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Category: Finance

  • MIL-OSI Africa: AI chatbots can boost public health in Africa – why language inclusion matters

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Songbo Hu, PhD Candidate, University of Cambridge

    Language technologies like generative artificial intelligence (AI) hold significant potential for public health. From outbreak detection systems that scan global news in real time, to chatbots providing mental health support and conversational diagnostic tools improving access to primary care, these innovations are helping address health challenges.

    At the heart of these developments is natural language processing, an interdisciplinary field within AI research. It enables computers to interpret, understand and generate human language, bridging the gap between humans and machines. Natural language processing can process and analyse enormous volumes of health data, far more than humans could ever handle manually. This is especially valuable in regions with a stretched healthcare workforce or limited public health surveillance infrastructure, because it enables faster, data-driven responses to public health needs.

    Recently, our interdisciplinary team, combining expertise from computer science, human geography and health sciences, conducted a review of studies on how language AI is being used for public health in African countries. Almost a decade’s worth of academic research was analysed, to understand how this powerful technology is being applied to pressing human needs.

    Out of 54 research publications, we found that evidence of real-world effects of the technology was still rare. Only 4% of these studies (two out of 54) showed measurable improvements in public health, such as boosting people’s mood or increasing vaccine intentions.

    Most projects stop at technology development and publication. Very few advance to real-world use or impact. Opportunities to improve health and well-being across the continent could be missed as a result.

    Current limitations

    In recent years, AI language technologies for public health have increased rapidly. This wave of technology development really took off as the COVID-19 pandemic renewed attention to public health. Health chatbots and sentiment analysis tools were developed in Africa and beyond.

    Research on language AI for public health in Africa. Supplied

    Health chatbots “talk” to people and provide reliable health information in a friendly, conversational way. Sentiment analysis tools scan social media posts to understand what people are feeling and talking about. Together they can identify misinformation or changes in public opinion and then provide accurate information.

    Of course, new technologies come with imperfections. We found that most technologies for public health in Africa exist in just a few languages whose dominance can be traced to colonial times, namely English and French.

    The consequences are clear: key health messages fail to reach many communities, leaving millions unable to access or act on essential information.

    We also found that few projects have gone beyond the laboratory development stage. Our study found only one system in operation that had a measurable public health effect.

    A successful model

    This standout example comes from a team at the Center for Global Development and the University of Chicago, in partnership with the Busara Center for Behavioral Economics. Their chatbot, deployed on Facebook Messenger, was designed for people in Kenya and Nigeria who were hesitant about COVID-19 vaccines. It was only available in English.

    More than 22,000 social media users used this app, sharing vaccine-related questions and concerns. The chatbot provided tailored, evidence-based responses to topics ranging from vaccine effectiveness and safety to misinformation. Its effect was notable. The intervention boosted users’ intention and willingness to get vaccinated by 4%-5%. The strongest effects were seen among those most hesitant to begin with.

    Behind this success was the researchers’ commitment to understanding the local context. Before launching the chatbot, in-depth discussions were held with focus groups and social media users in Kenya and Nigeria. The aim was to learn about the specific worries and cultural factors shaping attitudes toward vaccination.

    The chatbot was designed to address these concerns. This user-centred, locally adapted approach enabled the chatbot’s messages to address real barriers. As this example demonstrates, language technologies for public health are most effective when responding to the concerns and needs of the intended users.

    From lab to life

    These technologies take time and money to be put into practice. The COVID-19 pandemic jump-started development but public health language AI technologies are very new. It could be that a future survey would find a very different situation.

    At the same time, advances in large language models such as GPT-4 are rapidly lowering the technical barriers to developing language technologies. These models can often be adapted to new applications with far less data and effort than previous methods. Recent advances could enable small teams of researchers or even individual developers to build tools tailored to the specific needs of their own communities. The path from lab to real-world effects may become much shorter and easier.

    Investors, accelerators and state support could help make this transition from lab to life happen.

    Technology developers can also contribute by rooting their work in community-driven, multi-disciplinary and cross-sector collaboration. Social science and public health research knowledge and skills can inform the design and development of new technologies.

    To maximise the potential of language technologies for public health, the following needs to happen:

    • involving communities and health workers in natural language processing design

    • expanding provision in indigenous African languages

    • integrating language technologies into existing health systems.

    Future research and development must move beyond technical prototypes and laboratory tests to rigorous real-world evaluations that measure health outcomes.

    The other co-authors behind this research are: Abigail Oppong, Ebele Mogo, Charlotte Collins, and Giulia Occhini.

    – AI chatbots can boost public health in Africa – why language inclusion matters
    – https://theconversation.com/ai-chatbots-can-boost-public-health-in-africa-why-language-inclusion-matters-260861

    MIL OSI Africa –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Analysis: AI chatbots can boost public health in Africa – why language inclusion matters

    Source: The Conversation – Africa (2) – By Songbo Hu, PhD Candidate, University of Cambridge

    Language technologies like generative artificial intelligence (AI) hold significant potential for public health. From outbreak detection systems that scan global news in real time, to chatbots providing mental health support and conversational diagnostic tools improving access to primary care, these innovations are helping address health challenges.

    At the heart of these developments is natural language processing, an interdisciplinary field within AI research. It enables computers to interpret, understand and generate human language, bridging the gap between humans and machines. Natural language processing can process and analyse enormous volumes of health data, far more than humans could ever handle manually. This is especially valuable in regions with a stretched healthcare workforce or limited public health surveillance infrastructure, because it enables faster, data-driven responses to public health needs.

    Recently, our interdisciplinary team, combining expertise from computer science, human geography and health sciences, conducted a review of studies on how language AI is being used for public health in African countries. Almost a decade’s worth of academic research was analysed, to understand how this powerful technology is being applied to pressing human needs.

    Out of 54 research publications, we found that evidence of real-world effects of the technology was still rare. Only 4% of these studies (two out of 54) showed measurable improvements in public health, such as boosting people’s mood or increasing vaccine intentions.

    Most projects stop at technology development and publication. Very few advance to real-world use or impact. Opportunities to improve health and well-being across the continent could be missed as a result.

    Current limitations

    In recent years, AI language technologies for public health have increased rapidly. This wave of technology development really took off as the COVID-19 pandemic renewed attention to public health. Health chatbots and sentiment analysis tools were developed in Africa and beyond.

    Health chatbots “talk” to people and provide reliable health information in a friendly, conversational way. Sentiment analysis tools scan social media posts to understand what people are feeling and talking about. Together they can identify misinformation or changes in public opinion and then provide accurate information.

    Of course, new technologies come with imperfections. We found that most technologies for public health in Africa exist in just a few languages whose dominance can be traced to colonial times, namely English and French.

    The consequences are clear: key health messages fail to reach many communities, leaving millions unable to access or act on essential information.

    We also found that few projects have gone beyond the laboratory development stage. Our study found only one system in operation that had a measurable public health effect.

    A successful model

    This standout example comes from a team at the Center for Global Development and the University of Chicago, in partnership with the Busara Center for Behavioral Economics. Their chatbot, deployed on Facebook Messenger, was designed for people in Kenya and Nigeria who were hesitant about COVID-19 vaccines. It was only available in English.

    More than 22,000 social media users used this app, sharing vaccine-related questions and concerns. The chatbot provided tailored, evidence-based responses to topics ranging from vaccine effectiveness and safety to misinformation. Its effect was notable. The intervention boosted users’ intention and willingness to get vaccinated by 4%-5%. The strongest effects were seen among those most hesitant to begin with.

    Behind this success was the researchers’ commitment to understanding the local context. Before launching the chatbot, in-depth discussions were held with focus groups and social media users in Kenya and Nigeria. The aim was to learn about the specific worries and cultural factors shaping attitudes toward vaccination.

    The chatbot was designed to address these concerns. This user-centred, locally adapted approach enabled the chatbot’s messages to address real barriers. As this example demonstrates, language technologies for public health are most effective when responding to the concerns and needs of the intended users.

    From lab to life

    These technologies take time and money to be put into practice. The COVID-19 pandemic jump-started development but public health language AI technologies are very new. It could be that a future survey would find a very different situation.

    At the same time, advances in large language models such as GPT-4 are rapidly lowering the technical barriers to developing language technologies. These models can often be adapted to new applications with far less data and effort than previous methods. Recent advances could enable small teams of researchers or even individual developers to build tools tailored to the specific needs of their own communities. The path from lab to real-world effects may become much shorter and easier.

    Investors, accelerators and state support could help make this transition from lab to life happen.

    Technology developers can also contribute by rooting their work in community-driven, multi-disciplinary and cross-sector collaboration. Social science and public health research knowledge and skills can inform the design and development of new technologies.

    To maximise the potential of language technologies for public health, the following needs to happen:

    • involving communities and health workers in natural language processing design

    • expanding provision in indigenous African languages

    • integrating language technologies into existing health systems.

    Future research and development must move beyond technical prototypes and laboratory tests to rigorous real-world evaluations that measure health outcomes.

    The other co-authors behind this research are: Abigail Oppong, Ebele Mogo, Charlotte Collins, and Giulia Occhini.

    Songbo Hu currently receives funding from the Cambridge Trust.

    Anna Barford currently receives funding from UKRI and the Mastercard Foundation. She has previously received funding from the the British Aacdemy, ESRC, Leverhulme Trust, CPEST, the University of Cambridge, Unilever (via a philanthropic donation to the University) and the Asian Development Bank. Anna is the Co-Director of the Business Fights Poverty Institute and a consultant to the International Labour Organization.

    Anna Korhonen receives funding from UKRI, and has previously received funding from MRC, EPSRC, NERC, Royal Society, ERC, and philantrophic donations to the University of Cambridge.

    – ref. AI chatbots can boost public health in Africa – why language inclusion matters – https://theconversation.com/ai-chatbots-can-boost-public-health-in-africa-why-language-inclusion-matters-260861

    MIL OSI Analysis –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Edition 40: News from the Adjudicator

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Edition 40: News from the Adjudicator

    Read the latest newsletter from the Groceries Code Adjudicator (GCA).

    I am pleased to be updating you about recent news from the GCA, including the commencement of a statutory investigation, the publication of the 2025 survey results and the launch of registration for my 2025 annual conference.

    Amazon investigation

    On 20 June 2025, I launched a targeted investigation into whether Amazon has delayed payments to suppliers, in breach of Paragraph 5 of the Groceries Code. I decided to launch the investigation based on the range of evidence I had seen from multiple sources.

    Delays in payment can significantly harm suppliers, potentially exposing suppliers to excessive risk and unexpected costs and affecting suppliers’ ability to invest and innovate.

    The investigation will cover the extent to which paragraph 5 of the Code may have been breached; any impact of Amazon’s conduct on suppliers; and the root causes of any issues.

    The call for evidence closes on 8 August 2025, so there’s still plenty of time for direct suppliers and other stakeholders to confidentially respond and provide information about your experiences with Amazon. Thank you to those who have already provided evidence.

    For further information, including on how to respond and the confidentiality that applies to all responses, please view the Notice of Investigation.

    Survey results

    I also published my 2025 survey results last month.

    The survey is an important tool for understanding perceptions of Code compliance across the 14 large designated retailers and tackling the most prevalent issues. Thank you to everyone who took the time to complete the survey at the beginning of the year.

    I am pleased that the results show improved Code compliance across the sector. The number of suppliers suffering Code issues fell from 33% in 2024 to 30% in 2025. The average perceived Code compliance across the retailers rose from 91% to 93% with improvements at the five retailers with the perceived lowest Code compliance in 2024. For the first time at least 90% of suppliers perceived that 13 retailers were Code compliant all or most of the time.  

    There was also a fall in the number of suppliers experiencing several issues. Some of the standout improvements include:

    • delays in payments (11% of suppliers from 14% in 2024)
    • inadequate processes and procedures to enable invoice discrepancies to be promptly resolved (17% of suppliers from 21% in 2024)
    • undisputed invoices not paid according to agreed terms (9% of suppliers from 12% in 2024).

    You can find further detail in the information pack published on the GCA website.

    I have recently begun my regular round of meetings with each of the Code Compliance Officers. I have asked each of them to explain at the meetings how they will respond to their individual survey results. I will hold the large retailers to account to ensure that they deliver changes that resolve issues and improve Code compliance.

    YouGov carried out the survey and is now conducting a series of deep dive interviews with suppliers to provide further detail about their experiences. YouGov will present their findings at my conference, details below.

    Conference

    Registration is now open for the GCA Annual Conference 2025 which will take place on Tuesday 30 September.

    The conference will bring together the 14 large retailers, suppliers and industry experts to reflect on changes to the groceries sector, ongoing challenges, support available for suppliers and future priorities. To register, please visit the GCA website.

    I look forward to meeting many of you and hearing your views and questions in September.

    Annual Report and Accounts

    I published my Annual Report and Accounts on Friday 18 July. The report covers the GCA’s work during 2024/25 to ensure that the designated retailers treat their suppliers fairly and lawfully.

    Find out more on the GCA website.

    Statutory review

    The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has launched a consultation as part of its fourth statutory review of the GCA. DBT seeks evidence, including about how the GCA has performed its statutory obligations from 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2025.

    The consultation closes on 5 August 2025. Find out more and respond to the consultation.

    Further information 

    • If you are reading this on the GCA website but want to receive future newsletters by email, you can sign up here.
    • You can follow the GCA LinkedIn and X accounts to keep up to date with the latest news, information, and events.
    • I recommend that all suppliers undertake Code training. You can view the Code trainers I am aware of here.
    • Elizabeth Granger is the new Code Compliance Officer at TJ Morris (trading as Home Bargains). Elizabeth’s and all the Code Compliance Officers’ contact details are available on the GCA website.

    Getting in touch 

    If you would like to get in touch with me and the GCA team confidentially, please email enquiries@groceriescode.gov.uk or report issues anonymously 24/7 via telltheGCA.co.uk.

    Mark White

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    Updates to this page

    Published 23 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein, Department of Environmental Quality Announce $204 Million for Drinking Water and Wastewater Projects

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein, Department of Environmental Quality Announce $204 Million for Drinking Water and Wastewater Projects

    Governor Stein, Department of Environmental Quality Announce $204 Million for Drinking Water and Wastewater Projects
    lsaito
    Wed, 07/23/2025 – 09:59

    Raleigh, NC

    Governor Josh Stein announced today that 27 counties across the state will receive more than $204 million in funding for 48 drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects. The awards will improve drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, address PFAS and other forever chemicals, identify and replace lead pipes, and improve resiliency after future storms.

    “When you turn on the faucet in your home, you shouldn’t have to worry about whether that water is safe for your family,” said Governor Josh Stein. “These investments will help ensure North Carolinians have access to clean drinking water and will help keep people safe when disaster strikes.”   

    “At DEQ, we’re committed to ensuring everyone in North Carolina has access to clean water,” said Department of Environmental Quality Secretary Reid Wilson. “This funding will address aging infrastructure and improve public health for communities large and small.”

    Notable projects include:

    • The Town of Bryson City (Swain County) will receive $9.2 million in Clean Water State Revolving Funds for wastewater treatment plant improvements.
    • The Town of Waynesville (Haywood County) will receive $8.2 million from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund for improvements to the Little Champion Gravity Sewer and Pump Station.
    • The City of Graham (Alamance County) will receive $3.4 million in Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) Drinking Water State Revolving Fund-Emerging Contaminant (PFAS) Construction funding for Graham-Mebane Water Treatment Plant improvements.
    • The Fayetteville Public Works Commission (Cumberland County) will receive $20.5 million from IIJA Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Emerging Contaminant (PFAS) Construction funding for the P.O. Hoffer / Glenville Lake Water Treatment Plant Granulated Activated Carbon (GAC) facility.
    • The Town of River Bend (Craven County) will receive $6.3 million in Drinking Water State Revolving Funds for Phase II drinking water improvements.
    • The Martin County Regional Water and Sewer Authority will receive $1 million in IIJA Drinking Water State Revolving Fund-Emerging Contaminant (PFAS) Construction funding for GAC filters for PFAS removal.
    • The City of Lenoir (Caldwell County) will receive $5.6 million from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund for Lower Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant Process Basin Improvements. Lenoir will also receive $1 million in IIJA Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Lead Service Line funding for its Lead Service Line Inventory Phase 3 project.
    • The City of Lexington (Davidson County) will receive $13.7 million in Clean Water State Revolving Funds for the Lexington Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant Solids Handling Improvements project.
    • The City of Henderson (Vance County) will receive $10.7 million from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund for the Sandy Creek Pump Station and Force Main project.
    • The Town of Warrenton (Warren County) will receive $10 million from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund for its Phase IV Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements project.
    • The City of Sanford (Lee County) will receive $7.3 million in Clean Water State Revolving Funds for its Dry Creek Basin Sewer Rehabilitation project and $1 million each for its Sanford/TriRiver Water/Chatham County and Sanford/TriRiver Water/Siler City Lead Service Line Inventory projects.
    • The Pfeiffer-North Stanly Water Association (Stanly County) will receive $4.9 million in Drinking Water State Revolving Funds for its N. Main Street and Old 52 waterline replacement project.
    • Carolina Water Service, Inc. will receive a total of $5.5 million for six projects involving PFAS-related, lead service line identification or water line-related funding in Cumberland, Gaston, Moore and Pender counties.

    A list of all projects selected for funding is available on the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) website.

    NCDEQ’s Division of Water Infrastructure reviewed 133 eligible applications, which requested a total of $1.57 billion. The State Water Infrastructure Authority approved the awards during its July 16 meeting. The Authority is an independent body with primary responsibility for awarding federal and state funding for water infrastructure projects. 

    Funding this round came from the State Revolving Funds, including IIJA funds. The State Revolving Funds provide low-interest loans that may be partially forgiven for drinking water and wastewater projects. State Revolving Funds are funded by federal capitalization grants and revolving loan repayments. This round included IIJA Emerging Contaminants (PFAS) funds and IIJA Lead Service Line Replacement funds. 

    The Division of Water Infrastructure’s Fall 2025 funding round begins July 29. Applications are due by 5 p.m. Sept. 30, 2025. Funding for the Fall 2025 round will come from multiple existing programs, including evaluating options to address PFAS contamination, identifying and replacing lead service lines, and Viable Utility Reserve grants. The Viable Utility Reserve provides grants to local government units that are designated as Distressed for planning and construction projects that will support the long-term viability of the utility. 

    In addition, the Division will accept applications on a rolling basis for the new federal supplemental appropriations from the 2025 American Relief Act to build resilience to infrastructure for Hurricane Helene-impacted communities. Helene State Revolving Fund supplemental funds for western North Carolina towns that have experienced Helene damage will continue to be available through year-round applications starting at the end of July until 2026.  

    The Division of Water Infrastructure will conduct in-person funding application training for the Fall 2025 funding round at six locations: Clyde, Hickory, Boone, Fayetteville, Winterville, and Research Triangle Park/Durham. A virtual option via Webex will also be available, and a recording of the training will be posted on the Division’s training web page.

    Learn more about the Division of Water Infrastructure’s funding programs here. 

    Jul 23, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Get $50 Welcome Bonus, 100x Leverage & No KYC on BexBack – Crypto Futures Trading Simplified

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin trades near $120,000 and the crypto market enters a new bull market, holding spot positions may struggle to deliver short-term profits. With the market showing strong upward momentum, investors looking to maximize their returns can turn to BexBack Exchange for a powerful solution. BexBack offers 100x leverage, a 100% deposit bonus, and a $50 welcome bonus for new users, providing traders the tools to seize profitable opportunities. Plus, with no KYC requirements, BexBack ensures a seamless and efficient trading experience.

    Advantages of 100x Leverage Crypto Futures

    1. Amplified Profits: Control large positions with a small amount of capital, capturing more profits from market fluctuations.
    2. Low Capital Requirement: Participate in high-value trades with minimal investment, lowering the entry barrier.
    3. Increased Market Opportunities: Profit quickly from price fluctuations, especially in volatile markets.
    4. High Capital Efficiency: Leverage enables better use of your capital, expanding your investment potential.
    5. Profit from Both Up and Down Markets: Adapt to any market conditions, with opportunities to profit whether the market goes up or down.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $100,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $105,000, your profit will be (105,000 – 100,000) * 100 BTC / 100,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform offering up to 100x leverage on futures contracts for BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and over 50 other digital assets. Headquartered in Singapore, the platform also operates offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. Like many top-tier exchanges, BexBack holds a U.S. MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. The platform accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe, with zero deposit fees and 24/7 multilingual customer support, delivering a secure, efficient, and user-friendly trading experience.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

    High-Leverage Trading: Offers up to 100x leverage, maximizing investors’ capital efficiency.

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    Comprehensive Trading Options: Feature-rich trading available via Web and mobile applications.

    Convenient Operation: No slippage, no spread, and fast, precise trade execution.

    Global User Support: Enjoy 24/7 customer service, no matter where you are.

    Lucrative Affiliate Rewards: Earn up to 50% commission, perfect for promoters.

    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users , you can be a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign Up Now on BexBack — Break the 100x Leverage and KYC Barriers, Get Double Deposit Bonus and $50 Welcome Bonus Instantly

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a16aa38f-cdae-425e-996c-2648e82d5ef0

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1ad5a331-aa57-4f0b-ab21-b87061191568

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/12f8df3a-75b9-480f-affd-fd9829799b27

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/84422ec5-b03f-4214-bcd7-94d2ec100652

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Get $50 Welcome Bonus, 100x Leverage & No KYC on BexBack – Crypto Futures Trading Simplified

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin trades near $120,000 and the crypto market enters a new bull market, holding spot positions may struggle to deliver short-term profits. With the market showing strong upward momentum, investors looking to maximize their returns can turn to BexBack Exchange for a powerful solution. BexBack offers 100x leverage, a 100% deposit bonus, and a $50 welcome bonus for new users, providing traders the tools to seize profitable opportunities. Plus, with no KYC requirements, BexBack ensures a seamless and efficient trading experience.

    Advantages of 100x Leverage Crypto Futures

    1. Amplified Profits: Control large positions with a small amount of capital, capturing more profits from market fluctuations.
    2. Low Capital Requirement: Participate in high-value trades with minimal investment, lowering the entry barrier.
    3. Increased Market Opportunities: Profit quickly from price fluctuations, especially in volatile markets.
    4. High Capital Efficiency: Leverage enables better use of your capital, expanding your investment potential.
    5. Profit from Both Up and Down Markets: Adapt to any market conditions, with opportunities to profit whether the market goes up or down.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $100,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $105,000, your profit will be (105,000 – 100,000) * 100 BTC / 100,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform offering up to 100x leverage on futures contracts for BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and over 50 other digital assets. Headquartered in Singapore, the platform also operates offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. Like many top-tier exchanges, BexBack holds a U.S. MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. The platform accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe, with zero deposit fees and 24/7 multilingual customer support, delivering a secure, efficient, and user-friendly trading experience.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

    High-Leverage Trading: Offers up to 100x leverage, maximizing investors’ capital efficiency.

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    Comprehensive Trading Options: Feature-rich trading available via Web and mobile applications.

    Convenient Operation: No slippage, no spread, and fast, precise trade execution.

    Global User Support: Enjoy 24/7 customer service, no matter where you are.

    Lucrative Affiliate Rewards: Earn up to 50% commission, perfect for promoters.

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    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a16aa38f-cdae-425e-996c-2648e82d5ef0

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1ad5a331-aa57-4f0b-ab21-b87061191568

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/12f8df3a-75b9-480f-affd-fd9829799b27

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/84422ec5-b03f-4214-bcd7-94d2ec100652

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: EXL Recognized as Market Leader by Everest Group in its Group Life Insurance and Benefits Core Technology Products PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2025 – North America

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EXL [NASDAQ: EXLS], a global data and AI company, has been recognized by Everest Group as a Leader and Star Performer in the Group Life Insurance and Benefits Core Technology Products PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2025 – North America.

    The Everest Group report evaluated 15 leading providers of life insurance and benefits technology on their delivery of cloud-native infrastructure, advanced analytics, and configurable core systems that address the unique complexities of group life and benefits administration to their respective clients. EXL was recognized as a Leader for its deep domain expertise, growing library of automation and AI tools tailored for group life operations, and its ability to modernize large-scale platforms through analytic-driven insights.

    “EXL brings deep domain expertise and digital capability to the group insurance administration space, underpinned by its integrated technology and operations model on the LifePRO™ platform,” said Vigitesh Tewary, practice director at Everest Group. “Its ability to streamline administration and enhance service levels is further strengthened by proprietary assets such as MedConnection™, which support intelligent workflow processing, case management, and underwriting optimization. With modular capabilities across policy administration, billing, claims, and servicing, EXL aligns well with carriers operating in hybrid or multi-vendor ecosystems. The firm’s expanding suite of automation and AI-driven tools enables dynamic decisioning, real-time validations, and workflow automation tailored specifically for group life operations. These factors have contributed to its recognition as a Leader in Everest Group’s Group Life Insurance and Benefits Core Technology Products PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2025 – North America.”

    “The North American group life insurance industry is experiencing a rapid wave of digital transformation. As a result, clients are on the hunt for tools that will allow them to supercharge their quoting, underwriting, billing, and payout management capabilities,” said Vivek Jetley, president and head of insurance, healthcare, and life sciences, EXL. “We’re proud to receive this prestigious recognition from Everest Group and look forward to continuing to help our clients provide precise, tailored group life services to their clients.”

    To read more about the Everest Group 2025 report, click here for the custom version of the report. For more information about EXL’s insurance solutions, click here.

    About EXL

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

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You should not place undue reliance on those statements because they are subject to numerous uncertainties and factors relating to EXL’s operations and business environment, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond EXL’s control. Forward-looking statements include information concerning EXL’s possible or assumed future results of operations, including descriptions of its business strategy. These statements may include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate” or similar expressions. These statements are based on assumptions that we have made in light of management’s experience in the industry as well as its perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate under the circumstances. You should understand that these statements are not guarantees of performance or results. They involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Although EXL believes that these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, you should be aware that many factors could affect EXL’s actual financial results or results of operations and could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. These factors, which include our ability to maintain and grow client demand, our ability to hire and retain sufficiently trained employees, and our ability to accurately estimate and/or manage costs, rising interest rates, rising inflation and recessionary economic trends, are discussed in more detail in EXL’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including EXL’s Annual Report on Form 10-K. You should keep in mind that any forward-looking statement made herein, or elsewhere, speaks only as of the date on which it is made. New risks and uncertainties come up from time to time, and it is impossible to predict these events or how they may affect EXL. EXL has no obligation to update any forward-looking statements after the date hereof, except as required by federal securities laws.

    Contacts
    Media
    Keith Little
    media.relations@exlservice.com

    Investor Relations
    John Kristoff
    +1 212 209 4613
    IR@exlservice.com

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: RecycLiCo Partners with Lucid to Strengthen North American Domestic Supply Chain for Critical Minerals and Metals

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SURREY, British Columbia, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RecycLiCo Battery Materials Inc. (“RecycLiCo” or the “Company”) (TSX.V: AMY | OTCQB: AMYZF | FSE: ID4), a critical minerals refining and lithium ion battery upcycling company, today announced that it, together with Lucid (NASDAQ: LCID) and other industry leaders has become a founding member of the Minerals for National Automotive Competitiveness Collaboration (MINAC), a partnership focused on accelerating the development and procurement of American-sourced critical mineral resources for use in automotive manufacturing by domestic automakers and Tier 1 suppliers. The other MINAC members are Alaska Energy Metals, Graphite One and Electric Metals.

    The MINAC members will work together to:

    • Advance domestic mineral production through the completion of offtake agreements for American critical minerals for use in American automobiles;  
    • Identify and resolve barriers, and accelerate commercialization and customer adoption;
    • Improve coordination between the mining and automotive sectors; and
    • Support the qualification and procurement of domestically produced materials by American automakers and Tier 1 suppliers.

    The partnership recognizes the value of RecycLiCo’s advanced hydrometallurgical process to recover high-purity, battery-ready materials from newly-mined domestic ore, manufacturing scrap and end-of-life batteries and its potential contribution to onshore sourcing of essential materials and the establishment of a circular supply chain.

    “The historic realignment of the global trading environment, together with governmental initiatives fostering reliance on domestic sources, has highlighted the need for the efficient recovery and refinement of critical minerals. This collaboration with Lucid and our other MINAC partners is a direct response to that need and will help us to validate and scale our technology and work closely with industry leaders,” said Richard Sadowsky, Chief Executive Officer of RecycLiCo.

    As part of the collaboration’s launch, Mr. Sadowsky will join fellow MINAC members for a roundtable and event on July 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. alongside Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, Alaska Senator Dan Sullivan, and Representatives Begich (AK) and Biggs (AZ).

    About RecycLiCo
    RecycLiCo Battery Materials Inc. is a critical minerals refining company specializing in the use of advanced hydrometallurgical technologies for processing mined ore and the upcycling of lithium-ion battery materials. RecycLiCo’s processes efficiently recover battery-ready lithium, cobalt, nickel, and manganese from end-of-life batteries and manufacturing scrap, supporting energy storage as well as broader industrial applications. RecycLiCo’s business focus aligns with the global demand for future-ready, responsible supply chains and the growing movement to strengthen domestic sourcing of critical materials.

    For more information, please contact:
    Paola Ashton
    PRA Communications
    Telephone: 604-681-1407
    Email: pashton@pracommunications.com

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain “forward-looking statements”, which are statements about the future based on current expectations or beliefs. For this purpose, statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward–looking statements by their nature involve risks and uncertainties, and there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate or true. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by law.

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Crypto Analysts Say Bitcoin Swift Is Like Catching Bitcoin Before the First Halving

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LUXEMBOURG, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In 2012, Bitcoin traded under $15, and mining was accessible to anyone with a decent CPU. Fast forward to today, and that window has long closed. But according to crypto analysts, Bitcoin Swift (BTC3) may be the closest modern-day equivalent. With its programmable Proof-of-Yield mining, live AI governance, and a fully functioning smart contract ecosystem, BTC3 is giving investors and developers a second shot at what early Bitcoin once offered: active participation, long-term upside, and immediate earnings.

    The Bitcoin Swift presale launched on July 14 and is gaining momentum fast. Stage 1 offers a $1.00 entry price, with the next stage rising to $2.00 and a $15.00 launch price. Stage 1 APY is 143%, with rewards issued at the end of each presale stage through smart contracts. With only 62 days total, Bitcoin Swift is delivering early access and real utility from day one. You can learn more through Bitcoin Swift.

    A Presale That Pays and Evolves at the Same Time

    Bitcoin Swift doesn’t just sell tokens. It activates programmable mining from day one. Each presale stage ends with a distribution of mining rewards based on the network’s adaptive Proof-of-Yield model. That model tracks real-time usage, carbon efficiency, and validator contributions, then adjusts emissions accordingly.

    AI oracles collect these metrics and feed them directly into the protocol. This enables the network to automatically reward clean energy miners and penalize inefficient activity. Rewards are executed through automated smart contracts, making payouts transparent, trackable, and resistant to manipulation. The reward logic is backed by verified audits including Spywolf and Solidproof, both of which confirm the accuracy and security of BTC3’s programmable systems.

    Bitcoin Swift emphasized investor confidence by completing KYC identity verification, reinforcing its commitment to transparent and ethical practices.

    Dual-Engine Architecture That Locks Down Security

    BTC3 is built on a hybrid consensus model. It combines Proof-of-Work mining with Proof-of-Stake validation. While miners generate SHA-256 blocks, validators finalize checkpoints every 100 blocks, locking in the state of the chain and executing governance decisions.

    This structure provides the brute force security of PoW and the adaptive scalability of PoS. Validators handle DID verification, oracle approvals, and policy enforcement, while miners maintain the network’s operational integrity.

    These operations run on a WASM-compatible smart contract engine embedded with AI agents. Unlike static code, these agents evolve based on user interaction, governance inputs, and environmental data. That makes BTC3 one of the only chains with autonomous contract behavior that adjusts itself based on system health.

    BTC3’s AI oracles support everything from miner reputation scoring to validator uptime and risk modeling. Combined with zk-SNARK layers for private transactions and verifiable credentials, Bitcoin Swift delivers a blend of utility, compliance, and privacy that most first-generation chains never achieved.

    Reputation-Based Governance That Resists Exploitation

    Bitcoin Swift’s governance system avoids the classic failure of one-token-one-vote. Instead, every proposal passes through an AI pre-screening engine and is then subjected to a quadratic voting model. Votes are weighted not just by holdings but by DID reputation scores.

    These scores measure user behavior over time, giving influence to those who contribute meaningfully. Proposal logic, reward parameters, emission schedules, and validator actions are all under this decentralized voting model. Even emergency powers are handled through an on-chain council that prevents gridlock or malicious capture.

    The system evolves through self-regulation. As the Telegram group grows and more users begin to participate in proposals, reputation scores shift. Governance becomes a tool of the many, not the few. And the protocol’s long-term viability grows with each new update voted on and finalized.

    Bitcoin Swift continues to attract attention from the crypto space, with more influencers recognizing its potential. A detailed breakdown from Crypto Nitro highlights why this project is earning serious praise.

    A Roadmap That’s Already Rolling

    Bitcoin Swift is delivering on its roadmap with speed and precision, not distant promises. Every phase adds real functionality while keeping the network’s reward system active. BTC3 continues to evolve while users earn, creating a cycle of growth and participation.

    Key milestones on Bitcoin Swift’s timeline:

    • Q3 2025: Launch of AI smart contract engine and reinforcement learning
    • Q2 2026: Deployment of zk-ledger privacy, shielded DeFi, and zkLogin for Web3 authentication
    • Q4 2026: Migration to native mainnet with a 1:1 trustless bridge from Solana
    • Integration of institutional audit systems and BTC3 stablecoin
    • AI governance simulators to model and test proposals before voting
    • Continuous Proof-of-Yield mining rewards throughout every phase

    Final Verdict

    Crypto veterans often ask, “What would you do if you could go back to 2012?” Bitcoin Swift offers a modern answer. It’s not just a cheap token. It’s a live ecosystem with AI at its core, programmable mining that pays instantly, and governance that evolves intelligently. With just 64 days in the presale and a working protocol already underway, BTC3 is the kind of opportunity people talk about for years. This time, you don’t have to watch from the sidelines.

    For more information on Bitcoin Swift:
    Website: https://bitcoinswift.com

    Contact:
    Luc Schaus
    support@bitcoinswift.com

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: 

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/91083ef5-eabc-4c20-aede-8c0ac08aab38

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/16a8f08a-213b-4a5b-9d59-4ceedf7f3b47

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/20b6a748-3261-460b-b11b-90f7370c6844

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Juniata Valley Financial Corp. Announces Results for the Quarter Ended June 30, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Mifflintown, PA, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Juniata Valley Financial Corp. (OTCQX:JUVF) (“Juniata”), announced net income for the three months ended June 30, 2025 of $1.9 million, an increase of 9.5% compared to net income of $1.7 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024. Earnings per share, basic and diluted, increased 8.6%, to $0.38, during the three months ended June 30, 2025, compared to $0.35 during the three months ended June 30, 2024. Net income was $3.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025, an increase of 26.4% compared to net income of $3.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024. Earnings per share, basic and diluted, increased 25.8%, to $0.78, during the six months ended June 30, 2025, compared to $0.62 during the six months ended June 30, 2024.

    President’s Message

    President and Chief Executive Officer, Marcie A. Barber stated, “We are pleased to announce second quarter net income of $1.9 million which represents a 9.5% increase over the same quarter last year and a year-to-date net income increase of 26.4% compared to the first six months last year. These improvements are due primarily to disciplined loan and deposit pricing and healthy loan growth. Our credit quality remains strong with nonperforming loans totaling 0.1% of the total loan portfolio and delinquent and nonperforming loans comprising 0.3% of the portfolio. We anticipate continued strong loan activity throughout the remainder of 2025, which would be expected to contribute to the positive trend in our net interest margin.”     

    Financial Results Year-to-Date

    Annualized return on average assets for the six months ended June 30, 2025 was 0.92%, an increase of 27.8% compared to the annualized return on average assets of 0.72% for the six months ended June 30, 2024. Annualized return on average equity for the six months ended June 30, 2025 was 15.76%, an increase of 4.1% compared to the annualized return on average equity of 15.14% for the six months ended June 30, 2024.

    Net interest income was $12.0 million during the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to $11.3 million during the comparable 2024 period. Average earning assets decreased $11.6 million, or 1.3%, to $846.3 million, during the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, due primarily to a decrease of $18.2 million, or 5.8%, in average investment securities as principal paydowns on the mortgage-backed securities portfolio were used for funding needs rather than being reinvested into the securities portfolio. This decline was partially offset by a $7.9 million, or 1.5%, increase in average loans over the same six month periods. Average interest bearing liabilities decreased by $13.6 million, or 2.2%, for the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to the six months ended June 30, 2024. This decrease was primarily due to a decline of $26.0 million, or 33.9%, in average borrowings and other interest bearing liabilities, which was partially offset by an increase in average time deposits of $16.2 million, or 8.0%, for the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to the six months ended June 30, 2024.

    The yield on earning assets increased 17 basis points, to 4.46%, for the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to same period last year driven by an increase in loan yields of 18 basis points, while the cost to fund interest earning assets with interest bearing liabilities decreased three basis points, to 2.24%. The net interest margin, on a fully tax equivalent basis, increased from 2.68% for the six months ended June 30, 2024 to 2.89% for the six months ended June 30, 2025.

    Juniata recorded a provision for credit losses of $453,000 in the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to a provision for credit losses of $239,000 in the six months ended June 30, 2024. The increase in the provision for credit losses between six month periods was primarily due to 4.2% growth in total loans in 2025.

    Non-interest income was $2.8 million during both the six months ended June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024. Most significantly impacting the comparative six month periods was an increase of $99,000 in customer service fees in the 2025 period, which was offset by decreases of $75,000 in fees derived from loan activity primarily due to a decline in title insurance commissions, as well as $41,000 in commissions from sales of non-deposit products in the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to the six months ended June 30, 2024.

    Non-interest expense was $9.8 million during the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to $10.3 million during the six months ended June 30, 2024, a decrease of 4.9%. Most significantly impacting non-interest expense in the comparative six month periods were decreases in employee compensation and benefits expenses of $367,000 and $130,000, respectively. The primary drivers for these declines were decreases in employee salary expenses compared to the 2024 period, with the 2024 expenses having been elevated due to overtime pay from the 2024 core conversion and actions taken to optimize staffing levels, and employee benefits expense due to a decrease in medical claims expenses for the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to the six months ended June 30, 2024. Also contributing to the decrease in non-interest expense between the comparative six month periods was a decrease of $80,000 in professional fees. These decreases were partially offset by an increase of $91,000 in equipment expense primarily due to an increase in office depreciation expenses.

    An income tax provision of $700,000 was recorded during the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to an income tax provision of $497,000 recorded during the six months ended June 30, 2024, due primarily to the increase in taxable income in the 2025 period.

    Financial Results for the Quarter

    Annualized return on average assets for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was 0.89%, an increase of 9.9%, compared to 0.81% for the three months ended June 30, 2024. Annualized return on average equity for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was 15.01%, a decrease of 8.4%, compared to 16.38% for the three months ended June 30, 2024.

    Net interest income was $6.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025 compared to $5.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024. Average interest earning assets decreased 1.0%, to $849.8 million, for the three months ended June 30, 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, due to a decrease of $18.3 million, or 5.8%, in average investment securities, which was partially offset by an $11.2 million, or 2.1%, increase in average loans. Average interest bearing liabilities decreased by $11.3 million, or 1.8%, for the three months ended June 30, 2025 compared to the three months ended June 30, 2024. This decrease was primarily due to a decline of $28.1 million, or 38.1%, in average borrowings and other interest bearing liabilities, which was partially offset by increases in average interest bearing demand and time deposits of $4.9 million, or 2.4%, and $14.9 million, or 7.3%, respectively, for the three months ended June 30, 2025 compared to the three months ended June 30, 2024.

    The yield on earning assets increased 14 basis points, to 4.50%, for the three months ended June 30, 2025 compared to same period last year, driven by an increase in loan yields of 11 basis points, while the cost to fund interest earning assets with interest bearing liabilities decreased eight basis points, to 2.21%. The net interest margin, on a fully tax equivalent basis, increased from 2.73% for the three months ended June 30, 2024 to 2.95% for the three months ended June 30, 2025.

    Juniata recorded a provision for credit losses of $349,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2025 compared to a provision for credit losses of $119,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2024. The increase in the provision for credit losses between three month periods was primarily due to growth in outstanding loans in the 2025 period.

    Non-interest income was $1.5 million for both the three months ended June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024. Most significantly impacting non-interest income in the comparative three month periods were decreases of $40,000 in commissions from sales of non-deposit products and $32,000 in trust fees. Partially offsetting these declines were increases of $31,000 in the change in value of equity securities and $44,000 in other non-interest income primarily due to recording an IRS refund on an amended tax return and an increase in online banking fees in the three months ended June 30, 2025 compared the three months ended June 30, 2024.

    Non-interest expense was $5.1 million for both the three months ended June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024. Most significantly impacting non-interest expense in the comparative three month periods was a decrease of $134,000 in employee compensation expense, due primarily to the 2024 expenses having been elevated due to overtime pay from the 2024 core conversion and actions taken to optimize staffing levels. Partially offsetting this decline were increases of $57,000 in taxes, other than income, due to an increase in Pennsylvania Shares Tax expense and $176,000 in other non-interest expense due primarily to an increase in the provision for unfunded commitments in the three months ended June 30, 2025.

    An income tax provision of $329,000 was recorded during the three months ended June 30, 2025 compared to an income tax provision of $296,000 recorded during the three months ended June 30, 2024, primarily due to greater taxable income in the 2025 period.

    Financial Condition

    Total assets as of June 30, 2025 were $866.4 million, an increase of $17.6 million, or 2.1%, compared to total assets of $848.9 million at December 31, 2024. Cash and cash equivalents increased by $1.1 million, or 10.1%, as of June 30, 2025 compared to December 31, 2024, while total debt and equity securities decreased by $4.9 million, or 1.9%, over the same period as cash flows were used for funding needs rather than reinvested into the investment portfolio. Total loans increased by $22.5 million, or 4.2%, as of June 30, 2025 compared to year-end 2024 mainly due to an increase in commercial loans. Total deposits increased by $11.4 million, or 1.5%, as of June 30, 2025 compared to December 31, 2024 due to an increase in interest bearing deposits. Short-term borrowings and repurchase agreements increased by $7.5 million, or 17.7%, as of June 30, 2025 compared to year-end 2024 primarily due to an increase in overnight borrowings, which were used to replace a FHLB long-term advance that matured in June 2025, resulting in the $5.0 million, or 100.0%, decline in long-term debt between comparative periods.

    Juniata maintained a strong liquidity position as of June 30, 2025, with additional borrowing capacity with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh of $203.9 million and $50.7 million in additional borrowing capacity from the Federal Reserve’s Discount Window. In addition, Juniata has internal authorization for brokered deposits of up to $175.0 million. Juniata had no brokered deposits outstanding as of June 30, 2025.

    Subsequent Event

    On July 15, 2025, the Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.22 per share to shareholders of record on August 18, 2025, payable on September 1, 2025.

    Management considers subsequent events occurring after the statement of condition date for matters which may require adjustment to, or disclosure in, the consolidated financial statements. The review period for subsequent events extends up to and including the filing date of a public company’s consolidated financial statements with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, the financial information in this release is subject to change.

    The Juniata Valley Bank, the principal subsidiary of Juniata Valley Financial Corp., is headquartered in Mifflintown, Pennsylvania, with fourteen community offices located in Juniata, Mifflin, Perry, Franklin, McKean and Potter Counties. More information regarding Juniata Valley Financial Corp. and The Juniata Valley Bank can be found online at www.JVBonline.com. Juniata Valley Financial Corp. trades through the OTCQX Best Market under the symbol JUVF.

    Forward-Looking Information

    *This press release may contain “forward looking” information as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements reflect the current views of Juniata’s management with respect to, among other things, future events and Juniata’s financial performance. When words such as “may,” “should,” “could,” “predict,” “potential,” “believe,” “will likely result,” “expect,” “continue,” “will,” “anticipate,” “seek,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “goal,” “target,” “would” and “outlook,” or the negative variations of those words or similar expressions are used in this release, Juniata is making forward-looking statements. Such information is based on Juniata’s current expectations, estimates and projections about future events and financial trends affecting the financial condition of its business, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and beyond the control of Juniata. These statements are not historical facts or guarantees of future performance, events or results and are subject to risks, assumptions and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. If one or more events related to these or other risks or uncertainties materializes, or if underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual results may differ materially from this forward-looking information. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and many factors could affect future financial results. Juniata undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward looking information, whether because of new or updated information, future events, or otherwise. For a more complete discussion of certain risks and uncertainties affecting Juniata, please see the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Forward-Looking Statements” set forth in the Juniata’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Financial Statements

    Juniata Valley Financial Corp. and Subsidiary
    Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition

                 
    (Dollars in thousands, except share data)      (Unaudited)       
        June 30, 2025   December 31, 2024
    ASSETS            
    Cash and due from banks   $ 4,874     $ 5,064  
    Interest bearing deposits with banks     7,237       5,934  
    Cash and cash equivalents     12,111       10,998  
                 
    Equity securities     1,154       1,189  
    Debt securities available for sale     64,231       64,623  
    Debt securities held to maturity (fair value $182,845 and $182,773, respectively)     187,174       191,627  
    Restricted investment in bank stock     2,283       2,530  
    Total loans     556,319       533,869  
    Less: Allowance for credit losses     (6,622 )     (6,183 )
    Total loans, net of allowance for credit losses     549,697       527,686  
    Premises and equipment, net     9,177       9,382  
    Bank owned life insurance and annuities     16,009       15,214  
    Investment in low income housing partnerships     671       832  
    Core deposit and other intangible assets     223       258  
    Goodwill     9,812       9,812  
    Mortgage servicing rights     65       69  
    Deferred tax asset, net     9,004       9,842  
    Accrued interest receivable and other assets     4,823       4,812  
    Total assets   $ 866,434     $ 848,874  
    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY              
    Liabilities:              
    Deposits:              
    Non-interest bearing   $ 192,629     $ 196,801  
    Interest bearing     566,678       551,156  
    Total deposits     759,307       747,957  
                 
    Short-term borrowings and repurchase agreements     49,720       42,242  
    Long-term debt     —       5,000  
    Other interest bearing liabilities     776       830  
    Accrued interest payable and other liabilities     4,250       5,388  
    Total liabilities     814,053       801,417  
    Commitments and contingent liabilities            
    Stockholders’ Equity:              
    Preferred stock, no par value: Authorized – 500,000 shares, none issued     —       —  
    Common stock, par value $1.00 per share: Authorized 20,000,000 shares; Issued – 5,151,279 shares at June 30, 2025 and December 31, 2024; Outstanding – 5,018,799 shares at June 30, 2025 and 5,003,384 shares at December 31, 2024     5,151       5,151  
    Surplus     24,741       24,896  
    Retained earnings     54,840       53,126  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (30,211 )     (33,320 )
    Cost of common stock in Treasury: 132,480 shares at June 30, 2025; 147,895 shares at December 31, 2024     (2,140 )     (2,396 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     52,381       47,457  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 866,434     $ 848,874  

    Juniata Valley Financial Corp. and Subsidiary
    Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)

                             
        Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)   June 30,    June 30, 
           2025      2024   2025      2024  
    Interest income:                
    Loans, including fees   $ 8,112   $ 7,778   $ 15,893   $ 15,245  
    Taxable securities     1,372     1,455     2,737     2,920  
    Tax-exempt securities     30     29     60     59  
    Other interest income     20     49     37     92  
    Total interest income     9,534     9,311     18,727     18,316  
    Interest expense:                            
    Deposits     2,889     2,722     5,692     5,364  
    Short-term borrowings and repurchase agreements     440     712     971     1,410  
    Long-term debt     21     89     51     206  
    Other interest bearing liabilities     7     8     14     17  
    Total interest expense     3,357     3,531     6,728     6,997  
    Net interest income     6,177     5,780     11,999     11,319  
    Provision for credit losses     349     119     453     239  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses     5,828     5,661     11,546     11,080  
    Non-interest income:                            
    Customer service fees     466     456     926     827  
    Debit card fee income     450     470     872     874  
    Earnings on bank-owned life insurance and annuities     62     58     119     114  
    Trust fees     112     144     243     251  
    Commissions from sales of non-deposit products     69     109     170     211  
    Fees derived from loan activity     158     177     273     348  
    Change in value of equity securities     40     9     12     (4 )
    Gain from life insurance proceeds     20     —     20     —  
    Other non-interest income     100     56     188     154  
    Total non-interest income     1,477     1,479     2,823     2,775  
    Non-interest expense:                            
    Employee compensation expense     2,098     2,232     4,073     4,440  
    Employee benefits     502     533     1,048     1,178  
    Occupancy     301     327     667     659  
    Equipment     243     226     460     369  
    Data processing expense     778     815     1,407     1,478  
    Professional fees     247     279     453     533  
    Taxes, other than income     95     38     126     94  
    FDIC Insurance premiums     119     139     254     294  
    Amortization of intangible assets     17     20     35     42  
    Amortization of investment in low-income housing partnerships     80     80     161     161  
    Other non-interest expense     585     409     1,066     1,009  
    Total non-interest expense     5,065     5,098     9,750     10,257  
    Income before income taxes     2,240     2,042     4,619     3,598  
    Income tax provision     329     296     700     497  
    Net income   $ 1,911   $ 1,746   $ 3,919   $ 3,101  
    Earnings per share                            
    Basic   $ 0.38   $ 0.35   $ 0.78   $ 0.62  
    Diluted   $ 0.38   $ 0.35   $ 0.78   $ 0.62  

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Africa: Affluenz Magazine Unveils Commemorative Issue Spotlighting United Arab Emirates (UAE) Founding Father Sheikh Zayed, Noura Al Kaabi, and African Visionary Elvis Sepenya

    Source: APO

    Affluenz Magazine (www.Affluenz.com), International’s leading global luxury, leadership, and impact publication, has officially released its much-anticipated July/August 2025 issue — a special edition commemorating the 20th anniversary of the passing of His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the United Arab Emirates.

    This commemorative edition features a powerful trio of cover stories — spotlighting the enduring legacy of Sheikh Zayed, the cultural diplomacy of UAE’s Minister of State, Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, and the entrepreneurial excellence of Elvis Sepenya, CEO of Skywise Group, one of Africa’s most innovative investment firms.

    This historic issue celebrates Sheikh Zayed’s vision of unity, progress, and inclusion — a legacy that continues to define the modern UAE. Affluenz Magazine delves into his leadership, values, and role in positioning the Emirates as a hub of diplomacy, innovation, and tolerance.

    Also on the cover is Noura Al Kaabi, a global advocate for cultural dialogue and creative economies. In her exclusive interview, she discusses the UAE’s mission to foster global cultural exchange and its investment in youth empowerment across the Arab world and Africa.

    Rounding out the trio is Elvis Sepenya, the young African magnate who has risen to prominence through Skywise Group’s diversified holdings in aviation, real estate, and tech. His story of resilience, reinvention, and corporate leadership offers inspiration for a new generation of African entrepreneurs.

    Beyond the covers, the issue features in-depth profiles on several influential leaders and institutions across Africa and the Middle East — from oil and gas executives and royalty to social innovators and philanthropists — all of whom are making measurable impact in their sectors and communities.

    Beyond its striking covers, the July/August 2025 edition of Affluenz Magazine delivers an enriching array of exclusive features and compelling interviews that spotlight transformative figures shaping Africa and the global stage.

    Among the celebrated personalities is Ameera Abraham, the trailblazing founder of The Nail Bar, who shares her journey in redefining luxury wellness and empowering a new wave of African beautypreneurs. Equally inspiring is Tonya Lawani, the formidable force behind SEAL Group, whose strategic leadership continues to drive innovation and empowerment across industries.

    Linda Turner, founder of Linda Hope Initiatives and CEO of Jat Holdings, exemplifies the powerful blend of business acumen and humanitarian spirit. With ventures spanning real estate, fashion, interior design, and hospitality, she personifies resilience and compassion, balancing her roles as a mother, wife, entrepreneur, and advocate—all grounded in her unwavering commitment to uplifting lives.

    Adunni Rinwa emerges as a beacon of integrity and innovation in Nigeria’s real estate sector. As founder and CEO of Rinwa Realty, she has revolutionized property investment and homeownership, raising the bar for transparency and delivery in the industry.

    The issue also features Hassan Imam, Managing Director of Keystone Bank, recognized for his strategic role in redefining digital banking and financial inclusion in Nigeria. From the UAE, Hussain Abdulrahman Khansaheb is profiled for his contributions to sustainable urban development and visionary leadership in construction and infrastructure.

    Adding to the intellectual gravitas of the edition is Peace Hyde, celebrated media entrepreneur, educator, and founder of Aim Higher Africa. Her voice continues to inspire a generation to dream big and build boldly.

    Together, these stories reflect the essence of Affluenz Magazine: a publication committed to elevating Africa’s voices, capturing legacies in the making, and connecting excellence across continents.

    Founded in 2011 as Pleasures Magazine and rebranded as Affluenz Magazine in 2024, the publication has evolved into a world-class platform that highlights African and Middle Eastern excellence, entrepreneurship, and culture. With editorial offices in Abuja, Dubai,Riyadh Accra, Washington DC and London, the magazine reaches readers in over 103 countries and maintains syndication through platforms like Yahoo Finance, Business Insider, and Washington Times.

    Speaking about the new edition, Executive Publisher Adedotun Olaoluwa remarked:

    “This special issue is not just a tribute to Sheikh Zayed, but a celebration of global visionaries — individuals building bridges across continents. Affluenz continues to be a vessel for celebrating our shared humanity and transformative leadership from Africa to the Middle East.”

    The July/August 2025 issue is now available in digital and print formats across select global outlets, including Barnes & Noble (US), WHSmith (UK), and Virgin Megastore (UAE), as well as through Affluenz’s official website: www.Affluenz.com and Selar (https://apo-opa.co/4f7wBiA).

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Affluenz (formerly Pleasures Magazine).

    Contact:
    Dotmount Communications
    Email: info@affluenz.com
    Instagram: @ affluenzmag
    Phone: +234 816 090 6918
    https://apo-opa.co/4f7wBiA

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican national sentenced to over 11 years for importing nearly $8 million in methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    McALLEN, Texas – A 26-year-old resident of Camargo, Mexico, has been sentenced to federal prison for importing more than 100 kilograms of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Cesar Alejandro Saavedra-Garcia pleaded guilty Feb. 28.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now ordered Saavedra to serve 135 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that Saavedra-Garcia played an integral role in smuggling illegal narcotics into the United States. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the large amount of meth found in Saavedra-Garcia’s vehicle and the fact that he had admitted to transporting narcotics previously. 

    On Dec. 17, 2024, Saavedra-Garcia arrived at the Sarita Border Patrol Checkpoint and claimed he had no illegal drugs in his vehicle. 

    However, at secondary inspection, a K-9 alerted to the odor of narcotics. A subsequent search revealed 112 bricks of methamphetamine hidden in compartments near the vehicle’s cargo bed. 

    The drugs weighed approximately 109 kilograms and had an estimated street value of nearly $7.7 million. 

    At the time of his plea, Saavedra-Garcia admitted he knew he was smuggling narcotics into the United States. 

    Saavedra-Garcia will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Theodore Parran and Avery Benitez prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: California man gets maximum sentence for laundering proceeds from email fraud scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HOUSTON – A San Fernando, California, man has been ordered to federal prison for operating an illegal money transmitting business, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Victor Rubio Jr. 28, pleaded guilty Feb. 6.

    U.S. District Judge George Hanks has now ordered Rubio to serve the maximum 60 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court considered additional evidence about other frauds Rubio committed while on bond in imposing the sentencing, assessing extra points for obstruction of justice. In handing down the sentence, Judge Hanks noted Rubio had committed obstruction after writing his letter to the judge asking for leniency and apologizing for his first crime. 

    Rubio admitted that from 2021 to 2022, he operated an unlicensed money transmitting business that received and transmitted funds from a business email compromise (BEC) scheme. Rubio ran the unlicensed money transmitting business by using shell companies that existed only on paper.

    As part of the plea, Rubio acknowledged opening and maintaining bank accounts to collect money from at least two victims in a BEC scheme, including a healthcare liability insurance company headquartered in Georgia and a township in New Jersey. Then, for a fee, he transmitted the fraud proceeds to co-conspirators.

    In response to fraudulent wire instructions from spoofed email accounts, victims sent interstate wire transfers for payment to Rubio instead of to the true creditors to whom the victims owed money.

    More than 45 people in multiple states, including Rubio and seven others in the Southern District of Texas, have been charged in separate business email compromise schemes that affected numerous victims.

    Previously released on bond, Rubio was taken into custody where he will remain pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    The FBI – Bryan Resident Agency and IRS Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Belinda Beek is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Laredo man with prior murder conviction sentenced to 30 years for smuggling methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAREDO, Texas – A 31-year-old resident of Laredo has been sentenced for illegally importing over 836 kilograms of methamphetamine into the country, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Cornelio Aguilar pleaded guilty July 9, 2024.

    U.S. District Judge Keith Ellison ordered him to serve the 30-year sentence to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard about Aguilar’s violent criminal history, including prior convictions for murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. In imposing the sentence, Judge Ellison noted that this was a serious offense.

    The investigation revealed Aguilar imported two loads of methamphetamine into the United States using tractor trailers between January and June 2022. Hidden inside the bags of charcoal he was hauling were bundles of methamphetamine. 

    Aguilar has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility in the near future.

    Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Chamberlin prosecuted the case.

    OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal alien pleads guilty to leading smuggling organization involving transportation of over 100 persons

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 40-year-old Mexican national who illegally resided in Houston has admitted to an alien smuggling conspiracy and illegal reentry into the country, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    The investigation revealed Edgar Ruiz-Briones arranged transportation and coordinating trips for illegal aliens coming over the southern border with Mexico. Ruiz-Briones was the leader of the smuggling organization, recruiting drivers from as far away as Kansas to come to the Rio Grande Valley.

    Drivers would communicate directly with Ruiz-Briones to set up the trips, give updates on progress and set meeting spots for drop-offs in Houston after successful smuggling operations. They would pick up illegal aliens from different stash houses and transport them to Houston, where they met with Ruiz-Briones before going further into the United States. 

    Ruiz-Briones handled payments from the aliens to come into the United States and payments to the drivers he recruited. 

    Over the course of the 18-month conspiracy, Ruiz-Briones arranged for over 100 aliens to enter, remain and be transported further into the United States.

    An illegal alien himself, having been removed from the United States on multiple occasions, he also pleaded guilty to illegally reentering the United States from Mexico and remaining here in violation of the law.

    U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos will impose sentencing Oct. 30. At that time. Ruiz-Briones faces up to 10 years in federal prison for the alien smuggling conspiracy and 20 years for illegally re-entering the United States.

    Ruiz-Briones has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.

    Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Griffith is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: New York Man Charged For Making And Attempting To Use Improvised Explosive Devices In Manhattan

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton; Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), Christopher G. Raia; and Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), Jessica S. Tisch, announced today charges against MICHAEL GANN alleging that he manufactured at least seven improvised explosive devices (“IEDs”) using precursor chemicals—chemicals that can be combined to create an explosive mixture—that he had ordered on the internet, stored at least five IEDs and shotgun shells on adjoining rooftops of residential apartment buildings in the SoHo neighborhood of Manhattan, threw at least one IED onto the subway tracks of the Williamsburg Bridge, and subsequently lied to law enforcement about having disposed of his explosives and supplies in a dumpster.  This case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Dale E. Ho.

    “The safety of New Yorkers is paramount,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton.  “As alleged, Michael Gann built explosive devices, stored them on a rooftop in SoHo, and threw one onto the subway tracks—putting countless lives at risk.  Thanks to swift work by our law enforcement partners, no one was harmed.  That vigilance assuredly prevented a tragedy in New York.”

    “Michael Gann allegedly produced multiple improvised explosive devices intended for use in Manhattan,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia.  “Due to the successful partnership of law enforcement agencies in New York, Gann was swiftly brought to justice before he could harm innocent civilians shortly after his dangerous actions became known.  The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is enduring in its commitment and determination to protect the homeland.”

    “This defendant allegedly stockpiled homemade explosives and traveled to New York City with these deadly devices,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch.  “He threw one of these devices onto an active subway track and stored others on the rooftop of a residential building, but because of the skilled investigative work and swift response from the NYPD and our partners, we were able to intervene before he caused any harm.  I am grateful to the members of the NYPD, FBI, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for all the work they do every day to keep New Yorkers safe.”

    As alleged in the Complaint, Indictment, and public court filings:[1]

    In or about May 2025, GANN ordered approximately two pounds of potassium perchlorate and approximately one pound of aluminum powder—precursor chemicals—online, along with over 200 cardboard tubes and over 50-feet worth of fuses.  In or about early June 2025, GANN received his packages containing the precursor chemicals and other supplies, mixed the precursor chemicals together, applied a flame to the mixture, and caused an explosion.  GANN subsequently assembled at least seven IEDs using the precursor chemicals, cardboard tubes, and fuses.

    GANN stored the precursor chemicals and at least five IEDs, pictured below, on the rooftops of residential apartment buildings in SoHo.  The pictured black device contained approximately 30 grams of explosive powder—approximately 600 times the legal limit for consumer fireworks.

    GANN also stored at least four shotgun shells on the same rooftops, which he intended to combine with one or more of the IEDs.

    GANN threw a sixth IED onto the subway tracks on the Williamsburg Bridge, as pictured below.

    On or about June 5, 2025, law enforcement agents arrested GANN in SoHo, incident to which they recovered a seventh IED from GANN’s person.  Following GANN’s arrest, GANN falsely told law enforcement, in substance and in part, that he had disposed of the precursor chemicals and the shotgun shells in a dumpster in Manhattan.

    In or about May and June 2025, GANN conducted internet searches related to explosives and firearms, including: “will i pass a background check,” “gun background check test,” “can i buy a gun in any state without ffl [federal firearms license],” “3D gun printing,” “gun stores,” “clorine bomb,” “how to make flash powder from household items,” “what to mix with potassium perchlorate to make flash powder,” “alluminum powder,” “black powder nearby,” “quarter stick m1000 firecracker,” “1/2 stick dynamite,” and “rechargeable nail gun to shoot into steal.”

    On or about June 5, 2025, just hours before GANN was arrested with an IED on his person, GANN posted to Instagram, “Who wants me to go out to play like no tomorrow?”

    *               *                *

    GANN, 55, of Inwood, New York, is charged with one count of attempted destruction of property by means of explosives, which carries a mandatory minimum of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of transportation of explosive materials, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison; and one count of unlawful possession of destructive devices, which also carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.

    The minimum and maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge.

    Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding efforts of the New York Joint Terrorism Task Force of the FBI, which consists of investigators and analysts from the FBI, NYPD, and over 50 other federal, state, and local agencies; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Nassau County Police Department; and the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

    This case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and International Narcotics Unit.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan L. Bodansky, Michael D. Lockard, and Chelsea L. Scism, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Isaacson, are in charge of the prosecution.


    [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the charging instruments and other public filings to date constitute only allegations, and every fact described herein should be treated as an allegation.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: DRUG TRAFFICKER SENTENCED TO 120 MONTHS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR ROLE IN DRUG TRAFFICKING GANG

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    St. Thomas, VI – Acting United States Attorney Adam F. Sleeper announced today that on
    Tuesday, July 22, 2025, Kai James, 37, of St. Croix, was sentenced to 10 years in prison and six years
    of supervised release by District Judge Mark A. Kearney. He pleaded guilty on January 23, 2025, to
    conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana for his role in a drug trafficking
    conspiracy led by James and his brother, Ivan James. Other members in the James gang, Ivan James,
    Joh Williams, Malachi Benjamin, Ariel Petersen, Jahkiebo Joseph, Tillisa Ceaser, and Luis Ortiz, Jr.,
    all of St. Croix, were previously sentenced by Judge Kearney for their roles in the drug trafficking
    conspiracy.
    According to court documents and evidence introduced at the trial of Ivan James and Joh
    Williams and other hearings, the investigation into the James drug trafficking organization began in
    January 2013 after Bureau of Corrections officers at the Golden Grove Correctional Facility seized
    an iPhone from then-inmate Joh Williams. A search of the cell phone seized from Williams revealed
    text messages related to smuggling and distribution of controlled substances in the prison. Thereafter,
    Drug Enforcement Administration obtained authorization to intercept calls from a second cell phone
    used by Williams while incarcerated. The wire investigation revealed evidence of distribution of
    controlled substances within the facility by Williams, supplied by Ivan James. The investigation
    further revealed that Vivian Ford, a former corrections officer, was a member of James’ organization
    who smuggled narcotics into Golden Grove in food containers for distribution by Williams.
    Members of the gang who worked at the Henry Rohlsen Airport in St. Croix used their
    secured access to smuggle multiple kilograms of cocaine per week onboard commercial aircrafts
    destined for the continental United States. Testimony revealed that Ivan and Kai James recruited
    couriers to deliver bricks of cocaine as passengers on board commercial flights. As a
    manager/supervisor in the drug trafficking gang, Kai James used as many as 10 couriers to travel to
    New York, North Carolina, and Florida with 2 to 3 kilograms of cocaine per trip in this broad and
    brazen drug trafficking operation.
    In addition, a search warrant was executed on the family home of Ivan and Kai James. Law
    enforcement recovered marijuana, cocaine, and marijuana cultivation equipment. In a field adjacent
    to the property, agents seized over 1,000 marijuana plants.
    A federal jury found Ivan James guilty on drug conspiracy, possession of 1,000 marijuana
    plants, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug conspiracy and possession of firearms resulting
    in the death of Levar Pogson. On his conviction, Judge Kearney sentenced James to 420 months of
    imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release. Joh Williams was also found guilty on
    the drug conspiracy charge and was sentenced to 90 months of imprisonment, followed by seven
    years of supervised release. Ariel Petersen and Jahkiebo Joseph pleaded guilty to possession of
    firearms in furtherance of a drug conspiracy and importation of firearms. Petersen was sentenced to
    93 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, and Joseph was sentenced
    to 68 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. Malachi Benjamin
    pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug conspiracy and was sentenced to 72
    months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. Tillisa Ceaser and Luis Ortiz,
    Jr. both pleaded guilty to drug conspiracy. Ceaser was sentenced to 62 months of imprisonment, and
    Ortiz was sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment.
    “Due to the tremendous work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security
    Investigations, Customs and Border Patrol, the Virgin Islands Police Department and the Bureau of
    Corrections, the members of this drug trafficking organization have received just and lengthy
    sentences for their involvement in these crimes,” said Acting United States Attorney Adam Sleeper.
    “This sentence sends a clear message, and it is credited to the extensive collaboration between
    federal and local law enforcement partners. Our joint efforts are essential in the U.S. Virgin Islands
    towards combatting drug trafficking, weapons trafficking, and the myriads of other illicit activities of
    transnational criminal organizations in our area of responsibility,” said Homeland Security
    Investigations Special Agent in Charge Rebecca Gonzalez-Ramos.
    “The guilty plea of Kai James represents a decisive blow against the violent narcotics
    conspiracy that plagued the people of St. Croix for far too long,” stated DEA Caribbean Division
    Special Agent in Charge Michael A. Miranda. “This case underscores the unwavering commitment
    of the DEA and our law enforcement partners to dismantle criminal organizations that threaten the
    safety and well-being of our communities. We are proud to have worked alongside the USAO, HSI,
    FBI, CBP, and ATF to bring justice to those impacted by these crimes. Let this serve as a clear
    message: we will not relent in our fight to protect the Caribbean from the scourge of drug trafficking
    and violence.”
    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF)
    investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money
    launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a
    prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal,
    state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security
    Investigations, Customs and Border Patrol, Virgin Islands Police Department and the Bureau of
    Corrections. It was prosecuted by former United States Attorney Delia Smith, Acting Assistant United
    States Attorney Adam Sleeper, and lead OCDETF attorney Kyle Payne.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Puerto Rican Man Sentenced to 137 Months in Prison for Cocaine Smuggling

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. THOMAS – Acting U.S. Attorney Adan F. Sleeper announced today that Brian Santiago
    Gonzalez, 25, of Puerto Rico, was sentenced on July 1, 2025, by Chief District Judge Robert A.
    Molloy to 137 months’ imprisonment and 4 years of supervised release after pleading guilty to
    one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine on December 9, 2024.
     

    According to court documents, on March 29, 2022, Brian Santiago Gonzalez and co-defendant
    Wesly Albert Amaro were stopped in the waters near Savanah Island, just west of St. Thomas,
    USVI. At approximately 4:00 a.m., the United States Coast Guard (USCG) detected a vessel
    operating without navigation lights traveling at a high rate of speed from Culebra, PR towards
    Hendrick Bay, St. Thomas. Customs and Boarder Protection Air and Marine (AMO) vessels
    responded as the USCG provided updates on the vessel’s location. AMO agents located the lightsout
    vessel using radar and attempted a stop. The vessel fled while the two men onboard jettisoned
    bags overboard. The vessel would not heave to, so AMO agents disabled the vessel’s engine.
    During the chase, AMO agents marked the locations where duffle bags were discarded from the
    vessel. Upon returning to the marked areas, AMO agents recovered three duffel bags containing
    79 kilograms of cocaine.
     

    Wesly Albert Amaro was sentenced to 108 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised
    release on August 18, 202, following his guilty plea.
    CBP-AMO, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and Homeland Security Investigations
    investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Payne prosecuted the case.
     

    This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation.
    OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten
    the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional
    information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Ethereum-Based Meme Coin Little Pepe Stage 7 Sold Out and $11,225,000 Raised

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Little Pepe ($LILPEPE), the Ethereum-based meme coin that’s taken the crypto market by storm, has sold out Stage 7 of its presale—marking a great milestone in its journey so far. With 8.25 billion tokens sold and a total of $11,225,000 raised, Little Pepe is proving that meme coins with real application cannot only seize interest but also preserve explosive momentum.

    The huge milestone indicates the growing pleasure around the project, which is built on an Ethereum-based Layer 2 network that offers quicker, less expensive transactions and scalable infrastructure. As Stage 7 closes and Stage 8 looms, investors and analysts alike are searching closely to see simply how far this viral sensation can move.

    $LILPEPE Stage 7 Presale Sold Out

    Stage 7 of the Little Pepe presale was met with huge demand, in the long run selling out in less than 48 hours. The $0.0016 token price didn’t deter buyers—in fact, it encouraged a surge of last-minute activity as investors rushed to secure their allocations before the next price increase.

    The rapid sellout highlights not only the growing reputation of $LILPEPE but also the strategic pricing model that rewards early backers at the same time as retaining sustained buying for strain throughout each stage. The total tokens sold now stand at over 8.25 billion, an impressive feat that places Little Pepe among the most successful meme coin launches of the year.

    Built on Ethereum, Powered by Layer 2

    At the heart of Little Pepe’s achievement is its meme technology. Unlike many meme coins that launch without long-term utility, Little Pepe operates on a custom-built Layer 2 blockchain that is fully like-minded with Ethereum’s Virtual Machine (EVM). This allows users to interact with Ethereum gear while enjoying quicker and notably cheaper transactions.

    The Ethereum-compatible Layer 2 design means builders can, without difficulty, build decentralized applications (dApps) on the network, while users can stake, trade, and mint NFTs without the high gas expenses normally associated with Ethereum. This mixture of utility and accessibility is a key element in why investors are flocking to the project.

    Little Pepe Ecosystem on the Rise

    Little Pepe is not stopping at presale success. The team has laid out a detailed roadmap. Already, upcoming dApps and Layer 2 incentives for developers are generating buzz.

    Future stages of the presale are expected to introduce even more features, with Stage 8 priced higher and likely to sell out quickly given the trend. Exchange listings are also on the horizon, which could introduce a new wave of liquidity and visibility for the token. Moreover, the project is planning token burns and community reward programs to help maintain long-term value for holders and increase scarcity over time.

    What’s Next for $LILPEPE?

    With Stage 7 now behind it, Little Pepe is entering Stage 8 with strong tailwinds. The token price will increase, making early investors even more satisfied with their entry points. At the same time, the project continues to focus on product development and exchange partnerships that will bring even more attention to the token once presale phases are completed.

    As centralized exchange listings near, many in the crypto space are eyeing Little Pepe as a potential breakout star—one that combines the fun of meme culture with the fundamentals of utility and scalability.

    Little Pepe’s success in Stage 7 is more than just another crypto milestone. By selling out 8.25 billion tokens and raising $11,225,000 in record time, $LILPEPE has firmly positioned itself as a frontrunner in the next generation of meme coins. With its Ethereum-compatible Layer 2 network, strong community support, and a roadmap packed with features, Little Pepe is proving that meme coins can be more than hype—they can be powerful platforms.

    As Stage 8 begins and the crypto world watches closely, one thing is clear: Little Pepe is no longer just riding the meme coin wave—it’s leading it.

    About Little Pepe

    Little Pepe is a next-gen Layer 2 blockchain designed to merge meme culture with high-speed, low-cost decentralized infrastructure. Built for scalability, security, and accessibility, Little Pepe supports EVM-compatible applications and is powered by means of the $LILPEPE token. The project’s mission is to create a meme coin environment wherein utility meets virality, empowering users through cutting-edge technology and lightning-fast transactions.

    For more information:
    Website: https://littlepepe.com/
    Telegram: https://t.me/littlepepetoken
    Twitter: https://x.com/littlepepetoken

    Contact Details: COO- James Stephen Email: media@littlepepe.com

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5851699f-8cd3-47e3-882a-cffda1ec6ef2

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Graphjet visited by Japanese trading company

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, United States, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Graphjet Technology (“Graphjet” or “the Company”) was honoured to welcome a delegation from a Japanese trading company with international presence for an official visit on JULY 23, 2025 to discuss on the provision of sustainable graphite materials to their customers.

    This visit highlights the Japanese trading company’s strong interest in Graphjet’s proprietary technology, which utilize palm kernel shells as a renewable feedstock to produce high purity synthetic graphite. This patented process significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional graphite production methods, aligning with global efforts toward decarbonization and green manufacturing.

    With over 75 years of history, this renowned Japanese enterprise is one of the major integrated trading houses in Asia, actively engaged in diverse sectors including aerospace components, advanced machinery and automation systems, and chemical products, it serves industry leaders across multiple sector for customers like Toshiba and Hitachi. With annual revenue of around ¥‎30 billion, the firm maintains operations in North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia.

    During the visit, the delegation toured Graphjet’s R&D production facilities, gaining valuable insights into the company’s manufacturing process and quality assurance system.

    “This engagement marks a meaningful step forward in strengthening mutual understanding and laying the groundwork for future collaboration in the field of sustainable graphite and next generation technology.” said Chris Lai the CEO of Graphjet.

    Graphjet Technology remains committed to advancing green innovation and building strong partnership with global industry leaders to drive sustainable progress in the graphite and graphene sector.

    About Graphjet Technology Sdn. Bhd.

    Graphjet Technology Sdn. Bhd. (Nasdaq: GTI) was founded in 2019 in Malaysia as an innovative graphene and graphite producer. Graphjet Technology has the world’s first patented technology to recycle palm kernel shells generated in the production of palm seed oil to produce single layer graphene and artificial graphite. Graphjet’s sustainable production methods utilizing palm kernel shells, a waste agricultural product that is common in Malaysia, will set a new shift in graphite and graphene supply chain of the world. For more information, please visit https://www.graphjettech.com/.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    The information in this press release contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “strategy,” “aim,” “future,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result” and similar expressions, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ from their expectations, estimates and projections and consequently, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release, including but not limited to: (i) changes in the markets in which Graphjet competes, including with respect to its competitive landscape, technology evolution or regulatory changes; (ii) the risk that Graphjet will need to raise additional capital to execute its business plans, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all; (iii) Graphjet is beginning the commercialization of its technology and it may not have an accurate estimate of future capital expenditures and future revenue; (iv) statements regarding Graphjet’s industry and market size; (v) financial condition and performance of Graphjet, including the anticipated benefits, the implied enterprise value, the financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, the products, the expected future performance and market opportunities of Graphjet; (vi) Graphjet’s ability to develop and manufacture its graphene and graphite products; and (vii) those factors discussed in our filings with the SEC. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties that will be described in the “Risk Factors” section of the documents to be filed by Graphjet from time to time with the SEC. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward- looking statements, and while Graphjet may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, they assume no obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable law. Graphjet does not give any assurance that Graphjet will achieve its expectations.

    Graphjet Technology Contacts

    Investors
    ceo.office@graphjettech.com

    Media
    ceo.office@graphjettech.com

    ###

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Varonis Secures HDS Certification, Strengthening Commitment to Health Data Protection in France

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Certification affirms that Varonis’ cloud-native Data Security Platform meets stringent legal requirements for safeguarding personal medical information

    MIAMI, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Varonis Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: VRNS), the leader in data security, announced it achieved Hébergeur de Données de Santé (Health Data Hosting) certification. This certification is a prerequisite for any organization wishing to host health data in France and provides a framework for the security and protection of personal health data.

    The certification demonstrates Varonis’ ability to meet the requirements as defined in the HDS Referential version 2.0.

    “Varonis is dedicated to upholding the highest international standards for data security,” said Gilad Raz, CIO and VP of Technical Services at Varonis. “Achieving the HDS certification reinforces our commitment to protecting our customers’ health data and complying with local regulations.”

    The HDS accreditation enables Varonis to serve French healthcare customers who are legally required to use HDS-certified providers, meet stringent regulatory requirements, expand its footprint in EU healthcare markets, and reinforce trust by ensuring data handling adheres to the highest standards of confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

    To explore the full list of Varonis certifications, visit www.varonis.com/trust.

    Additional Resources

    About Varonis
    Varonis (Nasdaq: VRNS) is the leader in data security, fighting a different battle than conventional cybersecurity companies. Our cloud-native Data Security Platform continuously discovers and classifies critical data, removes exposures, and detects advanced threats with AI-powered automation.

    Thousands of organizations worldwide trust Varonis to defend their data wherever it lives — across SaaS, IaaS, and hybrid cloud environments. Customers use Varonis to automate a wide range of security outcomes, including data security posture management (DSPM), data classification, data access governance (DAG), data detection and response (DDR), data loss prevention (DLP), AI security, identity protection, and insider risk management.

    Varonis protects data first, not last. Learn more at www.varonis.com.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Tim Perz
    Varonis Systems, Inc.
    646-640-2112
    investors@varonis.com

    News Media Contact:
    Rachel Hunt
    Varonis Systems, Inc.
    877-292-8767 (ext. 1598)
    pr@varonis.com

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Varonis Secures HDS Certification, Strengthening Commitment to Health Data Protection in France

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Certification affirms that Varonis’ cloud-native Data Security Platform meets stringent legal requirements for safeguarding personal medical information

    MIAMI, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Varonis Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq: VRNS), the leader in data security, announced it achieved Hébergeur de Données de Santé (Health Data Hosting) certification. This certification is a prerequisite for any organization wishing to host health data in France and provides a framework for the security and protection of personal health data.

    The certification demonstrates Varonis’ ability to meet the requirements as defined in the HDS Referential version 2.0.

    “Varonis is dedicated to upholding the highest international standards for data security,” said Gilad Raz, CIO and VP of Technical Services at Varonis. “Achieving the HDS certification reinforces our commitment to protecting our customers’ health data and complying with local regulations.”

    The HDS accreditation enables Varonis to serve French healthcare customers who are legally required to use HDS-certified providers, meet stringent regulatory requirements, expand its footprint in EU healthcare markets, and reinforce trust by ensuring data handling adheres to the highest standards of confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

    To explore the full list of Varonis certifications, visit www.varonis.com/trust.

    Additional Resources

    About Varonis
    Varonis (Nasdaq: VRNS) is the leader in data security, fighting a different battle than conventional cybersecurity companies. Our cloud-native Data Security Platform continuously discovers and classifies critical data, removes exposures, and detects advanced threats with AI-powered automation.

    Thousands of organizations worldwide trust Varonis to defend their data wherever it lives — across SaaS, IaaS, and hybrid cloud environments. Customers use Varonis to automate a wide range of security outcomes, including data security posture management (DSPM), data classification, data access governance (DAG), data detection and response (DDR), data loss prevention (DLP), AI security, identity protection, and insider risk management.

    Varonis protects data first, not last. Learn more at www.varonis.com.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Tim Perz
    Varonis Systems, Inc.
    646-640-2112
    investors@varonis.com

    News Media Contact:
    Rachel Hunt
    Varonis Systems, Inc.
    877-292-8767 (ext. 1598)
    pr@varonis.com

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Grayscale Investments® Low-Cost Bitcoin ETP (Ticker: BTC) Surpasses $5,000,000,000 in AUM Within First Year and Expands Access Through Major Wealth Management Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    STAMFORD, Conn., July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Grayscale Investments®, the world’s largest digital asset-focused investment platform, today announced that Grayscale® Bitcoin Mini Trust ETF (NYSE Arca: BTC), has garnered over $5,000,000,000 in assets under management (AUM) since launching on July 31, 2024.1

    Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust ETF (“BTC”), an exchange traded product, is not registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”) and therefore is not subject to the same regulations and protections as 1940 Act-registered ETFs and mutual funds. 

    “The momentum behind BTC underscores the growing role of crypto in diversified portfolios,” said John Hoffman, Grayscale’s Head of Distribution and Partnerships. “BTC continues to establish itself as a leading ETP for Bitcoin exposure among asset allocators, and its recent milestones reflect strong investor demand and increasing institutional utilization.”

    Since launch, Grayscale® Bitcoin Mini Trust ETF (NYSE Arca: BTC) has steadily attracted a growing share of spot Bitcoin ETP inflows in the U.S., supported by its low annual fee of 0.15% (15 basis points2) and performance benefits. As of July 14, 2025, BTC surpassed $5B in AUM within its first year – a milestone achieved by only nine ETF products.3

    In addition, BTC is now available for advisor solicitation on a major national broker-dealer platform, allowing financial advisors and wealth managers to incorporate BTC more easily into client portfolios. This expanded access reflects a broader trend of growing institutional interest in digital asset products and a shift toward Bitcoin exposure as part of diversified investment strategies.

    “Over the past decade, we’ve seen digital assets evolve from the fringes of portfolio construction into a credible option in mainstream asset allocation conversations,” Hoffman added. “At Grayscale, we remain focused on delivering investment vehicles through familiar, established structures, enabling allocators to access this asset class with confidence as it becomes an integral component of modern portfolios.”

    The Grayscale team is pleased to provide industry-leading research, content, and no-cost resources for investors and financial professionals. If you’d like to learn more about our product suite, please email info@grayscale.com or call 866-775-0313 to speak directly to a member of the Grayscale team.  

    For additional information about BTC, please visit: https://etfs.grayscale.com/btc  

    1 Source: Bloomberg L.P.
    2 Basis Points (BPs) are a unit of measure used to indicate percentage changes in financial instruments
    3 Excluding mutual fund conversions, based in the U.S.

    Please read the prospectuses carefully before investing in BTC. Foreside Fund Services, LLC is the Marketing Agent for BTC. 

    An investment in BTC is subject to a high degree of risk and heightened volatility. BTC is not suitable for an investor that cannot afford the loss of the entire investment. An investment in BTC is not an investment in Bitcoin. Investing involves significant risk, including possible loss of principal.   

    There is no guarantee that a market for the shares will be available which will adversely impact the liquidity of BTC. The value of BTC relates directly to the value of the underlying digital asset, the value of which may be highly volatile and subject to fluctuations due to a number of factors.

    About Grayscale Investments® 
    Grayscale enables investors to access the digital economy through a family of future-forward investment products. Founded in 2013, Grayscale has a decade-long track record and deep expertise as a digital asset-focused investment platform. Investors, advisors, and allocators turn to Grayscale for single asset, diversified, and thematic exposure. Grayscale products are distributed by Grayscale Securities, LLC (Member FINRA/SIPC).

    Media Contact
    press@grayscale.com

    Client Contact
    866-775-0313
    info@grayscale.com

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Grayscale Investments® Low-Cost Bitcoin ETP (Ticker: BTC) Surpasses $5,000,000,000 in AUM Within First Year and Expands Access Through Major Wealth Management Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    STAMFORD, Conn., July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Grayscale Investments®, the world’s largest digital asset-focused investment platform, today announced that Grayscale® Bitcoin Mini Trust ETF (NYSE Arca: BTC), has garnered over $5,000,000,000 in assets under management (AUM) since launching on July 31, 2024.1

    Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust ETF (“BTC”), an exchange traded product, is not registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”) and therefore is not subject to the same regulations and protections as 1940 Act-registered ETFs and mutual funds. 

    “The momentum behind BTC underscores the growing role of crypto in diversified portfolios,” said John Hoffman, Grayscale’s Head of Distribution and Partnerships. “BTC continues to establish itself as a leading ETP for Bitcoin exposure among asset allocators, and its recent milestones reflect strong investor demand and increasing institutional utilization.”

    Since launch, Grayscale® Bitcoin Mini Trust ETF (NYSE Arca: BTC) has steadily attracted a growing share of spot Bitcoin ETP inflows in the U.S., supported by its low annual fee of 0.15% (15 basis points2) and performance benefits. As of July 14, 2025, BTC surpassed $5B in AUM within its first year – a milestone achieved by only nine ETF products.3

    In addition, BTC is now available for advisor solicitation on a major national broker-dealer platform, allowing financial advisors and wealth managers to incorporate BTC more easily into client portfolios. This expanded access reflects a broader trend of growing institutional interest in digital asset products and a shift toward Bitcoin exposure as part of diversified investment strategies.

    “Over the past decade, we’ve seen digital assets evolve from the fringes of portfolio construction into a credible option in mainstream asset allocation conversations,” Hoffman added. “At Grayscale, we remain focused on delivering investment vehicles through familiar, established structures, enabling allocators to access this asset class with confidence as it becomes an integral component of modern portfolios.”

    The Grayscale team is pleased to provide industry-leading research, content, and no-cost resources for investors and financial professionals. If you’d like to learn more about our product suite, please email info@grayscale.com or call 866-775-0313 to speak directly to a member of the Grayscale team.  

    For additional information about BTC, please visit: https://etfs.grayscale.com/btc  

    1 Source: Bloomberg L.P.
    2 Basis Points (BPs) are a unit of measure used to indicate percentage changes in financial instruments
    3 Excluding mutual fund conversions, based in the U.S.

    Please read the prospectuses carefully before investing in BTC. Foreside Fund Services, LLC is the Marketing Agent for BTC. 

    An investment in BTC is subject to a high degree of risk and heightened volatility. BTC is not suitable for an investor that cannot afford the loss of the entire investment. An investment in BTC is not an investment in Bitcoin. Investing involves significant risk, including possible loss of principal.   

    There is no guarantee that a market for the shares will be available which will adversely impact the liquidity of BTC. The value of BTC relates directly to the value of the underlying digital asset, the value of which may be highly volatile and subject to fluctuations due to a number of factors.

    About Grayscale Investments® 
    Grayscale enables investors to access the digital economy through a family of future-forward investment products. Founded in 2013, Grayscale has a decade-long track record and deep expertise as a digital asset-focused investment platform. Investors, advisors, and allocators turn to Grayscale for single asset, diversified, and thematic exposure. Grayscale products are distributed by Grayscale Securities, LLC (Member FINRA/SIPC).

    Media Contact
    press@grayscale.com

    Client Contact
    866-775-0313
    info@grayscale.com

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Pacvue Partners with Unlimitail, a Leading European Grocery Media Network, to Expand Retail Media Access Across Europe, Starting with Carrefour

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pacvue today announced a strategic partnership with Unlimitail, the retail media network serving over 35 leading retailers across Europe and Latin America.

    This collaboration will expand Pacvue clients’ self-service capabilities by enabling brands and agencies to activate campaigns across Unlimitail’s network via Pacvue’s commerce operating system. It also unlocks incremental demand by opening access to global and regional budgets through Pacvue’s platform. The partnership will begin with Carrefour, the number one grocery player in Europe, with campaigns launchable starting this summer in France.

    This integration reflects the increasing maturity of Europe’s retail media landscape and aligns with the best practices established in the most advanced markets. It also showcases Unlimitail’s and Pacvue’s continued investments in creating a more unified, standardized, and accessible ecosystem through streamlined platforms and partner integrations.

    Through this integration, Pacvue now offers streamlined access to Carrefour France’s onsite media inventory, allowing brands and agencies to seamlessly plan, launch, and optimize retail media campaigns with greater precision, efficiency, and control. The partnership will progressively expand to other countries and other retailers in Europe.

    Strategic Impact for brands and agencies

    This partnership, enabled by Unlimitail’s exclusive retail media offering and ad tech infrastructure, positions Pacvue clients to capitalize on the growth of the European retail media market with more personalized campaigns, real-time optimization, and access to one of the region’s most influential grocery retail media channels.

    This partnership will bring key benefits to brands:

    • Access to exclusive retail media inventory: Activate campaigns across Unlimitail onsite media inventories, starting with Carrefour in France. Reach shoppers in high-impact placements throughout the whole purchase journey.
    • Performance measurement powered by transactional data: Use Pacvue’s platform to monitor and optimize campaigns in real time, with performance insights enriched by retailer’s transactional data.
    • Streamlined access to a top-tier retail media networks: Leverage Pacvue’s platform to easily activate and manage campaigns across one of Europe’s most influential retail media networks and advanced retailers, with centralized visibility and control. This global connectivity for brands and agencies will bring Europe closer to the most mature markets in retail media.

    “At Unlimitail, our mission is to make omnichannel retail media simpler, smarter, and more impactful for brands. Partnering with Pacvue, the worldwide leading Commerce platform, does exactly that, by allowing us to expand the accessibility of our retailer’s inventories to more global agencies and advertisers. This global connectivity, powered by Pacvue tools, is a significant step in steering the European markets towards the most mature countries in retail media. More than ever, we are committed to lead the way in helping brands put retail media at the core of their Marketing & Commerce strategies,” declares Thibault Hennion, COO of Unlimitail.

    Victor De La Fuente, the Head of Global eCommerce at Nestle, shared, “We’re thrilled about the opportunities this partnership between Unlimitail and Pacvue brings. Accessing and managing Carrefour’s data through the Pacvue solution marks a significant advancement in our retail digital media initiatives across Europe, enhancing operational efficiency and driving performance.”

    Unlocking Carrefour’s Retail Media Ecosystem

    This partnership will start by providing access to Carrefour inventories in France. Carrefour.fr welcomes close to 17 million unique monthly visitors, with nearly 2 million new visitors added in the past year (source: Médiamétrie net ratings, February 2025). In France, 1 in 4 people now visit the retailer regularly, with 97% of shoppers still shopping through the website at least 2 years after their first purchase (source: Kantar).

    With such a loyal and high-traffic environment, Unlimitail and Carrefour offer a strong foundation for performance. According to Unlimitail’s latest benchmark study, Retail Media Decoded, Sponsored Product campaigns in Europe on grocery reach an average click-through rate around 1,0%, with 1-1 ROAS above 3x and Halo ROAS around 6x, demonstrating the power of well-executed activations and their impact not only on products, but brands as a whole.

    Pacvue’s Investment in European Expansion

    This announcement comes as Pacvue deepens its investment in Europe with the appointment of Mark James as VP, Head of EMEA. With over 15 years of experience in retail media and digital advertising, James will support the company’s continued growth and localized value for brands across the region.

    The partnership with Unlimitail underscores Pacvue’s commitment to expanding its European footprint. Backed by Mark James’ 15+ years of experience in retail media and digital advertising, the company is well-positioned to capitalize on growth opportunities and foster them for clients in the EMEA region.

    Pacvue CRO Ross McNab commented: “Mark is the ideal leader to drive Pacvue’s growth across the EMEA region. He has deep expertise in retail media and a proven track record. Coupled with our partnership with Unlimitail, this is a big leap forward in our mission to give brands a competitive advantage through cutting-edge retail media capabilities.”

    Romain Schneider, eRetail Media Director at WPP, underscored what this move signals for the brands and advertisers: “We’re always looking for innovative, scalable ways to drive meaningful outcomes for our clients at WPP. The partnership between Pacvue and Carrefour represents a significant advancement for retail media in Europe. Access to Carrefour’s high-traffic, data-rich ecosystem via Pacvue’s platform gives our brands unprecedented precision, speed, and control in campaign execution.”

    About Unlimitail, The Retail Media Powerhouse

    Unlimitail is a global retail media platform enabling brands and retailers to deploy simplified, unified, and optimized retail media strategies. Through deep consumer insights, omnichannel campaign activation, and end-to-end measurement, Unlimitail helps drive visibility and generate sales.

    The company stands out for its advanced advertising technologies through Epsilon Retail Media, offering unified onsite and offsite solutions, as well as its global reach and premium data assets. Unlimitail aggregates over 2 billion monthly page views and connects more than 220 million addressable customers worldwide through 35 retail partners.

    For more information, visit www.unlimitail.com

    Unlimitail Communications Department: communication@unlimitail.com

    About Pacvue

    Pacvue is the leading commerce acceleration platform that integrates retail media, commerce management and measurement. The company’s first-to-market platform drives incrementality, profitability and market share for brands, while turning insights into actionable recommendations. Backed by a global team of experts, Pacvue works with over 70,000 brands and agencies across 95+ retailers worldwide including Amazon, Walmart, Target and Instacart. With the incorporation of Pacvue’s enterprise solution with Helium 10 for SMBs, Pacvue is now the most comprehensive commerce and retail media platform available in the market. Founded in 2018, their global presence includes locations in Chicago, Seattle, New York, Los Angeles, Washington DC, London, Shanghai and Tokyo.

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Endeavor Bancorp Reports Net Income of $1.1 Million for the Second Quarter of 2025; Highlighted by Continued Loan and Deposit Growth, and NIM Expansion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Endeavor Bancorp (OTCQX: EDVR) (the “Company” or “Bancorp”), the holding company for Endeavor Bank (the “Bank”), today reported net income of $1.07 million, or $0.25 per diluted share, for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $1.36 million, or $0.32 per diluted share, for the first quarter of 2025, and $760,000, or $0.18 per diluted share, for the second quarter of 2024. All financial results are unaudited.

    “Our second quarter results reflect the strength of our core banking franchise and the disciplined execution of our strategic growth plan,” said Julie Glance, CFO. “We continued to grow loans and deposits during the quarter while maintaining a strong net interest margin, demonstrating the resilience of our business model in an uncertain interest rate environment. Our strategic investments in talent and infrastructure are starting to deliver measurable returns, enhancing both operational efficiency and client service. As we look ahead, we remain focused on driving sustainable, profitable growth and creating long-term value for our shareholders.”

    Results for the second quarter of 2025 included a $746,000 provision for credit losses, reflecting continued prudent credit risk management amid a growing loan portfolio. This compared to a $385,000 provision for credit losses in the first quarter of 2025, and a $451,000 provision for credit losses in the second quarter of 2024. Excluding taxes and loan loss provisions, pretax, pre-provision net income was $2.28 million, consistent with the prior quarter’s $2.33 million, and up from $1.55 million in the second quarter of 2024.

    Income Statement 

    Strong first quarter earnings were driven by loan growth and earning asset rates. Total interest income on loans and bank deposits and investments was $11.6 million, an increase of $504,000 compared to the preceding quarter, while total interest expenses increased $128,000 during the same timeframe. Net interest income was $7.4 million in the second quarter of 2025, which was an increase of $376,000, or 5.4% compared to the preceding quarter and a 37.8% increase compared to the second quarter of 2024.

    “Our net interest margin expanded by nine basis points in the second quarter of 2025 compared to the prior quarter, driven primarily by strong loan growth and continued improvement in our funding costs,” said Dan Yates, CEO. “This positive trend reflects not only solid execution on the asset side of the balance sheet but also disciplined management of our deposit base in a competitive rate environment. We remain proactive in optimizing our asset-liability mix to safeguard and enhance margin performance, while maintaining prudent risk management and offering attractive pricing to our clients. As interest rate dynamics evolve, we are confident in our ability to navigate the environment effectively, positioning us to sustain earnings momentum.”

    The Company’s net interest margin increased nine basis points to 4.21% in the second quarter of 2025 compared to 4.12% in the first quarter of 2025 and increased 51 basis points compared to 3.70% in the second quarter of 2024. The yield on total earning assets remained strong, increasing 10 basis points during the second quarter of 2025 to 6.62%, compared to 6.52% in the preceding quarter, and up from 6.33% in the second quarter of 2024. The cost of deposits decreased to 2.57% in the second quarter, compared to 2.58% in the first quarter of 2025, and down from 2.84% in the second quarter of 2024.

    Non-Interest income was $276,000 in the second quarter of 2025, an increase of $93,000 or 50.5% compared to the first quarter of 2025, and a decrease compared to $390,000 in the second quarter of 2024.

    Non-Interest expense was $5.4 million in the second quarter of 2025, an increase of $521,000 compared to the first quarter of 2025, and an increase of $1.2 million compared to the second quarter of 2024. Included in non-interest expense during the second quarter of 2025 was $263,000 in annual board compensation. In the prior year annual board compensation of $312,000 was paid during the first quarter of 2024. The higher expenses year-over-year were also due to strategic investment in staff. “In 2024, we made strategic investments in talent, increasing our headcount by over 30%. These additions are now delivering strong returns, with revenue growth fueled by our enhanced capabilities more than offsetting the associated rise in expenses year-over-year. Our improved efficiency ratio, which declined to 70.3% during the second quarter of 2025 from 75.8% during the second quarter of 2024, further demonstrates that the team we built last year is now fully ramped and highly productive. With fewer new hires planned for the remainder of the year, we remain focused on maximizing the impact of our expanded workforce and are well positioned to drive continued earnings growth,” said Yates.

    The Company’s annualized return on average equity for the second quarter of 2025 was 8.75%, compared to 11.68% in the first quarter of 2025 and 6.96% in the second quarter of 2024. The annualized return on average assets for the second quarter of 2025 was 0.60% compared to 0.79% in the first quarter of 2025 and 0.52% in the second quarter of 2024. The decrease compared to the prior quarter was primarily due to the previously mentioned board expense along with one-time consulting expense associated with contract renegotiation during the second quarter of 2025.

    Balance Sheet 

    Total assets increased by $42.3 million, or 6.0%, during the second quarter of 2025 to $746.9 million at June 30, 2025, compared to $704.6 million at March 31, 2025, and increased $153.1 million, or 25.8%, compared to June 30, 2024. Balance sheet liquidity remains strong with cash balances of $87.4 million, which represents 11.7% of total assets as of June 30, 2025. The Company’s investment securities increased $1.7 million during the second quarter of 2025 to $28.1 million as of June 30, 2025, representing 3.8% of total assets. Total available borrowing capacity through the Federal Home Loan Bank and the Federal Reserve discount window totaled $245.3 million as of quarter end.

    “We are pleased with the continued progress in our deposit-gathering and lending efforts, which reflects the strength of our client relationships and the effectiveness of our strategy,” said Steve Sefton, President. “Our team remains focused on delivering tailored financial solutions to our business clients, while maintaining disciplined underwriting and sound risk management. As we continue to deepen these relationships, we are well positioned to drive sustainable growth and long-term value.”

    Total loans outstanding increased $28.1 million, or 4.7%, during the second quarter of 2025 to $625.9 million at June 30, 2025, compared to $597.8 million three months earlier, and increased $142.5 million, or 29.5%, when compared to $483.4 million a year earlier. Total non-performing loans decreased to 0.32% of the total loan portfolio as of June 30, 2025, compared to 0.40% as of March 31, 2025. The Company had $421,000 in net charge-offs during the second quarter of 2025, which included one loan that had previously been reserved for. This compared to zero in net charge-offs during the preceding quarter and the year ago quarter.

    Total deposits increased $41.2 million, or 6.6%, during the quarter to $667.4 million at June 30, 2025, compared to $626.2 million three months earlier, and increased $149.2 million, up 28.8% when compared to $518.2 million a year earlier. The loan to deposit ratio was 93.8% at June 30, 2025, compared to 95.5% at March 31, 2025, and 92.9% as of June 30, 2024. “We are strategically managing our balance sheet with a target loan to deposit ratio of 95% as we aim for the right balance between strong lending activity and liquidity,” added Sefton.

    As a result of its participation in reciprocal deposit placement networks, the Bank accepted “reciprocal” deposits from other institutions, enabling the Bank to offer customers FDIC insurance on accounts in excess of the typical $250,000 FDIC insurance limit. Although the reciprocal deposits maintained through the network are core deposits seeking FDIC insurance, the FDIC rules indicate that reciprocal deposits aggregating over 20% of total liabilities are classified as deposits obtained by or through a deposit broker. The total reciprocal deposits reported as brokered deposits were $133.3 million at June 30, 2025, and $102.5 million as of March 31, 2025. To support strong loan growth, the Company is utilizing a conservative amount of wholesale deposits. As of June 30, 2025, total wholesale deposits, excluding the reciprocal deposits, was $56.8 million, representing 8.5% of total deposits compared to $55.7 million, or 8.9% of total deposits as of March 31, 2025.

    Shareholders’ equity was $48.9 million at June 30, 2025, compared to $47.7 million at March 31, 2025, and $44.1 million at June 30, 2024. Tangible book value per share increased to $13.64 at June 30, 2025, compared to $13.49 three months earlier and $12.55 a year earlier.

    Capital 
    The Bank’s Tier 1 leverage ratio was 10.60% as of June 30, 2025, compared to 10.57% at March 31, 2025. The Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio was 10.20% as of June 30, 2025, compared to 10.47% on March 31, 2025, and the Total risk-based capital ratio was 11.37% compared to 11.65% three months earlier, all of which were well above regulatory minimums.

    About Endeavor Bancorp 

    Endeavor Bancorp, the holding company for Endeavor Bank, is primarily owned and operated by Southern Californians for Southern California businesses and their owners. The bank’s focus is local: local decision-making, local board, local founders, local owners, and relationships with local clients in Southern California.

    Headquartered in downtown San Diego in the Symphony Towers building, the Bank also operates a loan production and executive administration office in Carlsbad, as well as a branch office in La Mesa. In addition, the Bank maintains production teams throughout Southern California. Endeavor Bank provides traditional business banking services across a broad spectrum of industries and specialties. Unique to the bank is its consultative banking approach that partners our business clients with Endeavor Bank’s senior management. Together, we build strategies and provide resources that solve problems, plan for the future, and help clients’ efforts to grow revenues and profits. Endeavor Bancorp trades on the OTCQX® Best Market under the symbol “EDVR.” Visit www.endeavor.bank for more information.

    Endeavor Bank is rated by Bauer Financial as Five-Star “Superior” for strong financial performance, the top rating given by the independent bank rating firm. DepositAccounts.com awarded Endeavor Bank an A rating.

    EDVR Shareholders 

    With many of our shareholders transferring their EDVR shares to their brokerage companies, along with ongoing trading taking place, Bancorp may not have the most current shareholder contact information. If you are an EDVR shareholder and would like to receive information via a more timely method, please complete the Shareholder Communication Preference Form on our website: https://www.bankendeavor.com/investor-relations so we can keep you updated on EDVR news, and invite you to various shareholder networking events throughout the year. 

    Forward-Looking Statements 

    This press release includes “forward-looking statements,” as such term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on the current beliefs of the Company’s directors and executive officers (collectively, “Management”), as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company’s Management. All statements regarding the Company’s business strategy and plans and objectives of Management of the Company for future operations, are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect” and “intend” and words or phrases of similar meaning, as they relate to the Company or the Company’s Management, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations (“cautionary statements”) are loan losses, rapid and unanticipated deposit withdrawals, unavailability of sources of liquidity, additional regulatory requirements that may be imposed on community banks or banks generally, changes in interest rates, loss of key personnel, lower lending limits and capital than competitors, regulatory restrictions and oversight of the Company, the secure and effective implementation of technology, risks related to the local and national economy, the effect on customers, collateral value and property insurance markets of the recent wildfires in the Los Angeles metropolitan area and similar events in the future, changes in real estate values, the Company’s implementation of its business plans and management of growth, loan performance, interest rates, and regulatory matters, the effects of trade, monetary and fiscal policies, inflation, and changes in accounting policies and practices. Based upon changing conditions, if any one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if any underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described as anticipated, believed, estimated, expected, or intended. The Company does not intend to update these forward-looking statements.

    SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA        
    (In thousands of dollars, except for ratios and per share amounts)    
    Unaudited        
             
        June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2024
        (Consolidated) (Consolidated) (Consolidated)
    SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS        
    Interest income   $ 11,623   $ 11,119   $ 9,203  
    Interest expense     4,234     4,106     3,840  
    Net interest income     7,389     7,013     5,363  
    Provision for credit losses     746     385     451  
    Net interest income after loss provision     6,643     6,628     4,912  
    Non-interest income     276     183     390  
    Non-interest expense     5,385     4,864     4,205  
    Income before tax     1,533     1,947     1,097  
    Federal income tax expense     294     372     215  
    State income tax expense     172     214     121  
    Net income   $ 1,067   $ 1,361   $ 760  
             
    Core pretax earnings*   $ 2,279   $ 2,332   $ 1,548  
    *excludes taxes and provision for loan losses        
             
    PER COMMON SHARE DATA        
    Number of shares outstanding (000s)*     3,586     3,503     3,493  
    *Adjusted for May 2024 Stock Dividend        
    Earnings per share, basic   $ 0.30   $ 0.39   $ 0.22  
    Earnings per share, diluted   $ 0.25   $ 0.32   $ 0.18  
    Book Value per share   $ 13.64   $ 13.61   $ 12.61  
             
    BALANCE SHEET DATA        
    Assets   $ 746,907   $ 704,564   $ 593,803  
    Investments securities     28,117     26,385     18,204  
    Total loans, net of unearned income     625,912     597,846     483,411  
    Total deposits     667,408     626,165     518,230  
    Borrowings     26,746     26,721     26,648  
    Shareholders’ equity     48,905     47,667     44,051  
    Loan to Deposit ratio     93.78 %   95.48 %   93.28 %
    Wholesale Deposits to Total Deposits     8.50 %   8.90 %   0.00 %
             
    AVERAGE BALANCE SHEET DATA        
    Average assets   $ 712,281   $ 697,617   $ 590,625  
    Average total loans, net of unearned income     611,480     589,037     461,476  
    Average total deposits     632,477     618,844     515,457  
    Average shareholders’ equity     48,909     47,256     43,825  
             
    ASSET QUALITY RATIOS        
    Net (charge-offs) recoveries   $ 421   $ –   $ –  
    Net (charge-offs) recoveries to average loans     0.28 %   0.00 %   0.00 %
    Non-performing loans as a % of loans     0.32 %   0.40 %   0.06 %
    Non-performing assets as a % of assets     0.27 %   0.34 %   0.05 %
    Allowance for loan losses as a % of total loans     1.36 %   1.36 %   1.42 %
    Non-performing assets as a % of allowance for loan losses   23.37 %   29.60 %   22.94 %
             
    FINANCIAL RATIOSSTATISTICS        
    Annualized return on average equity     8.75 %   11.68 %   6.96 %
    Annualized return on average assets     0.60 %   0.79 %   0.52 %
    Net interest margin     4.21 %   4.12 %   3.70 %
    Efficiency ratio     70.27 %   67.59 %   75.75 %
             
    CAPITAL RATIOS        
    Tier 1 leverage ratio — Bank   10.60 %   10.57 %   11.70 %
    Common equity tier 1 ratio — Bank     10.20 %   10.47 %   11.84 %
    Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio — Bank   10.20 %   10.47 %   11.84 %
    Total risk-based capital ratio –Bank   11.37 %   11.65 %   13.04 %
             
    TCE/TA *     6.55 %   6.77 %   7.42 %
    Tangible Book Value per Share   $ 13.64   $ 13.49   $ 12.55  
             
    *Non-GAAP financial measure.        
    Unaudited financials 2025        

    Endeavor Bancorp Contact Information:  
    (858) 230.5185  
    Dan Yates, CEO  
    dyates@bankendeavor.com

    (858) 230.4243  
    Steve Sefton, President  
    ssefton@bankendeavor.com  

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: FFB Bancorp Announces Second Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FRESNO, Calif., July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FFB Bancorp (the “Company”) (OTCQX: FFBB), the parent company of FFB Bank (the “Bank”), today reported net income of $6.04 million, or $1.94 per diluted share, for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $8.08 million, or $2.54 per diluted share, for the second quarter of 2024, and $8.10 million, or $2.55 per diluted share, for the first quarter of 2025.

    For the six months ended June 30, 2025, net income was $14.13 million, or $4.50 per diluted share, compared to $15.87 million, or $4.99 per diluted share, for the same period in 2024. All results are unaudited.

    Second Quarter 2025 Summary: As of, or for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, compared to the quarter ended June 30, 2024:

    • Operating revenue (net interest income, before the provision for credit losses, plus non-interest income) increased 11% to $27.35 million.
    • Pre-tax, pre-provision income increased 1% to $11.58 million.
    • Net income decreased 25% to $6.04 million.
    • Return on average equity (“ROAE”) was 13.75%.
    • Return on average assets (“ROAA”) was 1.59%.
    • Net interest margin contracted 22 basis points to 5.09% from 5.31%.
    • Total assets increased 2% to $1.47 billion.
    • Total portfolio of loans increased 13% to $1.09 billion.
    • Total deposits increased 6% to $1.23 billion.
    • Shareholder equity increased 17% to $173.91 million.
    • Book value per common share increased 22% to $56.87.
    • The Company’s tangible common equity ratio was 11.80%, while the Bank’s regulatory leverage capital ratio was 14.41%, and the total risk-based capital ratio was 20.61% at June 30, 2025.

    “During the quarter FFB Bank was recognized as #1 in American Banker’s top-performing public banks with under $2B in assets and #34 in S&P Global’s 100 best-performing US community banks of 2024, for bank’s under $3B in assets,” said Steve Miller, President & CEO. “This recognition is a testament to the consistent success we’ve enjoyed, and a reminder of the results we expect and continue to strive toward. As we navigate the challenges this year has brought, we’re proud to build upon our history of success.”

    “During the quarter we have made continued and timely progress on the matters outlined in our consent order, although ultimate compliance will be determined by our regulators. We are confident we can continue to address these items going forward. Although the added resource allocation to properly address the order will have near-term impacts to our performance, we feel that building a best in-class compliance and risk frame-work will enable the bank to drive results over the long-term.”

    Update on Stock Repurchase Program:

    On January 22, 2025, the Company announced that it had authorized a plan to utilize up to $15.0 million of capital to repurchase shares of the Company’s common stock. As of June 30, 2025, the Company has repurchased 133,021 shares, at an average price of $76.79, totaling $10.22 million. This represents approximately 5.33% of total shareholders’ equity at June 30, 2025. During the second quarter of 2025 the Company repurchased 91,106 shares, at an average price of $74.58, totaling $6.79 million. These purchases represent approximately 3.54% of total shareholders’ equity at June 30, 2025.

    Under the terms of the repurchase plan, the Company may repurchase shares of the Company’s common stock from time to time, through December 31, 2025, in open market purchases or privately negotiated transactions. Repurchases under the plan may also be made pursuant to a trading plan under Securities and Exchange Commission Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which would permit shares to be repurchased by the Company when the Company might otherwise be precluded from doing so because of self-imposed trading blackout periods or other regulatory restrictions. The timing, manner, price and exact amount of any repurchases by the Company will be determined at the Company’s discretion and depend on various factors including the performance of the Company’s stock price, general market and economic conditions, applicable legal and regulatory requirements, availability of funds, and other relevant factors. Through December 31, 2025, the repurchase plan may be discontinued, suspended or restarted at any time.

    Results of Operations

    Quarter ended June 30, 2025:

    Operating revenue, consisting of net interest income before the provision for credit losses and non-interest income, increased 11% to $27.35 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $24.73 million for the second quarter a year ago, and decreased 4% from $28.48 million for the first quarter of 2025.

    Net interest income, before the provision for credit losses, increased 5% to $18.11 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $17.31 million for the same quarter a year ago, and decreased 4% to $18.90 million from last quarter. “Net interest income has benefited from strong loan portfolio growth, partially offset by higher funding costs,” said Bhavneet Gill, Chief Financial Officer. “We have been able to capitalize on a higher yielding loan portfolio, but that yield was impacted by a $261,000 interest reversal as loans, totaling $11.86 million, were placed on non-accrual during the quarter.”

    The Company’s net interest margin (“NIM”) decreased by 22 basis points to 5.09% for the second quarter of 2025, compared to 5.31% for the second quarter of 2024, and decreased 26 basis points from 5.35% for the preceding quarter. “The decrease in NIM is primarily the result of an increase in deposit and borrowing interest expense, and the decrease in investment interest income. During the quarter, average non-interest bearing deposits decreased $37.67 million. The resulting shift in the deposit portfolio saw the cost of deposits increase 13 basis points,” noted Gill. “During the second quarter of 2025 we sold $48.05 million in investment securities to generate liquidity ahead of anticipated deposit outflows due to ISO partner exits. That transaction was the driver of the decrease in investment interest income in the current quarter and will result in lower investment income in future quarters.”

    The yield on earning assets was 6.18% for the second quarter of 2025, compared to 6.40% for the second quarter a year ago, and 6.31% for the previous quarter. The cost to fund earning assets increased to 1.09% for the second quarter of 2025 compared to 0.96% for the previous quarter, and 1.10% for the same quarter a year earlier. This increase is the result of an increase in brokered deposits and overnight borrowings during the quarter due to ISO deposit outflow that occurred in early June.

    Total non-interest income was $9.24 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $7.42 million for the second quarter of 2024, and $9.58 million for the previous quarter. The increase in non-interest income, from the second quarter of 2024, was driven by more gain on the sale of loans, higher merchant services revenue, and a reduction in loss on sale of investments. The quarter-over-quarter decrease in non-interest income was attributed to a decrease in merchant services revenue, partially offset by more gain on the sale of loans.

    Merchant services revenue increased 9% to $6.61 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $6.07 million from the second quarter of 2024. The increase over prior year was primarily related to higher volume across ISO partner sponsorship lines and higher gross revenue related to FFB Payments. Merchant services revenue decreased from $7.86 million when compared to the first quarter of 2025 as a result of seasonality and the loss of a significant FFB Payments direct merchant.

    During the first and second quarters of 2025, ISO Partner Sponsorship volumes included $2.78 billion and $2.56 billion in volume, respectively, for the ISO partners that were exited in the second quarter of 2025. Additionally, the first and second quarters of 2025 included ISO Partner Sponsorship revenues of $990,000 and $1.09 million, respectively, from the ISO partners that were exited in the second quarter of 2025. “These ISO exits were driven by our efforts to comply with the Consent Order and designed to ensure best in class oversight. We anticipate replacing this volume and revenue through growth in FFB Payments and with our remaining ISO partners as we move forward,” said Miller.

    Merchant ISO Processing Volumes(in thousands)
    Source   Q2 2025 Q1 2025 Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Q2 2024
    ISO Partner Sponsorship   $ 5,347,695   $ 5,007,998   $ 4,891,643   $ 4,556,868   $ 4,391,365  
    FFB Payments – Sub-ISO Merchants     20,766     21,551     22,950     24,661     24,414  
    FFB Payments – Direct Merchants     71,746     97,095     91,133     64,512     76,059  
    Total volume   $ 5,440,207   $ 5,126,644   $ 5,005,726   $ 4,646,041   $ 4,491,838  
    Merchant ISO Processing Revenues(in thousands)
    Source of Revenue   Q2 2025 Q1 2025 Q4 2024 Q3 2024 Q2 2024
    Net Revenue*:            
    ISO Partner Sponsorship   $ 2,654   $ 2,410   $ 2,535   $ 2,284   $ 2,156  
                 
    Gross Revenue:            
    FFB Payments – Sub-ISO Merchants     727     745     764     810     795  
    FFB Payments – Direct Merchants     3,228     4,709     4,262     2,476     3,117  
          3,955     5,454     5,026     3,286     3,912  
    Gross Expense:            
    FFB Payments – Sub-ISO Merchants     708     616     638     723     675  
    FFB Payments – Direct Merchants     2,179     2,558     2,511     1,766     1,989  
          2,887     3,174     3,149     2,489     2,664  
    Net Revenue:            
    FFB Payments – Sub-ISO Merchants     19     129     126     87     120  
    FFB Payments – Direct Merchants     1,049     2,151     1,751     710     1,128  
    FFB Payments Net Revenue     1,068     2,280     1,877     797     1,248  
    Net Merchant Services Income:   $ 3,722   $ 4,690   $ 4,412   $ 3,081   $ 3,404  
    *ISO Partnership Sponsorship is recognized net of expense in Merchant Services Income. FFB Payments revenues are recognized gross in Merchant Services Income and Merchant Services expenses are recognized in Non-Interest Expense.

    Total deposit fee income increased 1% to $854,000 for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $847,000 for the second quarter of 2024, and increased 1% from $849,000 for the previous quarter.

    There was a $1.45 million gain on the sale of loans during the second quarter of 2025, compared to a gain on the sale of loans of $509,000 during the second quarter 2024, and a gain on the sale of loans of $261,000 in the previous quarter. There was a $243,000 loss on the sale of investments during the second quarter of 2025, compared to a $459,000 loss recorded during the second quarter of 2024, and no loss recorded in the previous quarter. The gain on the sale of loans was the result of $16.95 million in SBA loans sold and a $31.77 million RE-multifamily loan sale package that was completed during the quarter. These sales contributed $968,000 and $482,000 in gain respectively.

    Non-interest expense increased 19% to $15.77 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $13.29 million for the second quarter 2024, and decreased 4% from $16.47 million from the previous quarter. The increase on a year-over-year comparison was driven by increases in salaries and employee benefits expense, and increases in other operating expense, primarily data and software related expenses and professional fees. Compared to the first quarter of 2025 the decrease in non-interest expense was attributed to a decrease in merchant services operating expenses, marketing expense, director fess, and operational losses.

    Salaries and employee benefits increased 19% to $8.00 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $6.72 million for the second quarter 2024. The increase year-over-year was primarily the result of expense associated with the increase in full-time employees. Full-time employees increased to 181 at June 30, 2025, compared to 147 full-time employees a year earlier, and 175 full-time employees from the previous quarter. Total salaries and employee benefits decreased 1% from $8.06 million in the previous quarter. The decrease when compared to the first quarter of 2025 is the result of a decrease in payroll tax expense and increased loan originations, partially offset by higher salary expense from additional full-time employees. Compensation related direct costs associated with loan originations offset salary and employee benefits expense upon loan origination.

    Occupancy and equipment expenses decreased 19% from a year ago, representing 2% of non-interest expense, and remained consistent with the preceding quarter. Merchant operating expense totaled $2.89 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $2.66 million for the second quarter of 2024 and $3.17 million for the previous quarter. The change in merchant operating expense is attributed to fluctuations in volume and revenue for the FFB Payments lines of business. Merchant operating expenses include interchange fees, chargebacks, partnership fees, and other card brand fees.

    Other operating expense increased 31% or $1.07 million to $4.53 million from a year earlier and decreased 7% or $357,000 from the previous quarter. The year-over-year increase was driven by increases of $458,000 in data and software related expense, $327,000 in professional fees, $136,000 in regulatory assessment expense, and $127,000 in marketing expense. The increase in data and software expense and professional fees, which include legal, audit, and consulting fees, are primarily due to actions taken to enhance the Company’s AML/CFT, compliance, and merchant services programs.

    The efficiency ratio was 57.15% for the second quarter of 2025, compared to 52.74% for the same quarter a year ago, and 57.83% for the preceding quarter. The efficiency ratio can fluctuate period-over-period based on changes in merchant services’ gross revenues and associated expenses. The Company also calculates an adjusted efficiency ratio where the merchant services’ gross expense, which is included in non-interest expense, is netted against merchant services’ revenue in non-interest income. The adjusted efficiency ratio was 52.14% for the second quarter of 2025, compared to 47.15% for the same quarter a year ago, and 52.54% for the previous quarter.

    “Over the last few quarters, we’ve made intentional investments in people and technology to ensure that the bank can efficiently scale moving forward, and specifically to support our payment ecosystem, product development, regional expansion, and compliance/risk management initiatives. We saw elevated legal, audit, and technology related expenses in the first half of the year mostly related to addressing the Consent Order,” said Miller.

    Six months ended June 30, 2025:

    For the six months ended June 30, 2025, operating revenue increased 15% to $55.83 million, compared to $48.34 million for the same period in 2024. For the six months ended June 30, 2025, net interest income before the provision for credit losses increased 11% to $37.01 million, compared to $33.44 million for the same period in 2024. The increase in revenue is attributed to growth in the loan portfolio, partially offset by a decrease in investment interest income, an increase in interest bearing liabilities, and the cost of funds. For the six months ended June 30, 2025, the yield on earning assets was 6.24% compared to 6.27% for the same period in 2024, while the cost to fund earning assets was 1.02% for the six months ended June 30, 2025, compared to 1.05% for the same period in 2024.

    For the six months ended June 30, 2025, non-interest income increased 26% to $18.82 million compared to $14.90 million for the same period in 2024. Deposit fee income increased 4% to $1.70 million resulting from growth in business demand deposit accounts. The year-over-year growth in non-interest income was also largely attributable to the decrease in loss on sale of investments, an increase in the gain on sale of loans, and an increase in merchant services revenue.

    For the six months ended June 30, 2025, operating expenses increased by 24% to $32.24 million from $25.99 million for the same period in 2024. Salaries and employee benefits expense increased 21% to $16.06 million as a result of the increase in FTE. There was a 21% increase in merchant services operating expenses, to $6.06 million, which represents 19% of total operating expenses for six months ended June 30, 2025. Other operating expenses increased 38% to $9.41 million due to a $711,000 increase in technology related expenses, increases of $683,000 in professional fees, and increase of $389,000 in marketing expense, and a $293,000 increase in operational losses.

    For the six months ended June 30, 2025, the efficiency ratio was 57.49%, compared to 52.85% for the same period ended June 30, 2024. The adjusted efficiency ratio was 52.34%, compared to 47.48% for the same period ended June 30, 2024.

    Balance Sheet Review

    Total assets increased 2% to $1.47 billion at June 30, 2025, compared to $1.44 billion at June 30, 2024, and decreased 6% compared to March 31, 2025.

    The total portfolio of loans increased 13%, or $122.20 million, to $1.09 billion, compared to $969.76 million at June 30, 2024, and remained consistent with the $1.09 billion reported at March 31, 2025.

    Commercial real estate loans increased 22% year-over-year to $683.74 million, representing 63% of total loans at June 30, 2025. The CRE portfolio includes approximately $254.16 million in multi-family loans originated by the Southern California team that the Company may consider selling at some point in the future for liquidity and concentration management. The multi-family portfolio includes $74.32 million in short-term bridge loans for transitional projects of multi-family properties. The short-term bridge loans are conservatively underwritten with minimum DSCR and liquidity requirements. The bank continues to market our bridge loan product in a more measured approach, keeping to our conservative underwriting standards. The real estate construction and land development loan portfolio decreased 84% from a year ago to $12.78 million, representing 1% of total loans, while residential RE 1-4 family loans totaled $17.07 million, or 2% of loans, at June 30, 2025, compared to $17.44 million one year ago.

    The commercial and industrial (C&I) portfolio increased 15% to $266.81 million, at June 30, 2025, compared to $232.79 million a year earlier, and increased 3% from $260.06 million at March 31, 2025. C&I loans represented 24% of total loans at June 30, 2025. Agriculture loans represented 10% of the loan portfolio at June 30, 2025. At June 30, 2025, the SBA, USDA, and other government agencies guaranteed loans totaled $53.36 million, or 4.9% of the loan portfolio.

    Investment securities totaled $254.18 million at June 30, 2025, compared to $345.49 million a year earlier, and decreased $59.65 million from $313.83 million at March 31, 2025. Investment securities were sold during the quarter to generate liquidity ahead of anticipated deposit outflows due to ISO partner exits. The investment portfolio consists of mortgage-backed and municipal securities, both tax exempt and taxable, treasury securities as well as other domestic debt. At June 30, 2025, the Company had a net unrealized loss position on its investment securities portfolio of $25.41 million, compared to a net unrealized loss of $24.50 million at March 31, 2025. The Company’s investment securities portfolio had an effective duration of 6.26 years at June 30, 2025, compared to 5.61 years at March 31, 2025.

    Total deposits increased 6%, or $65.69 million, to $1.23 billion at June 30, 2025, compared to $1.17 billion from a year earlier, and decreased $85.73 million from $1.32 billion at March 31, 2025. Non-interest bearing demand deposits increased 4% to $759.30 million at June 30, 2025, compared to $731.03 million at June 30, 2024, and decreased $66.10 million from $825.40 million at March 31, 2025. Non-interest bearing demand deposits represented 61% of total deposits at June 30, 2025. During the second quarter of 2025 non-interest bearing demand deposits were reduced by $111.20 million due to ISO partner exits completed in early June 2025. Certificates of deposits increased 49%, or $55.01 million, during the quarter primarily due to the addition of $51.00 million in brokered deposits that mature over the next 12 months.

    Included in non-interest bearing deposits at June 30, 2025 are $75.83 million from ISO partners for merchant reserves, $45.24 million from ISO partners for settlement, and $11.61 million in ISO partner operating accounts, totaling $132.68 million. These deposits represent 17.5% of non-interest bearing deposits and 10.7% of total deposits.

    Within the $132.68 million in ISO partner deposits retained as of June 30, 2025 are $29.56 million in deposits for ISO partners being exited in the second half of 2025. The Bank plans to replace these non-interest bearing deposits with growth from new Bank customers in its markets and from the existing ISO partners it will continue to support. In the short-term, the new deposit growth will likely be made up of a higher percentage of interest bearing deposits.

    There was $16.00 million in short-term borrowings at June 30, 2025, compared to $68.00 million at June 30, 2024, and $10.00 million at March 31, 2025. The Company primarily utilizes FHLB advances and the Federal Reserve discount window for short-term borrowings. The following table summarizes the Company’s primary and secondary sources of liquidity which were available at June 30, 2025:

    Liquidity Source
    (in thousands)
      June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025
           
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 77,244   $ 103,071  
    Unpledged investment securities, fair value     67,952     104,732  
    FHLB advance capacity     293,198     338,036  
    Federal Reserve discount window capacity     162,755     130,590  
    Correspondent bank unsecured lines of credit     71,500     71,500  
        $ 672,649   $ 747,929  

    The total primary and secondary liquidity of $672.65 million at June 30, 2025 represents a decrease of $75.28 million in primary and secondary liquidity quarter-over-quarter. The decreases in unpledged investment securities and the FHLB advance capacity are the result of investment and loan sales that occurred during the quarter.

    Shareholders’ equity increased 17% to $173.91 million at June 30, 2025, compared to $148.64 million from a year ago, and decreased slightly from the $174.71 million reported at March 31, 2025. Book value per common share increased 22% to $56.87, at June 30, 2025, compared to $46.79 at June 30, 2024, and increased 2% from $55.52 at March 31, 2025. The tangible common equity ratio was 11.80% at June 30, 2025, compared to 10.30% a year earlier, and 11.20% at March 31, 2025. Book value improved as a result of quarterly net income and a reduction in shares outstanding through the bank’s strategic share repurchase program.

    At the Bank level, unrealized losses and gains reflected in AOCI are not included in regulatory capital. As a result, Tier-1 capital at the Bank for regulatory purposes was $222.14 million at quarter end excluding the unrealized loss. The regulatory leverage capital ratio was 14.41% for the current quarter, while the total risk-based capital ratio was 20.61%, exceeding regulatory minimums to be considered well-capitalized.

    Asset Quality

    Nonperforming assets, which consists of nonperforming loans and other real estate owned, increased to $27.23 million, or 1.85% of total assets, at June 30, 2025, compared to $15.37 million, or 0.98% of total assets, from the previous quarter. Of the $26.29 million in nonperforming loans, $10.98 million are covered by SBA guarantees. Total delinquent loans decreased to $2.86 million at June 30, 2025, compared to $19.12 million at March 31, 2025. The increase in nonperforming loans is primarily the result of two multi-family loans, which are real estate secured, totaling $10.00 million to a related group of borrowers. These loans were included in the delinquent balances for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. As a result of their non-accrual status, the balance of the loans exceeding the real estate collateral value is reserved for in the allowance for credit loss, resulting in $1.62 million of additional reserve. The Bank is working closely with the borrowers as they work through stabilization and sale of the properties.

    Past due loans 30-60 days were $1.80 million at June 30, 2025, compared to $17.53 million at March 31, 2025, and $1.05 million at June 30, 2024. There were $1.02 million past due loans from 60-90 days at June 30, 2025, compared to $1.54 million at March 31, 2025 and $175,000 in past due loans from 60-90 days a year earlier. Past due loans 90+ days at quarter end totaled $46,000 at June 30, 2025, compared to $1.05 million, at June 30, 2024. Of the $2.86 million in past due loans at June 30, 2025, $965,000 were purchased government guaranteed loans, which are guaranteed by the SBA for the full payment of the principal plus interest.

    Delinquent Loan Summary   Organic Purchased Govt. Guaranteed Total
    (in thousands)  
             
    Delinquent accruing loans 30-59 days   $ 877   $ 919   $ 1,796  
    Delinquent accruing loans 60-89 days     1,020     —     1,020  
    Delinquent accruing loans 90+ days     —     46     46  
    Total delinquent accruing loans   $ 1,897   $ 965   $ 2,862  
             
    Non-Accrual Loan Summary   Organic Purchased Govt. Guaranteed Total
    (in thousands)  
             
    Loans on non-accrual   $ 26,285   $ —   $ 26,285  
    Non-accrual loans with SBA guarantees     10,979     —     10,979  
    Net Bank exposure to non-accrual loans   $ 15,306   $ —   $ 15,306  

    There was a $3.16 million provision for credit losses in the second quarter of 2025, compared to $291,000 provision for credit losses in the second quarter a year ago, and a $1.16 million provision for credit losses booked in the first quarter of 2025. The provision recorded during the second quarter of 2025 is the result of changes in loan portfolio concentrations, net charge-offs recognized, and a $10.92 million increase in total non-accrual loans which were individually evaluated in the allowance for credit losses.

    The ratio of allowance for credit losses to total loans was 1.40% at June 30, 2025, compared to 1.11% a year earlier and 1.18% at March 31, 2025. The Company individually evaluates non-accrual loans in the allowance for credit losses which has resulted in carrying a higher level of reserve.

    During the second quarter of 2025 the Bank recorded $949,000 in other real estate owned (“OREO”). This OREO was the result of a loan foreclosure completed during the quarter where the bank acquired a single-family-residence property as payment through collateral. The property is in good condition and is anticipated to sell during the second half of 2025.

    “As SBA loans have historically been the primary driver of nonperforming loans, the portfolio is watched very closely. Rates have increased so rapidly over the last two years putting pressure on borrowers. A majority of the loans within the portfolio are floating rate loans tied to WSJ Prime and reset quarterly. Borrowers saw a 50bps reduction in their rates on January 1, 2025 and additional rate relief may occur during the second half of 2025,” added Miller. “The ratio of allowance for credit losses to the total, non-guaranteed, loan portfolio was 1.48%, as of June 30, 2025, and our total non-guaranteed exposure on these SBA loans is $44.61 million spread over 222 loans.”

    “We incurred net charge offs of $605,000 during the current quarter, compared to $27,000 in net recoveries in the second quarter a year ago, and $167,000 in net charge offs in the previous quarter,” said Miller. “Our loan portfolio increased 13% from a year ago with commercial real estate (“CRE”) loans representing 63% of the total loan portfolio. Within the CRE portfolio, there are $49.90 million in loans for CRE office as shown in the table below. Since the majority of our CRE office exposure is concentrated in the Central Valley, we are experiencing less volatility than city center CRE markets. Our credit metrics remain strong as we continue to maintain conservative underwriting standards.”

    (in thousands)   CRE Office Exposure of June 30, 2025
    Region   Owner-Occupied Non-Owner Occupied Total
    Central Valley   $ 24,611   $ 17,268   $ 41,879  
    Southern California     2,262     350     2,612  
    Other California     4,463     417     4,880  
    Total California     31,336     18,035     49,371  
    Out of California     —     524     524  
    Total CRE Office   $ 31,336   $ 18,559   $ 49,895  


    About FFB Bancorp

    FFB Bancorp, formerly Communities First Financial Corporation, a bank holding company established in 2014, is the parent company of FFB Bank, founded in 2005 in Fresno, California. As a leading SBA Lender in California’s Central Valley and one of the few direct acquiring banks in the United States, FFB Bank offers clients a range of personal and business checking accounts, payment processes, and loan programs. Among the Bank’s awards and accomplishments, it was ranked #1 on American Banker’s list of the Top 20 Publicly Traded Banks under $2 Billion in Assets for 2024. The Bank was also ranked by S&P Global as the #34 best performing US community bank under $3 billion in assets. The Company has also received recognition as part of the OTCQX Best 50 Companies for 2019, 2023, and 2024. For additional information, you can visit the Company’s website at www.ffb.bank or by contacting a representative at 559-439-0200.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This earnings release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements provide current expectations or forecasts of future events and are not guarantees of future performance, nor should they be relied upon as representing management’s views as of any subsequent date. The forward-looking statements are based on managements’ expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially include, without limitation, the Company’s ability to effectively execute its business plans; the impact of the Consent Order on our financial condition and results of operations; changes in general economic and financial market conditions; changes in interest rates, and in particular, actions taken by the Federal Reserve to try and control inflation; changes in the competitive environment; continuing consolidation in the financial services industry; new litigation or changes in existing litigation; losses, customer bankruptcy, claims and assessments; changes in banking regulations or other regulatory or legislative requirements affecting the Company’s business; international developments; the tariff strategy of the Trump administration, and its related effects on the agriculture industry and connected businesses in the Central Valley; and changes in accounting policies or procedures as may be required by the Financial Accounting Standards Board or other regulatory agencies. The Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly the results of any revisions to the forward-looking statements included herein to reflect events or circumstances after today, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. The Company claims the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

    Member FDIC

    Select Financial Information and Ratios   For the Quarter Ended:   Year to Date as of:
      June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   June 30, 2024   June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024
    BALANCE SHEET – ENDING BALANCES:                    
    Total assets   $ 1,473,927     $ 1,560,376     $ 1,443,723          
    Total portfolio loans     1,091,964       1,092,441       969,764          
    Investment securities     254,177       313,826       345,491          
    Total deposits     1,234,648       1,320,381       1,168,957          
    Shareholders equity, net     173,908       174,711       148,640          
                         
    INCOME STATEMENT DATA                    
    Operating revenue     27,349       28,476       24,729       55,825       48,340  
    Operating expense     15,768       16,467       13,285       32,235       25,986  
    Pre-tax, pre-provision income     11,581       12,009       11,444       23,590       22,354  
    Net income after tax     6,036       8,098       8,076       14,134       15,866  
                         
    SHARE DATA                    
    Basic earnings per share   $ 1.95     $ 2.56     $ 2.54     $ 4.51     $ 5.00  
    Fully diluted EPS   $ 1.94     $ 2.55     $ 2.54     $ 4.50     $ 4.99  
    Book value per common share   $ 56.87     $ 55.52     $ 46.79          
    Common shares outstanding     3,057,874       3,146,727       3,176,611          
    Fully diluted shares     3,104,067       3,175,178       3,183,844       3,139,346       3,178,974  
    FFBB – Stock price   $ 78.00     $ 76.50     $ 89.00          
                         
    RATIOS                    
    Return on average assets     1.59 %     2.14 %     2.31 %     1.86 %     2.32 %
    Return on average equity     13.75 %     18.83 %     22.89 %     16.26 %     23.08 %
    Efficiency ratio     57.15 %     57.83 %     52.74 %     57.49 %     52.85 %
    Adjusted efficiency ratio     52.14 %     52.54 %     47.15 %     52.34 %     47.48 %
    Yield on earning assets     6.18 %     6.31 %     6.40 %     6.24 %     6.27 %
    Yield on investment securities     4.13 %     4.36 %     4.60 %     4.25 %     4.54 %
    Yield on portfolio loans     6.70 %     6.81 %     6.89 %     6.75 %     6.79 %
    Cost to fund earning assets     1.09 %     0.96 %     1.10 %     1.02 %     1.05 %
    Cost of interest-bearing deposits     2.81 %     2.60 %     2.75 %     2.71 %     2.73 %
    Net Interest Margin     5.09 %     5.35 %     5.31 %     5.22 %     5.22 %
    Equity to assets     11.80 %     11.20 %     10.30 %        
    Net loan to deposit ratio     88.44 %     82.74 %     82.96 %        
    Full time equivalent employees     181       175       147          
                         
    BALANCE SHEET – AVERAGES                    
    Total assets     1,525,601       1,531,573       1,407,255       1,528,570       1,377,447  
    Total portfolio loans     1,112,380       1,076,848       954,871       1,094,712       940,216  
    Investment securities     289,127       325,699       334,416       307,312       325,117  
    Total deposits     1,281,357       1,300,550       1,199,124       1,290,901       1,164,121  
    Shareholders equity, net     176,074       174,410       141,881       175,247       138,251  
    Consolidated Balance Sheet (unaudited)   June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   June 30, 2024
    (in thousands)      
    ASSETS            
    Cash and due from banks   $ 55,897     $ 83,033     $ 46,477  
    Interest bearing deposits in banks     21,347       20,038       26,842  
    CDs in other banks     1,722       1,724       1,683  
    Investment securities     254,177       313,826       345,491  
    Loans held for sale     —       —       —  
                 
    Construction & land development     12,784       12,649       79,132  
    Residential RE 1-4 family     17,066       17,146       17,439  
    Commercial real estate     683,743       696,625       562,548  
    Agriculture     109,926       104,616       77,518  
    Commercial and industrial     266,810       260,063       232,786  
    Consumer and other     1,635       1,342       341  
    Portfolio loans     1,091,964       1,092,441       969,764  
    Deferred fees & discounts     (3,541 )     (3,946 )     (4,106 )
    Allowance for credit losses     (15,330 )     (12,913 )     (10,749 )
    Loans, net     1,073,093       1,075,582       954,909  
                 
    Non-marketable equity investments     9,809       8,890       8,440  
    Cash value of life insurance     12,594       12,496       12,211  
    Other real estate owned     949       —       —  
    Accrued interest and other assets     44,339       44,787       47,670  
    Total assets   $ 1,473,927     $ 1,560,376     $ 1,443,723  
                 
    LIABILITIES AND EQUITY            
    Non-interest bearing deposits   $ 759,300     $ 825,404     $ 731,030  
    Interest checking     75,815       109,555       75,907  
    Savings     49,657       54,686       51,052  
    Money market     183,071       218,940       184,495  
    Certificates of deposits     166,805       111,796       126,473  
    Total deposits     1,234,648       1,320,381       1,168,957  
    Short-term borrowings     16,000       10,000       68,000  
    Long-term debt     38,086       38,046       39,678  
    Other liabilities     11,285       17,238       18,448  
    Total liabilities     1,300,019       1,385,665       1,295,083  
                 
    Common stock     29,501       35,693       37,430  
    Retained earnings     162,272       156,235       129,856  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (17,865 )     (17,217 )     (18,646 )
    Shareholders’ equity     173,908       174,711       148,640  
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 1,473,927     $ 1,560,376     $ 1,443,723  
    Consolidated Income Statement (unaudited)   Quarter ended:   Year ended:
    (in thousands)   June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   June 30, 2024   June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024
                         
    INTEREST INCOME:                    
    Loan interest income   $ 18,582     $ 18,069     $ 16,354     $ 36,651     $ 31,726  
    Investment income     2,978       3,499       3,823       6,477       7,335  
    Int. on fed funds & CDs in other banks     270       574       316       844       572  
    Dividends from non-marketable equity     141       132       394       272       523  
    Total interest income     21,971       22,274       20,887       44,244       40,156  
                         
    INTEREST EXPENSE:                    
    Int. on deposits     3,288       2,891       3,008       6,178       5,526  
    Int. on short-term borrowings     126       31       109       158       258  
    Int. on long-term debt     451       451       464       902       929  
    Total interest expense     3,865       3,373       3,581       7,238       6,713  
    Net interest income     18,106       18,901       17,306       37,006       33,443  
    PROVISION FOR CREDIT LOSSES     3,157       1,164       291       4,321       670  
    Net interest income after provision     14,949       17,737       17,015       32,685       32,773  
                         
    NON-INTEREST INCOME:                    
    Total deposit fee income     854       849       847       1,703       1,643  
    Debit / credit card interchange income     215       191       186       407       353  
    Merchant services income     6,609       7,864       6,068       14,473       12,137  
    Gain on sale of loans     1,446       261       509       1,707       961  
    Loss on sale of investments     (243 )     —       (459 )     (243 )     (833 )
    Other operating income     362       410       272       772       636  
    Total non-interest income     9,243       9,575       7,423       18,819       14,897  
                         
    NON-INTEREST EXPENSE:                    
    Salaries & employee benefits     8,002       8,056       6,724       16,058       13,306  
    Occupancy expense     352       353       437       705       820  
    Merchant services operating expense     2,887       3,174       2,664       6,060       5,023  
    Other operating expense     4,527       4,884       3,460       9,412       6,837  
    Total non-interest expense     15,768       16,467       13,285       32,235       25,986  
                         
    Income before provision for income tax     8,424       10,845       11,153       19,269       21,684  
    PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES     2,388       2,747       3,077       5,135       5,818  
    Net income   $ 6,036     $ 8,098     $ 8,076     $ 14,134     $ 15,866  
    ASSET QUALITY   June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   June 30, 2024
    (in thousands)      
    Delinquent accruing loans 30-60 days   $ 1,796     $ 17,533     $ 1,046  
    Delinquent accruing loans 60-90 days     1,020       1,537       175  
    Delinquent accruing loans 90+ days     46       46       1,052  
    Total delinquent accruing loans   $ 2,862     $ 19,116     $ 2,273  
                 
    Loans on non-accrual   $ 26,285     $ 15,366     $ 11,250  
    Other real estate owned     949       —       —  
    Nonperforming assets   $ 27,234     $ 15,366     $ 11,250  
                 
    Delinquent 30-60 / Total Loans     0.16 %     1.60 %     0.11 %
    Delinquent 60-90 / Total Loans     0.09 %     0.14 %     0.02 %
    Delinquent 90+ / Total Loans     — %     — %     0.11 %
    Delinquent Loans / Total Loans     0.26 %     1.75 %     0.23 %
    Non-accrual / Total Loans     2.41 %     1.41 %     1.16 %
    Nonperforming assets to total assets     1.85 %     0.98 %     0.78 %
                 
    Year-to-date charge-off activity            
    Charge-offs   $ 772     $ 167     $ —  
    Recoveries     —       —       31  
    Net charge-offs (recoveries)   $ 772     $ 167     $ (31 )
    Annualized net loan losses to average loans     0.14 %     0.06 %     (0.01 )%
                 
    CREDIT LOSS RESERVE RATIOS:            
    Allowance for credit losses   $ 15,330     $ 12,913     $ 10,749  
                 
    Total loans   $ 1,091,964     $ 1,092,441     $ 969,764  
    Purchased govt. guaranteed loans   $ 15,138     $ 16,081     $ 18,141  
    Originated govt. guaranteed loans   $ 38,224     $ 45,285     $ 41,201  
                 
    ACL / Total loans     1.40 %     1.18 %     1.11 %
    ACL / Loans less 100% govt. gte. loans (purchased)     1.42 %     1.20 %     1.13 %
    ACL / Loans less all govt. guaranteed loans     1.48 %     1.25 %     1.18 %
    ACL / Total assets     1.04 %     0.83 %     0.74 %
    SELECT FINANCIAL TREND INFORMATION   For the Quarter Ended:
      June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 December 31, 2024 September 30, 2024 June 30, 2024
    BALANCE SHEET – PERIOD END            
    Total assets   $ 1,473,927   $ 1,560,376   $ 1,504,128   $ 1,512,241   $ 1,443,723  
    Loans held for sale     —     —     —     —     —  
    Loans held for investment     1,091,964     1,092,441     1,071,079     998,222     969,764  
    Investment securities     254,177     313,826     322,186     345,428     345,491  
                 
    Non-interest bearing deposits     759,300     825,404     828,508     826,708     731,030  
    Interest bearing deposits     475,348     494,977     455,869     460,241     437,927  
    Total deposits     1,234,648     1,320,381     1,284,377     1,286,949     1,168,957  
    Short-term borrowings     16,000     10,000     —     —     68,000  
    Long-term debt     38,086     38,046     38,007     37,967     39,678  
                 
    Total equity     191,773     191,928     186,574     176,350     167,286  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (17,865 )   (17,217 )   (18,182 )   (12,715 )   (18,646 )
    Shareholders’ equity     173,908     174,711     168,392     163,635     148,640  
                 
    QUARTERLY INCOME STATEMENT            
    Interest income   $ 21,971   $ 22,274   $ 22,403   $ 21,404   $ 20,887  
    Interest expense     3,865     3,373     3,591     3,617     3,581  
    Net interest income     18,106     18,901     18,812     17,787     17,306  
    Non-interest income     9,243     9,575     9,435     7,616     7,423  
    Gross revenue     27,349     28,476     28,247     25,403     24,729  
                 
    Provision for credit losses     3,157     1,164     1,671     762     291  
                 
    Non-interest expense     15,768     16,467     13,270     12,735     13,285  
    Net income before tax     8,424     10,845     13,306     11,906     11,153  
    Tax provision     2,388     2,747     3,588     3,343     3,077  
    Net income after tax     6,036     8,098     9,718     8,563     8,076  
                 
    BALANCE SHEET – AVERAGE BALANCE            
    Total assets   $ 1,525,601   $ 1,531,573   $ 1,529,439   $ 1,477,259   $ 1,704,255  
    Loans held for sale     —     —     —     —     —  
    Loans held for investment     1,112,380     1,076,848     1,038,215     982,152     954,871  
    Investment securities     289,127     325,699     333,135     343,096     334,416  
                 
    Non-interest bearing deposits     812,753     850,426     838,748     822,200     758,977  
    Interest bearing deposits     468,604     450,124     460,321     432,143     440,147  
    Total deposits     1,281,357     1,300,550     1,299,069     1,254,343     1,199,124  
    Short-term borrowings     11,110     2,856     951     —     10,053  
    Long-term debt     38,068     38,028     37,989     39,479     39,660  
                 
    Shareholders’ equity     176,074     174,410     167,268     161,363     141,881  
    Contact: Steve Miller – President & CEO
      Bhavneet Gill – EVP & CFO
      (559) 439-0200

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Rapid7 Labs Security Researchers to Speak at Black Hat USA 2025 and DEF CON 33

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, Rapid7, Inc. (NASDAQ: RPD), a leader in threat detection and exposure management, announced its dynamic speaker lineup from Rapid7 Labs for Black Hat USA 2025 and DEF CON 33, taking place in Las Vegas this August. Conference organizers selected these speakers’ abstracts from among hundreds of submissions to showcase their groundbreaking research on emerging threats and vulnerabilities, complete with live demos of attack techniques and tools.

    Rapid7 Labs stands at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation, providing teams with a community-driven approach to security with open-source tools and research-informed, curated intelligence so they can more effectively identify, assess, and mitigate threats. Earlier this year, Rapid introduced Intelligence Hub, which unifies global threat intelligence expertly curated by Rapid7 Labs researchers.

    Rapid7 Labs Session Lineup

    The knowledge Rapid7 Labs speakers will share at this year’s Black Hat and DEF CON represents the company’s 25 years of security program expertise, enabling session attendees to proactively address today’s most pressing cybersecurity challenges.

    Metasploit’s Latest Attack Capability and Workflow Improvements
    Date & Time: Wednesday, August 6 | 11:00 AM – 11:55 AM PDT
    Location: Business Hall, Arsenal Station 6
    Conference: Black Hat 2025
    Track: Exploitation and Ethical Hacking
    Presented by Rapid7’s Spencer McIntyre, Senior Security Research Manager, and Jack Heysel, Senior Security Researcher, this Arsenal session showcases Metasploit’s latest capabilities, including SMB-to-LDAP and SMB-to-HTTP relaying, expanded support for Active Directory Certificate Services (AD CS) attacks, and new process injection techniques like “PoolParty.” Attendees will see demonstrations of how to detect and exploit ESC vulnerabilities, retrieve privileged credentials, and execute lateral movements in complex domain environments.

    Akheron Proxy — Interchip Communication Serial Proxy
    Date & Time: Wednesday, August 6 | 11:00 AM – 11:55 AM PDT
    Location: Business Hall, Arsenal Station 9
    Conference: Black Hat 2025
    Track: Hardware/Embedded
    In this Black Hat Arsenal Session, Deral Heiland, Principal Security Researcher (IoT) at Rapid7, and Matthew Kienow, Vulnerability Researcher at runZero, will discuss security testing methods via Akheron proxy, a serial communication proxy application tool designed to connect and proxy serial communication between microprocessors on a hardware circuit board. In this live demonstration, Heiland and Kienow will walk through how Akheron proxy allows embedded device testers to capture, decode, replay, and fuzz serial communications flowing between microprocessors on an embedded device circuit board in real time.

    Weaponization of Cellular-Based IoT Technology — Leveraging Smart Devices to Gain a Foothold
    Date & Time: Thursday, August 7 | 3:20 PM – 4:00 PM PDT
    Location: Oceanside C, Level 2
    Conference: Black Hat 2025
    Tracks: Hardware/Embedded, Network Security
    In this 40-minute briefing, Rapid7’s Deral Heiland, Principal Security Researcher (IoT), and Carlota Bindner, Lead Product Security Researcher at Thermo Fisher Scientific, will provide an analysis of how adversaries exploit IoT devices with built-in cellular technology. The session will include live demonstrations as well as discussions on mitigation techniques for manufacturers to address the risks and impacts associated with the demonstrated attacks.

    DisguiseDelimit: Exploiting Synology NAS with Delimiters and Novel Tricks
    Date & Time: Friday, August 8 | 2:00 PM PDT
    Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Level 1
    Conference: DEF CON 33
    Ryan Emmons, Security Researcher at Rapid7, will present his findings on a critical vulnerability in Synology NAS devices, revealing how unauthenticated attackers could achieve root-level remote code execution on millions of devices. The presentation will also feature a novel Linux exploitation technique that earned recognition and awards in Pwn2Own 2024.

    “Between Black Hat and DEF CON, we are thrilled to have four extremely talented security researchers presenting this year,” said Raj Samani, chief scientist at Rapid7. “But even beyond that, these two annual conferences are an important time for the Rapid7 Labs team to connect with the community, exchange actionable insights, and address shared challenges together. These face-to-face interactions are critical for fostering the collaboration we all need to enable more secure customers and a safer society.”

    Rapid7 at Black Hat USA and DEF CON

    Black Hat USA 2025 will take place from August 2 to August 7, featuring cutting-edge research and expert-led discussions. DEF CON 33, running from August 7 to August 10, continues its legacy of fostering hands-on technical exploration and community collaboration in information security.

    Attendees at Black Hat and DEF CON are invited to join sessions featuring Rapid7 speakers to gain exclusive insights into the latest threats. For other ways to interact with Rapid7 August 6-7 in Las Vegas, visit the Rapid7 Black Hat 2025 information page.

    About Rapid7
    Rapid7, Inc. (NASDAQ: RPD) is on a mission to create a safer digital world by making cybersecurity simpler and more accessible. We empower security professionals to manage a modern attack surface through our best-in-class technology, leading-edge research, and broad, strategic expertise. Rapid7’s comprehensive security solutions help more than 11,000 global customers unite cloud risk management with threat detection and response to reduce attack surfaces and eliminate threats with speed and precision. For more information, visit our website, check out our blog, or follow us on LinkedIn or X.

    Rapid7 Media Relations
    Stacey Holleran
    Sr. Manager, Global Communications
    press@rapid7.com
    (857) 216-7804

    Rapid7 Investor Contact
    Elizabeth Chwalk
    Vice President, Investor Relations
    investors@rapid7.com
    (617) 865-4277

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Usio to Host Second Quarter 2025 Conference Call to Discuss Results and Provide Company Update on August 6, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN ANTONIO, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Usio, Inc. (Nasdaq:USIO), a leading provider of integrated, cloud-based electronic payment and embedded financial solutions, today announced it will release second quarter 2025 financial results for the period ended June 30, 2025, after the market closes on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

    Usio’s management will host a conference call the same day, August 6, 2025, beginning at 4:30 p.m. Eastern time to review financial results and provide a business update. Following management’s formal remarks, there will be a question-and-answer session.

    To listen to the conference call, interested parties within the U.S. should call 1-888-999-6281. International callers should call 1-848-280-6550. All callers should ask for the Usio conference call. The conference call will also be available through a live webcast, which can be accessed via the company’s website at usio.com/events/.

    A replay of the call will be available approximately one hour after the end of the call through August 20, 2025. The replay can be accessed via the Company’s website or by dialing 1-877-344-7529 (U.S.), 1-855-669-9658 (Canada) or 1-412-317-0088 (all other international). The replay conference playback code is: 9584705.

    About Usio, Inc.
    Usio, Inc. (Nasdaq: USIO), a leading, cloud-based, integrated FinTech electronic payment solutions provider, offers a wide range of payment solutions to merchants, billers, banks, service bureaus, integrated software vendors and card issuers. The Company operates credit, debit/prepaid, and ACH payment processing platforms to deliver convenient, world-class payment solutions and services clients through its unique payment facilitation platform as a service. The company, through its Usio Output Solutions division, offers services relating to electronic bill presentment, document composition, document decomposition and printing and mailing services. The strength of the Company lies in its ability to provide tailored solutions for card issuance, payment acceptance, and bill payments as well as its unique technology in the card issuing sector. Usio is headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, and has offices in Austin, Texas.

    Websites: www.usio.com and www.akimbocard.com. 
    Find us on LinkedIn, Facebook® and Twitter.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS DISCLAIMER

    Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters discussed in this release include forward-looking statements which are covered by safe harbors. Those statements include, but may not be limited to, all statements regarding management’s intent, belief, and expectations, such as statements concerning our future and our operating and growth strategy. These forward-looking statements are identified by the use of words such as “believe,” “intend,” “look forward,” “anticipate,” “schedule,” and “expect” among others. Forward-looking statements in this press release are subject to certain risks and uncertainties inherent in the Company’s business that could cause actual results to vary, including such risks related to an economic downturn as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the realization of opportunities from the IMS acquisition, the management of the Company’s growth, the loss of key resellers, the relationships with the Automated Clearinghouse network, bank sponsors, third-party card processing providers and merchants, the security of our software, hardware and information, the volatility of the stock price, the need to obtain additional financing, risks associated with new tax legislation, and compliance with complex federal, state and local laws and regulations, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including its annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024. One or more of these factors have affected, and in the future, could affect the Company’s businesses and financial results in the future and could cause actual results to differ materially from plans and projections. The Company believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements included in this release will prove to be accurate. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by us or any other person that the objectives and plans will be achieved. All forward-looking statements made in this release are based on information presently available to management. The Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

    Contact
    Paul Manley
    Senior Vice President, Investor Relations
    paul.manley@usio.com
    612-834-1804

    The MIL Network –

    July 24, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government unveils updates to Private Fund Regime and Sound Business Practice Policy23 July 2025 The first two initiatives which will help to protect and grow Jersey’s financial services sector have been announced. The Jersey Private Fund, JPF, regime has been modernised to be better aligned with… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    23 July 2025

    The first two initiatives which will help to protect and grow Jersey’s financial services sector have been announced. 

    The Jersey Private Fund, JPF, regime has been modernised to be better aligned with the needs of international professional investors. 

    Proposals to simplify the Sound Business Practice Policy, SBPP, have been published which, once approved, will streamline its application whilst a more comprehensive review of this framework is undertaken. 

    Both initiatives are part of the Competitiveness Programme and were unveiled at its launch event. 

    Jersey Private Fund 

    The Minister with responsibility for Financial Services, Deputy Ian Gorst, has signed a Ministerial Order to update the JPF. 

    Effective from 6 August 2025, the revised JPF Guide and a new statutory instrument, the Collective Investment Funds (Jersey Private Funds) Order, will come into force. 

    These changes will: 

    • remove the 50-offer / investor cap; 
    • expand the definition of professional investor; 
    • permit the listing of interests in JPFs with the Jersey Financial Services Commission’s consent; and 
    • introduce a 24-hour authorisation process for JPF applications submitted by registered Designated Service Providers.

    Jill Britton, Director General of the JFSC, said: “The updated JPF regime is a significant step, keeping Jersey’s fund offering evolving with the needs of industry. JPFs continue to be a regulated product that investors can have confidence in – these changes streamline the regime and, together with our commitment to faster authorisation, we are underscoring our commitment to excellent service.” 

    Joe Moynihan, CEO, Jersey Finance, said: “Since its launch in 2017, the JPF has become Jersey’s fastest-growing fund category, particularly well-suited to private equity, venture capital and real asset strategies. As private capital continues to evolve globally, these updates will further increase Jersey’s appeal to managers and professional investors seeking flexible and well-regulated fund solutions.” 

    Deputy Gorst said: “These revisions follow industry engagement and reflect a broader global movement toward bespoke, efficient private fund vehicles for professional investors. They provide certainty for fund promoters and reinforce Jersey’s appeal as a jurisdiction of choice for private capital.” 

    Sound Business Practice Policy 

    The SBPP, jointly developed by Government of Jersey and the JFSC, identifies ‘sensitive activities’ which require additional information or scrutiny before the JFSC consents to them. The Codes of Practice for investment business, funds service business, certified funds and trust and company businesses all require registered persons to have due regard to the SBPP. 

    The SBPP has served Jersey well in understanding and managing risk, but updates are required to ensure it remains fit for modern-day business. 

    The proposed amendments simplify its scope of application, reducing potential business frictions and delays. The “Repeal of the Control of Borrowing Framework”, recently published by the Government of Jersey, includes a review of the SBBP framework with a view to establish a more flexible risk-based approach in the medium-term. 

    Jill Britton said: “This is about modernising regulation while taking a progressive stance against financial crime. Refining the SBPP removes unnecessary complexity and enables firms to focus on what matters, identifying and managing real risk. It’s a shift toward more intelligent regulation, where the emphasis is on outcomes and accountability, not just process”. 

    Joe Moynihan added: “We welcome the simplification of the SBPP, which should have a material impact on Jersey’s competitiveness as an IFC that is very much open for high quality business. These changes, which are in response to industry feedback, are another good example of our agility as an IFC and the positive collaborative relationship there is between industry, the Government of Jersey and the JFSC.” 

    Deputy Gorst said: “This change will enable businesses to do what they already do well: determine the risk of their activity and to act accordingly. Jersey has a mature and sophisticated financial services sector, and this change acknowledges that. The simplification of the SBPP does not reduce Jersey’s commitment to combatting financial crime but rather acknowledges that the industry understand risk and allows them to take greater responsibility for managing it.” 

    Competitiveness Programme 

    The Competitiveness Progamme has brought together government, the regulator and industry with the goal of protecting Jersey’s current economic strength, while unlocking new pathways for growth over the next ten years. 

    The programme is organised around four strategic workstreams, with each designed to address a key dimension of Jersey’s competitiveness: 

    • International Tax Strategy – focusing on creating a tax framework that keeps Jersey competitive and compliant in a fast-changing global landscape. 
    • Business and Regulatory Environment – delivering practical, quick-impact improvements to ease of doing business and regulatory efficiency, while also shaping longer-term reforms. 
    • External Growth Strategy – comparing Jersey’s strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats, against global trends and competing jurisdictions, this stream will offer data-driven insights and targeted investment opportunities to fuel long-term, realisable international growth. 
    • Future Competitiveness and Regulation – bringing together a high-level panel of global experts to synthesise and prioritise the findings from across the workstreams, producing an independent report for Ministers. 

    At the end of this process of research and reflection, the Government will publish a final report and action plan in 2026 that will shape Jersey’s strategy into the next decade.

    These efforts align closely with other major initiatives such as Jersey Finance’s Vision2050 and the JFSC’s registry and strategic reviews, which ensures that workstreams are not happening in silos, but as part of a broader, coordinated vision. 

    For more on the Financial Services Competitiveness Programme, please see: Financial services competitiveness programme​​.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 24, 2025
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