particularly by ensuring that funded sites across the UK provide priority slots for women and girls. Beyond this, in England there is funding specifically targeted at creating female-friendly facilities off the pitch, including changing rooms and toilets.

As well as focusing on getting women and girls active at a grassroots level, progress in women’s sport requires a healthy professional system to fund participation and to create inspirational role models.

This is why I am acting on the recommendations of Karen Carney’s independent Review of Women’s Football starting with a series of in depth discussions on the recommendations, and led by a taskforce I have convened to drive this forward.

We want Karen’s excellent Review to lead to tangible change in women’s football, acting as a wider blueprint for all of women’s sport.

Our work is already making a difference: we the Taskforce recently agreed on a series of concrete actions to improve player welfare in women’s football.

I also want to address one of the major issues identified by Karen in the Review, which is the lack of research. Only 6% of all sports science research today is dedicated solely to female athletes. Obviously this imbalance is a global challenge but I believe the UK is well positioned to take the lead in addressing, building on our reputation for world class research. This Government is determined to ensure that our sport science research continues to be world leading and tailored to the needs of our athletes.

On a recent visit to Loughborough University’s Women in Sport Research and Innovation Hub, I saw first hand ground breaking innovation which will shape the future of women’s sport.

This includes development in areas such as the menstrual cycle, the design of pregnancy and postpartum sportswear, sports nutrition, and innovation in sports bras.

This vital work will help us accelerate the progress we have already made and ensure that research into women’s sport is tailored to female athletes.

Finally, progress in women’s sport also means increasing visibility and inspiring a nation, by showcasing what our world leading female athletes can do.

We know women and girls across the country are inspired by female role models.

This summer, some fans will be watching the Lionesses on TV with their family, while others will be at the Women’s Rugby World Cup across England enjoying the atmosphere. Many more will be watching their favourite local teams and athletes from their home town.

We want everyone to join us in marvelling at the incredible talent we have here in the UK. We want to create the best women’s leagues in the world and we want to lead the way in helping women’s sport to stand the test of time and be financially sustainable.

This will mean that a girl growing up in my area of Barnsley will be able to watch us host major events like the Women’s Rugby World Cup, the Women’s T20 World Cup and the Tour de France Femmes, and be able to recreate moments with their friends at school.

With our incredible track record for hosting these kinds of events, I know that they are going to be huge success stories that inspire everyone watching women’s sport right across the globe.

We are also working hard to support the FA’s bid for the 2035 Women’s World Cup, a tournament with the potential to inspire yet another generation of women’s football fans.

This is how we lead the way in women’s sport and create lasting legacies for generations to come.

Before I end today, I want to directly address last week’s Supreme Court ruling, which I am sure is on the minds of many of you attending today. As a Government we have always been clear that when it comes to women’s sport, biology matters and we will continue to support sports to develop policies that protect fairness and safety, particularly when it is not possible to balance those factors with inclusion. Alongside this, sports need to come up with approaches to ensure everyone has the opportunity to take part somehow – and I know that sporting bodies will be considering this in light of the Supreme Court decision.

As I finish speaking to you today, I recognise that we still have challenges to overcome when it comes to women’s sport. However, the future is also one of huge opportunities to drive women’s sport forward.

Progress in women’s sport requires a clear vision. From young girls learning about sport and movement in school through PE, to teenagers accessing facilities built with women and girls in mind, to adults having the right knowledge, kit and environment, to excel we want to support women and girls at every stage of their lives.

We want women and girls across the UK to watch global events hosted at home, to be inspired by their role models and to have the opportunity to dream big. Every girl deserves that chance.

And to enable this, this Government is committed to improving access to sport in schools, to making provision of facilities more equal, to improving research, driving visibility and investing in women’s sport at every level.

It is not enough to focus on one aspect alone. We must drive progress across all of these areas as part of one cohesive women’s sport strategy.

I look forward to working with you all to ensure all women and girls have the opportunities they deserve.

Thank you.

Updates to this page

Published 24 April 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Stoke-on-Trent market named best in Staffordshire

Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

Published: Thursday, 24th April 2025

A Stoke-on-Trent market which dates back over 150 years has been named the best in Staffordshire.

Longton Victorian Market clinched the title of ‘Staffordshire Market of the Year’ at the Our Staffordshire News’ Business, Charity, Community and Food Awards 2025.

The awards, which took place earlier this month, awarded Tunstall Market, also managed by Stoke-on-Trent City Council, third in the same category.

Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, regeneration and infrastructure at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Our markets are really important to our local communities and this award is testament to that.

“All of our traders and our dedicated markets team work tirelessly to make sure our markets remain at the heart of our town centres, so I would like to pass on my huge congratulations to them.

“If you haven’t visited for a while, I would encourage you to pop down and support your local market.”

For more information about Stoke-on-Trent Markets visit www.stoke.gov.uk/markets

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Minister for Local Transport visits Jersey today24 April 2025 The UK Minister for Local Transport, Simon Lightwood MP, is visiting Jersey today to gain greater insight on the Island’s bus service model. During the visit, the Minister will meet the Infrastructure… Read more

Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

24 April 2025

The UK Minister for Local Transport, Simon Lightwood MP, is visiting Jersey today to gain greater insight on the Island’s bus service model.

During the visit, the Minister will meet the Infrastructure Minister, Connétable Andy Jehan, tour Liberation Station with the Constable of St Helier, and visit the LibertyBus depot at La Collette. He will also meet LibertyBus staff and drivers, speak directly with passengers, and experience Jersey’s bus service first-hand by travelling on the Number 15 route.

The visit comes at the same time as the UK Parliament is considering a Bill which aims to make it easier for local transport authorities to franchise bus services in their areas, and improve performance, accessibility, and the quality of bus passenger services in the country.

As part of the Minister’s Active Travel brief, St Luke’s School will be welcoming him to see their School Street in action and to witness the benefits of closing the street to traffic, enabling students to travel to and from school safely. Jersey’s Home Affairs Minister will also be meeting Mr Lightwood to discuss the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) strategy. In addition, the Deputy Bailiff will be hosting a tour of the States Assembly.

The Minister for Infrastructure, Connétable Andy Jehan, said: “I am pleased to be welcoming Simon Lightwood to Jersey, particularly following the recent award of the new 10-year contract to Liberty Bus. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the benefits that long-term contracts have, Jersey’s investment in a more environmentally friendly fleet, as well as our efforts to enhance local community services such as the TownLink and a new northern route.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor launches powerful Mental Health Arts exhibition in Strabane

Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

Mayor launches powerful Mental Health Arts exhibition in Strabane

24 April 2025

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, recently launched the solo exhibition ‘Narratives’ by Derry-born artist Eamon McAteer at the Alley Theatre in Strabane. The stunning collection of paintings resonates deeply with the theme of this year’s NI Mental Health Arts Festival ‘CathARTSis,’ a play on the word catharsis.

The launch was attended by an appreciative audience of family, friends, art educationalists, and fellow artists, all gathered to celebrate Eamon McAteer’s powerful body of work. ‘Narratives’ offers viewers a glimpse into the artist’s emotional responses and personal interpretations, providing solace and sanctuary in today’s often chaotic world.

Mayor Barr emphasised the significance of the festival, saying: “The NI Mental Health Arts Festival is a powerful initiative which brings hope to many in our community. The power of artistic expression cannot be understated. In a world where the pressures of daily life can often feel overwhelming, this festival provides a vital lifeline. It offers a compassionate space where individuals can share their most personal experiences, find solace in creativity, and connect with others through the universal language of art.”

She further added, “Our mental health is precious, and programmes like this remind us that seeking support, expressing our vulnerabilities, and celebrating our resilience are fundamental to our collective well-being. By platforming diverse stories through music, visual arts, performance, and literature, the festival breaks down barriers and helps destigmatise conversations around mental health. I had the pleasure of opening Eamon McAteer’s show ‘Narratives’ at the Alley Theatre and saw first-hand how much the paintings resonated with the audience. The festival is a wonderful initiative which offers an outlet where mental health can be promoted in a positive, open and welcoming environment, well done to everyone involved.”

Artist Eamon McAteer expressed his delight at being part of the festival, saying: “I am delighted to be exhibiting my solo show of paintings, ‘Narratives’ at The Alley Theatre as part of the NI Mental Health Arts Festival. My work resonates with the festival’s theme of CathARTSis. My focus is to create something personal, individual and honest. The work is inspired by my emotional response to a wide variety of influences, I paint intuitively in the studio so that the work suggests memories and personal interpretations. There is a sense of intimacy and intensity, and the idea of a glimpse into a remembered reality. My paintings mostly relate to the Irish expressionist landscape tradition.”

Noelle Mc Alinden, Co-Chair of the NI Mental Health Arts Festival, highlighted the importance of such exhibitions saying: “There is no doubt that Eamon’s exhibition provides a wonderful opportunity to inspire and enthuse audiences young and old. Exhibitions like this help to show the power of the arts and the vital role our artists contribute to the inspiration and well-being of others.”

Eamon McAteer’s exhibition ‘Narratives’ will continue at The Alley Theatre Strabane until May 30th.

The NI Mental Health Arts Festival will run from May 9th to May 20th across Northern Ireland, featuring a diverse programme of events including poetry, comedy, dance, theatre, walks, talks, and tours. Two major symposiums will also take place, in Belfast on May 9^th and in the Guildhall on May 20^th. Both events are free and are guaranteed to inspire, providing an excellent forum for compassionate dialogue, performances, panel discussions and excellent insights from those with lived experience drawn from Health, Arts, Community, Education and Academic Research. The events will be hosted by the Mayors of both cities. Celebrating artists from across Northern Ireland the NI Mental Health Arts Forum is delighted Derry-based artist Bronagh Corr McNicholl’s photographic exhibition is touring between both cities – first at The Garden of Reflection in Derry and then Belfast Exposed. Justine Scoltock’s exhibition Hidden Layers also features in the Garden of Reflection throughout May.

For more information on the NI Mental Health Arts Festival and the exciting programme of events, please visit www.nimhaf.org.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Letter from the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland regarding Windsor Framework declarations and decisions under Schedule 6B Northern Ireland Act 1998

Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

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Letter from the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland regarding Windsor Framework declarations and decisions under Schedule 6B Northern Ireland Act 1998

The Secretary of State, Hilary Benn, has written to the Speaker of the NI Assembly today, 24 April

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Letter from the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland regarding Windsor Framework declarations and decisions under Schedule 6B Northern Ireland Act 1998

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The NI Secretary, Hilary Benn, has written to the Speaker of the NI Assembly to set out the decisions and declarations the UK Government will be making at the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee on the 29th of April which concern the Windsor Framework.

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Published 24 April 2025

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MIL OSI United Kingdom –

April 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: The FBI Released Its Internet Crime Report 2024

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News (b)

TLANTA—The FBI released its Internet Crime Report 2024. It shows Internet-related complaints and crimes continued to increase significantly in Georgia and across the country.

In 2024, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) received 859,532 complaints with related losses topping $16.6 billion. That is a 33% increase in losses from 2023.

Georgia ranked 11th in complaints filed by state in 2024 (13th in 2023) with reported potential losses at $420 million. That is a 40% increase year to year.

Nationally, the top three cybercrimes, by the number of complaints reported in 2024, were: phishing/spoofing, extortion, and personal data breaches. In terms of losses, cryptocurrency-related losses by far exceed any other category.

“While the top threats facing Georgia and the nation from cyber criminals and fraudsters continue to evolve, their main goal remains stealing your hard-earned money,” said FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown. “The cornerstone of the FBI’s mission remains to protect American citizens. The men and women of FBI Atlanta will not stop working to prevent losses and minimize the harm to Georgia residents.”

Criminals continue to target the elderly (Age 60+) at a high rate. In Georgia, complaints by seniors increased 71% year over year (2114 to 3622). Reported losses in Georgia by seniors increased 89% ($92 million in 2023 to $174 million in 2024). Georgia’s rank in reported losses by state rose from 10th to 7th.

Reports of cryptocurrency-related crimes jumped in Georgia by 122% (1590 in 2023 to 3533 in 2024). Estimated losses to cryptocurrency-related crimes in the state increased by 66 % ($118,750,468 in 2023 to $197,647,537 in 2024).

The 2024 IC3 annual report can be found at IC3.gov.

In the fight against increasingly savvy criminals, the FBI also relies on you. Without the information you report to us through IC3, we simply cannot piece together the puzzle of this ever-shifting threat landscape. If ever you suspect you’re a victim of cyber-enabled crime, do not hesitate to let us know. We want to be there for you, and what you report will help us help others.

MIL Security OSI –

April 24, 2025

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24 April 2025

Mayor launches powerful Mental Health Arts exhibition in Strabane

Letter from the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland regarding Windsor Framework declarations and decisions under Schedule 6B Northern Ireland Act 1998

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