Category: GlobeNewswire

MIL-OSI: AI Company Brand Engagement Network Announces Agreement to Acquire German Media Technology Leader Cataneo Gmbh

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

JACKSON, Wyo., Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brand Engagement Network, Inc.(BEN) (NASDAQ: BNAI), a global leader in secure and reliable conversational AI solutions for businesses and consumers, today announced it has agreed to acquire 100% of Cataneo Gmbh (Cataneo), a privately-owned media technology company based in Munich, Germany, in a cash and stock transaction.

Cataneo, a leader in media technology, offers an all-in-one solution for ad sales, inventory management, and campaign optimization. The company has been profitable throughout the years, with its platform helping broadcast and entertainment companies streamline operations, increase revenue, and enhance audience engagement. By integrating BEN’s advanced Generative AI, Cataneo is poised to strengthen its offerings and deliver even greater value to its brands and customers.

Cataneo’s Mydas platform is a rapidly growing, highly sophisticated air-time sales management and ad traffic system managing over 5 billion euros in annual media spending. Supporting over 5,000 users and more than 1,000 media brands across four continents, the Mydas platform operates on a robust recurring revenue model. It offers a fully integrated, 100% SaaS cloud solution consolidating all advertising inventories into a common currency on a single platform.

Combined Synergies Enhance Conversational Gen-AI for Global Media Brands

“We believe the combination of BEN’s safe, intelligent, and scalable Generative AI platform, with Cataneo’s Mydas tools, can transformhow brands engage with their customers,” said Paul Chang, Chief Executive Officer of BEN. “This acquisition marks a significant step towards the future of interactive advertising, where consumers are not just marketed to, but actively engaged with, leading to more meaningful and enhanced online experiences.”

Cataneo’s Chief Executive Officer, Renato Rocha Pinto, expressed his excitement about the partnership. He stated, “We believe combining our technologies will significantly enhance consumer engagement and substantially benefit our global clients. BEN’s AI has the capability to generate deep insights and explore innovative consumer engagement opportunities across various media outlets, extending beyond traditional platforms.”

The acquisition underscores BEN’s commitment to strategic growth through mergers and acquisitions, enabling BEN to expand the reach of its core AI platform to over 1,000 media brands. This positions BEN to lead the next generation of conversational Gen-AI engagement, providing consumers with real-time, accurate, and helpful information across various channels, including while on the move and driving.

While Cataneo will continue to serve its existing clients independently, the company plans to collaborate closely with BEN to integrate AI into its internal processes and provide enhanced customer tools. The combined strength of BEN’s Generative AI and Cataneo’s platform is expected to expand Cataneo’s global presence significantly.

Transaction Details
The total purchase price for the acquisition is $19.5 million, comprised of $9.0 million in cash and 4.2 million shares of BEN common stock at an agreed-upon value of $2.50 per share. Depending on certain conditions before closing, a portion of the shares may be converted into the right to receive up to $3.0 million in cash. Upon closing, Cataneo will become a wholly owned subsidiary of BEN, with plans to expand operations in the U.S. and Latin America. This acquisition positions both companies for significant growth in the broadcast and agency premium advertising workflow management solutions market, a $2.0 billion segment within the broader $45 billion global media technology market. Renato Rocha Pinto will continue as Cataneo’s Chief Executive Officer after the acquisition.

The transaction is subject to securing financing on mutually agreeable terms and obtaining customary regulatory approvals and guarantees by certain BEN shareholders. It is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2024.

For more information about BEN’s safe, intelligent, scalable AI, please visit www.beninc.ai. For details about Cataneo, please visit www.cataneo.tv.

About BEN
Brand Engagement Network is a global leader providing secure and reliable conversational AI solutions for businesses and consumers. With offices in Jackson, Wyoming, and Seoul, South Korea, BEN offers a powerful and flexible platform that enhances customer experiences, boosts productivity, and delivers business value. At the heart of BEN’s offerings are AI-powered digital assistants and lifelike avatars, providing more personal and engaging experiences through browsers, mobile applications, and even life-size kiosks. These safe, intelligent, and inherently scalable AI solutions empower businesses to efficiently serve customers using validated data delivered through SaaS, Private Cloud, and On-Premises technology. BEN’s commitment to data sovereignty ensures that consumer and business data remain private, protected, and wholly owned by the respective parties. BEN’s mission is to make AI friendly and helpful for all, ensuring more people benefit from the AI-enhanced world.

About Cataneo
Cataneo is a global provider of comprehensive media management solutions for linear, non-linear, and digital media, headquartered in Munich, Germany. Cataneo’s platform is highly customizable and scalable and offers end-to-end solutions for advertising sales, traffic management, and campaign optimization across multiple media channels. With over two decades of experience, Cataneo supports over 1,000 media brands across 200+ channels in 4 continents, providing cutting-edge tools for inventory management, yield optimization, and programmatic ad sales. The company’s flagship platform, MYDAS, empowers media businesses to optimize revenues and streamline operations with advanced data analytics, CRM integration, and real-time reporting. Cataneo’s mission is to bridge the gap between media buyers, sellers, and platforms, offering a unified ecosystem for seamless media transactions and enhanced audience engagement.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this communication are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of federal securities laws. They are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements reflect, among other things, BEN’s current expectations, assumptions, plans, strategies, and anticipated results, including the closing and anticipated benefits of the acquisition of Cataneo (the “Cataneo Acquisition”). Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks, and changes in circumstances that may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements, which are neither statements of historical fact nor guarantees or assurances of future performance.

There are a number of risks, uncertainties and conditions that may cause BEN’s actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: (i) uncertainties as to the timing of the Cataneo Acquisition; (ii) the risk that the Cataneo Acquisition may not be completed on the anticipated terms in a timely manner or at all; (iii) the failure to satisfy any of the conditions to the consummation of the Cataneo Acquisition, including the ability to obtain financing to fund the Cataneo Acquisition on terms that are agreeable to the parties or at all; (iv) the possibility that any or all of the various conditions to the consummation of the Cataneo Acquisition may not be satisfied or waived, including the failure to receive any required regulatory approvals from any applicable governmental entities (or any conditions, limitations or restrictions placed on such approvals) or required major shareholder guarantees; (v) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the purchase agreement; (vi) the effect of the announcement or pendency of the transactions contemplated by the purchase agreement on BEN’s ability to retain and hire key personnel, its ability to maintain relationships with its customers, suppliers and others with whom it does business, or its operating results and business generally; (vii) risks related to diverting management’s attention from BEN’s ongoing business operations; (viii) uncertainty as to the timing of completion of the Cataneo Acquisition; (ix) risks that the benefits of the Cataneo Acquisition are not realized when and as expected; and (x) (A) the risk factors described in Part I, Item 1A of Risk Factors in BEN’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and (B) the other risk factors identified from time to time in the BEN’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Filings with the SEC are available on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

Many of these circumstances are beyond BEN’s ability to control or predict. These forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions on BEN’s part. These forward-looking statements may include words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “project,” “should,” “may,” “will,” “might,” “could,” “would,” or similar expressions. All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on BEN’s behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements that appear throughout this communication. Furthermore, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements, which are based on the information currently available to the Company and speak only as of the date they are made. BEN disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements.

Media Contact
Amy Rouyer
BEN – Safe, Intelligent, Scalable AI
E: amy@beninc.ai
P: 503-367-7596

Investor Relations
Christine Marchuska
E: ir@beninc.ai
P: 917-232-0852

Source: Brand Engagement Network, Inc. (BEN)

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: Red River Bancshares, Inc. Reports Third Quarter 2024 Financial Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

ALEXANDRIA, La., Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Red River Bancshares, Inc. (the “Company”) (Nasdaq: RRBI), the holding company for Red River Bank (the “Bank”), announced today its unaudited financial results for the third quarter of 2024.

Net income for the third quarter of 2024 was $8.8 million, or $1.27 per diluted common share (“EPS”), an increase of $767,000, or 9.6%, compared to $8.0 million, or $1.16 EPS, for the second quarter of 2024, and an increase of $733,000, or 9.1%, compared to $8.0 million, or $1.12 EPS, for the third quarter of 2023. For the third quarter of 2024, the quarterly return on assets was 1.13%, and the quarterly return on equity was 11.11%.

Net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, was $24.9 million, or $3.59 EPS, a decrease of $1.7 million, or 6.2%, compared to $26.6 million, or $3.70 EPS, for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, the return on assets was 1.08%, and the return on equity was 10.86%.

Third Quarter 2024 Performance and Operational Highlights

In the third quarter of 2024, the Company reported higher earnings, an improved net interest margin, and fairly consistent loans and deposits. We deployed excess funds into the securities portfolio and completed a significant stock repurchase. In mid-September, the target range of the federal funds rate was reduced by 50 basis points (“bps”).

Net income for the third quarter of 2024 was $8.8 million compared to $8.0 million for the prior quarter. Net income for the third quarter benefited from higher net interest income and an improved net interest margin fully tax equivalent (“FTE”), along with higher noninterest income.
Net interest income and net interest margin FTE increased for the third quarter of 2024 compared to the prior quarter. Net interest income for the third quarter of 2024 was $22.5 million compared to $21.8 million for the prior quarter. Net interest margin FTE for the third quarter of 2024 was 2.98% compared to 2.92% for the prior quarter. These increases were due to improved yields on securities and loans outpacing higher deposit rates.
Noninterest income totaled $5.4 million for the third quarter of 2024, an increase of $321,000, or 6.3%, compared to $5.1 million for the previous quarter. Noninterest income benefited from the receipt of a $151,000 nonrecurring loan fee.
As of September 30, 2024, assets were $3.10 billion, which was $53.2 million, or 1.7%, higher than June 30, 2024. The increase was mainly due to a $30.5 million increase in deposits.
Deposits totaled $2.75 billion as of September 30, 2024, an increase of $30.5 million, or 1.1%, compared to $2.72 billion as of June 30, 2024. In the third quarter of 2024, customer deposit balances remained consistent, with normal activity.
As of September 30, 2024, loans held for investment (“HFI”) were $2.06 billion, slightly higher than $2.05 billion as of June 30, 2024. In the third quarter of 2024, we closed on a high level of loan commitments, which should fund over time.
As of September 30, 2024, total securities were $697.7 million, which was $31.1 million, or 4.7%, higher than June 30, 2024. In the third quarter of 2024, we redeployed cash flows from lower yielding securities into higher yielding securities, as well as deployed other liquid assets into the securities portfolio.
As of September 30, 2024, liquid assets, which are cash and cash equivalents, were $232.6 million, and the liquid assets to assets ratio was 7.50%. We do not have any borrowings, brokered deposits, or internet-sourced deposits.
In the third quarter of 2024, the provision for credit losses totaled $300,000. This included $200,000 for loans and $100,000 for unfunded loan commitments.
As of September 30, 2024, nonperforming assets (“NPA(s)”) were $3.1 million, or 0.10% of assets, and the allowance for credit losses (“ACL”) was $21.8 million, or 1.06% of loans HFI.
We paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.09 per common share in the third quarter of 2024.
The 2024 stock repurchase program authorizes us to purchase up to $5.0 million of our outstanding shares of common stock from January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024. In the third quarter of 2024, we entered into a privately negotiated stock repurchase agreement for the repurchase of 60,000 shares at an aggregate cost of $3.0 million. In connection with this repurchase, we reduced the availability under the 2024 repurchase program by $3.0 million. We also repurchased 233 shares at an aggregate cost of $11,000 from the open market. As of September 30, 2024, the 2024 stock repurchase program had $1.2 million remaining.
As of September 30, 2024, capital levels were strong with a stockholders’ equity to assets ratio of 10.46%, a leverage ratio of 11.90%, and a total risk-based capital ratio of 18.07%.
The book value per share of common stock was $47.51 as of September 30, 2024, compared to $44.58 as of June 30, 2024. This improvement was primarily due to the decrease in the accumulated other comprehensive loss related to securities and net income added to stockholders’ equity, partially offset by stock repurchases.

Blake Chatelain, President and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “We are pleased with the financial results for the third quarter of 2024. We managed continued improvement to the net interest margin FTE, higher earnings, solid asset quality, steady loan activity, and continued strong liquidity and capital.

“Throughout the majority of the third quarter, until the Federal Reserve reduced the federal funds rate, we continued to reprice assets at a quicker pace than liabilities, which benefited net interest margin FTE and net interest income. Loan demand continued to be steady in the third quarter, despite some companies possibly placing investment decisions on hold due to the pending presidential election. We did, however, close on a significant amount of construction loan commitments, which should fund over the next year.

“On September 18, 2024, the Federal Reserve reduced the federal funds rate by 50 bps. This marks the conclusion of one of the most aggressive interest rate tightening cycles in many years. The rapid increase in interest rates has been challenging for banks and their customers. A lower interest rate environment should spur loan demand and mortgage loan activity, as well as help moderate accumulated other comprehensive loss in stockholders’ equity related to securities. Overall, the Louisiana economy seems to be faring well, and our customers’ balance sheets and earnings appear solid.

“Our company is well-positioned for the future, with robust capital and liquidity levels combined with a great team of community bankers. As we gain more clarity regarding future interest rates and the presidential election concludes, we remain committed to providing steady financial results for the company.”

Net Interest Income and Net Interest Margin FTE

Net interest income and net interest margin FTE increased in the third quarter of 2024 compared to the prior quarter. These increases were due to improved yields on securities and loans outpacing higher deposit rates. After keeping the federal funds rate consistent since the third quarter of 2023, the Federal Open Market Committee (“FOMC”) decreased the federal funds rate by 50 bps in September of 2024.

Net interest income for the third quarter of 2024 was $22.5 million, which was $670,000, or 3.1%, higher than the second quarter of 2024, due to a $1.2 million increase in interest and dividend income, partially offset by a $550,000 increase in interest expense. The increase in interest and dividend income was due to higher interest income on loans and securities. Loan income increased $1.0 million primarily due to higher rates on new and renewed loans compared to the existing portfolio. The average rate on new and renewed loans was 7.89% for the third quarter of 2024 and 7.98% for the prior quarter. Securities income increased $266,000 due to reinvesting lower yielding securities cash flows into higher yielding securities. The increase in interest expense was primarily due to higher rates on interest-bearing transaction deposits and time deposits.

The net interest margin FTE increased six bps to 2.98% for the third quarter of 2024, compared to 2.92% for the prior quarter. This increase was due to improved yields on securities and loans, partially offset by higher deposit costs. The yield on securities increased 15 bps due to reinvesting lower yielding securities cash flows into higher yielding securities. The yield on loans increased 11 bps due to higher rates on new and renewed loans compared to the existing portfolio. The cost of deposits increased six bps to 1.81% for the third quarter of 2024, compared to 1.75% for the previous quarter, primarily due to a nine bp increase in the rate on interest-bearing deposits during the third quarter, partially offset by our adjustment to certain transaction deposit rates late in the third quarter.

Late in the third quarter of 2024, the target range of the federal funds rate was reduced 50 bps to 4.75%-5.00%. At that time, we adjusted rates on transaction and time deposits, and we expect to continue lowering these rates in conjunction with future federal funds rate decreases. The market’s expectation is that the FOMC will continue lowering the target federal funds rate in the fourth quarter of 2024. During the twelve months ending September 30, 2025, we anticipate receiving approximately $134.0 million in securities cash flows with an average yield of 2.86%, and we project approximately $194.2 million of fixed rate loans will mature with an average yield of 5.95%. We expect to redeploy these balances into higher yielding assets. Additionally, during the twelve months ending September 30, 2025, we expect $558.5 million of time deposits to mature with an average rate of 4.47%, which we anticipate repricing into lower cost deposits. As of September 30, 2024, floating rate loans were 14.9% of loans HFI, and floating rate transaction deposits were 7.2% of interest-bearing transaction deposits. Depending on balance sheet activity and the movement in interest rates, we expect the net interest income and net interest margin FTE to improve slightly in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Provision for Credit Losses

The provision for credit losses for the third quarter of 2024 totaled $300,000, which included $200,000 for loans and $100,000 for unfunded loan commitments. The provision for credit losses in the second quarter was $300,000 for loans. The provision in the second and third quarters was due to potential economic challenges resulting from the recent inflationary environment, changing monetary policy, and loan growth. In the third quarter of 2024, we had an increase in unfunded loan commitments. We will continue to evaluate future provision needs in relation to current economic situations, loan growth, trends in asset quality, forecasted information, and other conditions influencing loss expectations.

Noninterest Income

Noninterest income totaled $5.4 million for the third quarter of 2024, an increase of $321,000, or 6.3%, compared to $5.1 million for the previous quarter. The increase was mainly due to a gain on equity securities and increases in service charges on deposit accounts, loan and deposit income, and brokerage income, partially offset by a decrease in Small Business Investment Company (“SBIC”) income.

Equity securities are an investment in a Community Reinvestment Act (“CRA”) mutual fund consisting primarily of bonds. The gain or loss on equity securities is a fair value adjustment primarily driven by changes in the interest rate environment. Due to the fluctuations in market rates between quarters, equity securities had a gain of $107,000 in the third quarter of 2024, compared to a loss of $13,000 for the previous quarter.

Service charges on deposit accounts totaled $1.5 million for the third quarter of 2024, an increase of $119,000, or 8.7%, compared to $1.4 million for the previous quarter. This increase was mainly due to a larger number of non-sufficient fund transactions and related fee income in the third quarter of 2024.

Loan and deposit income totaled $588,000 for the third quarter of 2024, an increase of $96,000, or 19.5%, compared to $492,000 for the previous quarter. The third quarter of 2024 benefited from the receipt of a $151,000 nonrecurring loan fee.

Brokerage income was $987,000 for the third quarter of 2024, an increase of $94,000, or 10.5%, compared to $893,000 for the previous quarter. The higher income in the third quarter of 2024 was mainly due to increased investing activity by clients. Assets under management were $1.13 billion as of September 30, 2024.

SBIC income for the third quarter of 2024 was $301,000, a decrease of $153,000, or 33.7%, compared to $454,000 for the previous quarter. This decrease was primarily due to lower normal income received from these partnerships in the third quarter. We expect SBIC income to be slightly higher in the fourth quarter of 2024 when compared to the third quarter.

Operating Expenses

Operating expenses totaled $16.8 million for the third quarter of 2024, an increase of $63,000, or 0.4%, compared to $16.7 million for the previous quarter. This increase was mainly due to higher technology expenses and other tax expenses.

Technology expenses totaled $865,000 for the third quarter of 2024, an increase of $141,000, or 19.5%, compared to $724,000 for the previous quarter. This increase was primarily due to continued upgrades to our core banking systems and other software technology enhancements.

Other taxes totaled $622,000 for the third quarter of 2024, an increase of $122,000, or 24.4%, compared to $500,000 for the previous quarter. The second quarter benefited from the reversal of $145,000 of stock repurchase tax expense due to finalized guidelines.

Asset Overview

As of September 30, 2024, assets were $3.10 billion, compared to assets of $3.05 billion as of June 30, 2024, an increase of $53.2 million, or 1.7%. In the third quarter, assets were mainly impacted by a $30.5 million, or 1.1%, increase in deposits. In the third quarter of 2024, liquid assets increased $19.6 million, or 9.2%, to $232.6 million and averaged $224.0 million for the third quarter. As of September 30, 2024, we had sufficient liquid assets available and $1.69 billion accessible from other liquidity sources. The liquid assets to assets ratio was 7.50% as of September 30, 2024. Total securities increased $31.1 million, or 4.7%, to $697.7 million in the third quarter and were 22.5% of assets as of September 30, 2024. During the third quarter, loans HFI increased $8.2 million, or 0.4%, to $2.06 billion. The loans HFI to deposits ratio was 74.84% as of September 30, 2024, compared to 75.38% as of June 30, 2024.

Securities

Total securities as of September 30, 2024, were $697.7 million, an increase of $31.1 million, or 4.7%, from June 30, 2024. Securities increased primarily due to $52.9 million in purchases combined with a $14.9 million reduction in net unrealized loss on securities AFS. This was partially offset by maturities and principal repayments.

The estimated fair value of securities available for sale (“AFS”) totaled $560.6 million, net of $49.5 million of unrealized loss, as of September 30, 2024, compared to $526.9 million, net of $64.4 million of unrealized loss, as of June 30, 2024. As of September 30, 2024, the amortized cost of securities held-to-maturity (“HTM”) totaled $134.1 million compared to $136.8 million as of June 30, 2024. As of September 30, 2024, securities HTM had an unrealized loss of $17.3 million compared to $22.8 million as of June 30, 2024.

As of September 30, 2024, equity securities, which is an investment in a CRA mutual fund consisting primarily of bonds, totaled $3.0 million compared to $2.9 million as of June 30, 2024.

Loans

Loans HFI as of September 30, 2024, were $2.06 billion, slightly higher than $2.05 billion as of June 30, 2024. In the third quarter of 2024, we closed on a high level of loan commitments, which, depending on customer activity, should fund over time. Unfunded loan commitments that originated in the third quarter of 2024 totaled $76.4 million.

Loans HFI by Category
	September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			Change from June 30, 2024 to September 30, 2024
(dollars in thousands)	Amount		Percent	Amount		Percent	$ Change		% Change
Real estate:
Commercial real estate	$	875,590	42.6%	$	865,645	42.3%	$	9,945	1.1%
One-to-four family residential		616,467	30.0%		611,904	29.9%		4,563	0.7%
Construction and development		141,525	6.9%		129,197	6.3%		12,328	9.5%
Commercial and industrial		327,069	15.9%		344,071	16.8%		(17,002)	(4.9%)
Tax-exempt		66,436	3.2%		67,941	3.3%		(1,505)	(2.2%)
Consumer		28,961	1.4%		29,132	1.4%		(171)	(0.6%)
Total loans HFI	$	2,056,048	100.0%	$	2,047,890	100.0%	$	8,158	0.4%

Commercial real estate (“CRE”) loans are collateralized by owner occupied and non-owner occupied properties mainly in Louisiana. Non-owner occupied office loans were $57.2 million, or 2.8% of loans HFI, as of September 30, 2024, and are primarily centered in low-rise suburban areas. The average CRE loan size was $947,000 as of September 30, 2024.

Health care loans are our largest industry concentration and are made up of a diversified portfolio of health care providers. As of September 30, 2024, total health care loans were 8.0% of loans HFI. Within the health care sector, loans to nursing and residential care facilities were 4.4% of loans HFI, and loans to physician and dental practices were 3.4% of loans HFI. The average health care loan size was $399,000 as of September 30, 2024.

Asset Quality and Allowance for Credit Losses

NPAs totaled $3.1 million as of September 30, 2024, a decrease of $103,000, or 3.2%, from June 30, 2024, primarily due to changes to nonaccrual loans. The ratio of NPAs to assets was 0.10% as of September 30, 2024, and 0.11% as of June 30, 2024.

As of September 30, 2024, the ACL was $21.8 million. The ratio of ACL to loans HFI was 1.06% as of September 30, 2024 and June 30, 2024. The net charge-offs to average loans ratio was 0.00% for the third quarter of 2024 and 0.01% for the second quarter of 2024.

Deposits

As of September 30, 2024, deposits were $2.75 billion, an increase of $30.5 million, or 1.1%, compared to June 30, 2024. Average deposits for the third quarter of 2024 were $2.73 billion, a decrease of $5.6 million, or 0.2%, from the prior quarter. The following tables provide details on our deposit portfolio:

Deposits by Account Type
	September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			Change from June 30, 2024 to September 30, 2024
(dollars in thousands)	Balance		% of Total	Balance		% of Total	$ Change		% Change
Noninterest-bearing demand deposits	$	882,394	32.1%	$	892,942	32.9%	$	(10,548)	(1.2%)
Interest-bearing deposits:
Interest-bearing demand deposits		163,787	6.0%		135,543	5.0%		28,244	20.8%
NOW accounts		379,566	13.8%		377,385	13.9%		2,181	0.6%
Money market accounts		551,229	20.0%		547,715	20.1%		3,514	0.6%
Savings accounts		166,723	6.1%		170,050	6.3%		(3,327)	(2.0%)
Time deposits less than or equal to $250,000		411,361	15.0%		399,981	14.7%		11,380	2.8%
Time deposits greater than $250,000		192,065	7.0%		193,030	7.1%		(965)	(0.5%)
Total interest-bearing deposits		1,864,731	67.9%		1,823,704	67.1%		41,027	2.2%
Total deposits	$	2,747,125	100.0%	$	2,716,646	100.0%	$	30,479	1.1%

Deposits by Customer Type
	September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			Change from June 30, 2024 to September 30, 2024
(dollars in thousands)	Balance		% of Total	Balance		% of Total	$ Change		% Change
Consumer	$	1,348,281	49.1%	$	1,351,709	49.8%	$	(3,428)	(0.3%)
Commercial		1,191,625	43.4%		1,149,023	42.3%		42,602	3.7%
Public		207,219	7.5%		215,914	7.9%		(8,695)	(4.0%)
Total deposits	$	2,747,125	100.0%	$	2,716,646	100.0%	$	30,479	1.1%

In the third quarter of 2024, customer deposit balances remained consistent, with normal activity.

The Bank has a granular, diverse deposit portfolio with customers in a variety of industries throughout Louisiana. As of September 30, 2024, the average deposit account size was approximately $27,000.

As of September 30, 2024, our estimated uninsured deposits, which are the portion of deposit accounts that exceed the FDIC insurance limit (currently $250,000), were approximately $832.2 million, or 30.3% of total deposits. This amount was estimated based on the same methodologies and assumptions used for regulatory reporting purposes. Also, as of September 30, 2024, our estimated uninsured deposits, excluding collateralized public entity deposits, were approximately $674.8 million, or 24.6% of total deposits. Our cash and cash equivalents of $232.6 million, combined with our available borrowing capacity of $1.69 billion, equaled 231.3% of our estimated uninsured deposits and 285.2% of our estimated uninsured deposits, excluding collateralized public entity deposits.

Stockholders’ Equity

Total stockholders’ equity as of September 30, 2024, was $324.3 million compared to $307.0 million as of June 30, 2024. The $17.3 million, or 5.6%, increase in stockholders’ equity during the third quarter of 2024 was attributable to a $12.1 million, net of tax, market adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive loss related to securities, $8.8 million of net income, and $92,000 of stock compensation, partially offset by the repurchase of 60,233 shares of common stock for $3.0 million and $615,000 in cash dividends. We paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.09 per share on September 19, 2024.

Non-GAAP Disclosure

Our accounting and reporting policies conform to United States generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) and the prevailing practices in the banking industry. Certain financial measures used by management to evaluate our operating performance are discussed as supplemental non-GAAP performance measures. In accordance with the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) rules, we classify a financial measure as being a non-GAAP financial measure if that financial measure excludes or includes amounts, or is subject to adjustments that have the effect of excluding or including amounts, that are included or excluded, as the case may be, in the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP as in effect from time to time in the U.S.

Management and the board of directors review tangible book value per share, tangible common equity to tangible assets, and realized book value per share as part of managing operating performance. However, these non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the most directly comparable or other financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. Moreover, the manner in which we calculate the non-GAAP financial measures that are discussed may differ from that of other companies’ reporting measures with similar names. It is important to understand how such other banking organizations calculate and name their financial measures similar to the non-GAAP financial measures discussed by us when comparing such non-GAAP financial measures.

A reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to the comparable GAAP financial measures is included within the following financial statement tables.

About Red River Bancshares, Inc.

Red River Bancshares, Inc. is the bank holding company for Red River Bank, a Louisiana state-chartered bank established in 1999 that provides a fully integrated suite of banking products and services tailored to the needs of commercial and retail customers. Red River Bank operates from a network of 28 banking centers throughout Louisiana and one combined loan and deposit production office in New Orleans, Louisiana. Banking centers are located in the following Louisiana markets: Central, which includes the Alexandria metropolitan statistical area (“MSA”); Northwest, which includes the Shreveport-Bossier City MSA; Capital, which includes the Baton Rouge MSA; Southwest, which includes the Lake Charles MSA; the Northshore, which includes Covington; Acadiana, which includes the Lafayette MSA; and New Orleans.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this news release regarding our expectations and beliefs about our future financial performance and financial condition, as well as trends in our business and markets, are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements often include words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate,” “project,” “outlook,” or words of similar meaning, or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” or “may.” The forward-looking statements in this news release are based on current information and on assumptions that we make about future events and circumstances that are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that are often difficult to predict and beyond our control. As a result of those risks and uncertainties, our actual financial results in the future could differ, possibly materially, from those expressed in or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this news release and could cause us to make changes to our future plans. Additional information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties to which our business and future financial performance are subject is contained in the section titled “Risk Factors” in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and in other documents that we file with the SEC from time to time. In addition, our actual financial results in the future may differ from those currently expected due to additional risks and uncertainties of which we are not currently aware or which we do not currently view as, but in the future may become, material to our business or operating results. Due to these and other possible uncertainties and risks, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this news release or to make predictions based solely on historical financial performance. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and we do not undertake any obligation to update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by law. All forward-looking statements, express or implied, included in this news release are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

Contact:
Isabel V. Carriere, CPA, CGMA
Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Assistant Corporate Secretary
318-561-4023
icarriere@redriverbank.net

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (UNAUDITED)

	As of and for the Three Months Ended						As of and for the Nine Months Ended
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)	September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024		September 30, 2023		September 30, 2024		September 30, 2023
Net Income	$	8,754	$	7,987	$	8,021	$	24,929	$	26,587

Per Common Share Data:
Earnings per share, basic	$	1.28	$	1.16	$	1.12	$	3.60	$	3.70
Earnings per share, diluted	$	1.27	$	1.16	$	1.12	$	3.59	$	3.70
Book value per share	$	47.51	$	44.58	$	39.43	$	47.51	$	39.43
Tangible book value per share ⁽¹⁾	$	47.28	$	44.35	$	39.21	$	47.28	$	39.21
Realized book value per share ⁽¹⁾	$	54.78	$	53.54	$	50.27	$	54.78	$	50.27
Cash dividends per share	$	0.09	$	0.09	$	0.08	$	0.27	$	0.24
Shares outstanding		6,826,120		6,886,928		7,150,685		6,826,120		7,150,685
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic		6,851,223		6,896,030		7,168,413		6,932,137		7,176,219
Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted		6,867,474		6,914,140		7,180,084		6,949,196		7,188,371

Summary Performance Ratios:
Return on average assets		1.13%		1.05%		1.05%		1.08%		1.18%
Return on average equity		11.11%		10.69%		11.15%		10.86%		12.71%
Net interest margin		2.93%		2.87%		2.74%		2.87%		2.91%
Net interest margin FTE		2.98%		2.92%		2.78%		2.92%		2.94%
Efficiency ratio		60.09%		62.07%		61.70%		60.84%		59.02%
Loans HFI to deposits ratio		74.84%		75.38%		70.60%		74.84%		70.60%
Noninterest-bearing deposits to deposits ratio		32.12%		32.87%		35.22%		32.12%		35.22%
Noninterest income to average assets		0.70%		0.67%		0.73%		0.67%		0.71%
Operating expense to average assets		2.17%		2.19%		2.13%		2.14%		2.12%

Summary Credit Quality Ratios:
NPAs to assets		0.10%		0.11%		0.07%		0.10%		0.07%
Nonperforming loans to loans HFI		0.15%		0.16%		0.10%		0.15%		0.10%
ACL to loans HFI		1.06%		1.06%		1.09%		1.06%		1.09%
Net charge-offs to average loans		0.00%		0.01%		0.00%		0.02%		0.01%

Capital Ratios:
Stockholders’ equity to assets		10.46%		10.07%		9.20%		10.46%		9.20%
Tangible common equity to tangible assets⁽¹⁾		10.41%		10.02%		9.15%		10.41%		9.15%
Total risk-based capital to risk-weighted assets		18.07%		18.01%		18.35%		18.07%		18.35%
Tier 1 risk-based capital to risk-weighted assets		17.05%		16.99%		17.31%		17.05%		17.31%
Common equity Tier 1 capital to risk-weighted assets		17.05%		16.99%		17.31%		17.05%		17.31%
Tier 1 risk-based capital to average assets		11.90%		11.74%		11.56%		11.90%		11.56%

^{(1) Non-GAAP financial measure. Calculations of this measure and reconciliations to GAAP are included in the schedules accompanying this release.}

RED RIVER BANCSHARES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (UNAUDITED)

(in thousands)	September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024		March 31, 2024		December 31, 2023		September 30, 2023
ASSETS
Cash and due from banks	$	39,664	$	35,035	$	19,401	$	53,062	$	42,413
Interest-bearing deposits in other banks		192,983		178,038		210,404		252,364		279,786
Securities available-for-sale, at fair value		560,555		526,890		545,967		570,092		529,046
Securities held-to-maturity, at amortized cost		134,145		136,824		139,328		141,236		143,420
Equity securities, at fair value		3,028		2,921		2,934		2,965		2,833
Nonmarketable equity securities		2,305		2,283		2,261		2,239		2,190
Loans held for sale		1,805		3,878		1,653		1,306		2,348
Loans held for investment		2,056,048		2,047,890		2,038,072		1,992,858		1,948,606
Allowance for credit losses		(21,757)		(21,627)		(21,564)		(21,336)		(21,183)
Premises and equipment, net		57,661		57,910		57,539		57,088		56,466
Accrued interest receivable		9,465		9,570		9,995		9,945		8,778
Bank-owned life insurance		30,164		29,947		29,731		29,529		29,332
Intangible assets		1,546		1,546		1,546		1,546		1,546
Right-of-use assets		2,853		2,973		3,091		3,629		3,757
Other assets		31,285		34,450		32,940		32,287		36,815
Total Assets	$	3,101,750	$	3,048,528	$	3,073,298	$	3,128,810	$	3,066,153

LIABILITIES
Noninterest-bearing deposits	$	882,394	$	892,942	$	895,439	$	916,456	$	972,155
Interest-bearing deposits		1,864,731		1,823,704		1,850,452		1,885,432		1,787,738
Total Deposits		2,747,125		2,716,646		2,745,891		2,801,888		2,759,893
Accrued interest payable		11,751		8,747		8,959		8,000		6,800
Lease liabilities		2,982		3,100		3,215		3,767		3,892
Accrued expenses and other liabilities		15,574		13,045		15,919		11,304		13,617
Total Liabilities		2,777,432		2,741,538		2,773,984		2,824,959		2,784,202
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES		—		—		—		—		—
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Preferred stock, no par value		—		—		—		—		—
Common stock, no par value		41,402		44,413		45,177		55,136		58,031
Additional paid-in capital		2,682		2,590		2,485		2,407		2,327
Retained earnings		329,858		321,719		314,352		306,802		299,079
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		(49,624)		(61,732)		(62,700)		(60,494)		(77,486)
Total Stockholders’ Equity		324,318		306,990		299,314		303,851		281,951
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity	$	3,101,750	$	3,048,528	$	3,073,298	$	3,128,810	$	3,066,153

RED RIVER BANCSHARES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)

	For the Three Months Ended						For the Nine Months Ended
(in thousands)	September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024		September 30, 2023		September 30, 2024		September 30, 2023
INTEREST AND DIVIDEND INCOME
Interest and fees on loans	$	27,909	$	26,882	$	23,925	$	80,684	$	68,541
Interest on securities		4,334		4,068		3,404		12,465		10,635
Interest on federal funds sold		—		—		—		—		886
Interest on deposits in other banks		2,630		2,709		2,950		8,378		6,359
Dividends on stock		28		22		45		73		106
Total Interest and Dividend Income		34,901		33,681		30,324		101,600		86,527
INTEREST EXPENSE
Interest on deposits		12,444		11,894		9,562		35,993		21,319
Interest on other borrowed funds		—		—		37		—		64
Total Interest Expense		12,444		11,894		9,599		35,993		21,383
Net Interest Income		22,457		21,787		20,725		65,607		65,144
Provision for credit losses		300		300		185		900		485
Net Interest Income After Provision for Credit Losses		22,157		21,487		20,540		64,707		64,659
NONINTEREST INCOME
Service charges on deposit accounts		1,486		1,367		1,489		4,223		4,317
Debit card income, net		905		949		830		2,875		2,687
Mortgage loan income		732		650		604		1,838		1,524
Brokerage income		987		893		1,029		2,867		2,759
Loan and deposit income		588		492		571		1,572		1,566
Bank-owned life insurance income		217		216		191		635		557
Gain (Loss) on equity securities		107		(13)		(113)		63		(145)
SBIC income		301		454		920		1,107		2,479
Other income (loss)		96		90		60		266		184
Total Noninterest Income		5,419		5,098		5,581		15,446		15,928
OPERATING EXPENSES
Personnel expenses		9,700		9,603		9,461		28,854		28,008
Occupancy and equipment expenses		1,661		1,698		1,663		4,975		4,933
Technology expenses		865		724		675		2,298		2,066
Advertising		317		408		331		1,061		955
Other business development expenses		521		593		522		1,589		1,451
Data processing expense		652		651		651		1,650		1,689
Other taxes		622		500		664		1,859		2,042
Loan and deposit expenses		294		309		238		561		728
Legal and professional expenses		653		729		616		2,000		1,714
Regulatory assessment expenses		421		401		419		1,226		1,223
Other operating expenses		1,046		1,073		990		3,241		3,041
Total Operating Expenses		16,752		16,689		16,230		49,314		47,850
Income Before Income Tax Expense		10,824		9,896		9,891		30,839		32,737
Income tax expense		2,070		1,909		1,870		5,910		6,150
Net Income	$	8,754	$	7,987	$	8,021	$	24,929	$	26,587

RED RIVER BANCSHARES, INC.
NET INTEREST INCOME AND NET INTEREST MARGIN (UNAUDITED)

	For the Three Months Ended
	September 30, 2024					June 30, 2024
(dollars in thousands)	Average Balance Outstanding		Interest Income/ Expense		Average Yield/ Rate	Average Balance Outstanding		Interest Income/ Expense		Average Yield/ Rate
Assets
Interest-earning assets:
Loans^(1,2)	$	2,054,451	$	27,909	5.32%	$	2,042,602	$	26,882	5.21%
Securities – taxable		545,171		3,344	2.45%		546,466		3,069	2.25%
Securities – tax-exempt		191,285		990	2.07%		193,954		999	2.06%
Interest-bearing deposits in other banks		194,229		2,630	5.36%		199,668		2,709	5.43%
Nonmarketable equity securities		2,284		28	4.85%		2,262		22	3.96%
Total interest-earning assets		2,987,420	$	34,901	4.59%		2,984,952	$	33,681	4.48%
Allowance for credit losses		(21,702)					(21,653)
Noninterest-earning assets		104,599					96,631
Total assets	$	3,070,317				$	3,059,930
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing transaction deposits	$	1,230,487	$	6,042	1.95%	$	1,230,474	$	5,701	1.86%
Time deposits		597,286		6,402	4.26%		595,120		6,193	4.19%
Total interest-bearing deposits		1,827,773		12,444	2.71%		1,825,594		11,894	2.62%
Other borrowings		—		—	—%		1		—	5.78%
Total interest-bearing liabilities		1,827,773	$	12,444	2.71%		1,825,595	$	11,894	2.62%
Noninterest-bearing liabilities:
Noninterest-bearing deposits		901,192					908,930
Accrued interest and other liabilities		28,006					24,868
Total noninterest-bearing liabilities		929,198					933,798
Stockholders’ equity		313,346					300,537
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	3,070,317				$	3,059,930
Net interest income			$	22,457				$	21,787
Net interest spread					1.88%					1.86%
Net interest margin					2.93%					2.87%
Net interest margin FTE⁽³⁾					2.98%					2.92%
Cost of deposits					1.81%					1.75%
Cost of funds					1.66%					1.60%

^{(1)  Includes average outstanding balances of loans held for sale of $3.0 million and $3.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and June 30, 2024, respectively.}
^{(2)  Nonaccrual loans are included as loans carrying a zero yield.}
^{(3)  Net interest margin FTE includes an FTE adjustment using a 21.0% federal income tax rate on tax-exempt securities and tax-exempt loans.}

RED RIVER BANCSHARES, INC.
NET INTEREST INCOME AND NET INTEREST MARGIN (UNAUDITED)

	For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30, 2024					September 30, 2023
(dollars in thousands)	Average Balance Outstanding		Interest Income/ Expense		Average Yield/ Rate	Average Balance Outstanding		Interest Income/ Expense		Average Yield/ Rate
Assets
Interest-earning assets:
Loans^(1,2)	$	2,037,435	$	80,684	5.21%	$	1,933,226	$	68,541	4.68%
Securities – taxable		553,714		9,461	2.28%		618,345		7,535	1.63%
Securities – tax-exempt		194,341		3,004	2.06%		203,748		3,100	2.03%
Federal funds sold		—		—	—%		24,861		886	4.70%
Interest-bearing deposits in other banks		206,023		8,378	5.40%		167,210		6,359	5.05%
Nonmarketable equity securities		2,262		73	4.27%		3,744		106	3.76%
Total interest-earning assets		2,993,775	$	101,600	4.47%		2,951,134	$	86,527	3.88%
Allowance for credit losses		(21,586)					(20,920)
Noninterest-earning assets		100,586					88,527
Total assets	$	3,072,775				$	3,018,741
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Interest-bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing transaction deposits	$	1,240,737	$	17,424	1.88%	$	1,259,198	$	12,126	1.29%
Time deposits		591,771		18,569	4.19%		441,442		9,193	2.78%
Total interest-bearing deposits		1,832,508		35,993	2.62%		1,700,640		21,319	1.68%
Other borrowings		—		—	—%		1,539		64	5.49%
Total interest-bearing liabilities		1,832,508	$	35,993	2.62%		1,702,179	$	21,383	1.68%
Noninterest-bearing liabilities:
Noninterest-bearing deposits		907,722					1,016,034
Accrued interest and other liabilities		25,983					20,951
Total noninterest-bearing liabilities		933,705					1,036,985
Stockholders’ equity		306,562					279,577
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	3,072,775				$	3,018,741
Net interest income			$	65,607				$	65,144
Net interest spread					1.85%					2.20%
Net interest margin					2.87%					2.91%
Net interest margin FTE⁽³⁾					2.92%					2.94%
Cost of deposits					1.75%					1.05%
Cost of funds					1.61%					0.97%

^{(1)  Includes average outstanding balances of loans held for sale of $2.7 million and $2.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively.}
^{(2)  Nonaccrual loans are included as loans carrying a zero yield.}
^{(3)  Net interest margin FTE includes an FTE adjustment using a 21.0% federal income tax rate on tax-exempt securities and tax-exempt loans.}

RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)	September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024		September 30, 2023
Tangible common equity
Total stockholders’ equity	$	324,318	$	306,990	$	281,951
Adjustments:
Intangible assets		(1,546)		(1,546)		(1,546)
Total tangible common equity (non-GAAP)	$	322,772	$	305,444	$	280,405
Realized common equity
Total stockholders’ equity	$	324,318	$	306,990	$	281,951
Adjustments:
Accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss		49,624		61,732		77,486
Total realized common equity (non-GAAP)	$	373,942	$	368,722	$	359,437
Common shares outstanding		6,826,120		6,886,928		7,150,685
Book value per share	$	47.51	$	44.58	$	39.43
Tangible book value per share (non-GAAP)	$	47.28	$	44.35	$	39.21
Realized book value per share (non-GAAP)	$	54.78	$	53.54	$	50.27

Tangible assets
Total assets	$	3,101,750	$	3,048,528	$	3,066,153
Adjustments:
Intangible assets		(1,546)		(1,546)		(1,546)
Total tangible assets (non-GAAP)	$	3,100,204	$	3,046,982	$	3,064,607
Total stockholders’ equity to assets		10.46%		10.07%		9.20%
Tangible common equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP)		10.41%		10.02%		9.15%

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: Banzai to Host Third Quarter 2024 Results Conference Call on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. Eastern Time

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SEATTLE, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Banzai International, Inc. (NASDAQ: BNZI) (“Banzai” or the “Company”), a leading marketing technology company that provides essential marketing and sales solutions, will hold a conference call on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. Eastern time to discuss its results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024, and will be reviewing expanding partnerships, and recent debt payoff and restructuring agreements. A press release detailing these results will be issued prior to the call.

Banzai Founder & CEO Joe Davy and Interim CFO Alvin Yip will host the conference call, followed by a question-and-answer session. The conference call will be accompanied by a presentation, which can be viewed during the webcast or accessed via the investor relations section of the Company’s website here.

To access the call, please use the following information:

Date:	Thursday, November 14, 2024
Time:	5:30 p.m. Eastern Time, 2:30 p.m. Pacific Time
Toll-free dial-in number:	1-877-425-9470
International dial-in number:	1-201-389-0878
Conference ID:	13749747

Please call the conference telephone number 5-10 minutes prior to the start time. An operator will register your name and organization. If you have any difficulty connecting with the conference call, please contact MZ Group at 1-949-491-8235.

The conference call will be broadcast live and available for replay at https://viavid.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1694251&tp_key=65eec38e9b and via the investor relations section of the Company’s website here.

A replay of the webcast will be available after 9:30 p.m. Eastern Time through February 14, 2025.

Toll-free replay number:	1-844-512-2921
International replay number:	1-412-317-6671
Replay ID:	13749747

About Banzai

Banzai is a marketing technology company that provides essential marketing and sales solutions for businesses of all sizes. On a mission to help their customers achieve their mission, Banzai enables companies of all sizes to target, engage, and measure both new and existing customers more effectively. Banzai customers include Square, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Thinkific, Doodle and ActiveCampaign, among thousands of others. Learn more at www.banzai.io. For investors, please visit https://ir.banzai.io/.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements often use words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “target,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “propose,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “predict,” “potential,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook,” and similar variations and expressions. Forward-looking statements are those that do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. Examples of forward-looking statements may include, among others, statements regarding Banzai International, Inc.’s (the “Company’s”): future financial, business and operating performance and goals; annualized recurring revenue and customer retention; ongoing, future or ability to maintain or improve its financial position, cash flows, and liquidity and its expected financial needs; potential financing and ability to obtain financing; acquisition strategy and proposed acquisitions and, if completed, their potential success and financial contributions; strategy and strategic goals, including being able to capitalize on opportunities; expectations relating to the Company’s industry, outlook and market trends; total addressable market and serviceable addressable market and related projections; plans, strategies and expectations for retaining existing or acquiring new customers, increasing revenue and executing growth initiatives; and product areas of focus and additional products that may be sold in the future. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and our actual results of operations, financial condition and liquidity and development of the industry in which the Company operates may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Therefore, investors should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially include changes in the markets in which the Company operates, customer demand, the financial markets, economic, business and regulatory and other factors, such as the Company’s ability to execute on its strategy. More detailed information about risk factors can be found in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q under the heading “Risk Factors,” and in other reports filed by the Company, including reports on Form 8-K. The Company does not undertake any duty to update forward-looking statements after the date of this press release.

Investor Relations
Chris Tyson
Executive Vice President
MZ Group – MZ North America
949-491-8235
BNZI@mzgroup.us
www.mzgroup.us

Media
Rachel Meyrowitz
Director, Demand Generation, Banzai
media@banzai.io

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: Bitget Announces the Listing of Act I: The AI Prophecy (ACT) in AI & Meme Zone with Airdrops in Rewards

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

VICTORIA, Seychelles, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the world’s leading crypto exchange and Web3 company, has listed Act I: The AI Prophecy (ACT) in its Innovation, AI, and Meme Zone, enhancing access to this cutting-edge AI-driven project. The listing is now live with trading available under the ACT/USDT pair, allowing users to engage with ACT through various market activities, including deposits, trading, and a unique airdrop promotion.

The promotional event, CandyBomb, offers Bitget users the chance to earn ACT through deposits and trading activity. A total of 1,388,888 ACT tokens have been allocated for this campaign, which runs from 29 October to 5 November 2024. Participants can join the CandyBomb page, where valid deposit and trading activity will automatically count toward the ACT airdrop, divided into net deposits and spot trading pools. The first 833,333 ACT will be distributed based on net deposits, while new spot traders will have exclusive access to the remaining 555,555 ACT, providing a significant incentive for both experienced and new traders alike.

As an innovative project, Act I: The AI Prophecy is reshaping the interaction paradigm within artificial intelligence, aiming to break away from traditional user-assistant interactions. Instead, ACT envisions an egalitarian digital space where both users and bots interact as equals, exploring more collaborative and integrated AI interactions. Built on the Solana blockchain, ACT provides a streamlined user experience with scalable infrastructure, inviting more extensive engagement in the rapidly expanding AI MEME ecosystem.

This listing positions ACT within Bitget’s expanding portfolio of AI and meme-focused projects, underlining the platform’s commitment to offering users access to the most forward-looking digital assets. As ACT gains traction in both centralized and decentralized trading venues, this listing on Bitget will allow a broader audience to participate in its ecosystem, aligned with the rising interest in AI-powered crypto assets. With a vibrant community and strong online engagement, ACT presents an opportunity for users interested in emerging AI trends in the blockchain space.

Bitget has consistently expanded its market share in both spot and derivatives trading among centralized exchanges. With a focus on providing users with opportunities to invest in popular and valuable projects, the platform is now one of the top 10 crypto spot trading platforms with over 800 coins and over 900 pairs, including tokens from ecosystems such as Ethereum, Solana, Base, and more recently TON.

For more information on ACT on Bitget Spot, please visit here.

About Bitget

Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 45 million users in 150+ countries and regions, Bitget is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, token swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more.

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

For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

Risk Warning: Digital asset prices may fluctuate and experience price volatility. Only invest what you can afford to lose. The value of your investment may be impacted and it is possible that you may not achieve your financial goals or be able to recover your principal investment. You should always seek independent financial advice and consider your own financial experience and financial standing. Past performance is not a reliable measure of future performance. Bitget shall not be liable for any losses you may incur. Nothing here shall be construed as financial advice.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8bb88e9e-8f39-426a-bc37-f14cba8c75bb

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Wearable Devices and TCL’s RayNeo Join Forces to Bring the Future of Neural Controller Wristband to AR Glasses Market Significantly Ahead of Meta

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

YOKNEAM ILLIT, ISRAEL, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wearable Devices Ltd. (the “Company” or “Wearable Devices”) (Nasdaq: WLDS, WLDSW), a technology growth company specializing in artificial intelligence (“AI”)-powered touchless sensing wearables, announces an innovative collaboration with TCL-RayNeo™ (“RayNeo”), a leader in augmented reality (“AR”) technology, aiming at bringing mass-market neural interface wristband for AR glasses to life now.

Both parties will be showcasing how neural interface wristband can be seamlessly integrated into AR devices, enhancing user experience by enabling hands-free, gesture-based interactions in augmented and mixed reality environments. This collaboration, previously announced earlier this month, highlights a groundbreaking leap towards more immersive, intuitive user experiences with the objective of being available as soon as next year. For comparison, Meta announced last month its entrance into the gesture control space and presented its neural wristband as a ‘Purposeful Product Prototype’ for smart glasses. RayNeo is known for its innovations in AR, developing cutting-edge AR glasses that enhance immersive experiences by overlaying digital content in the real world. By integrating RayNeo’s AR glasses with Wearable Devices’ neural gesture control technology, users can experience a truly hands-free interaction, elevating the immersive experience to new heights.

“Our collaboration with RayNeo signals a thrilling new chapter in neural gesture technology,” said Asher Dahan, Chief Executive Officer of Wearable Devices. “Our breakthrough Mudra Band and Mudra Link technology is redefining how users interact in mixed reality, offering more natural and instinctive control. Together with RayNeo, we’re creating immersive experiences that feel almost magical, as if technology has become an extension of oneself.”

“Collaborating with Wearable Devices represents a significant leap forward in the future of AR technology,” said Howie Li, Chief Executive Officer of RayNeo. “By combining RayNeo’s advanced AR glasses with the cutting-edge neural interface technology from Wearable Devices, we are committed to providing innovative solutions that empower users and transform everyday experiences. We believe this collaboration will lead to a new era of smart, intuitive, and immersive wearable experiences.”

This collaboration highlights the potential for future innovations in the extended reality (“XR”) market. The combination of RayNeo’s advanced AR hardware and Wearable Devices’ neural input technology creates exciting possibilities for the next generation of smart wearables, offering seamless and touchless control across various applications. The details of the full terms of this collaboration are subject to negotiation and execution of definitive agreements.

About Wearable Devices Ltd.

Wearable Devices Ltd. is a growth company developing AI-based neural input interface technology for the B2C and B2B markets. The Company’s flagship product, the Mudra Band for Apple Watch, integrates innovative AI-based technology and algorithms into a functional, stylish wristband that utilizes proprietary sensors to identify subtle finger and wrist movements allowing the user to “touchlessly” interact with connected devices. The Company also markets a B2B product, which utilizes the same technology and functions as the Mudra Band and is available to businesses on a licensing basis. Wearable Devices Is committed to creating disruptive, industry leading technology that leverages AI and proprietary algorithms, software, and hardware to set the input standard for the Extended Reality, one of the most rapidly expanding landscapes in the tech industry. The Company’s ordinary shares and warrants trade on the Nasdaq market under the symbols “WLDS” and “WLDSW”, respectively.

About RayNeo™

RayNeo™, incubated by TCL Electronics (1070.HK), is an industry leader in consumer-grade AR innovation, developing some of the world’s most revolutionary AR consumer hardware, software and applications. RayNeo specializes in the research and development of AR technologies with industry-leading optics, display, algorithm and device manufacturing.

Established in 2021, RayNeo has launched the world’s first full-color Micro-LED optical waveguide AR glasses, achieving several technology breakthroughs in the industry. Alongside winning the “Best Connected Consumer Device” at MWC’s Global Mobile Awards (GLOMO) 2023 with NXTWEAR S, RayNeo also developed the innovation consumer XR wearable glasses, RayNeo Air 2, featuring top-tier, cinematic audiovisual experiences with ultimate comfort. For more information, please visit: https://www.rayneo.com/

Forward-Looking Statement Disclaimer

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the “safe harbor” created by those sections. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “believe,” “expect,” “may,” “should,” “could,” “seek,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “estimate,” “anticipate” or other comparable terms. For example, we are using forward-looking statements when we discuss benefits and advantages of our technology and solutions and those of RayNeo, our expectation that this collaboration will lead to a new era of smart, intuitive, and immersive wearable experiences and the availability of the technology to users. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release regarding our strategies, prospects, financial condition, operations, costs, plans and objectives are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. The Company may not enter into or complete any definitive agreement for the proposed collaboration or, even if it does, such collaboration may not achieve the intended benefits. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: the full terms of the contemplated collaboration which are subject to negotiation and execution of definitive agreements; the trading of our ordinary shares or warrants and the development of a liquid trading market; our ability to successfully market our products and services; the acceptance of our products and services by customers; our continued ability to pay operating costs and ability to meet demand for our products and services; the amount and nature of competition from other security and telecom products and services; the effects of changes in the cybersecurity and telecom markets; our ability to successfully develop new products and services; our success establishing and maintaining collaborative, strategic alliance agreements, licensing and supplier arrangements; our ability to comply with applicable regulations; and the other risks and uncertainties described in our annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed on March 15, 2024 and our other filings with the SEC. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

Investor Relations Contact

Walter Frank
IMS Investor Relations
203.972.9200
wearabledevices@imsinvestorrelations.com

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: DTE Energy earns top score in Customer Satisfaction for Business Natural Gas Service in Midwest from J.D. Power
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Detroit, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DTE Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider, is ranked “#1 in Customer Satisfaction with Business Natural Gas Service in the Midwest” in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Gas Utility Business Customer Satisfaction Study.

In addition to ranking DTE first overall in customer satisfaction, customers placed DTE highest in the individual study factors of Price and Corporate Citizenship.

DTE’s top score in the Price study factor reflects the efforts the company takes to keep natural gas service affordable for customers. DTE has saved its customers millions of dollars by buying natural gas before it’s needed, often when prices are lower, and storing it underground until customers need it. This smooths out natural gas costs and protects customers from sudden price spikes.

DTE’s corporate citizenship efforts were also singled out by business customers as best in the Midwest region. DTE has consistently fostered a culture of community involvement and, in 2023 alone, nearly 4,000 of its employees volunteered more than 75,000 hours with 862 nonprofit organizations throughout Michigan.

Additionally, in 2023 the DTE Energy Foundation — the philanthropic arm of DTE — supported nearly 300 non-profit organizations across Michigan focused on driving positive, meaningful change in key areas like jobs, equity, human needs and the environment.

“We’re focused on improving lives for our customers and communities while also keeping natural gas service safe, reliable and affordable,” said Bob Richard, president and chief operating officer, DTE Gas. “We truly value the trust that nearly 90,000 businesses across the state place in us, and we will continue to invest in our system to keep meeting their needs and helping Michigan’s local economies grow.”

DTE is helping to foster business development by expanding natural gas service to rural communities throughout northern and greater Michigan, making them more attractive locations for business growth. Further, DTE invested $2.7 billion with Michigan businesses in 2023, creating and sustaining more than 12,000 jobs across the state.

DTE remains committed to customer satisfaction and has consistently expanded its list of services for business customers. These include:
- A range of energy efficiency programs that serve thousands of businesses annually, helping them optimize their energy use, reduce operational costs and enhance sustainability.
- A dedicated business call center that connects business customers directly with DTE representatives who are knowledgeable about the unique energy needs of businesses.
- An enhanced web experience for business customers allowing them to manage their accounts 24/7.
About DTE Energy
DTE Energy (NYSE:DTE) is a Detroit-based diversified energy company involved in the development and management of energy-related businesses and services nationwide. Its operating units include an electric company serving 2.3 million customers in Southeast Michigan and a natural gas company serving 1.3 million customers across Michigan. The DTE portfolio also includes energy businesses focused on custom energy solutions, renewable energy generation, and energy marketing and trading. DTE has continued to accelerate its carbon reduction goals to meet aggressive targets and is committed to serving with its energy through volunteerism, education and employment initiatives, philanthropy, emission reductions and economic progress. Information about DTE is available at dteenergy.com, empoweringmichigan.com, x.com/dte_energy and facebook.com/dteenergy.

The MIL Network –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: ChargeUp Accelerator for Battery Startups Opens Application Period for Cohort 2

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

BINGHAMTON, N.Y., Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — New Energy New York (NENY) has opened applications for the second cohort of ChargeUp. The six-month accelerator program is designed to support startups working on battery innovations to help them advance their technology development and their business. Early-stage U.S. companies that are working on battery innovations anywhere in the supply chain are encouraged to apply. Companies accepted into the accelerator will receive $25,000, connections to investors, and opportunities for follow-on investment, including up to $100,000 in vouchers for technical development. Each month, participation in the Binghamton-based accelerator includes one week of in-person instructional workshops and regional tours of supply chain partners and three weeks of virtual activities, such as instruction provided by industry and business experts, pitch coaching, regional showcases, and building out each company’s data room so they are ready for investment.

The program follows the success of the inaugural cohort of companies that includes Ateios Systems, Fermi Energy, MITO Materials and Standard Potential.

“ChargeUp stands as a flagship accelerator for battery startup companies. Completing the program, we emerged with significant tasks ahead but equipped with essential know-how. Additionally, the ChargeUp network proved tremendously beneficial, enabling us to establish pivotal business relationships. I strongly recommend this program to any battery startup considering joining an accelerator to enhance their growth and success,” said Ray Xu, Co-Founder and CTO of Fermi Energy.

The initiative is part of a $4.5 million grant awarded to NextCorps from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF-2334103) to test an accelerator model focused on technology commercialization for early-stage, deep-tech businesses, and strengthen economic development within region-specific technology hubs located across the U.S. The accelerator is based on curriculum and learnings from two of NextCorps’ proven accelerators: Luminate, the world’s largest accelerator for startups developing technologies enabled by optics, photonics and imaging, and the Manufacturing Accelerator, which helps early-stage companies reduce the risk, waste, and cost associated with getting hardware from prototype to mass production. The methodology used by both programs leverages university, community, and industrial involvement to guide and speed the delivery of emerging technologies.

ChargeUp will follow a similar format, and will be run by Binghamton University’s Koffman Southern Tier Incubator. During the program, companies will receive over 200 hours of curriculum that will prepare them to become investment-ready by mastering business due diligence, design for manufacturing, complex supply chains, product pricing, and other topics. The accelerator also will connect them to resources within the region’s rapidly growing battery industry cluster, which has been federally designated as a battery tech hub, and New York State’s efforts to pioneer critical energy storage technologies through the NENY project.

“The Binghamton region and our network of partners are internationally recognized for its expertise in energy storage. This accelerator will continue to attract the best startups and talent to the region, and connect them to the benchmark assets and expertise available here to change the trajectory of their business and technology commercialization. We had a very successful inaugural cohort and plan to build off the first year of running this program,” said Bandhana Katoch, Assistant Vice President, Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Partnership at Binghamton University.

Since 2017, the Southern Tier Clean Energy Incubator program has fostered over 60 startup companies. Binghamton University, through its Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation Partnerships, is leading the NENY initiative, with the cornerstone project, Battery-NY, for the development of a battery technology and prototyping center in the Southern Tier of NY.

Startups applying to ChargeUp must be incorporated, have at least two people working full time on the business, and should have proven their core technology, preferably having developed a working prototype. ChargeUp Cohort 2 begins in April 2025 and concludes in October 2025. Virtual info sessions will be held November 13 and December 10, 2024 and on January 8, 2025, to help companies assess if the program is right for their business.

To apply to ChargeUp, go here.

“Our world is facing energy storage issues that are affecting almost every industry. Testing our proven accelerator methodologies within battery innovation to solve these pressing challenges, and doing so within a rich, industry-leading battery ecosystem makes perfect sense,” said Dr. Sujatha Ramanujan, Managing Director, Luminate NY. “We’re eager to support the ChargeUp accelerator and to assess the impact it has on improving success rates for bringing novel technologies to market.”

For more information on ChargeUp, visit https://newenergynewyork.com/programs/chargeup-accelerator/

For more information about Binghamton University’s Koffman Southern Tier Incubator, visit thekoffman.com.

For more information on NextCorps, visit nextcorps.org.

For more information about Binghamton’s New Energy New York initiative, go to newenergynewyork.com.

For more information about NSF grants, visit nsf.gov.

Media Contact
Kari Bayait
kbayait@binghamton.edu
607-725-5975

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9af0d78d-54d3-4f3b-8e9c-da6eedf25490

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Pax8 Tops the Denver Business Journal Fast 50 List in 2024

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

DENVER, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pax8, the leading cloud commerce marketplace, today announced it has been named the second fastest-growing company in the Extra Large category on the Denver Business Journal’s (DBJ) 2024 Fast 50 List. The DBJ Fast 50 List recognizes the region’s fastest-growing companies and brightest entrepreneurs. This is Pax8’s fifth year on the DBJ Fast 50 list.

“We are excited about Pax8’s continuous growth trajectory and honored to be recognized by the Denver Business Journal over the years for our strong performance as a global company headquartered in Colorado,” said Nick Heddy, President at Pax8. “Our innovation in building the cloud commerce marketplace of the future, combined with creating a great place to work for our employees are the keys to our growth and success.”

This year’s DBJ Fast 50 list recognized Pax8 as one of the fastest-growing companies in the Extra Large category for companies with more than $150 million in revenue. The for-profit companies must be privately held and headquartered in one of the seven surrounding counties of Denver. In 2024, Fast 50 recognized privately-owned companies based on revenue from 2021 to 2023. Pax8’s revenue growth was 58 percent, and the company increased its workforce from 981 to 1,624 employees over that two-year period.

For a complete list of Fast 50 honorees, please visit the 2024 Fast 50 Extra Large list.

To learn more about Pax8, please visit www.pax8.com.

About Pax8
Pax8 is the technology marketplace of the future, linking partners, vendors, and small to midsized businesses (SMBs) through AI-powered insights and comprehensive product support. With a global partner ecosystem of over 35,000 managed service providers, Pax8 empowers SMBs worldwide by providing software and services that unlock their growth potential and enhance their security. Committed to innovating cloud commerce at scale, Pax8 drives customer acquisition and solution consumption across its entire ecosystem.

Follow Pax8 on Blog, Facebook, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube

Media Contact:
Kristen Beatty
Sr. Director of Public Relations
kbeatty@pax8.com

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Electrify Expo Scheduled To Ignite Austin with an Unforgettable Grand Finale
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
- Electrify Expo returns to the iconic Circuit of the Americas, offering an unparalleled opportunity to ride, drive, and demo the most exciting electric cars, trucks, e-motorcycles, e-bikes, e-scooters, e-skateboards, and customized EVs—across 1 million square feet of festival space
- Feel the rush on the specially designed off-road dirt course in the Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally, experiencing its incredible power and performance firsthand
- The Track Experience powered by Austin Energy will give attendees the ultimate bucket list experience to feel the thrill of their favorite EVs on the legendary race track
- Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, November 9, and Sunday, November 10; tickets can be purchased online or in person
AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Electrify Expo, North America’s largest electric vehicle (EV) festival, will return to Austin for its final stop of the 2024 tour on November 9-10 at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA). Everything’s bigger in Texas, and this year’s event promises to be the largest yet, featuring 1 million square feet of thrilling EV experiences at one of the country’s most iconic motorsport venues. Attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to get behind the wheel of the world’s leading electric vehicles, from the GMC HUMMER to the Nissan ARIYA to the Tesla Cybertruck.

For the first time ever, attendees will experience the adrenaline rush of the Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally on a specially designed dirt course with a professional driver to feel the thrill of the vehicle’s effortless electric performance off-road. The dirt course has obstacles, bumps and high-speed tight turns to showcase how the vehicle was purposefully designed for off-road adventures.

“The Mustang Mach-E Rally was tailor-built for off-pavement performance and thrill seekers,” said Tom Somerville, Marketing Director, Enthusiast Electric Vehicles at Ford Motor Company. “The Mustang Mach-E Rally is the first electric vehicle from Ford to take Mustang freedom and fun to dirt roads. The car handles so well in loose corners and on dirt, that we want Electrify Expo attendees in Austin to feel the difference that this electric SUV can offer. Plus, we’re excited to chat with folks about our Ford Power Promise program, which helps take the guesswork out of home charging with a complimentary charger and standard installation so they can fill up at home and are ready to go on whatever adventure each day has in store.”

Special Attractions for Austin:
- The Track Experience Powered by Austin Energy: Get behind the wheel of top EVs on the legendary race track!
- Experience the Tesla Cybertruck: Witness this highly anticipated vehicle throughout the weekend.
- GMC Makes its Austin Debut: Check out the GMC HUMMER EV and Sierra EV Denali, making their first appearance at Electrify Expo.
- Electric Dirt Bike Zone: Feel the thrill of electric dirt bikes as you blaze through a custom-designed dirt track.
- LSV Demo Zone: Hop in and take a spin with the newest, high-tech electric golf carts.
- Rivian’s Full Lineup: Test drive the all-new R2 and R3 alongside the popular R1T and R1S.
- Amazon Recharge Zone: Join a full weekend of programming addressing common EV questions and dispelling myths.
- Electrify Showoff: Marvel at the most radical customized EVs and get inspired to personalize your own ride!
“Austin is my hometown and this year we’re pulling out all the stops,” said BJ Birtwell, CEO and founder of Electrify Expo. “With the ever-growing popularity of EVs in Texas, we invite skeptics, enthusiasts, curious onlookers and thrill seekers – to join us for a weekend of exciting experiences for all ages in an outdoor festival environment.”

Electrify Expo has grown to become the Nation’s leading event for all forms of electric transportation. Whether you crave speed, style or comfort, you’ll find plenty to explore including:
- Ford: Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, E-Transit
- GMC: HUMMER EV, Sierra EV Denali
- Lexus: 2024 RZ 450e, 2024 RX 450h+, 2024 NX 450h+, 2024 TX 550h+
- Lucid: Air models
- Nissan: ARIYA, LEAF
- Porsche: Taycan
- Rivian: R1T, R1S, R2, R3
- Tesla: Cybertruck, Model S, Model 3, Model X, Model Y
- Toyota: Grand Highlander Hybrid, Prius Prime, RAV 4 Prime, bZ4X, Sienna HV
- Volvo: EX30, C40 Recharge, XC40 Recharge, EX90
- Polestar: Polestar 3 and 4
In addition to automakers, Austin attendees will be treated to an exciting lineup of e-bikes, e-scooters, and other micromobility offerings from top brands on two and four wheels, including:
- SUPER 73
- GoTrax Bikes + Scooters
- Stacyc
- JackRabbit
- Landmaster
- Amazon
- Austin Energy
- Anker
- and many more
For a full brand lineup, visit https://www.electrifyexpo.com/austin.

Electrify Expo gates will open at 10 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday, November 9-10, with a full day of fun concluding at 5 p.m. each day. Tickets for Electrify Expo are available to purchase in person and online.

For more information and to purchase tickets to Electrify Expo visit www.electrifyexpo.com. Media interested in attending may request credentials by emailing ee@skyya.com.

About Electrify Expo
Electrify Expo is North America’s largest outdoor electric vehicle (EV) festival showcasing the latest technology and products in electrification including startup and legacy EVs, electric motorcycles, bikes, scooters, skateboards, boats, surfboards and more. The festival addresses one of the most challenging barriers to mass adoption of electric vehicles – understanding how electric transportation works – with meaningful consumer experiences behind the wheel or in the seat on thrilling demo courses. Top brands from around the world exhibit and attend Electrify Expo’s events to meet consumers at all stages on their path to electrification. 2024 events will take place in Long Beach and San Francisco, Calif., Phoenix, Denver, New York, Seattle, Orlando, and Austin, Texas. To stay up to date on the latest news and announcements from Electrify Expo, visit www.electrifyexpo.com and follow on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Media Contact
Skyya PR
ee@skyya.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/04b88cf9-9ccd-4a50-b506-a84d6f2346f0

The MIL Network –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Rapsodo Enhances Its MLM2PRO’s Simulated Golf Experience, Introducing Improved Graphics and Junior Tee Locations

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

ST. LOUIS, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rapsodo, the leading developer of golf and baseball ball-flight monitors and simulators, today announces the launch of enhanced graphics for gameplay and the addition of junior tee placements within its Mobile Launch Monitor 2 Pro (MLM2PRO) for premium MLM2PRO members.

With access to more than 30,000 simulated golf courses – even ones the pros play – and virtual driving ranges, the MLM2PRO is designed to give complete visibility into a player’s game. Users can practice their skills and improve their game anytime, anywhere by having access to simulated courses, ranges as well as tracking key performance metrics. The new enhanced graphics and addition of the junior tee boxes improve the user experience and expand the MLM2PRO’s accessibility features, so golfers at every skill level and age can experience near real-life course conditions during a simulated round.

By understanding the desire for golfers to be fully immersed in their simulation rounds, Rapsodo improved the user experience by enhancing the graphics across its simulated courses. The new version improves the visuals on the course by updating the elevation, trees and course texture. The renovated platform now more closely mimics real-world play for every MLM2PRO premium member.

To ensure MLM2PRO premium members are provided the best experience possible, Rapsodo developed a Level of Detail Assessment that quickly tests the processing capabilities of the device in use and provides a customized recommendation for course play. The suggested setting determines the best level of detail that can be supported without causing performance issues. The MLM2PRO is compatible with either a phone or a tablet, so there’s no need to purchase more expensive equipment, and the new detail assessment provides a great experience for all users no matter which device they choose. The test takes approximately one minute and runs only during the initial use when a Rapsodo member launches Courses, Range or Target Range.

Additionally, as golf’s popularity continues to rise among young athletes, demand for golf technology suitable for junior players has increased. Rapsodo’s latest update adds junior tee placements to each simulated course to accommodate different skill levels and ages. When beginning a round, golfers will have the option to choose from three new sets of tees: Junior 75, Junior 125 and Junior 175. Tee placements start in the middle of the fairway with the numeric value representing the distance from the tee to the center of the green. This will allow beginners to play a simulated course that better represents their real-life game experience. This will allow parents to play at distances they’re used to while also allowing their kids to start from shorter positions, bringing more fun for the whole family to enjoy together.

“As an industry, we’re seeing more people seek less traditional avenues to play golf as the gamification of the sport rises at every level,” said Pete Gibbons, director of golf at Rapsodo. “The latest updates to the MLM2PRO enhance the game experience for our players so they can ensure their simulated round better represents their real-life play. The addition of junior tees also means that golfers at every level can improve their game as they would on the real course. This is another fun feature that opens the door for the whole family to play a simulated round together.”

A media kit with images the enhanced simulation of junior tees and graphics can be found here.

Rapsodo products are available for purchase on Rapsodo.com.

About Rapsodo
Rapsodo defies limits with affordable, professional-grade technology to enhance the way athletes play across the world. Used by MLB teams, NCAA Division I Champions, and elite PGA coaches, Rapsodo technology has earned multiple MyGolfSpy’s Best Of Golf Awards and the Official Player Development Partner of USA Baseball, affirming Rapsodo’s leadership in golf, baseball, and softball tech. Do what you didn’t think was possible. Play Without Limits. Play with Rapsodo. Discover more at Rapsodo.com.

Media Contact:
Amanda Rooney
Uproar PR for Rapsodo
arooney@uproarpr.com

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: TRM Labs and Flashpoint Join Forces to Enhance Visibility into Cyberattacks Involving Cryptocurrencies

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TRM Labs, a global leader in blockchain intelligence, and Flashpoint, a global leader in threat intelligence, have joined forces to integrate their intelligence networks and give customers unprecedented visibility into cybercriminal activity on blockchain networks.

Disrupting criminal networks is increasingly vital to keep the crypto ecosystem safe from illicit actors and allow it to grow for lawful users. According to a report from TRM Labs, in 2023, criminals handled over USD 34 billion in cryptocurrency. However, by leveraging advanced threat and blockchain intelligence tools, governments and law enforcement agencies have been able to heavily disrupt criminal networks.

TRM Labs makes it easier for investigators to uncover connections between disparate data sources by reducing the need for manual intelligence checks across multiple platforms. Through this strategic partnership, TRM Labs has integrated Flashpoint’s data directly into its blockchain intelligence platform.

Investigators that use TRM Labs will now benefit from Flashpoint’s threat intelligence data within TRM Forensics, including comprehensive details on threat actors, malicious content, illicit forum conversations, and both current and historical information from dark web and social media sources. Users with a Flashpoint license can dive deeper into these insights using Flashpoint’s Ignite Threat Intelligence Platform.

“This integration enables investigators to quickly access TRM and Flashpoint’s threat intelligence in one place, accelerating their ability to detect illicit activity, identify threat actors, and recover stolen funds,” said Esteban Castaño, CEO of TRM Labs.

“Our partnership with TRM Labs illustrates the remarkable potential of uniting blockchain intelligence and threat data to outmaneuver cyber adversaries,” said Josh Lefkowitz, CEO and founder of Flashpoint. “By integrating our industry-leading data into TRM Labs Forensics, investigators are equipped with deep insight into threat actors within the crypto ecosystem, enhancing their ability to detect and disrupt illicit activities within blockchain networks.”

This partnership bolsters TRM Labs’ threat intelligence that includes Chainabuse, the largest crypto-related scam and fraud victim reporting platform.

For more information about this partnership and how it can help enhance investigative outcomes, please visit TRM Labs at https://trmlabs.com.

About TRM Labs

TRM Labs provides blockchain intelligence to help government agencies investigate and build cases for digital asset fraud and financial crime. TRM’s blockchain intelligence platform includes solutions to follow the money, identify illicit actors, build cases, and construct an operating picture of threats. TRM is trusted by a growing number of leading agencies worldwide who rely on TRM for their blockchain intelligence needs. TRM is based in San Francisco, CA, and is hiring across engineering, product, sales, and data science. To learn more, visit www.trmlabs.com.

About Flashpoint

Flashpoint is the leader and largest private provider of threat data and intelligence. We empower mission-critical businesses and governments worldwide to decisively confront complex security challenges, reduce risk, and improve operational resilience amid fast-evolving threats. Through the Flashpoint Ignite platform, we deliver unparalleled depth, breadth and speed of data from highly relevant sources, enriched by human insights. Our solutions span cyber threat intelligence, vulnerability intelligence, geopolitical risk, physical security, fraud and brand protection. The result: our customers safeguard critical assets, avoid financial loss, and protect lives. Discover more at flashpoint.io.

RedIron PR for Flashpoint
Kari Ritacco, kari@redironpr.com

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Flourish Launches Integration with Salesforce Sales Cloud and Financial Services Cloud

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

New York, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Flourish, a platform that provides innovative access to financial products that help registered investment advisors (“RIAs”) improve their clients’ financial outcomes, today announced an integration with Salesforce Financial Services Cloud, the leading automated customer relationship management (CRM) software for financial services, allowing RIAs to prefill Flourish application information using data stored in Salesforce. The integration also extends to three leaders in the Salesforce ecosystem for RIAs: Practifi, Salentica Elements CRM, and XLR8 CRM.

CRM solutions like Salesforce help thousands of financial advisors efficiently manage client data, automate marketing efforts, and build client relationships. Over 850 RIAs use Flourish Cash, which helps clients earn competitive rates on their held-away cash while benefiting from enhanced FDIC insurance coverage through its Program Banks. By integrating with Salesforce, and a suite of integrated applications built specifically for the financial advisor community, advisors can seamlessly access data, streamline operations, and enhance the overall client experience. These integrations are active and in use today.

“Our goal is to seamlessly integrate Flourish into the systems RIAs are already using today to give valuable time back to advisors,” said Max Lane, Flourish CEO. “Adding Salesforce, the number one CRM by market share, makes it even easier for advisors to help their clients earn more on their held away cash while simultaneously growing their practices.”

Simplifying client onboarding by pre-filling information eliminates friction and better enables firms to effortlessly incorporate Flourish Cash into their businesses–especially when an increasing number of firms are embracing ‘held-away cash’ in their holistic planning practices. After all, RIAs know that clients want high yield on their cash: 92% of advisors report that their clients have expressed interest in high yield cash accounts.

Over 850 RIAs managing over $1.6 trillion in combined assets trust Flourish to help them bring more assets into their orbit. The Flourish platform allows advisors to feature their firm’s branding as well as providing client-friendly marketing materials, robust and customizable compliance resources, premium customer support, and more.

Flourish has deep integrations across the RIA ecosystem, allowing advisors to incorporate our products into their existing workflows while seamlessly serving clients. To learn more about Flourish’s integrations with the RIA techstack, including Salesfroce, please visit: https://info.flourish.com/integration-partners.

About Flourish
Flourish builds technology that empowers financial advisors, improves financial lives and retirement outcomes, and delivers new and innovative investment options to advisors. Today, the Flourish platform supports more than $6 billion in assets under custody and is used by more than 850 wealth management firms representing more than $1.5 trillion in assets under management. Flourish is wholly-owned by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual). For more information, visit www.flourish.com.

Forward Looking Statements
This press release may contain forward looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties. Actual results, performance, or achievements may differ materially from those expressed or implied.

This feedback may not be representative of the experience of other customers, and is not a guarantee of future performance or success.

Flourish is an online platform through which investors can access financial services and products. Flourish’s offerings are provided by different entities and are subject to different terms, investor protections, and risks. Flourish Cash is offered by Flourish Financial LLC, a registered broker-dealer and FINRA member. Flourish Financial LLC is not a bank. Check the background of Flourish Financial LLC and its personnel on FINRA’s BrokerCheck. Flourish Crypto is offered by Paxos Trust Company, LLC, a New York limited purpose trust company regulated by the New York Department of Financial Services that provides custody and execution services for the Flourish Crypto accounts, and Flourish Digital Assets LLC, registered in New York as a commodity broker-dealer and provides website and other services and support for Flourish Crypto accounts. Paxos is not an affiliate of Flourish. Flourish Annuities refers generally to the annuity platform operated by Flourish Technologies LLC, where applicable, and to Flourish Insurance Agency LLC in its capacity as a licensed insurance producer providing insurance services related to such platform. Flourish Insurance Agency LLC does business in California under the name Flourish Digital Insurance Agency. An annuity is an insurance contract. Annuities shown on the platform are sold through Flourish Insurance Agency LLC, a licensed insurance producer, with offices in Jersey City, New Jersey, and are issued by one or more approved licensed life insurance companies. The Flourish entities mentioned above are affiliates. Flourish Cash, Flourish Crypto, and Flourish Annuities accounts are separate accounts and only assets in Flourish Cash accounts may be eligible for protection by the FDIC or SIPC. Please review the Legal section of our website, and the disclosures provided with each Flourish service or product, for further information.

The cash balance in a Flourish Cash account will be swept from the brokerage account to deposit account(s) at one or more third-party banks that have agreed to accept deposits from customers of Flourish Financial LLC (Program Banks). The accounts at Program Banks will pay a variable rate of interest. Flourish Cash currently has a tiered interest rate structure and currently has one tier in effect, as set forth in the program summary. Each annual percentage yield (APY) may change at any time. The Flourish Cash interest rate(s) could be lower than the rate that could be earned by opening a deposit account directly with a Program Bank. The cash balance in a Flourish Cash account that is swept to one or more Program Banks is eligible for FDIC insurance, subject to FDIC rules, including FDIC aggregate insurance coverage limits. FDIC insurance will not be provided until the funds arrive at the Program Bank. Flourish Cash’s current Program Banks can be found here. For additional information regarding FDIC coverage, visit https://fdic.gov/ and https://www.flourish.com/advisors.

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Apple Products Less Likely to be Impacted by Outages, Kandji Data Reveals
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
- 77% of IT professionals agree Apple products are easier to secure than Windows and Android
- 72% believe that Apple products are more secure than other end-user devices
- 59% report that Apple products are less likely to be impacted by widespread cyber outages
SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — While cyberattacks continue to rise, the majority of IT professionals (72%) believe that Apple products are more secure than other end-user devices, according to a new survey released today by Kandji, the Apple endpoint management and security platform. Despite the growing threats, the security benefits of Apple products remain a contributing factor to Apple’s growth in the enterprise, with over three-fourths of IT professionals reporting that Apple products are easier to secure than other end-user devices, and the majority (59%) stating that they are less likely to be impacted by widespread cyber outages.

The third annual “Apple in the Enterprise” survey explores Apple’s continued growth in the enterprise, the security and reliability benefits of Apple products, and how IT professionals feel about the use and regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace.

Commissioned by Kandji and conducted by Dimensional Research, the global survey gathered insights from more than 300 IT professionals with responsibility for the management and delivery of Apple products to employees at a company with more than 1,000 employees and more than 500 end-user devices – including more than 100 C-level (CIO, CTO, CISO, etc.) executives. Key findings include:

Increased iPad, iPhone, and Mac Use Adds to Continued Apple Product Growth in Enterprise
- 73% of organizations report that the number of Apple products has increased over the last year, driven primarily by employee preference (76%), security (50%), and reliability (43%).
- 80% of C-level executives report that Apple growth is driven by employee demand.
- 69% of organizations report that use of iPhone has increased over the last year, driven primarily by employee preference (73%), reliability (56%), and security (56%).
- 45% of organizations report that the use of iPad has increased over the last year, driven primarily by mobility needs (75%) and hybrid/remote work (61%).
- 67% of IT professionals expect Apple Vision Pro to be a business productivity solution, not just a personal entertainment unit.
Security Remains Key Benefit of Apple Device Use
- 77% of IT professionals agree Apple products are easier to secure than Windows and Android.
- 72% of IT professionals believe that Apple products are more secure than other end-user devices.
- 59% of IT professionals report that Apple products are less likely to be impacted by widespread cyber outages.
- 58% of IT professionals say security is a top benefit received from use of Apple products, a notable 10% increase from 2023.
Despite Concerns About Artificial Intelligence Overall, IT Professionals Believe Apple Does More to Protect End-User Privacy
- 92% of IT professionals have concerns about AI, citing worries about errors/inaccuracies (68%), privacy (66%), and security (64%).
- 72% of C-level executives report concerns about AI causing errors.
- 71% of IT professionals say when it comes to AI, Apple does more to protect end-user privacy than other vendors.
- 67% of companies have implemented restrictions around the use of AI, including published policies (69%), access controls (65%), and user education (59%).
- 54% of IT professionals say IT operations and security share the responsibility of managing restrictions on the use of AI.
“It’s become abundantly clear that no business is immune to cyberattacks. But there are choices IT and security leaders can make that reduce the risk and impact these bad actors have on the overall organization, one of which is to expand their adoption of Apple products,” said Adam Pettit, CEO and co-founder of Kandji. “Amid the evolving threat landscape, the confidence IT professionals place in Apple products speaks volumes about their irrefutable advantages and resilience. Apple’s commitment to security remains a driving force behind its growth, especially as AI reshapes the workplace. I am excited to witness the limitless potential and business value Apple continues to bring to the enterprise.”

To download a full copy of the report, please visit https://www.kandji.io/apple-in-the-enterprise-report/.

Survey Methodology
This survey was conducted by Dimensional Research and commissioned by Kandji. A total of 314 qualified participants completed the survey. All participants had direct responsibility for
selection, delivery, or management of Apple devices to employees and worked at a company with more than 500 end-user devices and more than 1,000 employees. Participants represented a wide range of job levels, industries, and global regions. This survey included over 100 C-level (CIO, CTO, CISO, etc.) executives.

Helpful Links

About Kandji
Kandji is the Apple endpoint management and security platform. Kandji empowers companies to manage and secure Apple devices in the enterprise and at scale. By centrally securing and managing your Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV devices, IT and InfoSec teams can save countless hours of manual, repetitive work with features like one-click compliance templates and more than 150 pre-built automations, apps, and workflows. Learn more at http://www.kandji.io.

Media Contact
Erica Anderson
Offleash for Kandji
pr@kandji.io

The MIL Network –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Fortinet Delivers AI-Enhanced Data Protection and Insider Risk Management
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

News Summary
Fortinet® (NASDAQ: FTNT), the global cybersecurity leader driving the convergence of networking and security, today announced the general availability of FortiDLP, a next-generation data loss prevention (DLP) and insider risk management solution. Based on Next DLP’s innovative technology and integration into the Fortinet Security Fabric, the new solution bolsters Fortinet’s overall portfolio of DLP capabilities. FortiDLP enables effective management of data security, dynamic enforcement of data protection, and enhanced visibility of insider threats at scale for large enterprise customers.

“In an era when data protection is paramount, FortiDLP offers a next-gen solution that combines AI-enhanced detection and insider risk management to secure sensitive information,” said John Maddison, chief marketing officer at Fortinet. “By leveraging an AI-powered data protection solution with the help of generative AI, security teams can anticipate risks, streamline incident response, and mitigate threats faster than legacy DLP solutions. Protecting your data from both internal and external threats starts with visibility and proactive prevention, and FortiDLP delivers that protection on day one.”

Traditional DLP Solutions Fall Short for CISOs
Gartner® recently predicted in its latest Market Guide for Data Loss Prevention that, “By 2027, 70% of CISOs in larger enterprises will adopt a consolidated approach to address both insider risk and data exfiltration use cases.” However, CISOs and security teams continue to struggle with traditional DLP challenges, like managing data silos and dispersed data with a growing hybrid workforce, navigating cumbersome and rigid policies to classify data, slow performance of legacy tools, and the increasing risk posed by malicious insiders having access to sensitive data.

What Sets FortiDLP Apart from Legacy DLP Solutions
Fortinet’s answer to traditional DLP challenges is FortiDLP, an AI-enhanced, cloud-native endpoint data protection solution that enables customers to address all their data protection requirements with a single solution. With the recent acquisition of Next DLP, Fortinet adds a powerful data protection solution to the Fortinet Security Fabric, giving security teams a more effective way to prevent data leaks and loss, detect behavior-related threats, train employees to make risk-informed decisions and comply with security policies. The solution also addresses employees’ use of unsanctioned SaaS applications and guards against data leakage when employees use shadow AI (unapproved GenAI tools). Some of the key features that set FortiDLP apart from the competition include:
- Shadow AI Data Protection: FortiDLP enables employees to safely use publicly available GenAI tools, such as OpenAI ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and others. Administrators can set policy actions to alert employees to proper data handling practices while allowing them to continue using these tools. The result is a balance between enabling greater productivity while securing the organization against sharing sensitive corporate data with these tools.
- Day One Data Visibility and Protection: FortiDLP provides automated data movement visibility and protection from day one with out-of-the-box policies and machine learning embedded at the endpoint for baselining, with contextual and content inspection that works even if endpoints are disconnected from the network.
- Insider Risk Protection: FortiDLP can identify actions, behaviors, and other indicators and apply appropriate policy actions to identify and stop insiders from disclosing sensitive data outside of the organization. Security teams can also monitor individual user risk with the solution by identifying, analyzing, and capturing employee activity when sensitive data is accessed and/or policies are violated.
- SaaS Application Data Protection: FortiDLP provides comprehensive visibility into user interactions with data in the cloud and maintains protection as data moves out of the cloud. The solution builds a comprehensive risk-scored inventory of SaaS applications utilized across an organization, with insights into data ingress, egress, and credentials. It also fortifies defenses against potential data breaches from business data exposure via unauthorized application usage.
- Origin-Based Data Protection: FortiDLP provides instant visibility into data exposure risk with Secure Data Flow, which complements traditional content and sensitivity classification-based approaches with origin-based data identification, manipulation detection, and data egress controls. Security teams can track and prevent data egress from endpoints and unmanaged mobile devices to USB drives, printers, and SaaS apps like Slack, Office 365, and Google Workspace.
- Risk-Informed User Education: Administrators can configure policies and actions that include the presentation of customizable messages to educate users on the importance of safeguarding sensitive data while also enabling mechanisms that drive accountability for employee behavior.
- AI-Powered Guidance: The FortiDLP AI-powered assistant enhances incident analysis by using FortiAI to summarize and contextualize data associated with observed high-risk activity, mapped to the MITRE Engenuity Insider Threat Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTP) Knowledge Base for easy consumption by analysts and peers.
As part of its ongoing commitment to offering customers enterprise-grade data protection, Fortinet plans to sell FortiDLP as a stand-alone solution in addition to adding advanced AI-driven data loss prevention capabilities to its security service edge (SSE) offering and integrate additional insider risk and data protection capabilities across the Fortinet Security Fabric.

FortiDLP is based on the next-generation, cloud-native SaaS data protection platform from Next DLP. Next DLP was recognized as a Representative Vendor in the 2023 Gartner Market Guide for Data Loss Prevention¹ and the 2023 Gartner Market Guide for Insider Risk Management Solutions.²

Additional Resources

GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner’s research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

¹Gartner Market Guide for Data Loss Prevention, Ravisha Chugh, Andrew Bales, 4 September 2023.

²Gartner Market Guide for Insider Risk Management Solutions, Brent Predovich, 13 November 2023.

About Fortinet
Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT) is a driving force in the evolution of cybersecurity and the convergence of networking and security. Our mission is to secure people, devices, and data everywhere, and today we deliver cybersecurity everywhere you need it with the largest integrated portfolio of over 50 enterprise-grade products. Well over half a million customers trust Fortinet’s solutions, which are among the most deployed, most patented, and most validated in the industry. The Fortinet Training Institute, one of the largest and broadest training programs in the industry, is dedicated to making cybersecurity training and new career opportunities available to everyone. Collaboration with esteemed organizations from both the public and private sectors, including CERTs, government entities, and academia, is a fundamental aspect of Fortinet’s commitment to enhance cyber resilience globally. FortiGuard Labs, Fortinet’s elite threat intelligence and research organization, develops and utilizes leading-edge machine learning and AI technologies to provide customers with timely and consistently top-rated protection and actionable threat intelligence. Learn more at https://www.fortinet.com, the Fortinet Blog, and FortiGuard Labs.

Copyright © 2024 Fortinet, Inc. All rights reserved. The symbols ® and ™ denote respectively federally registered trademarks and common law trademarks of Fortinet, Inc., its subsidiaries and affiliates. Fortinet’s trademarks include, but are not limited to, the following: Fortinet, the Fortinet logo, FortiGate, FortiOS, FortiGuard, FortiCare, FortiAnalyzer, FortiManager, FortiASIC, FortiClient, FortiCloud, FortiMail, FortiSandbox, FortiADC, FortiAI, FortiAIOps, FortiAntenna, FortiAP, FortiAPCam, FortiAuthenticator, FortiCache, FortiCall, FortiCam, FortiCamera, FortiCarrier, FortiCASB, FortiCentral, FortiConnect, FortiController, FortiConverter, FortiCSPM, FortiCWP, FortDAST, FortiDB, FortiDDoS, FortiDeceptor, FortiDeploy, FortiDevSec, FortiEDR, FortiExplorer, FortiExtender, FortiFirewall, FortiFlex FortiFone, FortiGSLB, FortiGuest, FortiHypervisor, FortiInsight, FortiIsolator, FortiLAN, FortiLink, FortiMonitor, FortiNAC, FortiNDR, FortiPenTest, FortiPhish, FortiPoint, FortiPolicy, FortiPortal, FortiPresence, FortiProxy, FortiRecon, FortiRecorder, FortiSASE, FortiSDNConnector, FortiSEC, FortiSIEM, FortiSMS, FortiSOAR, FortiStack, FortiSwitch, FortiTester, FortiToken, FortiTrust, FortiVoice, FortiWAN, FortiWeb, FortiWiFi, FortiWLC, FortiWLM and FortiXDR. Other trademarks belong to their respective owners. Fortinet has not independently verified statements or certifications herein attributed to third parties and Fortinet does not independently endorse such statements. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, nothing herein constitutes a warranty, guarantee, contract, binding specification or other binding commitment by Fortinet or any indication of intent related to a binding commitment, and performance and other specification information herein may be unique to certain environments.

The MIL Network –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: ServiceTrade 2024 Benchmark Reports Reveal Fire Protection and Mechanical Service Customers Outperform Industry Peers

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

DURHAM, N.C., Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ServiceTrade, Inc., a leading software platform for commercial mechanical and fire system service contractors, is pleased to announce the release of its 2024 ServiceTrade Benchmark Reports. The annual reports provide commercial fire and mechanical contractors with critical insights to evaluate their business performance against peers, enabling them to identify optimization opportunities and strengthen their businesses.

The 2024 ServiceTrade Benchmark Reports offer a data-driven analysis of the operational performance of US and Canada-based commercial fire and mechanical contractor businesses. Specifically, the reports reveal contractors’ performance in year-over-year revenue, driven by smart strategies such as uncovering proactive pull-through revenue opportunities from existing customers, prioritizing high-value work, and optimizing back-end processes. The reports also provide insights and proven best practices to help contractors take advantage of operational trends and identify sustainable growth, revenue performance, and efficiency opportunities.

ServiceTrade Customers Outperform Industry Average

Per the reports, ServiceTrade customers consistently outperform industry averages. The reports measure two key industry sectors: fire protection and commercial mechanical HVAC service.

The median YoY growth rate for mechanical contractors using the ServiceTrade platform was 12.3%, while top performers (those in the 75th percentile) grew at 30.1%. This far outpaces the industry average CAGR for heating and air conditioning contractors’ revenue in the US market, which has shown minimal overall growth of less than 1% over the last five years. Looking forward, the US HVAC services market is expected to witness a CAGR of 3.4% during 2024-2030.

In the fire industry, the median YoY growth rate for ServiceTrade customers was 14.9%, while top performers grew at 33.2%. This far outpaces the industry average performance. Fire Protection contractors’ revenue has contracted at a rate of 1.6% over the last 5 years, despite a post-Covid jump of 1.2% in 2023.

“As the leading provider of field service management software for commercial contractors, we’re proud to provide the industry with these comprehensive benchmarks,” said Shawn Mims, VP of Marketing at ServiceTrade. “The ServiceTrade annual benchmark reports are known for critical data and market insights that help companies focus on the right strategies, tactics and opportunities to improve their business performance.”

The full ServiceTrade Benchmark Reports are available for free download:

To learn more about ServiceTrade:

About ServiceTrade:
ServiceTrade, Inc. is a software platform for commercial mechanical, fire, and life safety contractors. During a chronic skilled labor shortage, ServiceTrade helps commercial contractors increase profit by improving service and project operations, increasing technician productivity, selling more service agreements, and growing customer loyalty. Located in Durham, North Carolina, ServiceTrade was founded in 2012 to automate and streamline the commercial mechanical and fire protection industry and has grown to have more than 1,300 customers. More than 10% of the commercial or industrial buildings in the United States are serviced by contractors using ServiceTrade. Learn more at www.servicetrade.com.

Sources:

Heating & Air-Conditioning Contractors in the US – Market Size, Industry Analysis, Trends and Forecasts (2024-2029), IBIS World, July 2024

US HVAC Services Market Size and Share Analysis – Trends, Drivers, Competitive Landscape, and Forecasts (2024-2030) PS Market Research

U.S. Fire Protection System Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Detection, Suppression, Response, Analysis, Sprinkler System), By Service, By Application, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 – 2030, Grandview Research, February 2024

Fire Protection and Security System Installation Contractors in the US – Market Size, Industry Analysis, Trends and Forecasts (2024-2029), IBIS World, January 2024

Contact:
Media@KTCMarketingandPR.com

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: Summit State Bank Reports Net Income of $626,000 for Third Quarter 2024

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SANTA ROSA, Calif., Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Summit State Bank (the “Bank”) (Nasdaq: SSBI) today reported net income for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024 of $626,000, or $0.09 per diluted share, compared to net income of $1,821,000, or $0.27 per diluted share for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023. Net operating income before credit loss provision and income tax was $2,122,000 for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024 compared to $2,520,000 for the third quarter ended 2023.

In September 2024 the Bank declared its eighty-third consecutive quarterly cash dividend.

“In this time of economic uncertainty, the Board is focused on balancing its commitment to shareholders while also building capital, increasing liquidity and positioning the Bank to create long-term value,” said Brian Reed, President and CEO. “As such, the Bank is not announcing a dividend for the third quarter of 2024.”

Third Quarter 2024 Financial Highlights (at or for the three months ended September 30, 2024)

Net operating income before credit loss provision and income tax increased quarter-to-date to $2,122,000 for Q3 2024 when compared to $1,955,000 in Q1 2024 to $1,267,000 in Q2 2024.
Operating expenses decreased in the third quarter of 2024 to $6,181,000 compared to $6,926,000 in the third quarter of 2023.
The improvement in net income for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024 was offset by a $1,320,000 provision for credit losses.
Net income for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024 was $626,000, or $0.09 per diluted share, compared to $1,821,000, or $0.27 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2023 and $928,000, or $0.14 per diluted share, for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024.
The allowance for credit losses to total loans was 1.66% on September 30, 2024 which is based on estimating credit losses for the life of the loans in the portfolio.
The Bank maintained strong total liquidity of $458,554,000, or 41.0% of total assets as of September 30, 2024. This includes on balance sheet liquidity (cash and equivalents and unpledged available-for-sale securities) of $148,499,000 or 13.3% of total assets, plus available borrowing capacity of $310,055,000 or 27.7% of total assets.
The Bank remains well-capitalized and all regulatory capital ratios were well above minimum requirements on September 30, 2024.
Net loans decreased $14,832,000 to $917,367,000 at September 30, 2024, compared to $932,199,000 one year earlier and increased $3,853,000 compared to $913,514,000 three months earlier.
Total deposits decreased 3% to $1,002,770,000 at September 30, 2024, compared to $1,030,836,000 at September 30, 2023, and increased 4% when compared to the prior quarter end of $966,587,000.
Book value was $14.85 per share, compared to $13.77 per share a year ago and $14.44 in the preceding quarter.

Operating Results

For the third quarter of 2024, the annualized return on average assets was 0.23% and the annualized return on average equity was 2.48%. This compared to an annualized return on average assets of 0.63% and an annualized return on average equity of 7.59%, respectively, for the third quarter of 2023.

Summit’s net interest margin was 2.71% in the third quarter of 2024 and 2.80% in the third quarter of 2023. Interest and dividend income increased 0.3% to $14,977,000 in the third quarter of 2024 compared to $14,931,000 in the third quarter of 2023. The slight increase in interest income is attributable to a $763,000 increase in interest on loans offset by a decrease of $671,000 in interest on deposits with banks and a decrease in interest on investment securities of $45,000.

“Our earnings have been substantially impacted by the high interest rate environment that continues to put upward pressure on our funding costs,” said Reed. “The cost of deposits was 3.05% during the third quarter, compared to 2.95% during the preceding quarter, as customers continue to focus on higher yields. The recent rate decrease by the Federal Reserve will help alleviate some of the pricing pressures, but rates remain elevated. We have been actively implementing programs to reduce cost of funds while preserving our local deposit relationships.”

Noninterest income decreased in the third quarter of 2024 to $1,030,000 compared to $1,496,000 in the third quarter of 2023. The decrease is primarily attributed to the Bank recognizing $474,000 in gains on sales of SBA and USDA guaranteed loan balances in the third quarter of 2024 compared to $1,046,000 in gains on sales of SBA and USDA guaranteed loan balances in the third quarter of 2023.

Operating expenses decreased in the third quarter of 2024 to $6,181,000 compared to $6,926,000 in the third quarter of 2023. The decrease is primarily due to a decrease in the accrual employee bonus expenses of $238,000, a reduction in stock appreciation rights expense of $179,000, a decrease in marketing expense of $113,000 and a decrease of $75,000 in legal expense.

Balance Sheet Review

Net loans decreased 2% to $917,367,000 at September 30, 2024, compared to $932,199,000 at September 30, 2023, and decreased 0.4% compared to June 30, 2024. The Bank’s largest loan types are commercial real estate loans which make up 78% of the portfolio, “secured by farmland” totaling 9% of the portfolio, and 8% in commercial and industrial loans. Of the commercial real estate total, approximately 32% or $235,000,000 is owner occupied and the remaining 68% or $491,000,000 is non-owner occupied. The portfolio is well diversified between industries with no significant concentrations, including office space which totals $116,300,000.

Total deposits decreased 3% to $1,002,770,000 at September 30, 2024, compared to $1,030,836,000 at September 30, 2023, and increased 4% when compared to the prior quarter end. At September 30, 2024, noninterest bearing demand deposit accounts decreased 9% compared to a year ago and represented 19% of total deposits; savings, NOW and money market accounts increased 6% compared to a year ago and represented 48% of total deposits, and CDs decreased 10% compared to a year ago and comprised 33% of total deposits. The decrease in deposits is a result of the Bank managing its liquidity levels and asset growth. The average cost of deposits was 3.05% in the third quarter of 2024, compared to 2.63% in the third quarter of 2023.

Shareholders’ equity was $100,662,000 at September 30, 2024, compared to $97,949,000 three months earlier and $93,439,000 a year earlier. The increase in shareholders’ equity compared to a year ago was primarily due to a reduction in accumulated other comprehensive loss on securities of $4,790,000 and an increase of $2,145,000 in retained earnings. At September 30, 2024 book value was $14.85 per share, compared to $14.44 three months earlier, and $13.77 at September 30, 2023.

Summit State Bank continues to maintain capital levels in excess of the requirements to be categorized as “well-capitalized” with average equity to assets of 9.10% at September 30, 2024, compared to 9.04% at June 30, 2024, and 8.24% at September 30, 2023. The increase compared to September 2023 was due to the Bank’s retention of capital which is exceeding asset growth.

Credit Quality

“Our primary focus has been managing asset quality and reducing portfolio risk,” said Reed. “Our nonperforming loans, which are concentrated in the “secured by farmland” category, remain elevated as we work with our customers to cure or payoff these loans. The Bank is committed to acting so it can replace this segment of the portfolio with performing loans. Our commercial real estate portfolios continue to perform well.”

Nonperforming assets were $41,971,000, or 3.75% of total assets, at September 30, 2024. This compared to $40,994,000 in nonperforming assets at June 30, 2024, and $35,267,000 in nonperforming assets at September 30, 2023. There are three specific relationships totaling $32,200,000, and one real estate owned for $5,130,000, that together make up 89% of nonperforming assets portfolio. These three relationships are “secured by farmland” and the Bank has specific reserves set aside based on current appraised values net of any costs.

There were no net charge-offs during the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared to net charge-offs of $1,347,000 during the three months ended June 30, 2024 and net recoveries of $10,000 during the three months ended September 30, 2023. Net charge-offs for the three months ended June 30, 2024 were related to a loan taken into real estate owned.

For the third quarter of 2024, consistent with factors within the allowance for credit losses, the Bank recorded a $1,320,000 provision for credit loss expense for loans, a $8,000 reversal of credit losses for unfunded loan commitments and a $19,000 reversal of credit losses on investments. This compared to a $27,000 reversal of credit loss expense on loans, a $5,000 reversal of credit losses on unfunded loan commitments and a $27,000 provision for credit losses on investments in the third quarter of 2023.

The allowance for credit losses to total loans was 1.66% on September 30, 2024, and 1.61% on September 30, 2023. The increase is due to a provision for credit losses on loans of $1,320,000 recorded during the three months ended September 30, 2024. The provision covers a $1,000,000 specific loan reserve and $300,000 general pool loan reserve.

About Summit State Bank

Summit State Bank, a local community bank, has total assets of $1.1 billion and total equity of $101 million at September 30, 2024. Headquartered in Sonoma County, the Bank specializes in providing exceptional customer service and customized financial solutions to aid in the success of local small businesses and nonprofits throughout Sonoma County.

Summit State Bank is committed to embracing the diverse backgrounds, cultures and talents of its employees to create high performance and support the evolving needs of its customers and community it serves. At the center of diversity is inclusion, collaboration, and a shared vision for delivering superior service to customers and results for shareholders. Presently, 60% of management are women and minorities with 60% represented on the Executive Management Team. Through the engagement of its team, Summit State Bank has received many esteemed awards including: Top Performing Community Bank by American Banker, Best Places to Work in the North Bay by North Bay Business Journal, Corporate Philanthropy Award by the San Francisco Business Times, Hall of Fame by North Bay Biz Magazine, and Diversity in Business. Summit State Bank’s stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol SSBI. Further information can be found at www.summitstatebank.com.

Forward-looking Statements

The financial results in this release are preliminary. Final financial results and other disclosures will be reported in Summit State Bank’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2024 and may differ materially from the results and disclosures in this release due to, among other things, the completion of final review procedures, the occurrence of subsequent events or the discovery of additional information.

Except for historical information contained herein, the statements contained in this news release, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. This release may contain forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Such risks and uncertainties may include but are not necessarily limited to fluctuations in interest rates, inflation, government regulations and general economic conditions, and competition within the business areas in which the Bank will be conducting its operations, including the real estate market in California and other factors beyond the Bank’s control. Such risks and uncertainties could cause results for subsequent interim periods or for the entire year to differ materially from those indicated. You should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which reflect management’s view only as of the date hereof. The Bank undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

Contact: Brian Reed, President and CEO, Summit State Bank (707) 568-4908


SUMMIT STATE BANK
STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(In thousands except earnings per share data)


			Three Months Ended
			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			September 30, 2023
			(Unaudited)			(Unaudited)			(Unaudited)

Interest and dividend income:
	Interest and fees on loans		$	13,594		$	13,083		$	12,831
	Interest on deposits with banks			592			451			1,263
	Interest on investment securities			663			709			708
	Dividends on FHLB stock			128			128			129
		Total interest and dividend income		14,977			14,371			14,931
Interest expense:
	Deposits			7,563			7,046			6,895
	Federal Home Loan Bank advances			4			137			10
	Junior subordinated debt			138			94			94
		Total interest expense		7,705			7,277			6,999
		Net interest income before provision for credit losses		7,272			7,094			7,932
Provision for (reversal of) credit losses on loans				1,320			6			(27	)
(Reversal of) credit losses on unfunded loan commitments				(8	)		(26	)		(5	)
(Reversal of) provision for credit losses on investments				(19	)		4			27
		Net interest income after provision for (reversal of) credit
		losses on loans, unfunded loan commitments and investments		5,979			7,110			7,937
Non-interest income:
	Service charges on deposit accounts			241			227			231
	Rental income			60			60			61
	Net gain on loan sales			474			270			1,046
	Other income			255			244			158
		Total non-interest income		1,030			801			1,496
Non-interest expense:
	Salaries and employee benefits			3,988			4,039			4,362
	Occupancy and equipment			420			443			432
	Other expenses			1,773			2,145			2,132
		Total non-interest expense		6,181			6,627			6,926
		Income before provision for income taxes		828			1,284			2,507
Provision for income taxes				202			356			686
		Net income	$	626		$	928		$	1,821

Basic earnings per common share			$	0.09		$	0.14		$	0.27
Diluted earnings per common share			$	0.09		$	0.14		$	0.27

Basic weighted average shares of common stock outstanding				6,719			6,719			6,697
Diluted weighted average shares of common stock outstanding				6,719			6,719			6,705


SUMMIT STATE BANK
STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(In thousands except earnings per share data)


			Nine Months Ended
			September 30, 2024			September 30, 2023
			(Unaudited)			(Unaudited)

Interest and dividend income:
	Interest and fees on loans		$	39,952		$	39,152
	Interest on deposits with banks			1,405			3,618
	Interest on investment securities			2,084			2,143
	Dividends on FHLB stock			386			293
		Total interest and dividend income		43,827			45,206
Interest expense:
	Deposits			21,396			17,114
	Federal Home Loan Bank advances			332			177
	Junior Subordinated Debt			325			281
		Total interest expense		22,053			17,572
		Net interest income before provision for credit losses		21,774			27,634
Provision for credit losses on loans				1,311			373
(Reversal of) credit losses on unfunded loan commitments				(99	)		(3	)
(Reversal of) provision for credit losses on investments				(20	)		27
		Net interest income after provision for (reversal of) credit
		losses on loans, unfunded loan commitments and investments		20,582			27,237
Non-interest income:
	Service charges on deposit accounts			701			653
	Rental income			180			139
	Net gain on loan sales			1,257			2,481
	Other income			641			1,630
		Total non-interest income		2,779			4,903
Non-interest expense:
	Salaries and employee benefits			12,210			12,354
	Occupancy and equipment			1,348			1,326
	Other expenses			5,651			5,886
		Total non-interest expense		19,209			19,566
		Income before provision for income taxes		4,152			12,574
Provision for income taxes				1,203			3,652
		Net income	$	2,949		$	8,922

Basic earnings per common share			$	0.44		$	1.33
Diluted earnings per common share			$	0.44		$	1.33

Basic weighted average shares of common stock outstanding				6,712			6,694
Diluted weighted average shares of common stock outstanding				6,712			6,697


SUMMIT STATE BANK
BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands except share data)


			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			September 30, 2023
			(Unaudited)			(Unaudited)			(Unaudited)

ASSETS

Cash and due from banks			$	80,928		$	40,142		$	86,604
		Total cash and cash equivalents		80,928			40,142			86,604

Investment securities:
	Available-for-sale, less allowance for credit losses of $38, $57 and $0
	(at fair value; amortized cost of $86,225, $96,407 and $97,099)			76,205			83,105			80,312

Loans, less allowance for credit losses of $15,466, $14,145 and $15,243				917,367			913,514			932,199
Bank premises and equipment, net				5,251			5,306			5,334
Investment in Federal Home Loan Bank stock (FHLB), at cost				5,889			5,889			5,541
Goodwill				4,119			4,119			4,119
Other Real Estate Owned				5,130			5,130			–
Affordable housing tax credit investments				7,698			7,942			8,360
Accrued interest receivable and other assets				16,204			16,898			19,705

		Total assets	$	1,118,791		$	1,082,045		$	1,142,174

LIABILITIES AND
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Deposits:
	Demand – non interest-bearing		$	192,371		$	183,181		$	210,258
	Demand – interest-bearing			212,214			218,124			201,516
	Savings			45,845			42,974			54,317
	Money market			219,593			212,750			193,080
	Time deposits that meet or exceed the FDIC insurance limit			80,801			74,744			72,836
	Other time deposits			251,946			234,814			298,829
		Total deposits		1,002,770			966,587			1,030,836

Federal Home Loan Bank advances				–			3,500			–
Junior subordinated debt				5,931			5,927			5,916
Affordable housing commitment				4,061			4,061			4,435
Accrued interest payable and other liabilities				5,367			4,021			7,548

		Total liabilities		1,018,129			984,096			1,048,735

Shareholders’ equity
	Preferred stock, no par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized;
	no shares issued and outstanding			–			–			–
	Common stock, no par value; shares authorized – 30,000,000 shares;
	issued and outstanding 6,776,563, 6,784,099 and 6,784,099			37,677			37,623			37,389
	Retained earnings			70,012			69,651			67,867
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net			(7,027	)		(9,325	)		(11,817	)

		Total shareholders’ equity		100,662			97,949			93,439

		Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	1,118,791		$	1,082,045		$	1,142,174

Financial Summary
(Dollars in thousands except per share data)

	As of and for the
	Three Months Ended
	September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			September 30, 2023
	(Unaudited)			(Unaudited)			(Unaudited)
Statement of Income Data:
Net interest income	$	7,272		$	7,094		$	7,932
Provision for (reversal of) credit losses on loans		1,320			6			(27	)
(Reversal of) credit losses on unfunded loan commitments		(8	)		(26	)		(5	)
(Reversal of) provision for credit losses on investments		(19	)		4			27
Non-interest income		1,030			801			1,496
Non-interest expense		6,181			6,627			6,926
Provision for income taxes		202			356			686
Net income	$	626		$	928		$	1,821

Selected per Common Share Data:
Basic earnings per common share	$	0.09		$	0.14		$	0.27
Diluted earnings per common share	$	0.09		$	0.14		$	0.27
Dividend per share	$	0.04		$	0.12		$	0.12
Book value per common share (1)	$	14.85		$	14.44		$	13.77

Selected Balance Sheet Data:
Assets	$	1,118,791		$	1,082,045		$	1,142,174
Loans, net		917,367			913,514			932,199
Deposits		1,002,770			966,587			1,030,836
Average assets		1,098,469			1,078,700			1,155,007
Average earning assets		1,063,476			1,049,254			1,123,951
Average shareholders’ equity		99,962			97,548			95,180
Nonperforming loans		36,841			35,864			35,267
Net loans (charged-off) recovered		–			(1,067	)		10
Other real estate owned		5,130			5,130			–
Total nonperforming assets		41,971			40,994			35,267

Selected Ratios:
Return on average assets (2)		0.23	%		0.35	%		0.63	%
Return on average common shareholders’ equity (2)		2.48	%		3.82	%		7.59	%
Efficiency ratio (3)		74.45	%		83.94	%		73.46	%
Net interest margin (2)		2.71	%		2.71	%		2.80	%
Common equity tier 1 capital ratio		9.94	%		10.22	%		9.65	%
Tier 1 capital ratio		9.94	%		10.22	%		9.65	%
Total capital ratio		11.66	%		12.08	%		11.49	%
Tier 1 leverage ratio		9.18	%		9.31	%		8.47	%
Common dividend payout ratio (4)		42.34	%		87.96	%		43.82	%
Average shareholders’ equity to average assets		9.10	%		9.04	%		8.24	%
Nonperforming loans to total loans		3.95	%		3.87	%		3.72	%
Nonperforming assets to total assets		3.75	%		3.79	%		3.09	%
Allowance for credit losses to total loans		1.66	%		1.52	%		1.61	%
Allowance for credit losses to nonperforming loans		41.98	%		39.44	%		43.22	%

(1) Total shareholders’ equity divided by total common shares outstanding.
(2) Annualized.
(3) Non-interest expenses to net interest and non-interest income, net of securities gains.
(4) Common dividends divided by net income available for common shareholders.

Financial Summary
(Dollars in thousands except per share data)

	As of and for the
	Nine Months Ended
	September 30, 2024			September 30, 2023
	(Unaudited)			(Unaudited)
Statement of Income Data:
Net interest income	$	21,774		$	27,634
(Reversal of) provision for credit losses on loans		1,311			373
(Reversal of) provision for credit losses on unfunded loan commitments		(99	)		(3	)
(Reversal of) provision for credit losses on investments		(20	)		27
Non-interest income		2,779			4,903
Non-interest expense		19,209			19,566
Provision for income taxes		1,203			3,652
Net income	$	2,949		$	8,922

Selected per Common Share Data:
Basic earnings per common share	$	0.44		$	1.33
Diluted earnings per common share	$	0.44		$	1.33
Dividend per share	$	0.28		$	0.36
Book value per common share (1)	$	14.85		$	13.77

Selected Balance Sheet Data:
Assets	$	1,118,791		$	1,142,174
Loans, net		917,367			932,199
Deposits		1,002,770			1,030,836
Average assets		1,088,413			1,149,441
Average earning assets		1,056,714			1,117,877
Average shareholders’ equity		98,333			93,461
Nonperforming loans		36,841			35,267
Net loans (charged-off) recovered		(1,066	)		31
Other real estate owned		5,130			–
Total nonperforming assets		41,971			35,267

Selected Ratios:
Return on average assets (2)		0.36	%		1.04	%
Return on average common shareholders’ equity (2)		4.00	%		12.76	%
Efficiency ratio (3)		78.23	%		60.13	%
Net interest margin (2)		2.74	%		3.31	%
Common equity tier 1 capital ratio		9.94	%		9.65	%
Tier 1 capital ratio		9.94	%		9.65	%
Total capital ratio		11.66	%		11.49	%
Tier 1 leverage ratio		9.18	%		8.47	%
Common dividend payout ratio (4)		64.23	%		27.36	%
Average shareholders’ equity to average assets		9.03	%		8.13	%
Nonperforming loans to total loans		3.95	%		3.72	%
Nonperforming assets to total assets		3.75	%		3.09	%
Allowance for credit losses to total loans		1.66	%		1.61	%
Allowance for credit losses to nonperforming loans		41.98	%		43.22	%

(1) Total shareholders’ equity divided by total common shares outstanding.
(2) Annualized.
(3) Non-interest expenses to net interest and non-interest income, net of securities gains.
(4) Common dividends divided by net income available for common shareholders.

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025

MIL-OSI: Exciting Opportunity to Leverage Triller’s Underutilized Assets to Create Next-Gen Entertainment Platform
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, NY, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Triller Group Inc. (Nasdaq: ILLR) (“Triller Group” or “the Company”) today announced the release of its latest Fact Sheet, providing initial insights into the Company’s mission to become the next generation Entertainment Platform.

“I could not be more excited about our future prospects, as an App, as a brand and as a group of leading-edge companies”, said Bob Diamond, Chairman of the Board. “We have the disruptive fighting brand in BKFC, the next generation streaming platform in TrillerTV, sophisticated AI tools helping Presidential candidates and NFL franchises find their audiences, and an App upon which we will build an integrated vertical video and connected TV multimedia entertainment platform.”

With the creator economy valued at a massive $180 billion and experiencing robust growth, Triller Group is well positioned to address emerging issues driven by ongoing technological disruption. Issues such as creators or professional content providers struggling to protect, leverage, or monetize their content. Or users looking for better ways to discover and engage with exciting new content. These unmet needs of creators, brands and users create huge market opportunities for Triller Group.

As the Company develops and implements strategies to meet these needs, Triller Group is not starting from scratch. The Company already has a strong foundation with powerful assets and brands in vertical video (Triller App), connected TV (TrillerTV) and content and events (BKFC) that foster passionate user engagement through authenticity and trust. The transformation journey has already started as evidenced by the fact that the Company has:
- A content-rich Triller App, with 36% of users actively creating content.
- A highly sophisticated, AI-driven suite of tools and services, currently serving top creators and leading brands globally on the Triller App and across the social media landscape.
- More than 3,000 events live-streamed annually without a glitch through TrillerTV.
- Proof of concept with BKFC, the world’s fastest-growing combat league, featuring highly successful events and unique content made accessible across all media distribution channels, including vertical video and connected TV, on a global scale.
As Triller Group connects and integrates these underleveraged assets, Triller Group will start to occupy a truly unique position as an entertainment platform, translating into unparalleled value for all our stakeholders.

Over the next few weeks, the Company will provide further updates as an experienced management team renowned for its execution and integrity is being put into place under the leadership of Kevin McGurn, the Company’s previously announced incoming CEO. More details on the transformation plan and associated business plan will also be provided during a planned investor and media day in November 2024.

Triller Group is excited to embark on this journey to redefine entertainment and create unparalleled opportunities for creators, brands and audiences alike.

The Fact Sheet is available on the Company’s Investor Relations page at the following address: https://trillercorp.com/ir/.

About Triller Group Inc.

Triller Group is a US-based company that operates two main businesses: the newly merged US-based social media operations (Triller Corp.), and the legacy operations of the Company in Hong Kong (“AGBA”).

Triller Corp. is a next generation, AI-powered, social media and live-streaming event platform for creators. Pairing music culture with sports, fashion, entertainment, and influencers through a 360-degree view of content and technology, Triller Corp. uses proprietary AI technology to push and track content virally to affiliated and non-affiliated sites and networks, enabling them to reach millions of additional users. Triller Corp. additionally owns Triller Sports, Bare-Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC); Amplify.ai, a leading machine-learning, AI platform; and TrillerTV, a premier global PPV, AVOD, and SVOD streaming service. For more information, visit www.triller.co.

Established in 1993, AGBA is a leading, multi-channel business platform that incorporates cutting edge machine-learning and offers a broad set of financial services and healthcare products to consumers through a tech-led ecosystem, enabling clients to unlock the choices that best suit their needs. Trusted by over 400,000 individual and corporate customers, the Group is organized into four market-leading businesses: Platform Business, Distribution Business, Healthcare Business, and Fintech Business. For more information, please visit www.agba.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. When the Company uses words such as “may,” “will,” “intend,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “estimate” or similar expressions that do not relate solely to historical matters, it is making forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations discussed in the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the following: the Company’s goals and strategies; the Company’s future business development; product and service demand and acceptance; changes in technology; economic conditions; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against us following the consummation of the business combination; expectations regarding our strategies and future financial performance, including its future business plans or objectives, prospective performance and opportunities and competitors, revenues, products, pricing, operating expenses, market trends, liquidity, cash flows and uses of cash, capital expenditures, and our ability to invest in growth initiatives and pursue acquisition opportunities; reputation and brand; the impact of competition and pricing; government regulations; fluctuations in general economic and business conditions in Hong Kong and the international markets the Company plans to serve and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing and other risks contained in reports filed by the Company with the SEC, the length and severity of the recent coronavirus outbreak, including its impacts across our business and operations. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward–looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof.

Investor & Media Relations:

Bethany Lai
ir@triller.co
investorrelations@triller.co

Anthony Silverman
ads@apellaadvisors.com

# # #

The MIL Network –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Haivision Releases Free Video Player for Real-Time ISR Streams
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

MONTREAL, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Haivision Systems Inc. (“Haivision”) (TSX: HAI), a leading global provider of mission-critical, real-time video networking and visual collaboration solutions, today announced the general availability of Haivision Play ISR, a free and easily-available desktop video player designed specifically for defense and ISR professionals.

Haivision Play ISR prioritizes low-latency playback of live video with KLV metadata. It enables users to see events unfolding in real-time with metadata providing more awareness than just video alone. The geospatial information contained within KLV-formatted MISB/STANAG metadata provides the crucial context needed for a more complete understanding of mission-critical situations.

Combined with market-leading solutions such as the Makito video encoder and Kraken video processing platform, Play ISR completes Haivision’s end-to-end ISR ecosystem by providing customers with a suite of products that support each critical step along ISR video workflows – from contribution from the field of operation, to distribution to command and control centers, and visualization for real-time analysis and decision-making.

“Playback of low latency video alongside KLV metadata in a free, easy-to-use desktop application, empowers Play ISR users with the real-time situational awareness they need to make faster, more informed decisions in the field,” says John Leipper, Defense Product Manager, Haivision. “This combination of features is unmatched in the market and underscores Haivision’s commitment to supporting the work of defense and ISR teams.”

Available for download as an application for Windows, Mac OS, and Linux, Haivision Play ISR features a user-friendly interface suitable for all users.

Key features:
- Playback low-latency video for real-time situational awareness.
- Decodes and displays KLV-formatted MISB geospatial metadata.
- View live video encoded in H.264/AVC and H.265/HEVC.
- Play video streams with UDP and SRT protocols.
- Download for free for Windows, Mac OS, and Linux.
- Easily setup and configure.
Haivision Play ISR equips defense and ISR professionals with the tools they need to make informed decisions in real-time. Download Haivision Play ISR for free today and experience the benefits of low-latency video and KLV metadata for ISR workflows.

About Haivision
Haivision is a leading global provider of mission-critical, real-time video networking and visual collaboration solutions. Our connected cloud and intelligent edge technologies enable organizations globally to engage audiences, enhance collaboration, and support decision making. We provide high quality, low latency, secure, and reliable live video at a global scale. Haivision open sourced its award-winning SRT low latency video streaming protocol and founded the SRT Alliance to support its adoption. Awarded four Emmys® for Technology and Engineering from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, Haivision continues to fuel the future of IP video transformation. Founded in 2004, Haivision is headquartered in Montreal and Chicago with offices, sales, and support located throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia. To learn more, visit Haivision at haivision.com.

Jennifer Gazin
514.334.5445 ext 8309
jgazin@haivision.com

The MIL Network –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Flourish Launches Integration with XLR8 RIA CRM Platform

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

New York, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Flourish, a platform that provides innovative access to financial products that help registered investment advisors (“RIAs”) improve their clients’ financial outcomes, today announced an integration with Concenter Services’ XLR8 CRM, a highly customized version of Salesforce built specifically for financial services firms like RIAs. The integration allows RIAs to leverage the data stored in XLR8/Salesforce to launch and prefill Flourish account applications.

Financial advisors use XLR8 to efficiently manage client data and automate common processes to help grow their practices and better serve clients. Over 850 RIAs invite their clients to Flourish Cash, giving clients a way to earn more on their held-away cash while ensuring it’s safe with elevated FDIC insurance coverage through its Program Banks. By integrating with XLR8, advisors can seamlessly access Flourish data, streamline operations, and improve the overall client experience. This integration is already active and in use.

“Our goal is to bring easy access to Flourish throughout the advisor technology ecosystem. With numerous firms already using both XLR8 and Flourish, we are pleased to now integrate to improve the advisor experience,” said Max Lane, Flourish CEO. “Simplifying client onboarding by pre-filling information eliminates friction and better enables firms to effortlessly incorporate Flourish Cash into their practices. RIAs know that clients want to earn more on their cash: 92% of advisors report that their clients have expressed interest in high-yield savings accounts (HYSAs). An invitation to Flourish makes it easy for advisors to provide a solution.”

“We’re excited to bring our advisors more valuable services from within the XLR8 platform. This integration makes it easier than ever for advisors to help clients earn more on their cash by leveraging the CRM data that’s already in XLR8. This solution streamlines operations and delivers an improved experience for advisors and clients,” said Maria Pezzino, Business Development Manager at XLR8.

Over 850 RIAs managing over $1.5 trillion in combined assets trust Flourish to help them bring more assets into their orbit. The Flourish platform allows advisors to feature their firm’s branding as well as provide client-friendly marketing materials, robust and customizable compliance resources, premium customer support, and more.

Flourish has deep integrations across the RIA ecosystem, allowing advisors to incorporate our products into their existing workflows while seamlessly serving clients. To learn more about Flourish’s integrations with the RIA techstack, including XLR8, please visit: https://info.flourish.com/integration-partners.

About Flourish
Flourish builds technology that empowers financial advisors, improves financial lives and retirement outcomes, and delivers new and innovative investment options to advisors. Today, the Flourish platform supports more than $6 billion in assets under custody and is used by more than 850 wealth management firms representing more than $1.5 trillion in assets under management. Flourish is wholly-owned by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual). For more information, visit www.flourish.com.

About Concenter Services
Concenter Services, LLC provides CRM software and consulting for Financial Advisory Firms. Concenter Services sells and markets products that run on the Salesforce.com platform. XLR8 is a highly customized CRM overlay to SFDC and is Concenter Services’ flagship product. Concenter Services is a designated Certified Consulting Partner, an ISV Partner, and an OEM Partner with Salesforce. Its professional services team works with firms on migrating CRM data to the XLR8/Salesforce platform, customizing instances of XLR8, and training firm staff to efficiently use XLR8/Salesforce. For more information, visit https://xlr8crm.com/.

Forward Looking Statements
This press release may contain forward looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties. Actual results, performance, or achievements may differ materially from those expressed or implied.

This feedback may not be representative of the experience of other customers, and is not a guarantee of future performance or success.

Flourish is an online platform through which investors can access financial services and products. Flourish’s offerings are provided by different entities and are subject to different terms, investor protections, and risks. Flourish Cash is offered by Flourish Financial LLC, a registered broker-dealer and FINRA member. Flourish Financial LLC is not a bank. Check the background of Flourish Financial LLC and its personnel on FINRA’s BrokerCheck. Flourish Crypto is offered by Paxos Trust Company, LLC, a New York limited purpose trust company regulated by the New York Department of Financial Services that provides custody and execution services for the Flourish Crypto accounts, and Flourish Digital Assets LLC, registered in New York as a commodity broker-dealer and provides website and other services and support for Flourish Crypto accounts. Paxos is not an affiliate of Flourish. Flourish Annuities refers generally to the annuity platform operated by Flourish Technologies LLC, where applicable, and to Flourish Insurance Agency LLC in its capacity as a licensed insurance producer providing insurance services related to such platform. Flourish Insurance Agency LLC does business in California under the name Flourish Digital Insurance Agency. An annuity is an insurance contract. Annuities shown on the platform are sold through Flourish Insurance Agency LLC, a licensed insurance producer, with offices in Jersey City, New Jersey, and are issued by one or more approved licensed life insurance companies. The Flourish entities mentioned above are affiliates. Flourish Cash, Flourish Crypto, and Flourish Annuities accounts are separate accounts and only assets in Flourish Cash accounts may be eligible for protection by the FDIC or SIPC. Please review the Legal section of our website, and the disclosures provided with each Flourish service or product, for further information.

The cash balance in a Flourish Cash account will be swept from the brokerage account to deposit account(s) at one or more third-party banks that have agreed to accept deposits from customers of Flourish Financial LLC (Program Banks). The accounts at Program Banks will pay a variable rate of interest. Flourish Cash currently has a tiered interest rate structure, as set forth in the rate tier summary. Each annual percentage yield (APY) may change at any time. The Flourish Cash interest rate(s) could be lower than the rate that could be earned by opening a deposit account directly with a Program Bank. The cash balance in a Flourish Cash account that is swept to one or more Program Banks is eligible for FDIC insurance, subject to FDIC rules, including FDIC aggregate insurance coverage limits. FDIC insurance will not be provided until the funds arrive at the Program Bank. Flourish Cash’s current Program Banks can be found here. For additional information regarding FDIC coverage, visit https://fdic.gov/ and https://www.flourish.com/advisors.

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Flourish Announces Integration with Practifi

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

New York, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Flourish, a platform that provides innovative access to financial products that help registered investment advisors (“RIAs”) improve their clients’ financial outcomes, today announced an integration with Practifi, a CRM platform for the wealth management industry. The integration will benefit clients of both Flourish and Practifi.

Flourish creates innovative tools that empower financial advisors to expand beyond the portfolio and provide solutions for even more aspects of their clients’ financial lives. Built on Salesforce, Practifi enables advisors to bring together many tools and information wealth management firms need to increase efficiency, better manage relationships, and automate their work. Advisors that utilize both Flourish and Practifi now have the ability for data to flow into Practifi from Flourish Cash, Flourish’s cash management solution built explicitly for RIAs that offers clients competitive interest rates and elevated FDIC insurance through its Program Banks, as well as Flourish Annuities, the first end-to-end annuities solution built explicitly for RIAs and their clients.

“This integration makes it easier than ever for advisors to help clients earn more on their cash through Flourish by leveraging their existing CRM data to streamline operations and deliver an improved client experience,” said Adrian Johnstone, CEO of Practifi. “Practifi strives to continually provide more value to RIAs and wealth management firms and this integration with Flourish positively contributes to this strategy.”

“We’re always looking for ways to help advisors become more efficient while also providing better service to their clients,” said Max Lane, Flourish CEO. “Inviting clients to earn more on their held away savings takes only moments for advisors, and information is pre-filled for clients, making it even easier for them to get started. Both sides win.”

Over 850 RIAs managing over $1.5 trillion in combined assets trust Flourish to help them bring more assets into their orbit. The Flourish platform allows advisors to feature their firm’s branding as well as provide client-friendly marketing materials, robust and customizable compliance resources, premium customer support, and more.

Flourish has deep integrations across the RIA ecosystem, allowing advisors to incorporate our products into their existing workflows while seamlessly serving clients. To learn more about Flourish’s integrations with the RIA techstack, including Practifi, please visit: https://info.flourish.com/integration-partners.

About Flourish
Flourish builds technology that empowers financial advisors, improves financial lives and retirement outcomes, and delivers new and innovative investment options to advisors. Today, the Flourish platform supports more than $6 billion in assets under custody and is used by more than 850 wealth management firms representing more than $1.5 trillion in assets under management. Flourish is wholly-owned by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual). For more information, visit www.flourish.com.

About Practifi
Practifi is a CRM purpose-built for the wealth management industry. By unifying data, automating workflows and surfacing actionable insights, Practifi empowers teams to streamline operations, deliver an exceptional client experience and scale their business. With deep industry expertise and a dedication to client-led innovation, Practifi enables organizations across the globe to deepen loyalty with their clients and pioneer the future of wealth management. To learn more, visit practifi.com.

Forward Looking Statements
This press release may contain forward looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties. Actual results, performance, or achievements may differ materially from those expressed or implied.

This feedback may not be representative of the experience of other customers, and is not a guarantee of future performance or success.

Flourish is an online platform through which investors can access financial services and products. Flourish’s offerings are provided by different entities and are subject to different terms, investor protections, and risks. Flourish Cash is offered by Flourish Financial LLC, a registered broker-dealer and FINRA member. Flourish Financial LLC is not a bank. Check the background of Flourish Financial LLC and its personnel on FINRA’s BrokerCheck. Flourish Crypto is offered by Paxos Trust Company, LLC, a New York limited purpose trust company regulated by the New York Department of Financial Services that provides custody and execution services for the Flourish Crypto accounts, and Flourish Digital Assets LLC, registered in New York as a commodity broker-dealer and provides website and other services and support for Flourish Crypto accounts. Paxos is not an affiliate of Flourish. Flourish Annuities refers generally to the annuity platform operated by Flourish Technologies LLC, where applicable, and to Flourish Insurance Agency LLC in its capacity as a licensed insurance producer providing insurance services related to such platform. Flourish Insurance Agency LLC does business in California under the name Flourish Digital Insurance Agency. An annuity is an insurance contract. Annuities shown on the platform are sold through Flourish Insurance Agency LLC, a licensed insurance producer, with offices in Jersey City, New Jersey, and are issued by one or more approved licensed life insurance companies. The Flourish entities mentioned above are affiliates. Flourish Cash, Flourish Crypto, and Flourish Annuities accounts are separate accounts and only assets in Flourish Cash accounts may be eligible for protection by the FDIC or SIPC. Please review the Legal section of our website, and the disclosures provided with each Flourish service or product, for further information.

The cash balance in a Flourish Cash account will be swept from the brokerage account to deposit account(s) at one or more third-party banks that have agreed to accept deposits from customers of Flourish Financial LLC (Program Banks). The accounts at Program Banks will pay a variable rate of interest. Flourish Cash currently has a tiered interest rate structure and currently has one tier in effect. Rate and FDIC insurance coverage details can be found in the program summary. Each annual percentage yield (APY) may change at any time. The Flourish Cash interest rate(s) could be lower than the rate that could be earned by opening a deposit account directly with a Program Bank. The cash balance in a Flourish Cash account that is swept to one or more Program Banks is eligible for FDIC insurance, subject to FDIC rules, including FDIC aggregate insurance coverage limits. FDIC insurance will not be provided until the funds arrive at the Program Bank. Flourish Cash’s current Program Banks can be found here. For additional information regarding FDIC coverage, visit https://fdic.gov/ and https://www.flourish.com/advisors.

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Wix to Announce Third Quarter 2024 Results on November 20, 2024

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Wix to Announce Third Quarter 2024 Results on November 20, 2024

NEW YORK, October 30, 2024 — Wix.com Ltd. (Nasdaq: WIX), today announced that it will report its results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024 before the market opens on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. Management will host a conference call and webcast that morning at 8:30 a.m. ET to answer questions about the Company’s financial results. Prior to the conference call and webcast, Wix will issue a press release reporting these results along with a shareholder update and additional materials at https://investors.wix.com/.

About Wix.com Ltd.

Wix is the leading SaaS website builder platform globally¹ to create, manage and grow a digital presence. What began as a website builder in 2006 is now a complete platform providing users with enterprise-grade performance, security and a reliable infrastructure. Offering a wide range of commerce and business solutions, advanced SEO and marketing tools, Wix enables users to take full ownership of their brand, their data and their relationships with their customers. With a focus on continuous innovation and delivery of new features and products, anyone can build a powerful digital presence to fulfill their dreams on Wix.

For more about Wix, please visit our Press Room

Investor Relations:
ir@wix.com

Media Relations:
pr@wix.com

¹ Based on number of active live sites as reported by competitors’ figures, independent third-party data and internal data as of H1 2024.

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Alation Extends Data Intelligence to Google Chrome to Empower Faster Self-Service Analytics Across the Enterprise
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

REDWOOD CITY, Calif., Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alation Inc., the data intelligence company, today announced the release of Alation Anywhere for Google Chrome to streamline contextual data discovery and empower users to act on data intelligence within Chrome. The extension allows users to seamlessly search, preview, and retrieve critical metadata from Alation without leaving the browser, delivering trusted, governed data at the point of need for real-time, enterprise-wide decision-making and accelerated time to value. The extension is the latest addition to Alation Anywhere, which integrates data intelligence into Slack, Microsoft Teams, Excel, and Google Sheets.

The constant switching between disparate applications and tools wastes time and valuable resources, complicating access to trusted data for confident decisions. According to Harvard Business Review, this frequent toggling—nearly 1,200 times per day on average—can cost workers almost five workweeks per year or close to four hours each week by reorienting themselves. Without a single source of truth, data users often have to leave their applications running on Chrome to locate relevant data scattered across systems. These inefficiencies slow decision-making, introduce errors, and delay time to value for data and AI initiatives.

Alation Anywhere addresses these challenges by seamlessly integrating data intelligence into the daily tools that knowledge workers rely on, including Chrome. The new extension surfaces critical data intelligence—such as business term definitions, metadata previews, and database details—directly in the browser, eliminating the need to switch away from Chrome. By delivering trusted, contextual, and up-to-date data exactly when and where it’s needed, enterprise users can collaborate more effectively, analyze data more efficiently, and make informed decisions. For example, knowledge workers often rely on applications like Snowflake’s Snowsight, Looker, and Power BI. With the new extension, users gain a side-by-side view of data assets and corresponding metadata from Alation, accelerating time to insight and fostering a more collaborative data culture across the enterprise.

“We’re excited to see how Alation Anywhere for Google Chrome can accelerate our data utilization,” Kazuaki Ideguchi, Manager, Data Platform Department, NTT DOCOMO. “Now, our data analysts will be able to check data definitions directly on the same screen while writing SQL queries in Snowsight, streamlining their workflow. We look forward to Alation continuing to deliver these valuable features that enhance productivity.”

“Organizations today are overwhelmed by the influx of data from countless sources, creating unprecedented complexity in managing their data environments,” said Diby Malakar, VP of Product Management at Alation. “The Alation Anywhere for Google Chrome extension directly addresses this challenge by delivering trusted, governed data straight into the user’s browser. It empowers teams to instantly find, understand, and act on data—without disrupting their workflow. This isn’t just a productivity tool; it’s a critical asset that accelerates decision-making, reduces errors, and drives meaningful business outcomes in today’s decentralized, data-driven world.”

Key benefits of the Alation Anywhere for Google Chrome extension include:
- Streamlined Data Discovery: With Intelligent Search, teams can instantly discover trusted data and BI assets using natural language search. This democratizes access to data across the organization, allowing users to locate relevant data assets quickly without specialized knowledge. The extension boosts productivity by delivering the right data at the point of need, enabling faster, more informed decision-making.
- Automated Metadata Preview: The extension enhances productivity by providing automated, side-by-side previews of data assets in Snowflake’s Snowsight, Looker, and Power BI dashboards alongside Alation’s rich metadata. For example, data teams can access valuable context—such as data quality flags and descriptions about a data asset—directly within Snowsight, Looker, and Power BI. This comprehensive view lets users explore contextual metadata, like schemas, tables, and BI objects, all without leaving Chrome. The extension supports better decision-making by streamlining workflows, improving data accuracy, reducing errors, and ensuring teams rely on trusted, governed data.
- Seamless Access to Glossary Definitions: Users can quickly search for and understand standardized organizational terms directly within Chrome. For instance, an analyst working on a report or PowerPoint can easily find clarity on organizational terms with just a couple of clicks through the Alation glossary. With glossary definitions readily available, teams can maintain consistency across reports, presentations, and daily tasks without disrupting their workflow.
To learn more, read the blog “Alation Anywhere for Chrome: Data Intelligence, Where You Are.”

The Alation Anywhere for Google Chrome extension is available through the internal add-on page within Alation and searchable through the Chrome Marketplace.

About Alation
Alation is the data intelligence company. Nearly 600 global enterprises — including 40% of the Fortune 100 — rely on Alation to realize value from their data and AI initiatives. Customers such as Cisco, DocuSign, Nasdaq, Pfizer, and Samsung trust Alation’s platform for self-service analytics, cloud transformation, data governance, and AI-ready data, fostering data-driven innovation at scale. Headquartered in Redwood City, California, Alation has been recognized five times by Inc. Magazine as one of the Best Workplaces. To learn more, visit www.alation.com.

Media Contact
Lauren Lloyd
Director, Corporate Communications
541-490-6115
lauren.lloyd@alation.com

The MIL Network –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: FE International Advises on the Strategic Acquisition of UX Design Platform by Digital Marketing Services Provider

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FE International, Inc., the global market leader in middle-market technology mergers and acquisitions (M&A), is pleased to announce the strategic acquisition of a website-user flow design platform by a PE-backed digital services and marketing platform.

The platform offers an array of critical services for web developers and user-experience (UX) designers, thousands of customizable interfaces, instructional materials, and related support services. Overall, the human machine interface (HMI) market is projected to reach over $7 billion worldwide by 2026 through both hardware and software spending. UX platforms make it easier for individuals and business owners to understand best practices for user flows and borrow inspiration from established templates.

The Acquirer operates in the digital marketing software and services space, an industry that is projected to reach nearly $690 billion by 2028. The platform helps brands generate leads and drive more sales through improving media presence, strategically expanding their audience, and connecting them with influencers.

The FE International team garnered multiple offers from strategics in the space through their deep industry expertise. “Due to the active interest, the bidding process quickly raised the value of the deal,” said Thomas Smale, CEO of FE International. “The final offer was almost 50% higher than the seller’s initial expectations. It was a success all around.” Learn more about the value of the digital marketing industry in the 2024 Industry Report recently published by the firm.

About FE International

Founded in 2010, FE International is an award-winning strategic advisor for technology businesses. FE’s team has completed over 1,500 transactions with a combined value of over $50 billion. FE International was named one of The Americas’ Fastest Growing Companies from 2020 to 2024 by the Financial Times and is also a four-time Inc. 5000 company.

Media Contact:

Gaj Tanwar

Marketing Coordinator, FE International

Email: gaj.tanwar@feinternational.com

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Backblaze and Opti9 Partner to Bring High Performance and Low Cost Cloud Storage to Joint Customers

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SAN MATEO, Calif., Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Backblaze, Inc. (Nasdaq: BLZE), the cloud storage innovator providing a modern alternative to traditional cloud providers, and Opti9, an international leader in hybrid cloud solutions, today announced a partnership to bring the performance of Backblaze B2 Cloud Storage to Opti9’s suite of managed service offerings and solutions.

As part of the partnership, Backblaze announced plans to open a new data region in Canada. Opti9 will be the exclusive Canadian channel for Backblaze B2 Reserve and the Powered by Backblaze program.

“Backblaze and Opti9 focus on empowering businesses with the best cloud solutions available,” said Jim Stechyson, President of Opti9. “Being able to integrate the high performance and low total cost of ownership of Backblaze’s object storage into our set of solutions will greatly enhance our ability to drive success for our customers.”

Opti9 delivers managed cloud services, application development and modernization, backup and disaster recovery, security, and compliance solutions to businesses around the world. B2 Cloud Storage is secure, compliance-ready, always-hot object storage that is one-fifth the price of traditional cloud storage providers and can be used in any of the solutions Opti9 provides.

Increasingly, companies seeking managed services support are demanding solutions made up of best-in-breed providers. While traditional cloud platforms work against this principle, Backblaze and solution providers like Opti9 are committed to delivering cloud solutions without the limitations, complexity, and high pricing that are holding businesses back.

“Businesses want modern storage solutions that serve their needs without worrying about out-of-control fees, complexity, or other limits,” said Gleb Budman, CEO of Backblaze. “Opti9 and Backblaze are both committed to delivering this value to customers—coming together means we can unlock growth for even more businesses around the world.”

The new Canadian data region gives businesses the freedom to access Backblaze’s open, interoperable cloud solution, while still allowing customers to benefit from local storage and compliance. Located in Toronto, Ontario, the data center has been assessed and maintains a security program that addresses the requirements of SOC 1 Type 2, SOC 2 Type 2, ISO 27001, PCI DSS, and HIPAA. The region will be available to customers in the first quarter of 2025. For more information on the Opti9 partnership and Canadian data region, please visit the Backblaze blog.

About Backblaze

Backblaze is the cloud storage innovator providing a modern alternative to traditional cloud providers. We deliver high performance, secure cloud object storage that customers use to develop applications, manage media, secure backups, build AI workflows, protect from ransomware, and more. Backblaze helps businesses break free from the walled gardens that traditional providers lock customers into, enabling them to use their data in open cloud workflows with the providers they prefer at a fraction of the cost. Headquartered in San Mateo, CA, Backblaze (NASDAQ: BLZE) was founded in 2007 and serves over 500,000 customers in 175 countries around the world. For more information, please go to www.backblaze.com.

About Opti9

Opti9 is a hybrid cloud solutions provider with offices in Garden City, NY, Omaha, NE, Overland Park, KS, St. Louis, MO, and Ottawa, ON and data centers in North America, Europe, and the APAC region. As an AWS Advanced Consulting Partner, Platinum Veeam Cloud & Service Provider, and Zerto Alliance Partner, Opti9 specializes in managed cloud services, application development and modernization, backup and disaster recovery, security, and compliance. With a business-first focus, Opti9 combines experience with innovation to deliver on its “Right Workload, Right Cloud, Right Time” approach. www.opti9tech.com

Press Contact

Jeanette Foster
Communications Manager, Backblaze
jfoster@backblaze.com

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Applied Rating Index Q3 2024 Released
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Toronto, ON., Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Applied Systems^® today announced the third quarter of 2024 results of the Applied Rating Index™, the Canadian insurance industry’s premium rate index. In Q3 2024, average premiums for both Personal Auto lines and Personal Property lines increased year over year. Quarter over quarter, the premium rate for Personal Auto experienced an increase, whereas the rate for Personal Property saw a decrease compared to Q2 2024.

Key findings for Q3 2024 include:
- Personal Auto: In Q3 2024, Personal Auto premium rate change increased 12.2% versus Q3 2023. Personal Auto premium rate change increased 4.7% versus Q2 2024.
- Personal Property: In Q3 2024, Personal Property premium rate change increased 7.7% versus Q3 2023. Personal Property premium rate change decreased -0.4% versus Q2 2024.
- Provinces: Across Personal Auto, the Alberta and Ontario provinces experienced increased premium rate change, while the Atlantic and Quebec provinces experienced decreased premium rate change year over year with Alberta, Ontario, Quebec and the Atlantic Provinces seeing 12.9%, 11.6%, 6.8% and 9.7% respectively. Relative to Q2 2024, all provinces experienced an increase in quarter over quarter premium rate change with Alberta, Ontario, Quebec and the Atlantic Provinces experiencing 7.7%, 4.2%, and 4.4% and 5.7% respectively.
  Personal Property lines for Alberta, Ontario and Saskatchewan & Manitoba experienced increases in premium rate change, while British Columbia, Quebec, the Atlantic provinces, experienced decreases in premium rate change year over year with 5.5%, 10.4%, 7.6%, 7.5%, 4.9%, 5.4% and respectively. Relative to Q2 2024, premium rate change for Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, the Atlantic provinces and Saskatchewan & Manitoba experienced -1.5%, -1.4%, 0.2%, 3.1%, 0.8% and 1.9% respectively.
“The results highlight an ongoing rising trend in premium rates for both Personal Auto and Personal Property lines across all provinces,” said Steve Whitelaw, senior vice president and general manager, Applied Systems Canada. “As we approach the final quarter of the year, the Applied Rating Index will continue to follow rate trends to provide brokers with the information needed in their end-of-year renewal conversations.”

The Applied Rating Index is a data-driven report of current conditions and trends for Personal Auto and Personal Property (Homeowners) insurance premium rates. Analyzing quotes completed, the Applied Rating Index measures the increase or decrease in average premium rate trends across Canada. The Applied Rating Index is the most complete depiction of the premium rate trends being experienced by consumers, brokerages, and their insurers across the Canadian market.

Access the complete quarterly report here.

# # #

Applied Rating Index is a trademark of Applied Systems, Inc. All data is fully anonymized when aggregating and analyzing the Applied Rating Index.

About Applied Systems
Applied Systems is the leading global provider of cloud-based software that powers the business of insurance. Recognized as a pioneer in insurance automation and the innovation leader, Applied is the world’s largest provider of agency and brokerage management systems, serving customers throughout the United States, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, and the United Kingdom. By automating the insurance lifecycle, Applied’s people and products enable millions of people around the world to safeguard and protect what matters most.

The MIL Network –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Stack Capital Group Inc. Completes $15.8 Million Main Tranche of a Total $16.7 Million Best Efforts Financing

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES.

TORONTO, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Stack Capital Group Inc. (“Stack Capital”) (TSX: STCK) is pleased to announce that it has closed the main tranche of its previously announced private placement (the “Offering”) of up to 1,515,908 units (the “Units”) of Stack Capital (including pursuant to the exercise in full of the agents option) for aggregate gross proceeds of up to $16.675 million, priced at $11.00 per Unit. The main tranche consisted of the sale of 1,437,839 Units for gross proceeds of $15,816,229. A second additional tranche has been committed for the balance of the Units that may be issued under the Offering and is expected to close in mid-November 2024. The Offering was conducted on a best efforts basis by a syndicate of agents (the “Agents”) bookrun by Raymond James Ltd., Canaccord Genuity Corp., RBC Capital Markets and TD Securities Inc., and includes Scotia Capital Inc., Wellington-Altus Financial Inc. and National Bank Financial Inc., pursuant to the terms and conditions of an agency agreement between Stack Capital, SC Partners Ltd. (the manager of Stack Capital) and the Agents.

Each Unit is comprised of one common share (a “Common Share”) and one-half of one common share purchase warrant of Stack Capital (each whole common share purchase warrant, a “Warrant”). Each Warrant is exercisable to acquire one common share of Stack Capital (a “Warrant Share”) at any time prior to 4:00 p.m. (Toronto, Ontario time) on October 30, 2027 at an exercise price of $11.00 per Warrant Share, subject to adjustment in certain events. The Warrants are being issued pursuant to a warrant indenture entered into between Stack Capital and Computershare Trust Company of Canada, as warrant agent (the “Warrant Indenture”). A copy of the Warrant Indenture can be found on Stack Capital’s profile on www.sedarplus.ca.

The net proceeds of the Offering will be used for general corporate purposes and investments in accordance with Stack Capital’s investment principles. The securities issued under the main tranche of the Offering have a hold period of four months and one day from today.

The Offering and the listing of the Common Shares and Warrant Shares issuable under the Offering has been conditionally approved by the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”) subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions.

No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this news release. This news release is for information purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities of Stack Capital in the United States of America. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “1933 Act”) or any state securities laws and may not be offered, sold or delivered, directly or indirectly, within the United States, its possessions and other areas subject to its jurisdiction or for the account or for the benefit of U.S. Persons (as defined under applicable securities laws) unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration is available.

About Stack Capital

Stack Capital is an investment holding company and its business objective is to invest in equity, debt and/or other securities of growth-to-late-stage private businesses. Through Stack Capital, shareholders have the opportunity to gain exposure to the diversified private investment portfolio; participate in the private market; and have liquidity due to the listing of the Common Shares on the TSX. At the same time, the public structure also allows Stack Capital to focus its efforts on maximizing long-term performance through a portfolio of high growth businesses, which are not widely available to most Canadian investors. SC Partners Ltd. has taken the initiative in creating Stack Capital and acts as Stack Capital’s administrator and is responsible to source and advise with respect to all investments for Stack Capital.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Certain information in this news release constitutes forward-looking statements under applicable securities law. Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as “may”, “should”, “anticipate”, “expect”, “intend” and similar expressions. Forward-looking information contained or referred to in this news release includes, but may not be limited to, the details of the second tranche of the Offering, the completion of the second tranche of the Offering and the business of Stack Capital.

Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. The material assumptions supporting these forward-looking statements include, among others, that Stack Capital will satisfy the commercial closing conditions of the second tranche of the Offering. Additional risk factors that may impact Stack Capital or cause actual results and performance to differ from the forward looking statements contained herein are set forth in Stack Capital’s current Annual Information Form under the heading Risk Factors (a copy of which can be obtained under Stack Capital’s profile on www.sedarplus.ca).

Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Except as required by applicable law, Stack Capital undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

For further information, please contact

Brian Viveiros
VP Corporate Development and IR

647-280-3307
Info@stackcapitalgroup.com

www.stackcapitalgroup.com

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Vail is not the most popular ski destination in the world but ranks 9th according to the Travel App, Visited
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

TORONTO, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Arriving In High Heels Corporation, the company behind the popular travel tracking app, Visited, has published a list of top 25 most popular ski destinations in the world. Based on mountain ranges the most popular locations are the Alps, Dolomites and the Rockies. The top ski destinations around the world include:
1. Dolomites
2. Chamonix
3. Innsbruck
4. Zermatt
5. Sudtirol
Of the US ski destinations, only Vail makes it to the top 10 list at number 9. Park City is the 2nd most popular destination in the U.S. and ranks 18th in the world while Aspen is the 3rd most popular ski destination in the U.S. and is ranked 19th in the world.

Canadian ski destinations have only 2 that made the list which include Whistler in BC in 17th place & Banff in 25th.

The full ski destination list ranked by popularity is available in the travel map app, Visited which can be downloaded for free on iOS or Android. Users can select destinations as ‘been’ or ‘want’ which helps them see their personal travel stats and build their ultimate bucket-list. There are over 150 travel lists available in the app including: cruise ports, diving/snorkelling, film locations, opera houses and more. Other features of the app include the ability to generate a personalized travel map of countries, regions and cities visited as well as a travel itinerary to build the ultimate to visit list by country.

To learn more about the Visited Map App, visit https://visitedapp.com.

About Visited Travel App
Popular travel map app, Visited, was designed to keep track of all countries, regions and cities that you have been to or want to visit in the future. A new feature of the app allows users to receive professionally printed posts of their travels. To help keep track of all the unique places and experiences users had, they can select destinations by travel categories. There are over 150 travel lists to choose from including ski destinations, golf destinations, national parks and more. For those that have a hard time choosing where to go next, Visited, displays countries based on the total places of interest and experiences they want to do in that country, taking away the guess work of where to next. It is the ultimate travel bucket list and travel tracking app.

About Arriving In High Heels Corporation
Arriving In High Heels Corporation is a mobile app company with apps including Pay Off Debt, X-Walk and Visited, their most popular app.

Contact:
Anna Kayfitz
anna@arrivinginhighheels.com

The MIL Network –
January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: RAISE Summit 2025 to Shape the Future of AI Confirmed for July in Paris

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

PARIS, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RAISE Summit, the leading conference for the AI industry, has announced its 2025 event. Set to take place on July 8-9 in Paris, RAISE 2025 will bring together thousands of delegates to explore the future of artificial intelligence and meet the visionaries shaping this transformative technology.

Poised to be the largest RAISE Summit yet with more than 5,000 delegates, the 2025 event at the Carrousel du Louvre will feature three stages and an exhibition hall. Highlights include a startup competition, hackathon, and VIP dinner, while 2,000 companies and more than 250 speakers will address key themes including the potential of AI to reshape everyday life.

Speakers confirmed for the 2025 event include Jonathan Ross, CEO and Co-founder of Groq; Clément Delangue, CEO and Co-founder of Hugging Face; and Scott Belsky, Chief Strategy Officer and EVP, Design & Emerging Products at Adobe. Event tracks include Infrastructure, Finance & Insurance, Cybersecurity, Healthcare, Public Policy and Compliance & Safety, Breakthrough (Agents Economy, AGI), and Blockchain x Decentralisation.

RAISE Summit Co-Founder Hadrien de Cournon said: “We are thrilled to announce the expansion of RAISE Summit into a two-day event at the iconic Carrousel du Louvre. Following the overwhelming success of our inaugural event in April 2024, it’s clear that businesses are eager to unlock the full potential of generative AI.

“This next edition will be the European flagship AI event for businesses, offering C-suite executives a unique platform to shape their AI strategies and connect with the partners needed to drive meaningful implementation. As AI continues to transform industries, we are committed to helping leaders navigate this journey with confidence and insight.”

One of the main draws of the 2025 summit, the RAISE Startup Competition, will attract cutting-edge innovators from across the world. Sponsored by leading venture capital firms, the competition is designed for emerging AI companies to gain recognition, connect with top investors, and accelerate their growth. The RAISE Summit Hackathon, meanwhile, will feature more than 300 participants tasked with creating impactful solutions that will drive the adoption of AI for businesses and consumers alike.

As a tech-agnostic and cross-industry event, RAISE aims to bring together builders and innovators spanning multiple disciplines to explore and drive the future of AI. Delegates can look forward to in-depth case studies that showcase proven AI implementations and interactive sessions to refine strategy with industry experts. There will also be networking opportunities and side-events with key partners aided by an event app so attendees can plan meetings in advance.

Praises for the inaugural RAISE Summit of 2024 included: “RAISE is where everyone in AI is going,” from Jonathan Ross, Founder, Groq; “As things become more virtual, I think it’s increasingly important for people to come together. The serendipity that can happen when you’re together in a physical space is life-changing,” from Chamath Palihapitiya, Co-Founder, Social Capital; and “I found RAISE to be quite remarkable and I’m sure many people will find value from it through contacts and opportunities,” from Karim Beguir, Co-Founder, Insta Deep.

To reserve a place see here https://www.raisesummit.com/register

About the RAISE Summit

More than just another AI event, RAISE SUMMIT forms a global gathering for the brightest minds, visionary partners, and industry leaders intent on transcending boundaries and driving AI innovation. RAISE Summit is the premier event for professionals seeking to disrupt, build, and connect in the AI industry.

RAISE Summit 2024 saw 2,100 attendees, 545 leading companies, and 110 inspiring speakers, with over 40 sponsors. For 2025, we’re building on that success, expanding to a two-day event, expecting +5000 attendees, 2000 companies, 250 speakers, 200 sponsors and focusing on the transformative potential of Generative AI to reshape industries, societies, and everyday life.

Keynote speakers in 2024 included Chamath Palihapitiya, Co-Founder, Social Capital; Aravind Srinivas, Co-Founder, Perplexity AI; Jonathan Ross, CEO and Co-founder of Groq; Arthur Mensch, Co-Founder, Mistral AI; Caspar Herzberg, CEO, AVEVA Systems; Nicolas Dufourq, CEO, BPI France; Tony Fadell, Entrepreneur & Author – Ex-Apple SVP – iPod; Rodrigo Liang, CEO & Co-Founder of; SambaNova Systems; Renate Nyborg, Founder & CEO, Meeno; Michael Kratsios, ex-CTO of the USA – MD Scale AI. Leading sponsors included Google, AWS, Mistral AI, NVIDIA, Salesforce, Accenture, Tesla, Oracle, Hackerone and bpifrance.

https://www.raisesummit.com/

Jen Summers

jen@chainof.events

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/91fcc022-7daa-4394-87be-1f4915e6b62b

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: Premium Income Corporation Announces Successful Overnight Offering Of Preferred Shares

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Not for distribution to U.S. newswire services or for dissemination in the United States.

TORONTO, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — (TSX: PIC.PR.A) – Premium Income Corporation (the “Fund”) is pleased to announce a successful overnight treasury offering of 4,350,000 Preferred Shares. Gross proceeds of the offering are expected to be $65,250,000.

The offering is expected to close on or about November 6, 2024, and is subject to certain closing conditions including approval by the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”). The Preferred Shares will be offered at a price of $15.00 per Preferred Share representing a yield on the original issue price of 8.50%. The trading price on the TSX for the Preferred Shares as at the last trade on October 29, 2024, was $15.16. Since the inception of the Fund, the aggregate dividends declared on the Preferred Shares have been $24.36 per share.

The Fund invests in a portfolio consisting principally of common shares of Bank of Montreal, The Bank of Nova Scotia, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, National Bank of Canada, Royal Bank of Canada and The Toronto-Dominion Bank. To generate additional returns above the dividend income earned on the Fund’s portfolio, the Fund will selectively write covered call and put options in respect of some or all of the common shares in the Fund’s portfolio. The manager and investment manager of the Fund is Mulvihill Capital Management Inc.

The Preferred Shares pay fixed cumulative preferential monthly cash distributions in the amount of $0.10625 ($1.275 per annum) per Preferred Share representing a yield of 8.50% on the original issue price of $15.00.

The syndicate of agents for the offering was co-led by National Bank Financial Inc., CIBC Capital Markets, RBC Capital Markets, and Scotiabank.

For further information, please contact Investor Relations at 416.681.3966, toll free at 1.800.725.7172, email at info@mulvihill.com or visit www.mulvihill.com

John Germain, Senior Vice-President & CFO Mulvihill Capital Management Inc.
121 King Street West
Suite 2600
Toronto, Ontario, M5H 3T9

The MIL Network –

January 25, 2025
MIL-OSI: FBS Research Examines Cryptocurrency’s Impact in Hyperinflated Economies
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SINGAPORE, Oct. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FBS, a leading global broker, explores the essential role of cryptocurrencies in hyperinflated economies. In the recently published article, FBS experts analyze the benefits of digital currencies in countries like Venezuela, Argentina, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, and Brazil, where national currencies continue to suffer rapid devaluation.

As inflation surges in these regions, digital currencies are recognized for their potential to preserve wealth and facilitate transactions outside traditional banking systems. According to FBS analysts, cryptocurrencies offer a flexible, accessible solution, particularly for those facing restrictions on foreign exchange. The adoption of cryptocurrencies — particularly Bitcoin and stablecoins — has increased as individuals, businesses, and governments seek alternatives to maintain financial stability and autonomy.

FBS highlights how different economies leverage digital assets:
- In Venezuela, where inflation has surged, Bitcoin is being used by individuals and enterprises as a store of value, providing stability amidst currency collapse.
- In Argentina, stablecoins pegged to the US dollar offer residents a haven from the peso’s depreciation, especially as regulatory restrictions tighten.
- Zimbabwe’s population similarly turns to Bitcoin and other cryptos to navigate financial instability driven by hyperinflation and limited access to global banking.
- In Nigeria, digital currencies like Bitcoin provide a stable alternative to the naira, especially valuable as inflation and currency restrictions affect everyday transactions.
- In Brazil, residents increasingly rely on stablecoins to secure assets against the volatile real, underscoring the value of digital currencies in Latin America.
The FBS article underscores the transformative impact of cryptocurrencies on daily life and regional economies. It acknowledges, however, that while digital assets can provide temporary financial relief, they cannot resolve systemic issues alone. Sustainable economic recovery ultimately requires broad reforms, with cryptocurrencies serving as a critical tool in the meantime.

To read more about the role of digital assets in hyperinflated economies and how they are reshaping financial survival strategies, users can explore the full article here.

Disclaimer: This material does not constitute a call to trade, trading advice, or recommendation and is intended for informational purposes only.

About FBS

FBS is a licensed global broker with over 15 years of experience and more than 90 international awards. FBS is steadily developing as one of the market’s most trusted brokers, with its traders numbering more than 27,000,000 and its partners exceeding 700,000 around the globe. The annual trading volume of FBS clients is over $8.9 trillion.

Contact
FBS Press Office
FBS
press@fbs.com

The MIL Network –
January 25, 2025