Category: housing

  • MIL-OSI China: From motorcycles to C919 jets — China’s travel rush evolution

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

    GUANGZHOU, Jan. 31 — After completing his final delivery, truck driver Zhou Qiang boarded flight CZ8233 back home for Spring Festival celebrations, eager to experience his maiden trip on China’s domestically developed C919 aircraft.

    Once aboard the plane, he could not resist snapping photos to share with his family later. “The seats are very comfortable with plenty of legroom. I can even cross my legs,” Zhou said. The flight from the southern city of Guangzhou to Chengdu, capital of southwest China’s Sichuan Province, cut his travel time from at least seven hours by train to just two and a half hours this year.

    China is currently in the midst of its annual 40-day Spring Festival travel rush, known as chunyun, a period that sees hundreds of millions of people traveling for family reunions.

    As the country’s airlines of China Eastern, Air China and China Southern have added the C919 aircraft to their fleets, this homegrown aircraft model has been involved in chunyun — with 16 such jets in service this year.

    The Civil Aviation Administration of China has forecast that the number of air passengers during this year’s chunyun is likely to exceed 90 million, potentially setting a new record.

    “Unlike in the past, when many braved the cold by traveling home on motorcycles, more and more fellows now choose high-speed trains or planes,” Zhou noted.

    Until about a decade ago, the sight of migrant workers riding motorcycles from the economic hub of the Pearl River Delta to labor-export regions like Guangxi, Guizhou, Yunnan and Sichuan was an iconic phenomenon during chunyun.

    Huang Xiaoyan and her husband were among them, enduring a grueling 30-hour journey on two wheels from Foshan, Guangdong Province, to their rural home in south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

    “It was freezing, especially when it rained. The road was slippery and very risky,” recalled Huang, who works in the plastic manufacturing industry.

    Guangdong’s official figures show that such motorcycle brigades had peaked at 1.1 million trips during the Spring Festival travel season of 2013, before declining in 2014. This decline coincided with the launch of high-speed rail lines connecting Guangdong with regions like Guizhou and Guangxi.

    This year, railways are expected to handle over 510 million passenger trips, averaging 12.75 million daily — a 5.5-percent increase from 2024, while road trips are forecast to reach 7.2 billion.

    Huang said growth in the incomes of migrant workers has resulted in fewer being willing to endure the hardship and danger of riding motorcycles home. Over the past three years, she and her brother have driven home in his car.

    “Almost no one I know rides motorcycles home now,” Huang added.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Shenzhou-19 astronauts share details of work and life in space with mission halfway through

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

    Shenzhou-19 astronauts share details of work and life in space with mission halfway through

    BEIJING, Jan. 31 — As China’s Shenzhou-19 mission reaches its halfway, the three astronauts aboard the Tiangong space station, orbiting 400 kilometers above Earth, have shared their experiences during the Spring Festival, offering a glimpse into their unique lives in space.

    SCIENTIFIC BREAKTHROUGHS AND SPACEWALKS

    The crew commander Cai Xuzhe, who returned to the space station after about two years, described the feeling as “warm and familiar” in a video released on China’s CCTV on Thursday.

    This is Cai’s second time working and living in China’s space station, but his first time celebrating the Spring Festival there. In 2022, he spent six months in space during the Shenzhou-14 mission.

    The Shenzhou-19 astronauts entered the space station on Oct. 30, 2024. According to Cai, over the past three months, the crew has completed a series of tasks, including the handover with the Shenzhou-18 crew, routine maintenance of the space station, and two spacewalks.

    These extravehicular activities (EVAs), commonly known as spacewalks, are essential for repairs, experiments, and testing equipment outside the station.

    Cai emphasized the importance of their training, including system-wide emergency pressure drills and medical rescue exercises.

    “These exercises have significantly improved our ability to handle unexpected situations, allowing us to work more efficiently and safely,” he said.

    Supported by ground teams, the astronauts have also advanced scientific experiments, such as cutting-edge research on human brain organoids and new material exposure tests in the harsh environment of space.

    “We are steadily progressing with our scientific missions, focusing on space life science, microgravity physics, space material science, and aerospace medicine,” Cai noted.

    Song Lingdong, who participated in two spacewalks, shared his awe-inspiring experience.

    “Before my first EVA, I imagined what it would be like, but nothing prepared me for the moment I opened the hatch and saw Earth. It was breathtaking,” he recalled. “Climbing on the module walls, I felt as if I was walking on clouds.”

    “I was mesmerized by the beauty of space, but at the same time, I felt the weight of our mission,” he added.

    Their first nine-hour spacewalk proved China’s new-generation spacesuits to be both safe and effective, according to Song.

    Addressing public curiosity, Song explained how astronauts stay energized during long EVAs. “We eat high-calorie meals beforehand and drink functional beverages during the task. We highly concentrate on the tasks and don’t feel hungry,” he said.

    FAMILY, SPACE, GYM AND PRIDE

    Life aboard the space station is not all work. During the Spring Festival, the crew took time to rest, call their families, and capture stunning photos of Earth and space.

    “We sent Chinese New Year greetings from space and recorded videos to cherish these moments,” said Song, who plans to document his experiences for his children.

    Wang Haoze, China’s first female space engineer working in the space station, expressed pride in China’s space achievements, marveling at the sophisticated systems of their “space home.”

    Despite the busy schedule, the astronauts find joy in simple activities. “We float freely like ‘sky flyers,’ lift heavy objects effortlessly, interact with our AI assistant, and even grow vegetables and raise fruit flies,” Wang said.

    Wang enjoys writing space diaries. Her favorite pastime, however, is gazing at Earth through the porthole, admiring Earth’s landscapes, from vast oceans to majestic mountains.

    “Seeing our homeland from space fills me with excitement, pride, and longing,” said Wang.

    To combat the effects of weightlessness, the crew followed a strict exercise regimen using specialized equipment like the space treadmill, stationary bike and resistance devices.

    “These exercises keep our bones, muscles and hearts healthy. And with balanced meals, we feel strong and energized,” Wang explained.

    The crew also finds time to bond over meals, share humor, and maintain their spirits.

    As they celebrated three months in orbit during the Spring Festival, Wang sent a heartfelt message: “May our nation thrive, and may we achieve new heights together, from space to Earth.”

    This is the third Spring Festival since the full completion of the Chinese space station. Nine crew members from Shenzhou-15, Shenzhou-17 and Shenzhou-19 have welcomed the New Year and the Spring Festival in space.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Innovations for public utilities discussed at SPbGASU

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    On January 29, a meeting of the scientific and technical council of the Housing Committee of the Government of St. Petersburg was held at SPbGASU. The presidium of the meeting included Vice-Governor of St. Petersburg Evgeny Razumishkin, Chairman of the Scientific and Technical Council of the Housing Committee, Head of the Department of Construction Economics and Housing and Utilities of SPbGASU Veronika Asaul, Chairman of the Housing Committee Denis Udod, Deputy Chairman of the Committee for the Improvement of St. Petersburg Sergey Malinin. More than one hundred specialists in the housing and utilities sector took part in the meeting.

    Chief Engineer of the St. Petersburg State Budgetary Institution “Central Administration of Regional Roads and Improvement” Igor Mishustin spoke about the use of new models of municipal equipment for road cleaning. He reviewed the universal municipal machines used in the Northern capital, emphasized their positive characteristics and voiced proposals to manufacturers for technical improvement. “Interaction between road agencies and factories-manufacturers of municipal cleaning equipment continues on an ongoing basis,” the specialist noted.

    The head of the investment and technology center “Vympel” Yuri Murzin spoke about the results of testing an innovative electric loader in snowfall conditions. The speaker noted that the loader is distinguished by a high level of localization of production.

    Elena Aleksandrova, Head of the Educational and Methodological Department of SPbGASU, reported on how our university is training personnel for the housing and utilities sector. “Since the 2024/2025 academic year, SPbGASU, together with the self-regulatory organization “Association of Builders of St. Petersburg” as part of the work of the Consortium of the Construction Industry of the Northwestern Federal District, continues to work in school construction classes,” she said in particular.

    Elena Aleksandrova focused on the proposals of SPbGASU for the implementation of the Concept of training personnel for the construction industry and housing and utilities until 2025, approved by the Russian government. The university has introduced new educational programs for the industry, modules for developing competencies in the field of information modeling technologies, and increased the share of practical classes. Practitioners, including future employers of graduates, are widely involved in the educational process. The programs have been brought into line with the current needs of the industry. “Industrial partners play a significant role in our educational process,” she noted.

    Director of OOO ECOTERMIX SPB Konstantin Baranov reported on the results of the implementation of an innovative building material based on polyurethane. It has a wide range of applications both in new construction and in the improvement of already built facilities requiring routine and major repairs.

    At the end of the meeting, those gathered agreed on further cooperation between all participants in the housing and utilities sector of St. Petersburg in scientific research, the introduction of new technology and personnel training.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Wolverhampton Art Gallery invites the public to take part in the largest ever exhibition of the region’s hobbies

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    It is an opportunity for the public to take part in Come As You Really Are, the largest ever exhibition of the UK’s hobbies. From makers and modifiers to crafters and collectors, Wolverhampton Art Gallery are working alongside Artangel and award winning artist and Spiderman enthusiast Hetain Patel to invite audiences to exhibit their hobbies in an exhibition at the gallery from 12 July to 5 October, 2025.

    The exhibition will bring together objects created, modified or collected by Midland based hobbyists, alongside contributions from people across the UK and a new artist film by Patel. Each hobby represents a decision to commit valuable time to living life on one’s own terms in a society dominated by consumerism. On display will be hundreds of unique hand crafted objects loaned by hobbyists of any discipline, such as costume and cosplay makers, crocheters and knitters, wood carvers and model makers, ceramicists, robotics engineers, origami specialists, augmented car enthusiasts and many more.

    City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, Councillor Chris Burden, said: “The joy of hobbies lies in their power to bring people together while celebrating individuality. Come As You Really Are is a unique opportunity to spotlight the incredible creativity and dedication of hobbyists in Wolverhampton, the Midlands and beyond. From cosplay to ceramics, every object tells a story of passion, perseverance, and self expression.

    “We’re thrilled to collaborate with Hetain Patel and Artangel to showcase these hidden talents and invite the public to share their own creations in this celebration of living life on one’s own terms. This exhibition promises to be as diverse and inspiring as the communities it represents.”

    Hetain Patel said: “I’ve always been obsessed by handmade things. Growing up in Bolton, in a working class culturally Indian household, we ate with our hands, and many of my relatives worked as part of the manual labour force in local factories. The empowering thing about hobbies is choice and doing something on our own terms. The creative act is really hopeful with huge benefits to us individually and something that connects us to others regardless of our differences.”  

    For the chance to be a part of the upcoming exhibition at Wolverhampton Art Gallery and to find out more information visit Wolverhampton Arts & Culture. It only takes a couple of minutes and all you need is a picture or two from your phone.

    To be eligible, respondents must be based in the UK and self identify as a hobbyist. The Wolverhampton exhibition aims to showcase hobbies across the Midlands region. By hobbyist we mean someone who engages with an activity on an ongoing basis. This might be daily, weekly or a couple of times a year.

    People may have many different ideas of what constitutes a hobby. On the form you will see a very comprehensive list of hobbies. Some are object based in that they result in the creation of an object e.g. knitting or woodworking. Others might be more ephemeral, such as skateboarding or gardening. All are eligible for the project. If a hobby is not on the list, respondents will be able to add it to the database by clicking, ‘my hobby isn’t in this list’ and typing it in when prompted.

    Hobbyists have until 30 March, 2025 to submit their hobbies for a chance to be part of the exhibition. Come As Your Really Are will open from Saturday 12 July until Sunday 5 October, 2025. The exhibition is free to the public. Wolverhampton Art Gallery is open Monday to Saturday from 10.30am to 4.30pm and Sunday from 11am to 4pm. For more information, please visit Wolverhampton Arts & Culture.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bowman, Brief Remarks on the Economy, and Perspective on Mutual and Community Banks

    Source: US State of New York Federal Reserve

    Let me begin by saying my thoughts and prayers are with the families of the passengers and crew who perished in the tragic flight accident in Washington, D.C. Wednesday evening.
    Thank you for the invitation to speak to you today.1 It is a pleasure to be with you virtually for your CEO Summit. I always enjoy the opportunity to meet bankers from across the country, especially New England, to learn about the issues that are important to you. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) concluded its January meeting earlier this week, so I will begin by offering some brief remarks on the economy, and then share my views on a number of mutual and community bank issues, before addressing some questions that were submitted by your members in advance of today’s meeting.
    Update on the Most Recent FOMC MeetingAt our FOMC meeting this week, my colleagues and I voted to hold the federal funds rate target range at 4-1/4 to 4‑1/2 percent and to continue to reduce the Federal Reserve’s securities holdings. I supported this action because, after recalibrating the level of the policy rate towards the end of last year to reflect the progress made since 2023 on lowering inflation and cooling the labor market, I think that policy is now in a good place to position the Committee to pay closer attention to the inflation data as it evolves.
    Looking ahead to 2025, in my view, the current policy stance also provides the opportunity to review further indicators of economic activity and get clarity on the administration’s policies and their effects on the economy. It will be very important to have a better sense of the actual policies and how they will be implemented, in addition to greater confidence about how the economy will respond.
    Brief Remarks on the EconomyThe U.S. economy remained strong through the end of last year, with solid growth in economic activity and a labor market near full employment. Core inflation remains elevated, but my expectation is that it will moderate further this year. Even with this outlook, I continue to see upside risks to inflation.
    The rate of inflation declined significantly in 2023, but it slowed by noticeably less last year. Without having seen the December data released this morning, I estimate that the 12-month measure of core personal consumption expenditures inflation—which excludes food and energy prices—likely remained unchanged at 2.8 percent in December, only slightly below its 3.0 percent reading at the end of 2023. Progress has been slow and uneven since the spring of last year mostly due to a slowing in core goods price declines.
    After increasing at a solid pace, on average, over the initial three quarters of last year, gross domestic product appears to have risen a bit more slowly in the fourth quarter, reflecting a large drop in inventory investment, which is a volatile category. In contrast, private domestic final purchases, which provide a better signal about underlying growth in economic activity, maintained its strong momentum from earlier in the year, as personal consumption rose robustly again in the fourth quarter.
    Some measures of consumer sentiment appear to have improved recently but are still well below pre-pandemic levels, likely because of higher prices. And since housing, food, and energy price increases have far outpaced overall inflation since the pandemic, lower-income households have experienced the negative impacts of inflation hardest, especially as these households have limited options to trade down for lower-cost goods and services.
    Payroll employment gains rebounded strongly in December and averaged about 170,000 per month in the fourth quarter, a pace that is somewhat above average gains in the prior two quarters. The unemployment rate edged back down to 4.1 percent in December and has moved sideways since last June, remaining slightly below my estimate of full employment.
    The labor market appears to have stabilized in the second half of last year, after having loosened from extremely tight conditions. The rise in the unemployment rate since mid-2023 largely reflected weaker hiring, as job seekers entering or re-entering the labor force are taking longer to find work, while layoffs have remained low. The ratio of job vacancies to unemployed workers has remained close to the pre-pandemic level in recent months, and there are still more available jobs than available workers. The labor market no longer appears to be especially tight, but wage growth remains somewhat above the pace consistent with our inflation goal.
    I hope the revision of the Bureau of Labor Statistics labor data, which will be released next week, will more accurately capture the changing dynamics of immigration and net business creation and bring more clarity on the underlying pace of job growth. It is crucial that U.S. official data accurately capture structural changes in labor markets in real time, such as those in recent years, so we can more confidently rely on these data for monetary and economic policymaking. In the meantime, given conflicting economic signals, measurement challenges, and significant data revisions, I remain cautious about taking signal from only a limited set of real-time data releases.
    Assuming the economy evolves as I expect, I think that inflation will slow further this year. Its progress may be bumpy and uneven, and the upcoming inflation data for the first quarter will be an important indication of how quickly this will happen. That said, I continue to see greater risks to price stability, especially while the labor market remains near full employment.
    Despite the prospect for some reduction in geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Asia, global supply chains continue to be susceptible to disruptions, which could result in inflationary effects on food, energy, and other commodity markets. In addition, the release of pent-up demand following the election, especially with improving consumer and business sentiment, could lead to stronger economic activity, which could increase inflationary pressures.
    The Path ForwardAs we enter a new phase in the process of moving the federal funds rate toward a more neutral policy stance, I would prefer that future adjustments to the policy rate be gradual. We should take time to carefully assess the progress in achieving our inflation and employment goals and consider changes to the policy rate based on how the data evolves.
    Given the current stance of policy, I continue to be concerned that easier financial conditions over the past year may have contributed to the lack of further progress on slowing inflation. In light of the ongoing strength in the economy and with equity prices substantially higher than a year ago, it seems unlikely that the overall level of interest rates and borrowing costs are exerting meaningful restraint.
    I am also closely watching the increase in longer-term Treasury yields since we started the recalibration of our policy stance at the September meeting. Some have interpreted it as a reflection of investors’ concerns about the possibility of tighter-than-expected policy that may be required to address inflationary pressures. In light of these considerations, I continue to prefer a cautious and gradual approach to adjusting policy.
    There is still more work to be done to bring inflation closer to our 2 percent goal. I would like to see progress in lowering inflation resume before we make further adjustments to the target range. We need to keep inflation in focus while the labor market appears to be in balance and the unemployment rate continues to be at historically low levels. By the time of our March meeting, we will have received two inflation and two employment reports. I look forward to reviewing the first quarter inflation data, which, as I noted earlier, will be key to understanding the path of inflation going forward. I do expect that inflation will begin to decline again and that by year-end it will be lower than where it now stands.
    Looking forward, it is important to note that monetary policy is not on a preset course. At each FOMC meeting, my colleagues and I will make our decisions based on the incoming data and the implications for and risks to the outlook and guided by the Fed’s dual-mandate goals of maximum employment and stable prices. I will also continue to meet with a broad range of contacts as I assess the appropriateness of our monetary policy stance.
    Bringing inflation in line with our price stability goal is essential for sustaining a healthy labor market and fostering an economy that works for everyone in the longer run.
    Perspective on Mutual and Community BanksTurning to banking, I will start with a brief discussion of the important role of mutual banks in the banking system before addressing other bank regulatory issues. One of the unique characteristics of the U.S. banking system is the broad scope of institutions it includes and the wide range of customers and communities it serves. Given this institutional diversity, regulators must strive to foster a financial system that enables each and every bank, no matter its size, to thrive, supporting a vibrant economy and financial system.
    Mutual Bank IssuesIn the Northeast, everyone is familiar with mutual banks given their significant presence in this region. Since the early 1800s, these banks have been dedicated to serving their local communities.2 Their ownership structure differs from traditional banks in that mutuals are owned by their depositors, rather than by shareholders. Like other community banks, they focus on local issues that are important to their communities and to their depositors.
    Many of the challenges mutual banks face are similar to those faced by other financial institutions, including competition from other banks, credit unions, and non-banks. But mutual banks also face unique issues that can add cost and expense to their operations. Two issues I would like to discuss are the challenges mutual institutions face raising capital, and unique procedural hurdles mutuals face in managing the dividend process. While these issues are unique to mutuals, both highlight the challenges of a lack of transparency, and insufficient focus on efficiency.3
    Just as with other community banks, a challenge for many mutuals is the difficulty of raising additional capital. This difficulty is exacerbated by their ownership structure, which typically requires mutuals to rely heavily on retained earnings. Although mutual institutions have historically been more highly capitalized relative to their stock-owned peers, if a mutual capital raise is needed, it would be helpful to provide some regulatory flexibility in the process. Recently, some mutuals have issued subordinated debt as a form of capital, but another form of regulatory capital may be preferable: mutual capital certificates.
    To date, it has been unclear whether mutual capital certificates qualify as regulatory capital. These instruments could provide mutual banks an additional way to raise capital without disrupting their mutual structure. In my view, the banking agencies should be receptive to these kinds of instruments to ensure that mutual banks can both raise capital and maintain their depositor-owned structure. Mutuals need clarity and transparency about the regulatory treatment of these instruments and whether they qualify as regulatory capital.
    Another concern for mutuals is the annual requirement to receive regulatory approval for a mutual holding company’s waiver of a dividend issued by its subsidiary bank.4 The Board practice is to require a mutual holding company to submit an application each year to implement a waiver. This prior approval requirement is complex and imposes significant costs on these small institutions, reducing the investment they can make in their communities. Because of the time and expense of these waiver requirements, it is possible that the inefficiencies of the required application process erode the value of a mutual holding company structure, which would further constrain a mutual bank’s ability to raise capital.
    Since the Board has nearly 20 years of experience considering these waiver requests, it seems appropriate to consider whether the applications process for these waivers is efficient. What lessons have we learned? Is the prior approval requirement effective in its review of holding companies waiving receipt of their dividends, or can this be resolved in a more efficient and cost effective manner? In my view, the Board should consider whether this process is effective and efficient in addressing concerns related to dividend waivers.
    Mutual banks, like all community banks, are vital to the economic success of their communities. It is critical that our applications process not act as a limit on a particular type of institution simply due to regulatory inaction or lack of clarity and transparency. Regulators must find efficient and effective ways to support a vibrant and diverse banking system that enables these and other small institutions to thrive while supporting and investing in their local economy.
    TailoringTransparency and efficiency are just two of the necessary components of a regulatory approach that promotes a healthy and vibrant banking system. Another component that I speak about frequently is the use of “tailoring” in the regulatory framework. For those familiar with my philosophy on bank regulation and supervision, my interest and focus on tailoring will come as no surprise.5 In its most basic form, it is difficult to disagree with the virtue of regulatory and supervisory tailoring—calibrating the requirements and expectations imposed on a firm based on its size, business model, risk profile, and complexity—as a reasonable, appropriate and responsible approach for bank regulation and supervision. In fact, tailoring is embedded in the statutory fabric of the Federal Reserve’s bank regulatory responsibilities.6
    The bank regulatory framework inherently includes significant costs—both the cost of operating the banking agencies, and the cost to the banking industry of complying with regulations, the examination process, and supplying information to regulators both through formal information collections and through one-off requests. In the aggregate, these costs can ultimately affect the price and availability of credit, geographic access to banking services, and the broader economy. The cost of this framework—both to regulators and to the industry—reflects layers of policy decisions over many years. But this framework could be more effective in balancing the mandate to promote safety and soundness with the need to have a banking system that promotes economic growth.
    For example, let’s consider costs. As regulatory and supervisory demands grow, there is often parallel growth in the staff and budgets of the banking agencies. We should not only be cognizant of these costs, but we should act in a way that requires efficiency while ensuring safety and soundness. Some degree of elasticity in regulator capacity is necessary to respond to evolving economic and banking conditions, as well as emerging risks, but there must be reasonable constraints on growth. Expansion of the regulatory framework is not a cost-free endeavor, and the costs are shouldered by taxpayers, banks, and, ultimately, bank customers.
    The bank regulatory framework has great potential to provide significant benefits, including supporting an innovative banking system that enhances trust and confidence in our institutions, and promotes safety and soundness. When we consider the benefits and the costs, we can institute greater efficiencies in both banking regulation and in the banking industry itself. The bank regulatory framework is complex, and the various elements of this framework are intended to work in a complementary way. As banks evolve—by growing larger, or by engaging in new activities—tailoring can help us to quickly recalibrate requirements in light of the new risks posed by the firm.
    But the regulatory framework, especially how supervisors prioritize its application to the banking industry, can pose a serious threat to a bank’s viability. For example, imposing the same regulatory requirements on banks with assets of $2 billion to $2 trillion under the new rules implementing the Community Reinvestment Act demonstrated a missed opportunity to promote greater effectiveness and efficiency.7 I question the wisdom of applying the same evaluation standards to banks within such a broad range.
    Likewise, supervisory guidance can provide fertile ground to differentiate supervisory expectations under a more tailored approach. While supervisory guidance is not binding on banks as a legal matter, it can signal how regulators think about particular risks and activities, and often drives community banks to reallocate resources in a way that may not be necessary or appropriate. The Fed’s guidance on third-party risk management is an example of this. Originally, this guidance was published in a way that applied to all banks, including community banks. Yet, it was acknowledged even at the time of publication that it had known shortcomings, particularly in terms of its administration and lack of clarity for community banks.8
    Tailoring is important for all banks, but it is particularly important for community banks. There are real costs not only to banks, but to communities, when the framework is insufficiently tailored, as community banks faced with excessive regulatory burdens may be forced to raise prices or shut their doors completely. These banks often reach unbanked or underbanked corners of the U.S. economy, not only in terms of the customers they serve but also in terms of their geographic footprint. We are all familiar with banking deserts and the challenges many legitimate and law-abiding businesses and consumers have in accessing basic banking services and credit. It is difficult to imagine that a system with far fewer banks would as effectively serve U.S. banking and credit needs and sufficiently to support economic growth.
    It is imperative that we keep the benefits of tailoring in focus as the bank regulatory framework evolves. A tailored regulatory and supervisory approach can help inform our policies on a wide range of industry issues that are likely to emerge in the coming years.
    Problem-Based SolutionsOne of the most difficult challenges on the regulatory front is prioritization, both for banks managing their businesses and for regulators deciding how to fulfill their responsibilities. At a basic level, the role of regulators is dictated by statute. Congress granted the Federal Reserve and other banking agencies broad statutory powers but has constrained how those powers may be directed through the use of statutory mandates, including to promote a safe and sound banking system, and broader U.S. financial stability. In the execution of these responsibilities, the Federal Reserve must also balance the need to act in a way that enables the banking system to serve the U.S. economy and promote economic growth. While these objectives are not incompatible, they do require us to consider tradeoffs when establishing policy.
    How can regulators best meet these responsibilities? As many of you may already know, I strongly believe in a pragmatic approach to policymaking.9 This requires us to identify the problem we are trying to solve, determine whether we are the appropriate regulator to address the problem based on our statutory mandates and authorities, and explore options for addressing the identified issue.
    As a first step, we must be attuned to the banking system and how regulatory actions affect that system. We oversee a wide range of banks of varying sizes, activities, affiliates, and complexity. These banks interact with a range of service providers, financial market utilities, payments providers, and non-bank partners, regularly competing with non-bank financial intermediaries. The banking system can be a key driver of business formation, economic expansion, and opportunity.
    As we look at the banking system, including the regulatory framework, we must focus on those issues that are most important to advancing statutory priorities. There is always the risk of misidentification and mis-prioritization, and that we fail to take appropriately robust action on key issues or focus on issues that are less material to a bank’s safety and soundness. Our goal should be to develop a better filter to promote appropriate and effective prioritization.
    FraudWe have seen several instances where this filter did not produce appropriate results, as we have recently seen with fraud. The incidence of fraud, particularly check fraud, has been rising substantially over the past few years, causing harm to banks, damaging the perceived safety of the banking system, and importantly hurting consumers who are the victims of fraudulent activity. Sometimes these efforts target vulnerable populations, like the elderly, who are particularly susceptible to certain forms of fraud.
    Despite this known problem, efforts by regulators have been frustratingly slow to advance, and seem to have done little to address the underlying root causes of this increase in fraud. Why has this important issue failed to garner greater attention from all of the appropriate regulatory and law enforcement bodies? Different governmental agencies may share an important role in addressing this problem, but the need for a joint and coordinated solution does not excuse collective inaction.
    Climate-Related Financial RiskOf course, not every issue falls within the scope of the Federal Reserve’s responsibilities. Even when policymakers identify an issue or priority that they would like to pursue, it is imperative to ask whether that priority falls within the scope of our mandate and authorities. Statutes and regulations, paired with the “soft” power of examination, can be deployed in ways that may not be primarily directed towards the priorities mandated for banking regulators. I’ve noted previously that the banking agencies’ climate-related financial risk guidance arguably pushes the boundaries of appropriate regulatory responsibilities. Banks have long been required to manage all material risks, including weather- and climate-related risks. And while this additional guidance seemed to do little to advance the goals of promoting the safe and sound operation of banks it, in effect, posed significant risks of influencing credit allocation decisions. Ultimately, banking regulators should not dictate credit allocation decisions, either by rule or through supervision. Bank regulatory policy should be used to address the needs of the unbanked and expand the availability of banking services. It should not be used to limit or exclude access to banking services for legitimate customers and businesses in a way that is meant to further unrelated policy goals, sometimes referred to as “de-banking.”
    Once we have identified problems and determined that they are within the Fed’s responsibility, we must consider alternative approaches to address them, focusing on identifying efficient solutions. New technologies and services often require novel regulatory and supervisory approaches, and we recognize that past approaches may not be effective. Often regulators take a “more is better” approach to regulation and guidance. Over the past several years, the banking industry has faced an onslaught of proposed and final regulations and guidance, materials that require a significant time commitment to review, to comment on, and to implement. Many times, these require changes to policies and procedures or risk management practices.
    It is critical that in our urgency to address issues in the banking system—particularly for community banks—that we consider not just the direct and indirect effects of regulatory action but also this cumulative burden. Community banks are resilient and dedicated to serving their communities, but at some point, the cumulative burden of the bank regulatory framework can adversely affect the availability and pricing of banking services and threaten the ongoing viability of the community bank model. The community banks in this country are important economically and to their communities, and we should strive to support these institutions and their ongoing viability.
    Other Notable Issues and ConcernsIn preparation for today’s event, conference attendees were asked to submit questions in advance. So before concluding my remarks I’d like to address a few of these, since we won’t be able to do a live Q&A session in this virtual format. Thank you for submitting your questions in advance.
    As community bankers, we are deeply invested in supporting the growth and resilience of our local economies. With ongoing regulatory pressures, what specific actions can the Federal Reserve take to ensure smaller institutions like ours remain competitive and capable of delivering the personalized service that our communities depend on?One of the things I think is critical in identifying how to support community banks is listening to the industry—which issues are top-of-mind for you? Being an effective regulator requires a degree of humility, and receptiveness to hearing about issues that affect the business of banking, particularly when there are alternative ways that regulators can better promote safety and soundness, or where regulatory actions have resulted in unintended consequences. At the same time, during my conversations with banks, a few themes have emerged that deserve attention. This will be a non-exclusive list, but hopefully will give you a sense of the types of issues and concerns that I hear about most frequently when talking to community banks.
    First, I think there is room to improve the transparency of regulatory communication. Banks should not be left to guess what regulators think about the permissibility of particular activities, or what parameters and rules should apply to those activities. Uncertainty discourages investments in innovation and the expansion of banking activities, products, and services, and can call into question whether internal processes and procedures are consistent with supervisory expectations. Banks already must confront the challenges of dealing with evolving economic and credit conditions, regulators should not compound these challenges through opaque expectations and standards.
    Second, I think we need to address shortcomings in the processing of banking applications, employing a more nimble and predictable approach specifically in the de novo formation and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) contexts. Today, the process to obtain regulatory approval can be influenced by many factors under a bank’s control—for example, the completeness of the application filed and responsiveness to addressing questions and providing necessary additional information. However, the timeline for application decisions is often uncertain and beyond the bank’s control. This can be due to questions about the minimum amount of capital needed and early-stage supervisory expectations (for a de novo bank), or uncertainty about the competitive effects of a transaction, or the filing of a public comment raising concerns about an application in the M&A context.
    Finally, I think regulatory and supervisory “trickle-down” is real and it has significantly harmed community banks. I am referring to regulators conveying expectations to community banks (for example, during the examination process) that lack a foundation in applicable rules or guidance, or that were designed for larger institutions, or based on a horizontal review of unique banks.
    It is very difficult to insulate community banks from the harmful consequences of “trickle-down,” and broader structural changes may be needed to shield them from inapplicable and unreasonable expectations. At the same time, we must preserve strong supervisory standards as banks cross asset thresholds, so banks that grow larger and riskier are subject to appropriately tailored and calibrated requirements and expectations. I would also note that some degree of “trickle down” has occurred over time because the regulatory asset “line” defining community banks has remained constant at $10 billion in assets for over a decade. During that time, the economy has grown significantly, and inflation has rendered this asset definition obsolete. Many “community banks”—as defined by business model and activities rather than asset size—now exceed the threshold and must comply with broader regulatory requirements that may be excessive.
    What support or guidance can community banks expect from the Federal Reserve as we navigate technological innovation and increased cybersecurity threats?Both innovation and cybersecurity are issues that are top of mind for me. Innovation has always been a priority for banks of all sizes and business models. Banks in the U.S. have a long history of developing and implementing new technologies, and innovation has the potential to make the banking and payments systems faster and more efficient, to bring new products and services to customers, and even to enhance safety and soundness.
    Regulators must be open to innovation in the banking system. Our goal should be to build and support a clear and sensible regulatory framework that anticipates ongoing and evolving innovation—one that allows the private sector to innovate while also maintaining appropriate safeguards. We must promote innovation through transparency and open communication, including demonstrating a willingness to engage during the development process. By providing clarity and consistency, we can encourage long-term business investment, while also continuing to support today’s products and services. A clear regulatory framework would also empower supervisors to focus on safety and soundness, while ensuring a safe and efficient banking and payment system.
    On cybersecurity, banks often note cybersecurity and third-party risk management as areas that raise significant concerns. Cyber-related events, including ransomware attacks and business email compromises, are costly in terms of expense and reputation, and are time-consuming events that pose unique challenges for community banks.
    The maintenance of cyber assets and technology resources required to support a successful cybersecurity program are often difficult for smaller banks. Regulators can promote cybersecurity, and stronger cyber-incident “resilience” and response capabilities by identifying resources and opportunities, such as exercises, for banks to develop “muscle memory” in cyber incident response.
    The Federal Reserve plays an important role in supervising banks and supporting risk management practices. For example, the Federal Reserve hosts the Midwest Cyber Workshop, with the Federal Reserve Banks of Chicago, Kansas City, and St. Louis.10 Over the past couple of years, this workshop has provided a forum to discuss cyber risk among community bankers, regulators, law enforcement, and other industry stakeholders. Community banks can also turn to the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC) website, which includes the FFIEC Cybersecurity Resource Guide and links to other external cybersecurity resources.
    We know well that cyber threats pose real risks to the banking system, and we recognize that community banks may have unique needs in preventing, remediating, and responding to cyber threats. Regulators should, therefore, ensure that a range of resources are available to support banks and seek further opportunities to help build bank resilience against these threats.
    Community banks are integral to rural and underserved communities. How can the Federal Reserve support us in maintaining our presence in these areas, particularly amid ongoing consolidation trends?As I noted earlier, it is essential that the U.S. banking system is broad and diverse, including institutions of all sizes serving all the different markets across the country. Community banks play a particularly valuable role in rural and underserved communities, and we need to ensure that the community banking model remains viable into the future.
    To do that, we need to have a regulatory system in which both de novo bank formations and M&A transactions are possible. Viable formation and merger options for banks of all sizes are necessary to avoid creating a “barbell” of the very largest and very smallest banks in the banking system, with the number of community banks continuing to erode over time.
    M&A ensures that banks have a meaningful path to transitioning bank ownership. In the absence of a viable M&A framework, there is potential for additional risks, including limited opportunities for succession planning, especially in smaller or rural communities. Uncertainty related to the M&A process also may act as a deterrent to de novo bank formation, as potential bank founders may stay on the sidelines knowing that future exit strategies—like the strategic acquisition of a de novo bank by a larger peer—may face long odds of success.
    Another challenge particularly in rural markets are the competitive “screens” that are used to evaluate the competitive effects of a proposed merger. Using these screens often results in a finding that M&A transactions in rural markets can have an adverse effect on competition and should therefore be disallowed.11 Even when these transactions are eventually approved, the mechanical approach to analyzing competitive effects often requires additional review or analysis and can lead to extensive delays in the regulatory approval process. Reducing the efficiency of the bank M&A process can be a deterrent to healthy bank transactions—it can reduce the effectiveness of M&A and de novo activity that preserves the presence of community banks in underserved areas, prevent institutions from pursuing prudent growth strategies, and actually undermine competition by preventing firms from growing to a larger scale.

    1. The views expressed here are my own and are not necessarily those of my colleagues on the Federal Reserve Board or the Federal Open Market Committee. Return to text
    2. The first mutual banks in the United States were chartered in 1816. The Provident Institution for Savings and the Philadelphia Savings Fund Society were both chartered that year. See https://www.jstor.org/stable/2123609; https://www.mass.gov/info-details/history-of-the-division-of-banks. Return to text
    3. Michelle W. Bowman, “Reflections on 2024: Monetary Policy, Economic Performance, and Lessons for Banking Regulation” (speech at the California Bankers Association 2025 Bank Presidents Seminar, Laguna Beach, California, January 9, 2025). Return to text
    4. 12 CFR § 239.8(d). Return to text
    5. See, e.g., Michelle W. Bowman, “Tailoring, Fidelity to the Rule of Law, and Unintended Consequences (PDF)” (speech at the Harvard Law School Faculty Club, Cambridge, Massachusetts, March 5, 2024). Return to text
    6. See, Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, Pub. L. No. 115-174, § 401(a)(1) (amending 12 U.S.C. § 5365), 132 Stat. 1296 (2018). Return to text
    7. See dissenting statement, “Statement on the Community Reinvestment Act Final Rule by Governor Michelle W. Bowman,” news release, October 24, 2023. Return to text
    8. See “Statement on Third Party Risk Management Guidance by Governor Michelle W. Bowman,” news release, June 6, 2023. Return to text
    9. Michelle W. Bowman, “Approaching Policymaking Pragmatically (PDF)” (remarks to the Forum Club of the Palm Beaches, West Palm Beach, Florida, November 20, 2024). Return to text
    10. See Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, and Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, “Midwest Cyber Workshop 2024,” June 25‑26, 2024. Return to text
    11. Michelle W. Bowman, “The Role of Research, Data, and Analysis in Banking Reforms (PDF)” (speech at the 2023 Community Banking Research Conference, St. Louis, MO, October 4, 2023); Michelle W. Bowman, “The New Landscape for Banking Competition (PDF),” (speech at the 2022 Community Banking Research Conference, St. Louis, MO, September 28, 2022). Return to text

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI: First Hawaiian, Inc. Reports Fourth Quarter 2024 Financial Results and Declares Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONOLULU, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — First Hawaiian, Inc. (NASDAQ:FHB), (“First Hawaiian” or the “Company”) today reported financial results for its quarter ended December 31, 2024.

    “I’m pleased to report that we finished 2024 with a very strong quarter that was highlighted by good performance across our key earnings drivers. Our loan and deposit balances grew, net interest margin expanded, expenses were well controlled and credit quality remained excellent. We also maintained our commitment to supporting our communities with a $1 million contribution to the First Hawaiian Foundation,” said Bob Harrison, Chairman, President, and CEO. “During the fourth quarter we took action to strengthen our balance sheet and increase our future earnings power by restructuring a portion of our investment portfolio. This action, along with the positive trends we saw in the fourth quarter, positions us very well entering 2025.” 

    On January 29, 2025, the Company’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.26 per share. The dividend will be payable on February 28, 2025, to stockholders of record at the close of business on February 14, 2025.

    Additionally, the Company’s Board of Directors adopted a stock repurchase program for up to $100.0 million of its outstanding common stock during 2025.

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Highlights:

    • Restructured a portion of the investment portfolio by selling $290.4 million of low-yielding investment securities and reinvested the sale proceeds into $291.5 million of higher-yielding securities. Recognized a $26.2 million pre-tax ($19.2 million after-tax) loss on the sale of securities.
    • Net income of $52.5 million, or $0.41 per diluted share
    • Total loans and leases increased $166.9 million versus prior quarter
    • Total deposits increased $94.5 million versus prior quarter
    • Net interest margin increased 8 basis points to 3.03%
    • Recorded a $0.8 million negative provision for credit losses
    • Board of Directors declared a quarterly dividend of $0.26 per share

    Balance Sheet

    Total assets were $23.8 billion at December 31, 2024 and September 30, 2024.

    Gross loans and leases were $14.4 billion as of December 31, 2024, an increase of $166.9 million, or 1.2%, from $14.2 billion as of September 30, 2024.

    Total deposits were $20.3 billion as of December 31, 2024, an increase of $94.5 million, or 0.5%, from $20.2 billion as of September 30, 2024.

    Net Interest Income

    Net interest income for the fourth quarter of 2024 was $158.8 million, an increase of $2.0 million, or 1.3%, compared to $156.7 million for the prior quarter.

    The net interest margin was 3.03% in the fourth quarter of 2024, an increase of 8 basis points compared to 2.95% in the prior quarter.

    Provision Expense

    During the quarter ended December 31, 2024, we recorded a $0.8 million negative provision for credit losses. In the quarter ended September 30, 2024, we recorded a $7.4 million provision for credit losses.

    Noninterest Income

    Noninterest income was $29.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2024, a decrease of $23.9 million compared to noninterest income of $53.3 million in the prior quarter. Noninterest income in the fourth quarter of 2024 included a $26.2 million loss on the sale of investment securities.

    Noninterest Expense

    Noninterest expense was $124.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2024, a decrease of $2.0 million compared to noninterest expense of $126.1 million in the prior quarter.

    The efficiency ratio was 65.5% and 59.8% for the quarters ended December 31, 2024 and September 30, 2024, respectively.

    Taxes

    The effective tax rate was 18.9% and 19.6% for the quarters ended December 31, 2024 and September 30, 2024, respectively.

    Asset Quality

    The allowance for credit losses was $160.4 million, or 1.11% of total loans and leases, as of December 31, 2024, compared to $163.7 million, or 1.15% of total loans and leases, as of September 30, 2024. The reserve for unfunded commitments was $32.8 million as of December 31, 2024, compared to $33.7 million as of September 30, 2024. Net charge-offs were $3.4 million, or 0.09% of average loans and leases on an annualized basis, for the quarter ended December 31, 2024, compared to net charge-offs of $3.9 million, or 0.11% of average loans and leases on an annualized basis, for the quarter ended September 30, 2024. Total non-performing assets were $20.7 million, or 0.14% of total loans and leases and other real estate owned, on December 31, 2024, compared to total non-performing assets of $17.8 million, or 0.13% of total loans and leases and other real estate owned, on September 30, 2024.

    Capital

    Total stockholders’ equity was $2.6 billion on December 31, 2024 and September 30, 2024.

    The tier 1 leverage, common equity tier 1 and total capital ratios were 9.14%, 12.80% and 13.99%, respectively, on December 31, 2024, compared with 9.14%, 13.03% and 14.25%, respectively, on September 30, 2024.

    The Company repurchased 1.5 million shares of common stock at a total cost of $40.0 million under the stock repurchase program in the fourth quarter. The average cost was $27.14 per share repurchased. Total repurchases in 2024 were $40.0 million.

    As to the stock repurchase program approved for 2025, repurchases of shares of the Company’s common stock may be conducted through open-market purchases, which may include purchases under a trading plan adopted pursuant to Securities and Exchange Commission Rule 10b5-1, or through privately negotiated transactions. The timing and exact amount of share repurchases, if any, will be subject to management’s discretion and various factors, including the Company’s capital position and financial performance, as well as market conditions. The repurchase program may be suspended, terminated or modified at any time for any reason.

    First Hawaiian, Inc.

    First Hawaiian, Inc. (NASDAQ:FHB) is a bank holding company headquartered in Honolulu, Hawaii. Its principal subsidiary, First Hawaiian Bank, founded in 1858 under the name Bishop & Company, is Hawaii’s oldest and largest financial institution with branch locations throughout Hawaii, Guam and Saipan. The company offers a comprehensive suite of banking services to consumer and commercial customers including deposit products, loans, wealth management, insurance, trust, retirement planning, credit card and merchant processing services. Customers may also access their accounts through ATMs, online and mobile banking channels. For more information about First Hawaiian, Inc., visit the Company’s website, www.fhb.com.

    Conference Call Information

    First Hawaiian will host a conference call to discuss the Company’s results today at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time, 8:00 a.m. Hawaii Time.

    To access the call by phone, please register via the following link: https://register.vevent.com/register/BI80003c73e95b445aa5fe62db794097bb, and you will be provided with dial in details. To avoid delays, we encourage participants to dial into the conference call fifteen minutes ahead of the scheduled start time.

    A live webcast of the conference call, including a slide presentation, will be available at the following link: www.fhb.com/earnings. The archive of the webcast will be available at the same location.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to, among other things, future events and our financial performance. These statements are often, but not always, made through the use of words or phrases such as “may”, “might”, “should”, “could”, “predict”, “potential”, “believe”, “expect”, “continue”, “will”, “anticipate”, “seek”, “estimate”, “intend”, “plan”, “projection”, “would”, “annualized” and “outlook”, or the negative version of those words or other comparable words or phrases of a future or forward-looking nature. These forward-looking statements are not historical facts, and are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about our industry, management’s beliefs and certain assumptions made by management, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and beyond our control. Accordingly, we caution you that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, assumptions, estimates and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date made, there can be no assurance that actual results will not prove to be materially different from the results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. A number of important factors could cause actual results or performance to differ materially from the forward-looking statements, including (without limitation) the risks and uncertainties associated with the domestic and global economic environment and capital market conditions and other risk factors. For a discussion of some of these risks and important factors that could affect our future results and financial condition, see our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) filings, including, but not limited to, our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2024, June 30, 2024 and September 30, 2024.

    Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Return on average tangible assets, return on average tangible stockholders’ equity, tangible book value per share and tangible stockholders’ equity to tangible assets are non-GAAP financial measures. We believe that these measurements are useful for investors, regulators, management and others to evaluate financial performance and capital adequacy relative to other financial institutions. Although these non-GAAP financial measures are frequently used by stakeholders in the evaluation of a company, they have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our results or financial condition as reported under GAAP. Investors should consider our performance and capital adequacy as reported under GAAP and all other relevant information when assessing our performance and capital adequacy.

    Table 14 at the end of this document provides a reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures with their most directly comparable GAAP measures.

                                           
    Financial Highlights   Table 1
        For the Three Months Ended     For the Year Ended  
        December 31, 
        September 30,      December 31,      December 31,   
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)   2024     2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Operating Results:                                        
    Net interest income   $ 158,753     $ 156,707     $ 151,793     $ 622,738     $ 636,127  
    (Benefit) provision for credit losses     (750 )     7,400       5,330       14,750       26,630  
    Noninterest income     29,376       53,288       58,347       185,803       200,815  
    Noninterest expense     124,143       126,147       142,307       501,189       501,138  
    Net income     52,496       61,492       47,502       230,129       234,983  
    Basic earnings per share     0.41       0.48       0.37       1.80       1.84  
    Diluted earnings per share     0.41       0.48       0.37       1.79       1.84  
    Dividends declared per share     0.26       0.26       0.26       1.04       1.04  
    Dividend payout ratio     63.41 %     54.17 %     70.27 %     58.10 %     56.52 %
    Performance Ratios(1):                                      
    Net interest margin     3.03 %     2.95 %     2.81 %     2.95 %     2.92 %
    Efficiency ratio     65.51 %     59.77 %     67.28 %     61.57 %     59.48 %
    Return on average total assets     0.88 %     1.02 %     0.77 %     0.96 %     0.95 %
    Return on average tangible assets (non-GAAP)(2)     0.92 %     1.06 %     0.81 %     1.00 %     0.99 %
    Return on average total stockholders’ equity     7.94 %     9.45 %     7.94 %     9.00     10.01 %
    Return on average tangible stockholders’ equity (non-GAAP)(2)     12.78 %     15.35 %     13.66 %     14.74 %     17.39 %
    Average Balances:                                      
    Average loans and leases   $ 14,276,107     $ 14,304,806     $ 14,349,322     $ 14,312,759     $ 14,266,291  
    Average earning assets     21,079,951       21,328,882       21,688,816       21,284,169       21,952,009  
    Average assets     23,795,735       24,046,696       24,404,727       23,996,723       24,625,445  
    Average deposits     20,249,573       20,367,805       20,908,221       20,373,975       21,160,155  
    Average stockholders’ equity     2,629,600       2,588,806       2,374,669       2,557,215       2,346,713  
    Market Value Per Share:                                      
    Closing     25.95       23.15       22.86       25.95       22.86  
    High     28.80       26.18       23.22       28.80       28.28  
    Low     22.08       20.28       17.18       19.48       15.08  
                             
        As of     As of     As of  
        December 31,      September 30,      December 31,   
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)   2024     2024     2023  
    Balance Sheet Data:                        
    Loans and leases   $ 14,408,258     $ 14,241,370     $ 14,353,497  
    Total assets     23,828,186       23,780,285       24,926,474  
    Total deposits     20,322,216       20,227,702       21,332,657  
    Short-term borrowings     250,000       250,000       500,000  
    Total stockholders’ equity     2,617,486       2,648,034       2,486,066  
                             
    Per Share of Common Stock:                        
    Book value   $ 20.70     $ 20.71     $ 19.48  
    Tangible book value (non-GAAP)(2)     12.83       12.92       11.68  
                             
    Asset Quality Ratios:                        
    Non-accrual loans and leases / total loans and leases     0.14 %     0.13 %     0.13 %
    Allowance for credit losses for loans and leases / total loans and leases     1.11 %     1.15 %     1.09 %
                             
    Capital Ratios:                        
    Common Equity Tier 1 Capital Ratio     12.80 %     13.03 %     12.39 %
    Tier 1 Capital Ratio     12.80 %     13.03 %     12.39 %
    Total Capital Ratio     13.99 %     14.25 %     13.57 %
    Tier 1 Leverage Ratio     9.14 %     9.14 %     8.64 %
    Total stockholders’ equity to total assets     10.98 %     11.14 %     9.97 %
    Tangible stockholders’ equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP)(2)     7.10 %     7.25 %     6.23 %
                             
    Non-Financial Data:                        
    Number of branches     48       48       50  
    Number of ATMs     273       273       275  
    Number of Full-Time Equivalent Employees     1,997       2,022       2,089  

    (1) Except for the efficiency ratio, amounts are annualized for the three months ended December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

    (2) Return on average tangible assets, return on average tangible stockholders’ equity, tangible book value per share and tangible stockholders’ equity to tangible assets are non-GAAP financial measures. We compute our return on average tangible assets as the ratio of net income to average tangible assets, which is calculated by subtracting (and thereby effectively excluding) amounts related to the effect of goodwill from our average total assets. We compute our return on average tangible stockholders’ equity as the ratio of net income to average tangible stockholders’ equity, which is calculated by subtracting (and thereby effectively excluding) amounts related to the effect of goodwill from our average total stockholders’ equity. We compute our tangible book value per share as the ratio of tangible stockholders’ equity to outstanding shares. Tangible stockholders’ equity is calculated by subtracting (and thereby effectively excluding) amounts related to the effect of goodwill from our total stockholders’ equity. We compute our tangible stockholders’ equity to tangible assets as the ratio of tangible stockholders’ equity to tangible assets, each of which we calculate by subtracting (and thereby effectively excluding) the value of our goodwill. For a reconciliation to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, see Table 14, GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation.

                                         
    Consolidated Statements of Income   Table 2
        For the Three Months Ended   For the Year Ended
        December 31,    September 30,    December 31,    December 31, 
    (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)   2024     2024   2023   2024     2023
    Interest income                                    
    Loans and lease financing   $ 198,347     $ 205,682     $ 196,276     $ 805,941     $ 748,053  
    Available-for-sale investment securities     12,767       12,850       19,033       54,306       74,241  
    Held-to-maturity investment securities     17,071       16,937       17,987       69,376       73,497  
    Other     11,977       14,527       7,734       50,421       27,788  
    Total interest income     240,162       249,996       241,030       980,044       923,579  
    Interest expense                                    
    Deposits     78,465       87,500       82,215       335,717       258,221  
    Short-term and long-term borrowings     2,685       5,397       6,232       19,988       26,289  
    Other     259       392       790       1,601       2,942  
    Total interest expense     81,409       93,289       89,237       357,306       287,452  
    Net interest income     158,753       156,707       151,793       622,738       636,127  
    (Benefit) provision for credit losses     (750 )     7,400       5,330       14,750       26,630  
    Net interest income after (benefit) provision for credit losses     159,503       149,307       146,463       607,988       609,497  
    Noninterest income                                    
    Service charges on deposit accounts     7,968       7,783       7,646       31,090       29,647  
    Credit and debit card fees     14,834       17,533       16,381       64,401       63,888  
    Other service charges and fees     13,132       11,790       9,535       45,862       37,299  
    Trust and investment services income     9,449       9,077       9,645       38,306       38,449  
    Bank-owned life insurance     5,713       4,502       5,063       17,861       15,326  
    Investment securities (losses) gains, net     (26,171 )           792       (26,171 )     792  
    Other     4,451       2,603       9,285       14,454       15,414  
    Total noninterest income     29,376       53,288       58,347       185,803       200,815  
    Noninterest expense                                    
    Salaries and employee benefits     59,003       59,563       55,882       235,565       225,755  
    Contracted services and professional fees     14,472       14,634       16,219       60,912       66,423  
    Occupancy     7,708       6,945       7,561       28,971       29,608  
    Equipment     14,215       13,078       12,547       53,902       45,109  
    Regulatory assessment and fees     3,745       3,412       20,412       19,091       32,073  
    Advertising and marketing     1,529       1,813       1,441       7,719       7,615  
    Card rewards program     7,926       8,678       7,503       33,831       31,627  
    Other     15,545       18,024       20,742       61,198       62,928  
    Total noninterest expense     124,143       126,147       142,307       501,189       501,138  
    Income before provision for income taxes     64,736       76,448       62,503       292,602       309,174  
    Provision for income taxes     12,240       14,956       15,001       62,473       74,191  
    Net income   $ 52,496     $ 61,492     $ 47,502     $ 230,129     $ 234,983  
    Basic earnings per share   $ 0.41     $ 0.48     $ 0.37     $ 1.80     $ 1.84  
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 0.41     $ 0.48     $ 0.37     $ 1.79     $ 1.84  
    Basic weighted-average outstanding shares     127,350,626       127,886,167       127,612,734       127,702,573       127,567,547  
    Diluted weighted-average outstanding shares     128,167,502       128,504,035       128,028,964       128,325,865       127,915,873  
                       
    Consolidated Balance Sheets   Table 3
        December 31,    September 30,    December 31, 
    (dollars in thousands, except share amount)   2024     2024     2023  
    Assets                  
    Cash and due from banks   $ 258,057     $ 252,209     $ 185,015  
    Interest-bearing deposits in other banks     912,133       820,603       1,554,882  
    Investment securities:                  
    Available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost: $2,190,448 as of December 31, 2024, $2,290,781 as of September 30, 2024 and $2,558,675 as of December 31, 2023)     1,926,516       2,055,959       2,255,336  
    Held-to-maturity, at amortized cost (fair value: $3,262,509 as of December 31, 2024, $3,475,143 as of September 30, 2024 and $3,574,856 as of December 31, 2023)     3,790,650       3,853,697       4,041,449  
    Loans held for sale                 190  
    Loans and leases     14,408,258       14,241,370       14,353,497  
    Less: allowance for credit losses     160,393       163,700       156,533  
    Net loans and leases     14,247,865       14,077,670       14,196,964  
                       
    Premises and equipment, net     288,530       287,036       281,461  
    Accrued interest receivable     79,979       81,875       84,417  
    Bank-owned life insurance     491,890       490,135       479,907  
    Goodwill     995,492       995,492       995,492  
    Mortgage servicing rights     5,078       5,236       5,699  
    Other assets     831,996       860,373       845,662  
    Total assets   $ 23,828,186     $ 23,780,285     $ 24,926,474  
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity                  
    Deposits:                  
    Interest-bearing   $ 13,347,068     $ 13,427,674     $ 13,749,095  
    Noninterest-bearing     6,975,148       6,800,028       7,583,562  
    Total deposits     20,322,216       20,227,702       21,332,657  
    Short-term borrowings     250,000       250,000       500,000  
    Retirement benefits payable     97,135       100,448       103,285  
    Other liabilities     541,349       554,101       504,466  
    Total liabilities     21,210,700       21,132,251       22,440,408  
                       
    Stockholders’ equity                  
    Common stock ($0.01 par value; authorized 300,000,000 shares; issued/outstanding: 141,748,847 / 126,422,898 shares as of December 31, 2024, issued/outstanding: 141,735,601 / 127,886,167 shares as of September 30, 2024 and issued/outstanding: 141,340,539 / 127,618,761 shares as of December 31, 2023)     1,417       1,417       1,413  
    Additional paid-in capital     2,560,380       2,558,158       2,548,250  
    Retained earnings     934,048       915,062       837,859  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net     (463,994 )     (452,658 )     (530,210 )
    Treasury stock (15,325,949 shares as of December 31, 2024, 13,849,434 shares as of September 30, 2024 and 13,721,778 shares as of December 31, 2023)     (414,365 )     (373,945 )     (371,246 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     2,617,486       2,648,034       2,486,066  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 23,828,186     $ 23,780,285     $ 24,926,474  
                                                       
    Average Balances and Interest Rates                                               Table 4
        Three Months Ended   Three Months Ended   Three Months Ended  
        December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   December 31, 2023  
        Average   Income/   Yield/   Average   Income/   Yield/   Average   Income/   Yield/  
    (dollars in millions)   Balance   Expense   Rate   Balance   Expense   Rate   Balance   Expense   Rate  
    Earning Assets                                                  
    Interest-Bearing Deposits in Other Banks   $ 948.9   $ 11.3   4.75 % $ 1,020.4   $ 13.9   5.40 % $ 568.0   $ 7.8   5.39 %
    Available-for-Sale Investment Securities                                                  
    Taxable     1,987.7     12.7   2.56     2,062.6     12.8   2.48     2,598.4     19.0   2.92  
    Non-Taxable     1.4       5.30     1.5       5.06     1.9       5.12  
    Held-to-Maturity Investment Securities                                                  
    Taxable     3,224.8     13.9   1.72     3,288.2     13.8   1.67     3,472.1     14.8   1.70  
    Non-Taxable     601.7     3.9   2.56     602.3     3.7   2.46     603.9     3.9   2.58  
    Total Investment Securities     5,815.6     30.5   2.10     5,954.6     30.3   2.03     6,676.3     37.7   2.25  
    Loans Held for Sale     1.3       5.75     2.2       5.64     0.7       7.41  
    Loans and Leases(1)                                                  
    Commercial and industrial     2,157.8     35.2   6.50     2,165.3     38.0   6.98     2,148.1     36.7   6.78  
    Commercial real estate     4,333.1     68.9   6.33     4,278.3     71.6   6.67     4,356.3     71.4   6.51  
    Construction     990.7     17.4   6.99     1,040.7     20.3   7.74     888.7     16.7   7.45  
    Residential:                                                  
    Residential mortgage     4,183.5     40.8   3.90     4,204.5     40.4   3.84     4,294.8     38.8   3.61  
    Home equity line     1,157.1     13.3   4.55     1,158.5     13.2   4.52     1,174.8     11.3   3.83  
    Consumer     1,033.2     19.0   7.29     1,035.3     18.7   7.19     1,132.4     18.4   6.43  
    Lease financing     420.7     4.4   4.18     422.2     4.0   3.72     354.2     3.6   4.03  
    Total Loans and Leases     14,276.1     199.0   5.55     14,304.8     206.2   5.74     14,349.3     196.9   5.45  
    Other Earning Assets     38.1     0.7   6.73     46.9     0.7   5.83     94.5       0.06  
    Total Earning Assets(2)     21,080.0     241.5   4.56     21,328.9     251.1   4.69     21,688.8     242.4   4.44  
    Cash and Due from Banks     226.2               242.3               240.8            
    Other Assets     2,489.5               2,475.5               2,475.1            
    Total Assets   $ 23,795.7             $ 24,046.7             $ 24,404.7            
                                                       
    Interest-Bearing Liabilities                                                  
    Interest-Bearing Deposits                                                  
    Savings   $ 5,940.3   $ 21.1   1.42 % $ 5,963.1   $ 23.6   1.57 % $ 6,067.2   $ 22.4   1.46 %
    Money Market     4,053.6     26.6   2.61     4,179.5     31.9   3.04     3,905.0     27.5   2.79  
    Time     3,362.0     30.8   3.64     3,327.3     32.0   3.83     3,390.7     32.3   3.78  
    Total Interest-Bearing Deposits     13,355.9     78.5   2.34     13,469.9     87.5   2.58     13,362.9     82.2   2.44  
    Other Short-Term Borrowings     250.0     2.7   4.27     451.1     5.4   4.76     515.2     6.2   4.80  
    Other Interest-Bearing Liabilities     25.3     0.2   4.07     22.4     0.4   6.97     42.1     0.8   7.44  
    Total Interest-Bearing Liabilities     13,631.2     81.4   2.38     13,943.4     93.3   2.66     13,920.2     89.2   2.54  
    Net Interest Income         $ 160.1             $ 157.8             $ 153.2      
    Interest Rate Spread(3)               2.18 %             2.03 %             1.90 %
    Net Interest Margin(4)               3.03 %             2.95 %             2.81 %
    Noninterest-Bearing Demand Deposits     6,893.7               6,897.9               7,545.3            
    Other Liabilities     641.2               616.6               564.5            
    Stockholders’ Equity     2,629.6               2,588.8               2,374.7            
    Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity   $ 23,795.7             $ 24,046.7             $ 24,404.7            

    (1) Non-performing loans and leases are included in the respective average loan and lease balances. Income, if any, on such loans and leases is recognized on a cash basis.

    (2) Interest income includes taxable-equivalent basis adjustments of $1.4 million, $1.1 million and $1.4 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.

    (3) Interest rate spread is the difference between the average yield on earning assets and the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities, on a fully taxable-equivalent basis.

    (4) Net interest margin is net interest income annualized for the three months ended December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, on a fully taxable-equivalent basis, divided by average total earning assets.

                                               
    Average Balances and Interest Rates                                       Table 5
        Year Ended   Year Ended  
        December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023  
        Average   Income/   Yield/   Average   Income/   Yield/  
    (dollars in millions)   Balance   Expense   Rate   Balance   Expense   Rate  
    Earning Assets                                          
    Interest-Bearing Deposits in Other Banks   $ 900.8     $ 47.3     5.25 % $ 512.3     $ 26.5     5.18 %
    Available-for-Sale Investment Securities                                          
    Taxable     2,090.0       54.2     2.60     2,871.8       73.8     2.57  
    Non-Taxable     1.5       0.1     5.45     10.2       0.6     5.55  
    Held-to-Maturity Investment Securities                                          
    Taxable     3,321.6       56.6     1.70     3,579.0       60.7     1.70  
    Non-Taxable     602.6       15.6     2.58     607.7       15.9     2.61  
    Total Investment Securities     6,015.7       126.5     2.10     7,068.7       151.0     2.14  
    Loans Held for Sale     1.3       0.1     6.02     0.4           6.63  
    Loans and Leases(1)                                          
    Commercial and industrial     2,172.4       148.6     6.84     2,182.3       141.0     6.46  
    Commercial real estate     4,310.1       282.3     6.55     4,257.9       266.0     6.25  
    Construction     985.4       73.5     7.46     877.7       62.1     7.08  
    Residential:                                          
    Residential mortgage     4,220.2       163.4     3.87     4,308.0       156.4     3.63  
    Home equity line     1,162.9       51.0     4.39     1,131.1       39.3     3.47  
    Consumer     1,051.5       73.4     6.98     1,178.6       71.5     6.07  
    Lease financing     410.3       16.3     3.98     330.7       14.1     4.26  
    Total Loans and Leases     14,312.8       808.5     5.65     14,266.3       750.4     5.26  
    Other Earning Assets     53.6       3.1     5.88     104.3       1.3     1.20  
    Total Earning Assets(2)     21,284.2       985.5     4.63     21,952.0       929.2     4.23  
    Cash and Due from Banks     238.3                   265.1                
    Other Assets     2,474.2                   2,408.3                
    Total Assets   $ 23,996.7                 $ 24,625.4                
                                               
    Interest-Bearing Liabilities                                          
    Interest-Bearing Deposits                                          
    Savings   $ 5,990.7     $ 91.6     1.53 % $ 6,124.7     $ 71.5     1.17 %
    Money Market     4,064.0       117.8     2.90     3,869.1       86.1     2.22  
    Time     3,324.8       126.3     3.80     3,040.0       100.6     3.31  
    Total Interest-Bearing Deposits     13,379.5       335.7     2.51     13,033.8       258.2     1.98  
    Federal Funds Purchased                   17.2       0.8     4.45  
    Other Short-Term Borrowings     424.9       20.0     4.70     261.9       13.0     4.98  
    Long-Term Borrowings                   261.6       12.5     4.78  
    Other Interest-Bearing Liabilities     29.6       1.6     5.39     57.1       3.0     5.15  
    Total Interest-Bearing Liabilities     13,834.0       357.3     2.58     13,631.6       287.5     2.11  
    Net Interest Income           $ 628.2                 $ 641.7        
    Interest Rate Spread(3)                   2.05 %                 2.12 %
    Net Interest Margin(4)                   2.95 %                 2.92 %
    Noninterest-Bearing Demand Deposits     6,994.5                   8,126.4                
    Other Liabilities     611.0                   520.7                
    Stockholders’ Equity     2,557.2                   2,346.7                
    Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity   $ 23,996.7                 $ 24,625.4                

    (1) Non-performing loans and leases are included in the respective average loan and lease balances. Income, if any, on such loans and leases is recognized on a cash basis.

    (2) Interest income includes taxable-equivalent basis adjustments of $5.4 million and $5.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.

    (3) Interest rate spread is the difference between the average yield on earning assets and the average rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities, on a fully taxable-equivalent basis.

    (4) Net interest margin is net interest income annualized for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, on a fully taxable-equivalent basis, divided by average total earning assets.

                       
    Analysis of Change in Net Interest Income                 Table 6
        Three Months Ended December 31, 2024
        Compared to September 30, 2024
    (dollars in millions)   Volume   Rate   Total (1)
    Change in Interest Income:                  
    Interest-Bearing Deposits in Other Banks   $ (1.0 )   $ (1.6 )   $ (2.6 )
    Available-for-Sale Investment Securities                  
    Taxable     (0.5 )     0.4       (0.1 )
    Held-to-Maturity Investment Securities                  
    Taxable     (0.3 )     0.4       0.1  
    Non-Taxable           0.2       0.2  
    Total Investment Securities     (0.8 )     1.0       0.2  
    Loans and Leases                  
    Commercial and industrial     (0.1 )     (2.7 )     (2.8 )
    Commercial real estate     0.9       (3.6 )     (2.7 )
    Construction     (1.0 )     (1.9 )     (2.9 )
    Residential:                  
    Residential mortgage     (0.2 )     0.6       0.4  
    Home equity line           0.1       0.1  
    Consumer           0.3       0.3  
    Lease financing           0.4       0.4  
    Total Loans and Leases     (0.4 )     (6.8 )     (7.2 )
    Other Earning Assets     (0.1 )     0.1        
    Total Change in Interest Income     (2.3 )     (7.3 )     (9.6 )
                       
    Change in Interest Expense:                  
    Interest-Bearing Deposits                  
    Savings     (0.1 )     (2.4 )     (2.5 )
    Money Market     (0.9 )     (4.4 )     (5.3 )
    Time     0.3       (1.5 )     (1.2 )
    Total Interest-Bearing Deposits     (0.7 )     (8.3 )     (9.0 )
    Other Short-Term Borrowings     (2.2 )     (0.5 )     (2.7 )
    Other Interest-Bearing Liabilities           (0.2 )     (0.2 )
    Total Change in Interest Expense     (2.9 )     (9.0 )     (11.9 )
    Change in Net Interest Income   $ 0.6     $ 1.7     $ 2.3  

    (1) The change in interest income and expense not solely due to changes in volume or rate has been allocated on a pro-rata basis to the volume and rate columns.

                       
    Analysis of Change in Net Interest Income                 Table 7
        Three Months Ended December 31, 2024
        Compared to December 31, 2023
    (dollars in millions)   Volume   Rate   Total (1)
    Change in Interest Income:                  
    Interest-Bearing Deposits in Other Banks   $ 4.6     $ (1.1 )   $ 3.5  
    Available-for-Sale Investment Securities                  
    Taxable     (4.1 )     (2.2 )     (6.3 )
    Held-to-Maturity Investment Securities                  
    Taxable     (1.1 )     0.2       (0.9 )
    Total Investment Securities     (5.2 )     (2.0 )     (7.2 )
    Loans and Leases                  
    Commercial and industrial     0.1       (1.6 )     (1.5 )
    Commercial real estate     (0.4 )     (2.1 )     (2.5 )
    Construction     1.8       (1.1 )     0.7  
    Residential:                  
    Residential mortgage     (1.0 )     3.0       2.0  
    Home equity line     (0.1 )     2.1       2.0  
    Consumer     (1.7 )     2.3       0.6  
    Lease financing     0.7       0.1       0.8  
    Total Loans and Leases     (0.6 )     2.7       2.1  
    Other Earning Assets           0.7       0.7  
    Total Change in Interest Income     (1.2 )     0.3       (0.9 )
                       
    Change in Interest Expense:                  
    Interest-Bearing Deposits                  
    Savings     (0.6 )     (0.7 )     (1.3 )
    Money Market     1.0       (1.9 )     (0.9 )
    Time     (0.2 )     (1.3 )     (1.5 )
    Total Interest-Bearing Deposits     0.2       (3.9 )     (3.7 )
    Other Short-Term Borrowings     (2.9 )     (0.6 )     (3.5 )
    Other Interest-Bearing Liabilities     (0.3 )     (0.3 )     (0.6 )
    Total Change in Interest Expense     (3.0 )     (4.8 )     (7.8 )
    Change in Net Interest Income   $ 1.8     $ 5.1     $ 6.9  

    (1) The change in interest income and expense not solely due to changes in volume or rate has been allocated on a pro-rata basis to the volume and rate columns.

                       
    Analysis of Change in Net Interest Income                 Table 8
        Year Ended December 31, 2024
        Compared to December 31, 2023
    (dollars in millions)   Volume   Rate   Total (1)
    Change in Interest Income:                  
    Interest-Bearing Deposits in Other Banks   $ 20.4     $ 0.4     $ 20.8  
    Available-for-Sale Investment Securities                  
    Taxable     (20.4 )     0.8       (19.6 )
    Non-Taxable     (0.5 )           (0.5 )
    Held-to-Maturity Investment Securities                  
    Taxable     (4.1 )           (4.1 )
    Non-Taxable     (0.1 )     (0.2 )     (0.3 )
    Total Investment Securities     (25.1 )     0.6       (24.5 )
    Loans Held for Sale     0.1             0.1  
    Loans and Leases                  
    Commercial and industrial     (0.7 )     8.3       7.6  
    Commercial real estate     3.3       13.0       16.3  
    Construction     7.9       3.5       11.4  
    Residential:                  
    Residential mortgage     (3.2 )     10.2       7.0  
    Home equity line     1.1       10.6       11.7  
    Consumer     (8.2 )     10.1       1.9  
    Lease financing     3.2       (1.0 )     2.2  
    Total Loans and Leases     3.4       54.7       58.1  
    Other Earning Assets     (0.9 )     2.7       1.8  
    Total Change in Interest Income     (2.1 )     58.4       56.3  
                       
    Change in Interest Expense:                  
    Interest-Bearing Deposits                  
    Savings     (1.6 )     21.7       20.1  
    Money Market     4.5       27.2       31.7  
    Time     10.0       15.7       25.7  
    Total Interest-Bearing Deposits     12.9       64.6       77.5  
    Federal Funds Purchased     (0.4 )     (0.4 )     (0.8 )
    Other Short-Term Borrowings     7.7       (0.7 )     7.0  
    Long-Term Borrowings     (6.3 )     (6.2 )     (12.5 )
    Other Interest-Bearing Liabilities     (1.5 )     0.1       (1.4 )
    Total Change in Interest Expense     12.4       57.4       69.8  
    Change in Net Interest Income   $ (14.5 )   $ 1.0     $ (13.5 )

    (1) The change in interest income and expense not solely due to changes in volume or rate has been allocated on a pro-rata basis to the volume and rate columns.

                             
    Loans and Leases                     Table 9
        December 31,    September 30,    December 31, 
    (dollars in thousands)   2024   2024   2023
    Commercial and industrial   $ 2,247,428     $ 2,110,077     $ 2,165,349  
    Commercial real estate     4,463,992       4,265,289       4,340,243  
    Construction     918,326       1,056,249       900,292  
    Residential:                        
    Residential mortgage     4,168,154       4,187,060       4,283,315  
    Home equity line     1,151,739       1,159,823       1,174,588  
    Total residential     5,319,893       5,346,883       5,457,903  
    Consumer     1,023,969       1,030,044       1,109,901  
    Lease financing     434,650       432,828       379,809  
    Total loans and leases   $ 14,408,258     $ 14,241,370     $ 14,353,497  
                             
    Deposits                     Table 10
        December 31,    September 30,    December 31, 
    (dollars in thousands)   2024   2024   2023
    Demand   $ 6,975,148     $ 6,800,028     $ 7,583,562  
    Savings     6,021,364       5,896,029       6,445,084  
    Money Market     4,027,334       4,129,381       3,847,853  
    Time     3,298,370       3,402,264       3,456,158  
    Total Deposits   $ 20,322,216     $ 20,227,702     $ 21,332,657  
                             
    Non-Performing Assets and Accruing Loans and Leases Past Due 90 Days or More                     Table 11
        December 31,    September 30,    December 31, 
    (dollars in thousands)   2024   2024   2023
    Non-Performing Assets                        
    Non-Accrual Loans and Leases                        
    Commercial Loans:                        
    Commercial and industrial   $ 329     $ 934     $ 970  
    Commercial real estate     411       152       2,953  
    Total Commercial Loans     740       1,086       3,923  
    Residential Loans:                        
    Residential mortgage     12,768       9,103       7,620  
    Home equity line     7,171       7,645       7,052  
    Total Residential Loans     19,939       16,748       14,672  
    Total Non-Accrual Loans and Leases     20,679       17,834       18,595  
    Total Non-Performing Assets   $ 20,679     $ 17,834     $ 18,595  
                             
    Accruing Loans and Leases Past Due 90 Days or More                        
    Commercial Loans:                        
    Commercial and industrial   $ 1,432     $ 529     $ 494  
    Commercial real estate           568       300  
    Construction     536              
    Total Commercial Loans     1,968       1,097       794  
    Residential mortgage     1,317       931        
    Consumer     2,734       2,515       2,702  
    Total Accruing Loans and Leases Past Due 90 Days or More   $ 6,019     $ 4,543     $ 3,496  
                             
    Total Loans and Leases   $ 14,408,258     $ 14,241,370     $ 14,353,497  
                                   
    Allowance for Credit Losses and Reserve for Unfunded Commitments   Table 12
        For the Three Months Ended   For the Year Ended
        December 31,    September 30,    December 31,    December 31,    December 31, 
    (dollars in thousands)   2024   2024   2023   2024   2023
    Balance at Beginning of Period   $ 197,397     $ 193,930     $ 192,570     $ 192,138     $ 177,735  
    Loans and Leases Charged-Off                              
    Commercial Loans:                              
    Commercial and industrial     (851 )     (1,178 )     (910 )     (3,615 )     (3,482 )
    Commercial real estate           (400 )     (2,500 )     (400 )     (2,500 )
    Total Commercial Loans     (851 )     (1,578 )     (3,410 )     (4,015 )     (5,982 )
    Residential Loans:                              
    Residential mortgage                             (122 )
    Home equity line                 (20 )           (292 )
    Total Residential Loans                 (20 )           (414 )
    Consumer     (4,774 )     (4,192 )     (4,147 )     (18,002 )     (17,110 )
    Total Loans and Leases Charged-Off     (5,625 )     (5,770 )     (7,577 )     (22,017 )     (23,506 )
    Recoveries on Loans and Leases Previously Charged-Off                              
    Commercial and industrial     298       160       171       919       3,346  
    Residential Loans:                              
    Residential mortgage     30       31       31       119       141  
    Home equity line     32       86       163       274       702  
    Total Residential Loans     62       117       194       393       843  
    Consumer     1,858       1,560       1,450       7,057       7,090  
    Total Recoveries on Loans and Leases Previously Charged-Off     2,218       1,837       1,815       8,369       11,279  
    Net Loans and Leases Charged-Off     (3,407 )     (3,933 )     (5,762 )     (13,648 )     (12,227 )
    (Benefit) Provision for Credit Losses     (750 )     7,400       5,330       14,750       26,630  
    Balance at End of Period   $ 193,240     $ 197,397     $ 192,138     $ 193,240     $ 192,138  
    Components:                              
    Allowance for Credit Losses   $ 160,393     $ 163,700     $ 156,533     $ 160,393     $ 156,533  
    Reserve for Unfunded Commitments     32,847       33,697       35,605       32,847       35,605  
    Total Allowance for Credit Losses and Reserve for Unfunded Commitments   $ 193,240     $ 197,397     $ 192,138     $ 193,240     $ 192,138  
    Average Loans and Leases Outstanding   $ 14,276,107     $ 14,304,806     $ 14,349,322     $ 14,312,759     $ 14,266,291  
    Ratio of Net Loans and Leases Charged-Off to Average Loans and Leases Outstanding(1)     0.09 %     0.11 %     0.16 %     0.10 %     0.09 %
    Ratio of Allowance for Credit Losses for Loans and Leases to Loans and Leases Outstanding     1.11 %     1.15 %     1.09 %     1.11     1.09 %
    Ratio of Allowance for Credit Losses for Loans and Leases to Non-accrual Loans and Leases     7.76x     9.18x     8.42x     7.76x     8.42x

    (1) Annualized for the three months ended December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

                                                           
    Loans and Leases by Year of Origination and Credit Quality Indicator     Table 13
                                                  Revolving      
                                                  Loans      
                                                  Converted      
        Term Loans   Revolving   to Term      
        Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year   Loans   Loans      
                                            Amortized   Amortized      
    (dollars in thousands)   2024   2023   2022   2021   2020   Prior   Cost Basis   Cost Basis   Total
    Commercial Lending                                                      
    Commercial and Industrial                                                      
    Risk rating:                                                      
    Pass   $ 163,980   $ 73,554   $ 185,433   $ 249,532   $ 17,775   $ 256,119   $ 1,118,075   $ 14,336   $ 2,078,804
    Special Mention     808     2,385     1,209     68     300     1,322     41,520         47,612
    Substandard             8,096     196     309     1,114     26,089         35,804
    Other (1)     17,132     8,928     6,937     2,797     765     1,279     47,370         85,208
    Total Commercial and Industrial     181,920     84,867     201,675     252,593     19,149     259,834     1,233,054     14,336     2,247,428
    Current period gross charge-offs         578     335     105     221     2,376             3,615
                                                           
    Commercial Real Estate                                                      
    Risk rating:                                                      
    Pass     322,405     369,948     832,005     634,722     308,156     1,720,243     116,682     7,703     4,311,864
    Special Mention     9,014     2,252     7,510     41,399     3,265     10,860     11,861         86,161
    Substandard             54,952     1,002         9,732     148         65,834
    Other (1)                         133             133
    Total Commercial Real Estate     331,419     372,200     894,467     677,123     311,421     1,740,968     128,691     7,703     4,463,992
    Current period gross charge-offs                         400             400
                                                           
    Construction                                                      
    Risk rating:                                                      
    Pass     91,583     198,382     332,000     186,682     41,596     13,824     14,972         879,039
    Special Mention                         155             155
    Other (1)     12,482     9,688     10,861     1,561     1,199     2,644     697         39,132
    Total Construction     104,065     208,070     342,861     188,243     42,795     16,623     15,669         918,326
    Current period gross charge-offs                                    
                                                           
    Lease Financing                                                      
    Risk rating:                                                      
    Pass     149,615     101,684     60,898     14,328     17,703     84,663             428,891
    Special Mention                 220                     220
    Substandard     4,657     565     317                         5,539
    Total Lease Financing     154,272     102,249     61,215     14,548     17,703     84,663             434,650
    Current period gross charge-offs                                    
                                                           
    Total Commercial Lending   $ 771,676   $ 767,386   $ 1,500,218   $ 1,132,507   $ 391,068   $ 2,102,088   $ 1,377,414   $ 22,039   $ 8,064,396
    Current period gross charge-offs   $   $ 578   $ 335   $ 105   $ 221   $ 2,776   $   $   $ 4,015
                                                           
                                                  Revolving      
                                                  Loans      
                                                  Converted      
        Term Loans   Revolving   to Term      
        Amortized Cost Basis by Origination Year   Loans   Loans      
    (continued)                                       Amortized   Amortized      
    (dollars in thousands)   2024   2023   2022   2021   2020   Prior   Cost Basis   Cost Basis   Total
    Residential Lending                                                      
    Residential Mortgage                                                      
    FICO:                                                      
    740 and greater   $ 168,067   $ 187,710   $ 492,845   $ 946,390   $ 498,443   $ 1,115,557   $   $   $ 3,409,012
    680 – 739     18,368     34,901     65,735     103,622     57,369     138,469             418,464
    620 – 679     1,726     4,380     23,556     19,355     14,058     40,471             103,546
    550 – 619         820     6,526     7,745     4,042     13,783             32,916
    Less than 550         734     775     2,264     1,559     6,342             11,674
    No Score (3)     13,211     6,719     16,839     9,916     5,518     45,604             97,807
    Other (2)     9,456     12,404     16,564     14,311     10,769     28,812     2,419         94,735
    Total Residential Mortgage     210,828     247,668     622,840     1,103,603     591,758     1,389,038     2,419         4,168,154
    Current period gross charge-offs                                    
                                                           
    Home Equity Line                                                      
    FICO:                                                      
    740 and greater                             925,749     1,652     927,401
    680 – 739                             161,523     1,030     162,553
    620 – 679                             39,235     1,220     40,455
    550 – 619                             13,006     416     13,422
    Less than 550                             5,993     563     6,556
    No Score (3)                             1,352         1,352
    Total Home Equity Line                             1,146,858     4,881     1,151,739
    Current period gross charge-offs                                    
                                                           
    Total Residential Lending   $ 210,828   $ 247,668   $ 622,840   $ 1,103,603   $ 591,758   $ 1,389,038   $ 1,149,277   $ 4,881   $ 5,319,893
    Current period gross charge-offs   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $   $
                                                           
    Consumer Lending                                                      
    FICO:                                                      
    740 and greater     92,329     65,738     84,007     44,192     14,607     6,897     101,938     106     409,814
    680 – 739     68,371     46,533     44,504     21,829     7,652     5,278     86,935     509     281,611
    620 – 679     30,618     17,728     19,942     10,252     4,195     4,152     50,544     775     138,206
    550 – 619     6,108     6,768     9,312     5,702     2,574     3,106     15,641     778     49,989
    Less than 550     2,012     3,950     5,572     3,594     1,591     1,830     5,311     593     24,453
    No Score (3)     1,881     106     38         7     9     38,932     176     41,149
    Other (2)             277     887     99     956     76,528         78,747
    Total Consumer Lending   $ 201,319   $ 140,823   $ 163,652   $ 86,456   $ 30,725   $ 22,228   $ 375,829   $ 2,937   $ 1,023,969
    Current period gross charge-offs   $ 732   $ 2,055   $ 2,606   $ 1,388   $ 676   $ 2,685   $ 7,168   $ 692   $ 18,002
                                                           
    Total Loans and Leases   $ 1,183,823   $ 1,155,877   $ 2,286,710   $ 2,322,566   $ 1,013,551   $ 3,513,354   $ 2,902,520   $ 29,857   $ 14,408,258
    Current period gross charge-offs   $ 732   $ 2,633   $ 2,941   $ 1,493   $ 897   $ 5,461   $ 7,168   $ 692   $ 22,017

    (1) Other credit quality indicators used for monitoring purposes are primarily FICO scores. The majority of the loans in this population were originated to borrowers with a prime FICO score (680 and above). As of December 31, 2024, the majority of the loans in this population were current.

    (2) Other credit quality indicators used for monitoring purposes are primarily internal risk ratings. The majority of the loans in this population were graded with a “Pass” rating. As of December 31, 2024, the majority of the loans in this population were current.

    (3) No FICO scores are primarily related to loans and leases extended to non-residents. Loans and leases of this nature are primarily secured by collateral and/or are closely monitored for performance.

                                             
    GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation   Table 14
        For the Three Months Ended     For the Year Ended  
        December 31,      September 30,      December 31,      December 31,   
    (dollars in thousands)   2024     2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Income Statement Data:                                        
    Net income   $ 52,496     $ 61,492     $ 47,502     $ 230,129     $ 234,983  
                                             
    Average total stockholders’ equity   $ 2,629,600     $ 2,588,806     $ 2,374,669     $ 2,557,215     $ 2,346,713  
    Less: average goodwill     995,492       995,492       995,492       995,492       995,492  
    Average tangible stockholders’ equity   $ 1,634,108     $ 1,593,314     $ 1,379,177     $ 1,561,723     $ 1,351,221  
                                             
    Average total assets   $ 23,795,735     $ 24,046,696     $ 24,404,727     $ 23,996,723     $ 24,625,445  
    Less: average goodwill     995,492       995,492       995,492       995,492       995,492  
    Average tangible assets   $ 22,800,243     $ 23,051,204     $ 23,409,235     $ 23,001,231     $ 23,629,953  
                                             
    Return on average total stockholders’ equity(1)     7.94 %     9.45 %     7.94 %     9.00 %     10.01 %
    Return on average tangible stockholders’ equity (non-GAAP)(1)     12.78 %     15.35 %     13.66 %     14.74 %     17.39 %
                                             
    Return on average total assets(1)     0.88 %     1.02 %     0.77 %     0.96 %     0.95 %
    Return on average tangible assets (non-GAAP)(1)     0.92 %     1.06 %     0.81 %     1.00 %     0.99 %
                             
                       
        As of     As of     As of  
        December 31,      September 30,      December 31,   
    (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)   2024     2024     2023  
    Balance Sheet Data:                        
    Total stockholders’ equity   $ 2,617,486     $ 2,648,034     $ 2,486,066  
    Less: goodwill     995,492       995,492       995,492  
    Tangible stockholders’ equity   $ 1,621,994     $ 1,652,542     $ 1,490,574  
                             
    Total assets   $ 23,828,186     $ 23,780,285     $ 24,926,474  
    Less: goodwill     995,492       995,492       995,492  
    Tangible assets   $ 22,832,694     $ 22,784,793     $ 23,930,982  
                             
    Shares outstanding     126,422,898       127,886,167       127,618,761  
                             
    Total stockholders’ equity to total assets     10.98 %     11.14 %     9.97 %
    Tangible stockholders’ equity to tangible assets (non-GAAP)     7.10 %     7.25 %     6.23 %
                             
    Book value per share   $ 20.70     $ 20.71     $ 19.48  
    Tangible book value per share (non-GAAP)   $ 12.83     $ 12.92     $ 11.68  

    (1) Annualized for the three months ended December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: QUAINT OAK BANCORP, INC. ANNOUNCES FOURTH QUARTER AND YEAR-END EARNINGS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Southampton, PA , Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Quaint Oak Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company”) (OTCQB: QNTO), the holding company for Quaint Oak Bank (the “Bank”), announced today net income for the quarter ended December 31, 2024 of $1.6 million, or $0.60 per basic and diluted share, compared to net income of $1.1 million, or $0.49 per basic and diluted share, for the same period in 2023. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $2.8 million, or $1.08 per basic and diluted share, compared to net income of $2.0 million, or $0.90 per basic and $0.89 per diluted share, for the same period in 2023.

    Robert T. Strong, President and Chief Executive Officer stated, “I am pleased to report that our quarterly net income for the period ended December 31, 2024, of $1.6 million was an increase of 38.3% when compared to the income of the same period ended December 31, 2023. I am, additionally, pleased to report that our annual net income for the year ended December 31, 2024, of $2.8 million was an increase of 38.4% when compared to the income for the year ended December 31, 2023.”

    Mr. Strong added, “Our non-interest income continued to improve for both the quarter ended December 31, 2024, and the year-end December 31, 2024, when compared to the same periods ended December 31, 2023. We completed the sale-leaseback of our property in Allentown, Pennsylvania during the fourth quarter of 2024 that resulted in a one-time $1.5 million gain.”

    Mr. Strong continued, “As previously reported, we experienced a continuing minor weakness in the small business sector. Our non-performing loans as a percentage of total loans receivable, net was 1.07% at December 31, 2024. Our non-performing assets as a percentage of total assets at December 31, 2024, was 0.83%. Although not rising to a level of concern but one of continued monitoring, we have, however, increased our allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans receivable to 1.20% at year-end December 31, 2024. We also carry a percentage of 113.61% allowance for credit losses as a percent of non-performing loans.”

    Mr. Strong commented, “As of year-end December 31, 2024, Quaint Oak Bank’s total risk-based capital ratio was 14.34%. In conjunction with earnings and improved liquidity and capital ratios, the Board of Directors, as previously announced, declared a dividend in the amount of $0.13 per share payable February 10, 2025.”

    Mr. Strong concluded, “In closing, I am pleased that our stockholders’ equity from continuing operations improved by over $4.0 million during the year 2024. As always, our current and continued business strategy focuses on long-term profitability and maintaining healthy capital ratios both of which reflect our strong commitment to shareholder value.”

    On March 29, 2024, Quaint Oak Bank sold its 51% interest in Oakmont Capital Holdings, LLC (“OCH”). The decision was based on a number of strategic priorities and other factors. As a result of this action, the Company classified the operations of OCH as discontinued operations under ASC 205-20. The Consolidated Balance Sheets and Consolidated Statements of Income present discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2024 and retrospectively at December 31, 2023 and for prior periods. Included in discontinued operations for the year ended December 31, 2024 was a pretax gain of $1.4 million on the sale of the Company’s 51% interest in OCH.

    Also on March 29, 2024, the Company discontinued the operations of Quaint Oak Real Estate, LLC (“Quaint Oak Real Estate”), a 100% wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank. Quaint Oak Real Estate was engaged in the real estate brokerage business.

    Comparison of Quarter-over-Quarter Operating Results

    Net income amounted to $1.6 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, an increase of $437,000, or 38.3%, compared to net income of $1.1 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023. The increase in net income on a comparative quarterly basis was primarily the result of an increase in non-interest income of $1.8 million, a decrease in interest expense of $756,000, and a decrease in the net provision for income taxes of $166,000, partially offset by a decrease in interest income of $1.0 million, an increase in the provision for credit losses of $619,000, a decrease in net loss from discontinued operations of $488,000, and an increase in non-interest expense of $308,000.

    The $1.0 million, or 9.5%, decrease in interest income was primarily due to a decrease in the average balance of loans receivable, net, which decreased $94.3 million from $702.7 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023 to $608.4 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and had the effect of decreasing interest income $1.4 million. This decrease was partially offset by a 27 basis point increase in the average yield on loans receivable, net from 6.05% for the three months ended December 31, 2023 to 6.32% for the three months ended December 31, 2024, and had the effect of increasing interest income $412,000, and a $9.4 million increase in the average balance of due from banks – interest earning, which increased from $22.1 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023 to $31.5 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, and had the effect of increasing interest income $92,000.

    The $756,000, or 11.4%, decrease in interest expense for the three months ended December 31, 2024 over the comparable period in 2023 was driven by a $310,000, or 96.0%, decrease in the interest on Federal Home Loan Bank long-term borrowings due to a $29.8 million, or 89.5%, decrease in the average balance of Federal Home Loan Bank long-term borrowings which decreased from $33.3 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023 to $3.5 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, combined with a $295,000, or 91.0%, decrease in the interest on Federal Home Loan Bank short-term borrowings due to an $18.1 million, or 88.9%, decrease in the average balance of Federal Home Loan Bank short-term borrowings which decreased from $20.4 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023 to $2.3 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024. Also contributing to the decrease in interest expense for the three months ended December 31, 2024 was a $192,000, or 3.5%, decrease in interest expense on deposits. The average interest rate spread increased from 1.52% for the three months ended December 31, 2023 to 1.88% for the three months ended December 31, 2024 while the net interest margin increased from 2.39% for the three months ended December 31, 2023 to 2.54% for the three months ended December 31, 2024.

    The $619,000, or 204.3%, increase in the provision for credit losses for the three months ended December 31, 2024 over the three months ended December 31, 2023 was due to an increase in charge-offs during the three months ended December 31, 2024, partially offset by a decrease in loans receivable, net.

    The $1.8 million, or 82.6%, increase in non-interest income for the three months ended December 31, 2024 over the comparable period in 2023 was primarily attributable to a $1.5 million gain on the sale and leaseback of the Company’s office building at 1710 Union Boulevard in Allentown, Pennsylvania, a $290,000, or 20.6%, increase in net gain on sale of loans, a $103,000, or 57.5%, increase in mortgage banking, equipment lending, and title abstract fees, an $80,000, or 65.6%, increase in gain on sale of SBA loans, and a $41,000, or 23.2%, increase in insurance commissions. These increases were partially offset by a $184,000, or 86.0%, decrease in other fees and service charges, and a $6,000, or 100.0%, decrease in real estate sales commissions, net.

    The $308,000, or 5.7%, increase in non-interest expense for the three months ended December 31, 2024 over the comparable period in 2023 was primarily due to a $392,000, or 11.4%, increase in salaries and employee benefits expense, a $111,000, or 33.1%, increase in professional fees, a $90,000, or 28.7%, increase in data processing expense, a $47,000 increase in directors’ fees and expenses, and a $25,000, or 33.3%, increase in advertising expense. These increases were partially offset by a $183,000, or 33.5%, decrease in other expense, a $96,000, or 18.5%, decrease in occupancy and equipment expense, and a $78,000, or 39.4%, decrease in FDIC deposit insurance assessment.

    The provision for income tax from continuing operations decreased $166,000, or 24.3%, from $682,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2023 to $516,000 for the three months ended December 31, 2024 due primarily to a decrease in state taxes related to subsidiary activity in additional states.

    Comparison of Year-End Operating Results

    Net income amounted to $2.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, an increase of $775,000, or 38.4%, compared to net income of $2.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase in net income on a comparative year-end basis was primarily the result of an increase in non-interest income of $2.9 million, a decrease in net loss from discontinued operations of $668,000, and a decrease in the net provision for income taxes from continuing operations of $298,000, partially offset by a decrease in interest income of $1.5 million, an increase in the provision for credit losses of $1.4 million, an increase in non-interest expense of $101,000, and an increase in interest expense of $93,000. The decrease in the net loss from discontinued operations was driven by the after-tax gain on the sale of the Company’s 51% interest in OCH.

    The $1.5 million, or 3.3%, decrease in interest income was primarily due to a decrease in the average balance of loans receivable, net, which decreased $116.0 million from $737.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 to $621.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 and had the effect of decreasing interest income $6.9 million. This decrease was partially offset by a 51 basis point increase in the yield on average loans receivable, net, including loans held for sale, which increased from 5.94% for the year ended December 31, 2023 to 6.45% for the year ended December 31, 2024, and had the effect of increasing interest income $3.1 million, a $51.8 million increase in the average balance of due from banks – interest earning, which increased from $10.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 to $61.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, and had the effect of increasing interest income $2.1 million, and a 93 basis point increase in the average yield on due from banks – interest earning which increased from 4.03% for the year ended December 31, 2023 to 4.96% for the year ended December 31, 2024, and had the effect of increasing interest income $577,000.

    The $93,000, or 0.4%, increase in interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2024 over the comparable period in 2023 was driven by a 106 basis point increase in the rate on average certificate of deposit accounts which increased from 3.09% for the year ended December 31, 2023 to 4.15% for the year ended December 31, 2024 and had the effect of increasing interest expense by $2.5 million. Also contributing to the increase in interest expense was an increase in the average balance of business checking accounts which increased from $49.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 to $93.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 and had the effect of increasing interest expense by $2.2 million. The Bank pays interest on business checking accounts received through a correspondent banking relationship. Also impacting the increase in interest expense was a 28 basis point increase in the rate on average money market accounts which increased from 4.16% for the year ended December 31, 2023 to 4.44% for the year ended December 31, 2024 and had the effect of increasing interest expense by $604,000. Partially offsetting the increase in interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2024, was a $71.3 million, or 98.3%, decrease in the average balance of Federal Home Loan Bank short-term borrowings which decreased from $72.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 to $1.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 and had the effect of decreasing interest expense $3.8 million. The average interest rate spread decreased from 1.91% for the year ended December 31, 2023 to 1.84% for the year ended December 31, 2024 while the net interest margin increased from 2.56% for the year ended December 31, 2023 to 2.59% for the year ended December 31, 2024.

    The $1.4 million, or 877.1%, increase in the provision for credit losses for the year ended December 31, 2024 over the year ended December 31, 2023 was due to an increase in the amount of non-performing loans. There were seventeen individually evaluated loans which increased the provision for credit losses by $809,000. Also contributing to the increase in the provision for credit losses was $1.8 million in charge-offs during the year ended December 31, 2024. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in the average balance of loans receivable, net.

    The $2.9 million, or 54.1%, increase in non-interest income for the year ended December 31, 2024 over the comparable period in 2023 was primarily attributable to the $1.5 million gain on sale-leaseback transaction in the fourth quarter of 2024, described above, a $1.1 million, or 41.2%, increase in net gain on sale of loans, a $309,000, or 51.5%, increase in mortgage banking, equipment lending, and title abstract fees, a $102,000, or 20.0%, increase in other fees and services charges, and an $81,000, or 12.2%, increase in insurance commissions. These increases were partially offset by a $119,000 or 50.6%, decrease in net loan servicing income, a $74,000, or 78.7%, decrease in real estate sales commissions, net, and a $15,000, or 3.2%, decrease in gain on sale of SBA loans. The $1.1 million increase in the net gain on sale of loans was due primarily to increased sales volume from Quaint Oak Mortgage, LLC and Oakmont Commercial, LLC.

    The $101,000, or 0.5%, increase in non-interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2024 over the comparable period in 2023 was primarily due to a $786,000, or 5.7%, increase in salaries and employee benefits expense, a $247,000, or 23.5%, increase in data processing expense, and a $19,000, or 6.7%, increase in advertising expense, partially offset by a $253,000, or 29.2%, decrease in FDIC deposit insurance assessment, a $238,000, or 14.4%, decrease in occupancy and equipment expense, a $182,000, or 9.5%, decrease in other expenses, a $163,000, or 17.5%, decrease in professional fees, and a $115,000, or 36.4%, decrease in directors’ fees and expenses. The decrease in directors’ fees and expenses was primarily due to a reduction in director rates for the year ended December 31, 2024.

    The provision for income tax on continuing operations decreased $298,000, or 22.4%, from $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 to $1.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 due primarily to a decrease in taxable income from continuing operations.

    Comparison of Financial Condition

    The Company’s total assets at December 31, 2024 were $685.2 million, a decrease of $69.0 million, or 9.1%, from $754.1 million at December 31, 2023. This decrease in total assets was primarily due to an $84.7 million, or 13.7%, decrease in loans receivable, net of allowance for credit losses. The largest decreases within the loan portfolio occurred in commercial real estate loans which decreased $34.9 million, or 10.5%, commercial business loans which decreased $12.9 million, or 10.1%, construction loans which decreased $17.3 million, or 48.5%, one-to-four family non-owner occupied loans which decreased $6.9 million, or 17.0%, and multi-family residential loans which decreased $1.3 million, or 2.7%. Partially offsetting these decreases were one-to-four family owner occupied loans which increased $2.7 million, or 12.0%. Also contributing to the decrease in assets was a $1.0 million, or 38.8%, decrease in premises and equipment, net. Partially offsetting the decrease in total assets was a $29.5 million, or 80.9%, increase in loans held for sale, a $5.0 million, or 8.6%, increase in cash and cash equivalents, a $740,000, or 50.2%, increase in investment in Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost, a $459,000, or 13.1%, increase in accrued interest receivable, and a $118,000, or 2.7%, increase in bank-owned life insurance. The decrease in loans receivable, net was due to the transfer of $59.5 million of loans held for investment into loans held for sale.

    Loans held for sale increased $29.5 million, or 80.9%, from $36.4 million at December 31, 2023 to $65.9 million at December 31, 2024 as the Bank originated $51.6 million in equipment loans held for sale and sold $71.6 million of equipment loans during the year ended December 31, 2024. Partially offsetting this increase was $8.5 million of loan amortization and prepayments. On March 29, 2024, the Bank transferred $4.4 million of equipment loans held for sale into loans receivable as part of the discontinued operations of OCH. Additionally, the Bank’s mortgage banking subsidiary, Quaint Oak Mortgage, LLC, originated $134.3 million of one-to-four family residential loans during the year ended December 31, 2024 and sold $131.4 million of loans in the secondary market during this same period. In the fourth quarter of 2024, management identified $49.2 million of commercial real estate loans and $10.3 million of SBA loans within the loan portfolio and transferred them to loans held for sale at amortized cost.

    Total deposits decreased $78.4 million, or 12.4%, to $553.3 million at December 31, 2024 from $631.7 million at December 31, 2023. This decrease in deposits was primarily attributable to a decrease of $57.4 million, or 55.0%, in interest bearing checking accounts, a decrease of $56.2 million, or 25.7%, in money market accounts, a decrease of $31.6 million, or 34.2%, in non-interest bearing checking accounts, and a $349,000, or 41.5%, decrease in savings accounts. These decreases in deposits were partially offset by an increase of $67.0 million, or 31.1%, in certificates of deposit. The total decrease in interest bearing checking accounts was due to reduced correspondent banking activity.

    Total Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) borrowings increased $18.8 million, or 64.9%, to $47.9 million at December 31, 2024 from $29.0 million at December 31, 2023. During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company borrowed $110.0 million of FHLB short-term borrowings, paid down $65.0 million of FHLB short-term borrowings, and paid down $26.2 million of FHLB long-term borrowings.

    Total stockholders’ equity from continuing operations increased $4.1 million, or 8.5%, to $52.6 million at December 31, 2024 from $48.5 million at December 31, 2023. Contributing to the increase was net income for the year ended December 31, 2024 of $2.8 million, shares of common stock issued of $2.4 million, amortization of stock awards and options under our stock compensation plans of $242,000, the reissuance of treasury stock under the Bank’s 401(k) Plan of $118,000, and other comprehensive income, net of $10,000. The increase in stockholders’ equity was partially offset by dividends paid of $1.3 million, and $150,000 of purchases of treasury stock. In addition, there was a $3.1 million, or 100.0%, decrease in noncontrolling interest from discontinued operations. The $2.4 million of shares issued were due to two private placement offerings to two investors.

    Non-performing loans at December 31, 2024 totaled $5.7 million, or 1.07%, of total loans receivable, net of allowance for credit losses, consisting of $3.9 million of loans on non-accrual status and $1.8 million of loans 90-days or more delinquent. Non-accrual loans consist of one commercial real estate loan, and ten commercial business loans. Included in the ten commercial business loans is one pool of equipment loans. Loans 90-days or more past due include one one-to-four family residential owner occupied loan and two commercial real estate loans, all of which are still accruing. All non-performing loans are either well-collateralized or adequately reserved for. During the year ended December 31, 2024, 19 commercial business loans totaling $1.6 million, and one construction loan of $187,000, that were previously on non-accrual were charged-off through the allowance for credit losses. The allowance for credit losses as a percentage of total loans receivable was 1.20% at December 31, 2024 and 1.11% at December 31, 2023. Non-performing loans at December 31, 2023 consisted of one SBA loan on non-accrual status in the amount of $51,000 and one one-to-four family owner occupied loan that was 90 days or more past due but still accruing in the amount of $401,000. During the year ended December 31, 2023, two commercial business loans, one SBA loan, one multi-family residential loan, and two equipment loans totaling $272,000 that were previously on non-accrual were charged-off through the allowance for credit losses. In addition, there was one commercial business loan in the amount of $652,000 that was partially charged off by $603,000.

    Quaint Oak Bancorp, Inc., a Financial Services Company, is the parent company for the Quaint Oak Family of Companies. Quaint Oak Bank, a Pennsylvania-chartered stock savings bank and wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, is headquartered in Southampton, Pennsylvania and conducts business through three regional offices located in the Delaware Valley, Lehigh Valley and Philadelphia markets. Quaint Oak Bank’s subsidiary companies include Quaint Oak Abstract, LLC, Quaint Oak Insurance Agency, LLC, Quaint Oak Mortgage, LLC, and Oakmont Commercial, LLC, a specialty commercial real estate financing company. All companies are multi-state operations.

    Statements contained in this news release which are not historical facts may be forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors. Factors which could result in material variations include, but are not limited to, changes in interest rates which could affect net interest margins and net interest income, competitive factors which could affect net interest income and noninterest income, changes in demand for loans, deposits and other financial services in the Company’s market area; changes in asset quality, general economic conditions as well as other factors discussed in documents filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that occur after the date on which such statements were made.

    In addition to factors previously disclosed in the reports filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission and those identified elsewhere in this press release, the following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements or historical performance: the strength of the United States economy in general and the strength of the local economies in which the Company conducts its operations; general economic conditions; legislative and regulatory changes; monetary and fiscal policies of the federal government; changes in tax policies, rates and regulations of federal, state and local tax authorities including the effects of the Tax Reform Act; changes in interest rates, deposit flows, the cost of funds, demand for loan products and the demand for financial services, competition, changes in the quality or composition of the Companys loan, investment and mortgage-backed securities portfolios; geographic concentration of the Companys business; fluctuations in real estate values; the adequacy of loan loss reserves; the risk that goodwill and intangibles recorded in the Companys financial statements will become impaired; changes in accounting principles, policies or guidelines and other economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors affecting the Companys operations, markets, products, services and fees.

    QUAINT OAK BANCORP, INC.
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (In Thousands)
        At December 31,     At December 31,  
        2024     2023  
        (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)  
    Assets                
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 62,989     $ 58,006  
    Investment in interest-earning time deposits     912       1,912  
    Investment securities available for sale at fair value     1,666       2,341  
    Loans held for sale     65,939       36,448  
      Loans receivable, net of allowance for credit losses (2024: $6,476; 2023: $6,758)     533,035       617,701  
    Accrued interest receivable     3,961       3,502  
    Investment in Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost     2,214       1,474  
    Bank-owned life insurance     4,447       4,329  
    Premises and equipment, net     1,626       2,656  
    Goodwill     515       515  
    Other intangible, net of accumulated amortization     77       125  
    Prepaid expenses and other assets     7,787       5,134  
    Assets from discontinued operations           19,975  
    Total Assets   $ 685,168     $ 754,118  
                     
    Liabilities and StockholdersEquity                
    Liabilities                
    Deposits                
    Non-interest bearing   $ 59,783     $ 92,215  
    Interest-bearing     493,469       539,484  
    Total deposits     553,252       631,699  
    Federal Home Loan Bank short-term borrowings     45,000        
    Federal Home Loan Bank long-term borrowings     2,855       29,022  
    Subordinated debt     22,000       21,957  
    Accrued interest payable     937       541  
    Advances from borrowers for taxes and insurance     3,122       3,730  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities     5,385       2,438  
    Liabilities from discontinued operations           13,166  
    Total Liabilities     632,551       702,553  
    Total Quaint Oak Bancorp, Inc. StockholdersEquity     52,617       48,491  
    Noncontrolling Interest from Discontinued Operations           3,074  
    Total StockholdersEquity     52,617       51,565  
    Total Liabilities and StockholdersEquity   $ 685,168     $ 754,118  
        At December 31,  
        2023  
        (Unaudited)  
    Assets from Discontinued Operations        
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 4,121  
    Loans held for sale     9,580  
    Premises and equipment, net     277  
    Goodwill     2,058  
    Prepaid expenses and other assets     3,939  
    Total Assets from Discontinued Operations   $ 19,975  
             
    Liabilities and StockholdersEquity from Discontinued Operations        
    Liabilities from Discontinued Operations        
    Other short-term borrowings   $ 5,549  
    Accrued interest payable     565  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities     7,052  
    Total Liabilities from Discontinued Operations     13,166  
    Total StockholdersEquity from Discontinued Operations     6,809  
    Total Liabilities and StockholdersEquity from Discontinued Operations   $ 19,975  

    QUAINT OAK BANCORP, INC.
    Consolidated Statements of Income
    (In Thousands, except share data)

        For the Three Months Ended     For the Year Ended  
        December 31,     December 31,  
        2024     2023     2024     2023  
        (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)  
    Interest and Dividend Income                                
    Interest on loans, including fees   $ 9,613     $ 10,629     $ 40,058     $ 43,812  
    Interest and dividends on time deposits, investment securities, interest-bearing deposits with others, and Federal Home Loan Bank stock     333       359       3,379       1,109  
    Total Interest and Dividend Income     9,946       10,988       43,437       44,921  
    Interest Expense                                
    Interest on deposits     5,346       5,538       23,141       18,811  
    Interest on Federal Home Loan Bank short-term borrowings     29       324       61       3,907  
    Interest on Federal Home Loan Bank long-term borrowings     13       323       484       1,326  
    Interest on Federal Reserve Bank short-term borrowings           4             34  
    Interest on subordinated debt     473       428       1,934       1,449  
    Total Interest Expense     5,861       6,617       25,620       25,527  
    Net Interest Income     4,085       4,371       17,817       19,394  
    Provision for (Recovery of) Credit LossesLoans     279       (324 )     1,506       (45 )
    Provision for Credit LossesUnfunded Commitments     37       21       28       202  
    Total Provision for (Recovery of) Credit Losses     316       (303 )     1,534       157  
    Net Interest Income after Provision for (Recovery from) Credit Losses     3,769       4,674       16,283       19,237  
                                     
    Non-Interest Income                                
    Mortgage banking, equipment lending and title abstract fees     282       179       909       600  
    Real estate sales commissions, net           6       20       94  
    Insurance commissions     218       177       744       663  
    Other fees and services charges     30       214       612       510  
    Net loan servicing income     111       88       116       235  
    Income from bank-owned life insurance     31       27       118       102  
    Net gain on sale of loans     1,701       1,411       3,699       2,620  
    Gain on sale of SBA loans     202       122       453       468  
    Gain on sale-leaseback transaction     1,485             1,485        
    Total Non-Interest Income     4,060       2,224       8,156       5,292  
                                     
    Non-Interest Expense                                
    Salaries and employee benefits     3,818       3,426       14,636       13,850  
    Directors’ fees and expenses     48       1       201       316  
    Occupancy and equipment     422       518       1,418       1,656  
    Data processing     404       314       1,298       1,051  
    Professional fees     446       335       769       932  
    FDIC deposit insurance assessment     120       198       614       867  
    Advertising     100       75       302       283  
    Amortization of other intangible     12       12       48       48  
    Other     364       547       1,732       1,914  
    Total Non-Interest Expense     5,734       5,426       21,018       20,917  
    Income from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes   $ 2,095     $ 1,472     $ 3,421     $ 3,612  
    Income Taxes     516       682       1,032       1,330  
    Net Income from Continuing Operations   $ 1,579     $ 790     $ 2,389     $ 2,282  
    Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations           488       564       (364 )
    Income Tax (Benefit)           136       158       (102 )
    Net Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations   $     $ 352     $ 406     $ (262 )
    Net Income   $ 1,579     $ 1,142     $ 2,795     $ 2,020  
        Three Months Ended
    December 31,
        Year Ended
    December 31,
     
        2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Per Common Share Data:   (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)  
    Earnings per share from continuing operations – basic   $ 0.60     $ 0.34     $ 0.93     $ 1.02  
    Earnings per share from discontinued operations – basic   $     $ 0.15     $ 0.16     $ (0.12 )
    Earnings per share, net – basic   $ 0.60     $ 0.49     $ 1.08     $ 0.90  
    Average shares outstanding – basic     2,631,851       2,352,133       2,578,804       2,254,444  
    Earnings per share from continuing operations – diluted   $ 0.60     $ 0.34     $ 0.93     $ 1.00  
    Earnings per share from discontinued operations – diluted   $     $ 0.15     $ 0.16     $ (0.11 )
    Earnings per share, net – diluted   $ 0.60     $ 0.49     $ 1.08     $ 0.89  
    Average shares outstanding – diluted     2,631,851       2,352,133       2,578,804       2,275,034  
    Book value per share, end of period   $ 20.03     $ 20.15     $ 20.03     $ 20.15  
    Shares outstanding, end of period     2,626,535       2,407,048       2,626,535       2,407,048  
        Three Months Ended
    December 31,
        Year Ended
    December 31,
     
        2024     2023     2024     2023  
    Selected Operating Ratios:   (Unaudited)     (Unaudited)  
    Average yield on interest-earning assets     6.19 %     6.01 %     6.32 %     5.93 %
    Average rate on interest-bearing liabilities     4.30 %     4.48 %     4.48 %     4.02 %
    Average interest rate spread     1.88 %     1.52 %     1.84 %     1.91 %
    Net interest margin     2.54 %     2.39 %     2.59 %     2.56 %
    Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities     118.00 %     123.90 %     120.08 %     119.37 %
    Efficiency ratio     70.40 %     82.28 %     80.93 %     84.73 %
                                     
    Asset Quality Ratios (1):                                
    Non-performing loans as a percent of total loans receivable, net     1.07 %     0.07 %     1.07 %     0.07 %
    Non-performing assets as a percent of total assets     0.83 %     0.06 %     0.83 %     0.06 %
    Allowance for credit losses as a percent of non-performing loans     113.61 %   n/m       113.61 %   n/m  
    Allowance for credit losses as a percent of total loans receivable     1.20 %     1.11 %     1.20 %     1.11 %
    Texas Ratio (2)     8.77 %     0.80 %     8.77 %     0.80 %

    (1) Asset quality ratios are end of period ratios.
    (2) Total non-performing assets divided by tangible common equity plus the allowance for credit losses.
    n/m – not meaningful

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/DR CONGO – Without electricity and water: Catholic parish in Goma welcomes 2000 displaced people

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Kinshasa (Agenzia Fides) – “The greatest danger for the population of Goma is the so-called ‘Wazalendo’ militiamen,” local church observers told Fides about the situation in the capital of the Congolese province of North Kivu, which has fallen into the hands of the M23 rebel movement supported by the Rwandan army.The so-called “Wazalendo” are members of pro-government militias who are fighting alongside the regular army against the advance of the M23. While most of the regular soldiers surrendered after the capture of Goma or turned themselves over to the MONUSCO Blue Helmets, the “Wazalendo” militiamen went into hiding.”The Wazalendo are breaking into the homes of ordinary people in search of food, which is a problem for everyone given the shortage of supplies. If they do not find anything to loot, they threaten to take their children away. And it is easy to imagine what they can do to women and girls,” the observers report. “M23 members and Rwandans are trying to restore order. At the moment, there are reports of occasional shootings near the airport.””The humanitarian situation in Goma remains difficult because there is no electricity and no water pumped and filtered from Lake Kivu. Without electricity, the pumps and sewage treatment plants do not work. The most difficult conditions are for the displaced people (an estimated one million internally displaced people live in Goma). In the parish of Saint Francis Xavier in Ndosho, a suburb on the outskirts of the city, around 2,000 displaced people live without water and in precarious conditions; in addition, there are around 1,600 people housed in the nearby school,” the observers report. Meanwhile, the rebels are slowly advancing towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. “The M23 units are 115 km from the city, but are advancing slowly as they still suffer heavy losses,” the sources said. “In recent days, ambulances have been travelling between Goma and Rwanda to bring the remains of the soldiers who fell on the streets of the city to their families and to ensure a dignified burial, as otherwise they would have ended up in mass graves that are currently being dug.In addition, it is slowly getting hot in Goma and this is another reason why it is urgent to bury the bodies lying on the streets.” “In Bukavu, the situation remains calm for the moment after the withdrawal of foreign aid workers (see Fides, 30/1/2025), but people live in uncertainty,” the observers concluded. Meanwhile, Burundian soldiers have also been sent by the government in Bujumbura to support the Congolese forces. On the political level, yesterday, January 30, Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance, held a press conference in Goma, where he reiterated his will to march to Kinshasa to overthrow President Félix Tshisekedi. The British Embassy in Kinshasa, meanwhile, issued a communiqué in English and French condemning the occupation of Goma by the M23 rebel movement and the Rwandan army, and threatening a possible cessation of UK support to Rwanda if hostilities do not cease. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 31/1/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI: Pacific Financial Corp Earns $2.2 Million, or $0.21 per Diluted Share for Fourth Quarter 2024; Reports Fiscal 2024 Earnings of $9.5 Million, or $0.92 per Diluted Share; Declares Quarterly Cash Dividend of $0.14 per Share

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ABERDEEN, Wash., Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pacific Financial Corporation (OTCQX: PFLC), (“Pacific Financial”) or the (“Company”), the holding company for Bank of the Pacific (the “Bank”), reported net income of $2.2 million, or $0.21 per diluted share for the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $2.6 million, or $0.25 per diluted share for the third quarter of 2024, and $2.9 million, or $0.28 per diluted share for the fourth quarter of 2023. For the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company reported net income of $9.5 million, or $0.92 per share compared to $14.6 million, or $1.40 for the year ended December 31, 2023. Except for year-end December 31, 2023, all results are unaudited.

    The board of directors of Pacific Financial declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.14 per share on January 22, 2025. The dividend will be payable on February 28, 2025 to shareholders of record on February 14, 2025.

    “During the quarter we finalized the closure of our mortgage banking division recording termination costs of $773,000 impacting our fourth quarter 2024 operating results. Excluding those expenses adjusted net income was $2.8 million for the fourth quarter, an increase from the prior quarter. As we begin 2025, we expect the benefit of this closure to translate to improved efficiency of our operations moving forward,” said Denise Portmann, President and Chief Executive Officer.

    “Though the loan portfolio increased at a slower rate during the quarter, we continue to have healthy customer activity as pipelines began to improve with the decrease in index rates experienced early in the quarter. In addition, earnings for the year benefited from solid year over year growth in average loan balances. Our history of a strong net interest margin continued to be supported by solid relationships with our depositors with a strong core deposit base. Core deposits represented 87% of total deposits at year end,” said Portmann. “In addition, our overall credit quality metrics remained strong with nonperforming assets remaining low at $1.1 million or 0.09% of total assets and with a net recovery to the ACL for the quarter. Our capital base and ratios continue to be robust and exceed regulatory well-capitalized ratios. This robust capital base allowed for the continued repurchase of shares during the year. With our strong capital ratios and strong balance sheet, we believe we remain well-positioned for the future.”

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Financial Highlights:

    • Return on average assets (“ROAA”) was 0.74%, compared to 0.90% for the third quarter 2024, and 1.02% for the fourth quarter 2023.
    • Return on average equity (“ROAE”) was 7.27%, compared to 8.77% from the preceding quarter, and 10.88% from the fourth quarter a year earlier.
    • Net interest income was $10.9 million, compared to $11.2 million for the third quarter of 2024, and $11.7 million for the fourth quarter of 2023.
    • Net interest margin (“NIM”) decreased to 3.99%, compared to 4.19% from the preceding quarter, and 4.34% for the fourth quarter a year ago.
    • Provision for credit losses was a benefit of $103,000 for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2024, compared to a benefit of $66,000 for the preceding quarter and a provision of $111,000 in the fourth quarter a year ago.
    • Gross loans balances held in portfolio increased by $5.3 million, or less than 1% to $704.9 million at December 31, 2024, compared to $699.6 million at September 30, 2024, and increased by $19.5 million, or 3%, from $685.3 million at December 31, 2023.
    • Total deposits remained at $1.01 billion at December 31, 2024 relative to the previous quarter and one year earlier. Core deposits represented 87% of total deposits, with non-interest bearing deposits representing 38% of total deposits at December 31, 2024.
    • Asset quality remains solid with nonperforming assets to total assets declining to 0.09%, compared to 0.10% three months earlier, and increasing from 0.06% at December 31, 2023. Substandard loans decreased $911,000 to $2.7 million at December 31, 2024 from $3.6 million the prior quarter.
    • Shareholder equity decreased $7.2 million during the quarter largely due to accumulated other comprehensive income marks on the investment portfolio, stock repurchases and dividend payments offset by net income. Tangible book value per share was $9.93 at December 31, 2024.
    • Pacific Financial and Bank of the Pacific continues to exceed regulatory well-capitalized requirements. At December 31, 2024 Pacific Financial’s estimated leverage ratio was 11.3% and its estimated total risk-based capital ratio was 17.5%.

    Balance Sheet Review

    Total assets decreased slightly to $1.15 billion at December 31, 2024, compared to $1.16 billion at September 30, 2024, and was unchanged relative to December 31, 2023.

    Liquidity metrics continued to remain strong with total liquidity, both on and off balance sheet sources, at $550.6 million as of December 31, 2024. The Bank has established collateralized credit lines with borrowing capacity from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB) and from the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, as well as $60.0 million in unsecured borrowing lines from various correspondent banks. There was no balance outstanding on any of these facilities at quarter-end. The Company’s available liquidity sources at December 31, 2024 represented a coverage of short-term funds available to uninsured and uncollateralized deposits of 217%. Uninsured or uncollateralized deposits were 25% of total deposits at December 31, 2024.

    The following table summarizes the Bank’s available liquidity:

    LIQUIDITY (unaudited) Period Ended   Change from   % of Deposits  
    ($ in 000s)      
                                             
        Dec 31,   Sep 30,   Dec 31,     Sep 30, 2024   Dec 31, 2023   Dec 31, Sep 30, Dec 31,  
        2024   2024   2023     $ %   $ %   2024 2024 2023  
    Short-term Funding                                        
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 67,951 $ 85,430 $ 95,781   $ (17,479 ) -20% $ (27,830 ) -29%   7% 8% 9%  
    Unencumbered AFS Securities   158,472   154,565   140,049     3,907   3%   18,423   13%   16% 15% 14%  
    Secured lines of Credit (FHLB, FRB)   324,187   336,771   327,264     (12,584 ) -4%   (3,077 ) -1%   32% 33% 32%  
    Short-term Funding $ 550,610 $ 576,766 $ 563,094   $ (26,156 ) -5% $ (12,484 ) -2%   55% 57% 56%  
                                             

    Investment securities: The investment securities portfolio increased 3% to $304.5 million, compared to $296.8 million at September 30, 2024 and increased 4% compared to the like period a year ago. The increase from the prior quarter was primarily due to the purchase of $19.8 million of collateralized mortgage obligations and mortgage backed securities. These purchases were partially offset by an increase in net unrealized losses on available for sale investments which increased $7.6 million to $22.4 million ($17.5 million after-tax) at December 31, 2024, which represents 7% of the AFS portfolio.

    U.S. Treasury bonds and securities issued by the U.S. Government sponsored agencies accounted for 86%, 85%, and 85%, of the investment portfolio as of December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023. The largest investment category is collateralized mortgage obligations which accounted for 48% of the investment portfolio at December 31, 2024, compared to 43% one year earlier. The average adjusted duration to reset of the investment securities portfolio was 4.19 years at December 31, 2024.

    Gross loans balances increased $5.3 million, or 1%, to $704.9 million at December 31, 2024, compared to $699.6 million at September 30, 2024. During the fourth quarter, new multi-family loans more than offset the decline in construction and development loans and the decline in residential 1-4 family loans.

    Year-over-year loan growth was 3%, or $19.5 million, with the largest increases in residential 1-4 family and multi-family loans increasing $7.2 million and $18.0 million, respectively. Loans classified as commercial real estate for regulatory concentration purposes totaled $267.9 million at December 31, 2024, or 192% of total risk-based capital.

    The Company continues to manage concentration limits that establish maximum exposure levels by certain industry segments, loan product types, geography and single borrower limits. In addition, the loan portfolio continues to be well-diversified and is collateralized with assets predominantly within the Company’s Western Washington and Oregon markets.

    Credit quality: Nonperforming assets were minimal and remained at $1.1 million, or 0.09% of total assets at December 31, 2024, compared to $664,000, or 0.06% at December 31, 2023. The Company has zero other real estate owned as of December 31, 2024 and accruing loans past due more than 30 days represent only 0.14% of total loans. Total loans designated as special mention increased by $6.0 million to $10.8 million at December 31, 2024 compared to $4.8 million at September 30, 2024 and was primarily related to a downgrade of one agriculture credit relationship of $4.2 million.

    Allowance for credit losses (“ACL”) for loans was $8.9 million, or 1.26% of gross loans at December 31, 2024, compared to $8.9 million or 1.27% of loans at September 30, 2024 and $8.5 million or 1.24% at December 31, 2023. A benefit for credit losses on loans of $119,000 was recorded in the current quarter. This compares to a provision for credit losses on loans of $27,000 in the third quarter of 2024 and a provision for credit losses on loans of $162,000 for the fourth quarter of 2023. The benefit for credit losses in the current quarter largely reflects net loan recoveries of $73,000 realized during the quarter, compared to a net recovery of $11,000 for the preceding quarter and $21,000 for the fourth quarter one year ago. Provisions for unfunded loans was $16,000 for the fourth quarter compared to a benefit of $93,000 the previous quarter and a benefit of $51,000 one year earlier.

    Total deposits remained at $1.01 billion at December 31, 2024 compared to the prior quarter and one year earlier. Deposit composition between non-maturity deposits and time deposit CDs also remained relatively unchanged for the quarter. Within non-maturity deposits, non-interest bearing demand deposits decreased which was more than offset by the growth in interest bearing demand deposits and reflects the Bank’s continued focused efforts on retaining core customer relationships. Pacific Financial continues to benefit from a strong core deposit base which positively impacts our net interest margin. Non-interest bearing deposits continues to remain the largest concentration of deposits and represented 38% of deposits at December 31, 2024 and September 30, 2024. Interest-bearing demand and money market deposits both represent 19% of total deposits at December 31, 2024.

    Year-over-year the deposit composition changed slightly, primarily as a result of customers transferring balances to higher yielding accounts, and as a result, time deposits increased to $135.5 million, or 13% of total deposits at December 31, 2024 compared to $100.8 million or 10% of total deposits at December 31, 2023.

    Shareholders’ equity was $113.9 million at December 31, 2024, compared to $121.1 million at September 30, 2024, and $114.7 million at December 31, 2023. The decrease in shareholders’ equity during the current quarter was due to repurchases of common stock, dividend payments and an increase in unrealized losses on available-for-sale securities due to increases in interest rates. Net unrealized losses (after-tax) included in shareholders’ equity on available-for-sale securities was $17.5 million at December 31, 2024 compared to $11.5 million at September 30, 2024, and $16.1 million at December 31, 2023.

    Book value per common share was $11.26 at December 31, 2024, compared to $11.78 at September 30, 2024, and $11.04 at December 31, 2023. The Company’s tangible common equity ratio was 8.8% at December 31, 2024 and 9.4% at September 30, 2024, compared to 8.9% at December 31, 2023. Regulatory capital ratios of both the Company and the Bank continue to exceed the well-capitalized regulatory thresholds, with the Company’s leverage ratio at 11.3% and total risk-based capital ratio at 17.5% as of December 31, 2024. These regulatory capital ratios are estimates, pending completion and filing of regulatory reports.

    In anticipation of the expiration of the stock repurchase plan authorized in 2023, in September 2024, the Board of Directors authorized an additional $2.6 million toward future repurchases; approximately 2.0% of total shares outstanding.

    Income Statement Review

    Net interest income decreased $353,000 to $10.9 million for the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to $11.2 million for the third quarter of 2024, and decreased $801,000 compared to $11.7 million for the fourth quarter a year ago. The change in the current quarter compared to the preceding quarter reflects lower overall loan and interest bearing cash yields. Though yields for newly originated loans and other variable rate loans plus purchased investments were recorded at higher yields, the downward repricing of floating rate loans and interest-earning cash tied to short term rate indexes as well as decreased balances of interest earning cash and increasing deposit costs impacted total net interest income.

    The decrease in net interest income compared to the year ago quarter reflects the increase in funding costs, with interest income remaining relatively flat, reflecting lower interest earning deposit balances offset by increased loan interest income as the Bank re-deployed interest earning deposit balances into higher yielding assets including both loans and investments.

    Though decreasing from 4.19% for the preceding quarter and 4.34% for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2023, the Bank’s net interest margin continued to remain strong at 3.99% for the quarter ended December 31, 2024. Yields on total interest earning assets decreased 19 basis points to 5.10% for the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to 5.29% for the prior quarter and 5.14% in the like quarter a year ago. Average loan yields decreased 15 basis points to 5.84% during the current quarter, compared to 5.99% for the preceding quarter and 5.80% for the fourth quarter 2023. The Bank’s total cost of funds increased only 2 basis points to 1.17% for the current quarter, compared to 1.15% for the preceding quarter, and 0.83% for the fourth quarter 2023. The small increase in the costs of deposits was due to retention efforts and competitive pricing of deposit products. As mentioned earlier, the large balance of non-interest bearing deposits at 38% has helped minimize volatility in deposit costs.

    Noninterest income increased to $1.8 million for the current quarter, compared to $1.7 million for the linked quarter and increased from $1.5 million a year earlier. The increase compared to the linked quarter was primarily due to $60,000 of death benefit income from a bank-owned life insurance policy. Fee and service charge income increased slightly in the fourth quarter of 2024 to $1.3 million compared to $1.2 million in the previous quarter and the fourth quarter of 2023.

    The company closed its mortgage banking division in the fourth quarter. The elimination of the mortgage banking division is expected to improve the efficiency of the company in 2025.

    Noninterest expenses increased to $10.1 million for the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to $9.7 million for the prior quarter and increased from $9.5 million for the fourth quarter of 2023. The current quarter reflects increased expenses associated with closing the mortgage division. Salaries and employee benefit expenses were elevated in the current quarter due to severance and retention payments while occupancy expenses were also elevated due to lease contract termination costs associated with our mortgage operations center. In addition, data processing and IT costs increased related to the termination of mortgage origination software contracts. Overall, expenses associated with closing the mortgage division were approximately $773,000. Excluding the mortgage division termination costs, total non-interest expenses would have been $9.3 million for the current quarter.

    The company’s efficiency ratio increased to 79.80% for the fourth quarter of 2024, compared to 75.48% in the preceding quarter and increased from 72.22% in the same quarter a year ago. The efficiency ratio is expected to decline in 2025 with the elimination of expenses associated with the closed mortgage division.

    Income tax expense: Federal and Oregon state income tax expenses totaled $492,000 for the current quarter, and $633,000 for the preceding quarter, resulting in effective tax rates of 18.5% and 19.6%, respectively. These income tax expenses reflect the benefits of tax exempt income on tax-exempt loans and investments, affordable housing tax credit financing, and investments in bank-owned life insurance.

    FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (unaudited) Quarter Ended   Change From   Twelve Months Ended   Change   
           
    (In 000s, except per share data)                                                  
        Dec 31,   Sep 30,   Dec 31,     Sep 30, 2024   Dec 31, 2023   Dec 31,   Dec 31,            
        2024   2024   2023     $ %   $ %   2024   2023     $ %  
    Earnings Ratios & Data                                                  
    Net Income $ 2,162 $ 2,594 $ 2,942   $ (432 ) -17% $ (780 ) -27% $ 9,532 $ 14,605   $ (5,073 ) -35%  
    Return on average assets   0.74%   0.90%   1.02%     -0.16%       -0.28%       0.84%   1.22%     -0.38%      
    Return on average equity   7.27%   8.77%   10.88%     -1.50%       -3.61%       8.20%   13.48%     -5.28%      
    Efficiency ratio(1)   79.80%   75.48%   72.22%     4.32%       7.58%       76.69%   66.56%     10.13%      
    Net-interest margin %(2)   3.99%   4.19%   4.34%     -0.20%       -0.35%       4.18%   4.39%     -0.21%      
                                                       
    Share Ratios & Data                                                  
    Basic earnings per share $ 0.21 $ 0.25 $ 0.28   $ (0.04 ) -16% $ (0.07 ) -25% $ 0.93 $ 1.40   $ (0.47 )    
    Diluted earning per share $ 0.21 $ 0.25 $ 0.28   $ (0.04 ) -16% $ (0.07 ) -25% $ 0.92 $ 1.40   $ (0.48 )    
    Book value per share(3) $ 11.26 $ 11.78 $ 11.04   $ (0.52 ) -4% $ 0.22   2%                    
    Tangible book value per share(4) $ 9.93 $ 10.47 $ 9.75   $ (0.54 ) -5% $ 0.18   2%                    
    Common shares outstanding   10,110   10,283   10,389     (173 ) -2%   (279 ) -3%                    
    PFLC stock price $ 12.45 $ 11.65 $ 10.70   $ 0.80   7% $ 1.75   16%                    
    Dividends paid per share $ 0.14 $ 0.14 $ 0.14   $   0% $   0% $ 0.56 $ 0.53   $ 0.03   6%  
                                                       
    Balance Sheet Data                                                  
    Assets $ 1,153,563 $ 1,158,410 $ 1,148,899   $ (4,847 ) 0% $ 4,664   0%                    
    Portfolio Loans $ 704,865 $ 699,603 $ 685,349   $ 5,262   1% $ 19,516   3%                    
    Deposits $ 1,014,731 $ 1,011,473 $ 1,009,292   $ 3,258   0% $ 5,439   1%                    
    Investments $ 304,502 $ 296,792 $ 293,579   $ 7,710   3% $ 10,923   4%                    
    Shareholders equity $ 113,856 $ 121,087 $ 114,691   $ (7,231 ) -6% $ (835 ) -1%                    
                                                       
    Liquidity Ratios                                                  
    Short-term funding to uninsured                                                  
    and uncollateralized deposits   217%   229%   243%     -12%       -26%                        
    Uninsured and uncollateralized                                                  
    deposits to total deposits   25%   25%   23%     0%       2%                        
    Portfolio loans to deposits ratio   69%   69%   67%     0%       2%                        
                                                       
    Asset Quality Ratios                                                  
    Non-performing assets to assets   0.09%   0.10%   0.06%     -0.01%       0.03%                        
    Non-accrual loans to portfolio loans   0.16%   0.16%   0.10%     0.00%       0.06%                        
    Loan losses to avg portfolio loans   -0.04%   -0.01%   -0.01%     -0.03%       -0.03%       0.00%   0.03%     -0.03%      
    ACL to portfolio loans   1.26%   1.27%   1.24%     -0.01%       0.02%                        
                                                       
    Capital Ratios (PFC)                                                  
    Total risk-based capital ratio   17.5%   17.9%   17.7%     -0.4%       -0.2%                        
    Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio   16.3%   16.7%   16.5%     -0.4%       -0.2%                        
    Common equity tier 1 ratio   14.7%   15.0%   14.9%     -0.3%       -0.2%                        
    Leverage ratio   11.3%   11.6%   11.3%     -0.3%       0.0%                        
    Tangible common equity ratio   8.8%   9.4%   8.9%     -0.6%       -0.1%                        
                                                       
    (1) Non-interest expense divided by net interest income plus noninterest income.
    (2) Tax-exempt income has been adjusted to a tax equivalent basis at a rate of 21%.
    (3) Book value per share is calculated as the total common shareholders’ equity divided by the period ending number of common stock shares outstanding.
    (4) Tangible book value per share is calculated as the total common shareholders’ equity less total intangible assets and liabilities, divided by the period ending number of common stock shares outstanding.
     
    INCOME STATEMENT (unaudited) Quarter Ended   Change From   Twelve Months Ended   Change  
           
    ($ in 000s)                                                      
        Dec 31,   Sep 30,   Dec 31,     Sep 30, 2024   Dec 31, 2023   Dec 31,   Dec 31,            
        2024   2024   2023     $ %   $ %   2024   2023     $ %  
    Interest Income                                                      
    Loan interest & fee income $ 10,340   $ 10,520   $ 9,872   $ (180 ) -2% $ 468   5% $ 41,192 $ 37,037   $ 4,155   11%  
    Interest bearing cash income   942     1,108     1,440     (166 ) -15%   (498 ) -35%   3,833   9,109     (5,276 ) -58%  
    Investment income   2,590     2,503     2,501     87   3%   89   4%   9,978   9,334     644   7%  
    Interest Income   13,872     14,131     13,813     (259 ) -2%   59   0%   55,003   55,480     (477 ) -1%  
                                                           
    Interest Expense                                                      
    Deposits interest expense   2,796     2,684     1,914     112   4%   882   46%   9,829   5,351     4,478   84%  
    Other borrowings interest expense   225     243     247     (18 ) -7%   (22 ) -9%   951   929     22   2%  
    Interest Expense   3,021     2,927     2,161     94   3%   860   40%   10,780   6,280     4,500   72%  
    Net Interest Income   10,851     11,204     11,652     (353 ) -3%   (801 ) -7%   44,223   49,200     (4,977 ) -10%  
    Provision (benefit) for credit losses   (103 )   (66 )   111     (37   56%   (214 ) -193%   168   520     (352 ) -68%  
    Net Interest Income after provision   10,954     11,270     11,541     (316 ) -3%   (587 ) -5%   44,055   48,680     (4,625 ) -10%  
                                                           
    Non-Interest Income                                                      
    Fees and service charges   1,267     1,225     1,242     42   3%   25   2%   4,791   4,937     (146 ) -3%  
    Gain on sale of investments, net                 -100%     -100%   121   (154 )   275   -179%  
    Gain on sale of loans, net   267     267     95       0%   172   181%   1,132   635     497   78%  
    Income on bank-owned insurance   250     188     176     62   33%   74   42%   800   685     115   17%  
    Other non-interest income   (9 )   7     16     (16 ) -229%   (25 ) -156%   25   69     (44 ) -64%  
    Non-Interest Income   1,775     1,687     1,529     88   5%   246   16%   6,869   6,172     697   11%  
                                                           
    Non-Interest Expense                                                      
    Salaries and employee benefits   6,288     6,341     5,787     (53 ) -1%   501   9%   24,944   22,793     2,151   9%  
    Occupancy   768     601     679     167   28%   89   13%   2,574   2,215     359   16%  
    Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment   289     286     301     3   1%   (12 ) -4%   1,127   1,109     18   2%  
    Marketing & donations   149     201     169     (52 ) -26%   (20 ) -12%   680   549     131   24%  
    Professional services   267     233     342     34   15%   (75 ) -22%   1,163   1,283     (120 ) -9%  
    Data Processing & IT   1,380     1,185     1,223     195   16%   157   13%   4,921   4,713     208   4%  
    Other   934     883     1,019     51   6%   (85 ) -8%   3,775   4,194     (419 ) -10%  
    Non-Interest Expense   10,075     9,730     9,520     345   4%   555   6%   39,184   36,856     2,328   6%  
    Income before income taxes   2,654     3,227     3,550     (573 ) -18%   (896 ) -25%   11,740   17,996     (6,256 ) -35%  
    Provision for income taxes   492     633     608     (141 ) -22%   (116 ) -19%   2,208   3,391     (1,183 ) -35%  
    Net Income $ 2,162   $ 2,594   $ 2,942   $ (432 ) -17%   (780 ) -27% $ 9,532 $ 14,605   $ (5,073 ) -35%  
                                                           
    Effective tax rate   18.5%     19.6%     17.1%     -1.1%       1.4%       18.8%   18.8%     0.0%      
     
    BALANCE SHEET (unaudited) Period Ended   Change from   % of Total  
    ($ in 000s)      
                                                   
        Dec 31,    Sep 30,    Dec 31,      Sep 30, 2024 Dec 31, 2023   Dec 31, Sep 30, Dec 31,  
        2024    2024    2023      $ %   $ %   2024 2024 2023  
    Assets                                              
    Cash on hand and in banks $ 18,136   $ 20,621   $ 16,716     $ (2,485 ) -12% $ 1,420   8%   2% 2% 1%  
    Interest bearing deposits   62,015     80,522     91,355       (18,507 ) -23%   (29,340 ) -32%   6% 7% 8%  
    Investment securities   304,502     296,792     293,579       7,710   3%   10,923   4%   26% 26% 26%  
    Loans held-for-sale       140     1,103       (140 ) -100%   (1,103 ) -100%   0% 0% 0%  
    Portfolio Loans, net of deferred fees   704,248     698,974     684,554       5,274   1%   19,694   3%   61% 60% 60%  
    Allowance for credit losses   (8,851 )   (8,897 )   (8,530 )     46   -1%   (321 ) 4%   -1% -1% -1%  
    Net loans   695,397     690,077     676,024       5,320   1%   19,373   3%   60% 60% 59%  
    Premises & equipment   16,952     17,124     15,579       (172 ) -1%   1,373   9%   1% 1% 1%  
    Goodwill & Other Intangibles   13,435     13,435     13,435         0%     0%   1% 1% 1%  
    Bank-owned life Insurance   28,333     28,084     27,497       249   1%   836   3%   2% 2% 2%  
    Other assets   14,793     11,615     13,611       3,178   27%   1,182   9%   2% 2% 2%  
    Total Assets $ 1,153,563   $ 1,158,410   $ 1,148,899     $ (4,847 ) 0% $ 4,664   0%   100% 100% 100%  
                                                   
    Liabilities & Shareholders’ Equity                                              
    Deposits $ 1,014,731   $ 1,011,473   $ 1,009,292     $ 3,258   0% $ 5,439   1%   88% 88% 88%  
    Borrowings   13,403   $ 13,403   $ 13,403         0%     0%   1% 1% 1%  
    Other liabilities   11,573   $ 12,447   $ 11,513       (874 -7%   60   1%   1% 1% 1%  
    Shareholders’ equity   113,856   $ 121,087   $ 114,691       (7,231 ) -6%   (835 ) -1%   10% 10% 10%  
    Liabilities & Shareholders’ Equity $ 1,153,563   $ 1,158,410   $ 1,148,899     $ (4,847 ) 0% $ 4,664   0%   100% 100% 100%  
                                                   
    INVESTMENT COMPOSITION & CONCENTRATIONS (unaudited) Period Ended   Change from   % of Total  
         
    ($ in 000s)                                              
        Dec 31,   Sep 30,   Dec 31,     Sep 30, 2024 Dec 31, 2023   Dec 31, Sep 30, Dec 31,  
        2024   2024   2023     $ %   $ %   2024 2024 2023  
    Investment Securities                                              
    Collateralized mortgage obligations $ 147,262   $ 141,842   $ 126,949     $ 5,420   4% $ 20,313   16%   48% 48% 43%  
    Mortgage backed securities   46,112     41,264     38,103       4,848   12%   8,009   21%   15% 14% 13%  
    U.S. Government and agency securities   67,716     68,961     83,748       (1,245 ) -2%   (16,032 ) -19%   22% 23% 29%  
    Municipal securities   43,412     44,725     44,779       (1,313 ) -3%   (1,367 ) -3%   15% 15% 15%  
    Investment Securities $ 304,502   $ 296,792   $ 293,579     $ 7,710   3% $ 10,923 ) 4%   100% 100% 100%  
                                                   
    Held to maturity securities $ 41,442   $ 42,301   $ 55,454     $ (859 ) -2% $ (14,012 ) -25%   14% 14% 19%  
    Available for sale securities $ 263,060   $ 254,491   $ 238,125     $ 8,569   3% $ 24,935   10%   86% 86% 81%  
                                                   
    Government & Agency securities $ 261,063   $ 252,039   $ 248,768     $ 9,024   4% $ 12,295   5%   86% 85% 85%  
    AAA, AA, A rated securities $ 42,773   $ 44,084   $ 43,687     $ (1,311 ) -3% $ (914 ) -2%   14% 15% 15%  
    Non-rated securities $ 666   $ 669   $ 1,124     $ (3 ) 0% $ (458 ) -41%   0% 0% 0%  
                                                   
    AFS Unrealized Gain (Loss) $ (22,437 ) $ (14,804 ) $ (20,808 )   $ (7,633 ) 52% $ (1,629 ) 8%   -7% -5% -7%  
     
    PORTFOLIO LOAN COMPOSITION & CONCENTRATIONS (unaudited) Period Ended   Change from   % of Total  
         
    ($ in 000s)                                              
        Dec 31,   Sep 30,   Dec 31,     Sep 30, 2024 Dec 31, 2023   Dec 31, Sep 30, Dec 31,  
        2024   2024   2023     $ %   $ %   2024 2024 2023  
    Portfolio Loans                                              
    Commercial & agriculture $ 75,240   $ 73,002   $ 75,444     $ 2,238   3% $ (204 ) 0%   10% 10% 11%  
    Real estate:                                              
    Construction and development   42,725     46,569     48,720       (3,844 ) -8%   (5,995 ) -12%   6% 7% 7%  
    Residential 1-4 family   103,489     105,298     96,301       (1,809 ) -2%   7,188   7%   15% 15% 14%  
    Multi-family   68,978     60,773     51,025       8,205   14%   17,953   35%   10% 9% 7%  
    CRE — owner occupied   165,120     167,086     164,443       (1,966 ) -1%   677   0%   23% 24% 24%  
    CRE — non owner occupied   159,582     157,347     155,280       2,235   1%   4,302   3%   23% 22% 23%  
    Farmland   26,864     26,553     27,273       311   1%   (409 ) -1%   4% 4% 4%  
    Consumer   62,867     62,975     66,863       (108 ) 0%   (3,996 ) -6%   9% 9% 10%  
    Portfolio Loans   704,865     699,603     685,349       5,262   1%   19,516   3%   100% 100% 100%  
    Less: ACL   (8,851 )   (8,897 )   (8,530 )                            
    Less: deferred fees   (617 )   (629 )   (795 )                            
    Net loans $ 695,397   $ 690,077   $ 676,024                              
                                                   
    Regulatory Commercial Real Estate $ 267,857   $ 261,292   $ 252,493     $ 6,565   3% $ 15,364   6%   38% 37% 37%  
    Total Risk Based Capital(1) $ 139,458   $ 140,971   $ 138,449     $ (1,513 ) -1% $ 1,009   1%          
    CRE to Risk Based Capital(1)   192%     185%     182%           7%       10%          
     
    CRE–MULTI-FAMILY & NON OWNER OCCUPIED COMPOSITION (unaudited) Period Ended   Change from   % of Total  
         
    ($ in 000s)                                        
        Dec 31,   Sep 30,   Dec 31,     Sep 30, 2024 Dec 31, 2023   Dec 31, Sep 30, Dec 31,  
        2024   2024   2023     $ %   $ %   2024 2024 2023  
    Collateral Composition(2)                                        
    Multifamily $ 73,575 $ 63,099 $ 59,557   $ 10,476   17% $ 14,018   24%   30% 27% 27%  
    Retail   36,813   37,685   29,470     (872 ) -2%   7,343   25%   15% 16% 13%  
    Hospitality   31,369   30,844   31,657     525   2%   (288 ) -1%   13% 13% 14%  
    Mini Storage   25,028   25,758   21,625     (730 ) -3%   3,403   16%   10% 11% 10%  
    Office   23,921   22,921   23,626     1,000   4%   295   1%   10% 10% 11%  
    Mixed Use   22,662   22,708   26,329     (46 ) 0%   (3,667 ) -14%   9% 10% 12%  
    Industrial   14,723   13,912   11,410     811   6%   3,313   29%   6% 6% 5%  
    Warehouse   7,531   7,582   6,169     (51 ) -1%   1,362   22%   3% 3% 3%  
    Special Purpose   6,921   6,968   7,102     (47 ) -1%   (181 ) -3%   3% 3% 3%  
    Other   3,155   3,174   3,326     (19 ) -1%   (171 ) -5%   1% 1% 2%  
    Total $ 245,698 $ 234,651 $ 220,271   $ 11,047   5% $ 25,427   12%   100% 100% 100%  
                                             
    (1) Bank of the Pacific                                        
    (2) Includes loans in process of construction                                        
     
    CREDIT QUALITY (unaudited) Period Ended   Change from  
       
    ($ in 000s)   Dec 31,   Sep 30,   Dec 31,     Sep 30, 2024 Dec 31, 2023  
        2024   2024   2023     $ %   $ %  
    Risk Rating Distribution                                
    Pass $ 691,350 $ 691,199 $ 674,992   $ 151   0% $ 16,358   2%  
    Special Mention   10,811   4,789   4,669     6,022   126%   6,142   132%  
    Substandard   2,704   3,615   5,688     (911 ) -25%   (2,984 ) -52%  
    Portfolio Loans $ 704,865 $ 699,603 $ 685,349   $ 5,262   1% $ 19,516   3%  
                                     
    Nonperforming Assets                                
    Nonaccruing loans   1,094   1,138   664   $ (44 ) -4%   430   65%  
    Other real estate owned             0%     0%  
    Nonperforming Assets $ 1,094 $ 1,138 $ 664   $ (44 ) -4%   430   65%  
                                     
    Credit Metrics                                
    Classified loansto portfolio loans   0.38%   0.52%   0.83%     -0.14%       -0.45%      
    ACL to classified loans1   327.33%   246.11%   149.96%     81.22%       177.37%      
    Loans past due 30+ days to portfolio loans2   0.14%   0.03%   0.08%     0.11%       0.06%      
    Nonperforming assets to total assets   0.09%   0.10%   0.06%     -0.01%       0.03%      
    Nonaccruing loans to portfolio loans   0.16%   0.16%   0.10%     0.00%       0.06%      
                                     
    (1) Classified loans include loans rated substandard or worse and are defined as loans having a well-defined weakness or weaknesses related to the borrower’s financial capacity or to pledged collateral that may jeopardize the repayment of the debt. They are characterized by the possibility that the Bank may sustain some loss if the deficiencies giving rise to the substandard classification are not corrected.
    (2) Excludes non-accrual loans
                                     
    DEPOSIT COMPOSITION & CONCENTRATIONS (unaudited) Period Ended   Change from   % of Total  
         
    ($ in 000s)                                        
        Dec 31,   Sep 30,   Dec 31,     Sep 30, 2024 Dec 31, 2023   Dec 31, Sep 30, Dec 31,  
        2024   2024   2023     $ %   $ %   2024 2024 2023  
    Deposits                                        
    Interest-bearing demand $ 194,526 $ 183,337 $ 183,436   $ 11,189   6% $ 11,090   6%   19% 18% 18%  
    Money market   193,324   192,185   179,344     1,139   1%   13,980   8%   19% 19% 18%  
    Savings   115,520   117,131   136,408     (1,611 ) -1%   (20,888 ) -15%   11% 12% 13%  
    Time deposits (CDs)   135,485   133,995   100,832     1,490   1%   34,653   34%   13% 13% 10%  
    Total interest-bearing deposits   638,855   626,648   600,020     12,207   2%   38,835   6%   62% 62% 59%  
    Non-interest bearing demand   375,876   384,825   409,272     (8,949 ) -2%   (33,396 ) -8%   38% 38% 41%  
    Total deposits $ 1,014,731 $ 1,011,473 $ 1,009,292   $ 3,258   0% $ 5,439   1%   100% 100% 100%  
                                             
    Insured Deposits $ 629,600 $ 636,725 $ 647,330   $ (7,125 ) -1% $ (393,526 ) -61%   62% 63% 64%  
    Collateralized Deposits   131,327   122,448   129,895     8,879   7%   1,432   1%   13% 12% 13%  
    Uninsured Deposits   253,804   252,300   232,067     1,504   1%   397,533   171%   25% 25% 23%  
    Total Deposits $ 1,014,731 $ 1,011,473 $ 1,009,292   $ 3,258   0% $ 5,439   1%   100% 100% 100%  
                                             
    Consumer Deposits $ 466,826 $ 458,097 $ 470,425   $ 8,729   2% $ (3,599 ) -1%   46% 45% 46%  
    Business Deposits   406,308   420,845   398,977     (14,537 ) -3%   7,331   2%   40% 42% 40%  
    Public Deposits   141,597   132,531   139,890     9,066   7%   1,707   1%   14% 13% 14%  
    Total Deposits $ 1,014,731 $ 1,011,473 $ 1,009,292   $ 3,258   0% $ 5,439   1%   100% 100% 100%  
                                             
    NET INTEREST MARGIN (unaudited) Quarter Ended   Change From   Twelve Months Ended   Change   
           
    ($ in 000s)                                                  
        Dec 31,   Sep 30,   Dec 31,     Sep 30, 2024   Dec 31, 2023   Dec 31,   Dec 31,            
        2024   2024   2023     $   %   $   %   2024   2023     $ %  
                                                       
    Average Interest Bearing Balances                                                  
    Portfolio loans $ 703,811 $ 697,904 $ 675,622   $ 5,907   1% $ 28,189   4% $ 697,527 $ 659,165   $ 38,362   6%  
    Loans held for sale $ 1,033 $ 1,276 $ 709   $ (243 ) -19% $ 324   46% $ 1,125 $ 628   $ 497   79%  
    Investment securities $ 302,501 $ 285,947 $ 289,245   $ 16,554   6% $ 13,256   5% $ 291,133 $ 286,473   $ 4,660   2%  
    Interest-bearing cash $ 78,296 $ 81,755 $ 105,177   $ (3,459 ) -4% $ (26,881 ) -26% $ 72,893 $ 180,781   $ (107,888 ) -60%  
    Total interest-earning assets $ 1,085,641 $ 1,066,882 $ 1,070,753   $ 18,759   2% $ 14,888   1% $ 1,062,678 $ 1,127,047   $ (64,369 ) -6%  
    Non-interest bearing deposits $ 388,227 $ 383,332 $ 419,994   $ 4,895   1% $ (31,767 ) -8% $ 388,561 $ 448,234   $ (59,673 ) -13%  
    Interest-bearing deposits $ 628,475 $ 615,388 $ 593,464   $ 13,087   2% $ 35,011   6% $ 607,678 $ 620,026   $ (12,348 ) -2%  
    Total Deposits $ 1,016,702 $ 998,720 $ 1,013,458   $ 17,982   2% $ 3,244   0% $ 996,239 $ 1,068,260   $ (72,021 ) -7%  
    Borrowings $ 13,403 $ 13,403 $ 13,403   $   0% $   0% $ 13,403 $ 13,401   $ 2   0%  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities $ 641,878 $ 628,791 $ 606,867   $ 13,087   2% $ 35,011   6% $ 621,081 $ 633,427   $ (12,346 ) -2%  
                                                       
    Yield / Cost $(1)                                                  
    Portfolio loans $ 10,336 $ 10,509 $ 9,879   $ (173 ) -2% $ 457   5% $ 41,169 $ 37,088   $ 4,081   11%  
    Loans held for sale $ 16 $ 22 $ 12   $ (6 ) -27% $ 4   33% $ 71 $ 39   $ 32   82%  
    Investment securities $ 2,622 $ 2,535 $ 2,536   $ 87   3% $ 86   3% $ 10,107 $ 9,489   $ 618   7%  
    Interest-bearing cash $ 942 $ 1,108 $ 1,440   $ (166 ) -15% $ (498 ) -35% $ 3,833 $ 9,109   $ (5,276 ) -58%  
    Total interest-earning assets $ 13,916 $ 14,174 $ 13,867   $ (258 ) -2% $ 49   0% $ 55,180 $ 55,725   $ (545 ) -1%  
    Interest-bearing deposits $ 2,796 $ 2,684 $ 1,914   $ 112   4% $ 882   46% $ 9,829 $ 5,351   $ 4,478   84%  
    Borrowings $ 225 $ 243 $ 247   $ (18 ) -7% $ (22 ) -9% $ 951 $ 929   $ 22   2%  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities $ 3,021 $ 2,927 $ 2,161   $ 94   3% $ 860   40% $ 10,780 $ 6,280   $ 4,500   72%  
    Net interest income $ 10,895 $ 11,247 $ 11,706   $ (352 ) -3% $ (811 ) -7% $ 44,400 $ 49,445   $ (5,045 ) -10%  
                                                       
    Yield / Cost %(1)                                                  
    Yield on portfolio loans   5.84%   5.99%   5.80%     -0.15%       0.04%       5.90%   5.63%     0.27%      
    Yield on investment securities   3.45%   3.53%   3.48%     -0.08%       -0.03%       3.47%   3.31%     0.16%      
    Yield on interest-bearing cash   4.79%   5.39%   5.44%     -0.60%       -0.65%       5.26%   5.04%     0.22%      
    Cost of interest-bearing deposits   1.77%   1.74%   1.28%     0.03%       0.49%       1.62%   0.86%     0.76%      
    Cost of borrowings   6.68%   7.21%   7.31%     -0.53%       -0.63%       7.10%   6.93%     0.17%      
    Cost of deposits and borrowings   1.17%   1.15%   0.83%     0.02%       0.34%       1.07%   0.58%     0.49%      
                                                       
    Yield on interest-earning assets   5.10%   5.29%   5.14%     -0.19%       -0.04%       5.19%   4.94%     0.25%      
    Cost of interest-bearing liabilities   1.87%   1.85%   1.41%     0.02%       0.46%       1.74%   0.99%     0.75%      
    Net interest spread   3.23%   3.44%   3.73%     -0.21%       -0.50%       3.45%   3.95%     -0.50%      
    Net interest margin   3.99%   4.19%   4.34%     -0.20%       -0.35%       4.18%   4.39%     -0.21%      
                                                       
    (1) Tax-exempt income has been adjusted to a tax equivalent basis at a rate of 21%.
                                                       
    ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES (ACL) (unaudited) Quarter Ended   Change From   Twelve Months Ended   Change   
           
    ($ in 000s)                                                            
        Dec 31,   Sep 30,   Dec 31,     Sep 30, 2024   Dec 31, 2023   Dec 31,   Dec 31,            
        2024   2024   2023     $ %   $ %   2024   2023     $ %  
    Allowance for Credit Losses                                                            
    Beginning of period balance $ 8,897   $ 8,859   $ 8,347     $ 38   0% $ 550   7% $ 8,530   $ 8,236     $ 294   4%  
    Impact of CECL Adoption (ASC 326)                   -100%     -100%       (157 )     157   -100%  
    Charge-offs   (32 )   (5 )   (20 )     (27 ) 540%   (12 ) 60%   (129 )   (279 )     150   -54%  
    Recoveries   105     16     41       89   556%   64   156%   124     96       28   29%  
    Net (charge-off) recovery   73     11     21       62   564%   52   248%   (5 )   (183 )     178   -97%  
    Provision (benefit)   (119 )   27     162       (146 ) -541%   (281 ) -173%   326     634       (308 ) -49%  
    End of period balance $ 8,851   $ 8,897   $ 8,530     $ (46 ) -1% $ 321   4% $ 8,851   $ 8,530     $ 321   4%  
                                                                 
    Net charge-off (recovery) to                                                            
    average portfolio loans   -0.04%     -0.01%     -0.01%       -0.03%       -0.03%       0.00%     0.03%       -0.03%      
    ACL to portfolio loans   1.26%     1.27%     1.24%       -0.01%       0.02%       1.26%     1.24%       0.02%      
                                                                 
    Allowance for unfunded loans                                                            
    Beginning of period balance $ 524   $ 617   $ 749     $ (93 ) -15% $ (225 ) -30% $ 698   $ 203     $ 495   244%  
    Impact of CECL Adoption (ASC 326)                   -100%     -100%       609       (609 ) -100%  
    Provision (benefit)   16     (93 )   (51 )     109   -117%   67   -131%   (158 )   (114 )     (44 ) 39%  
    End of period balance $ 540   $ 524   $ 698     $ 16   3% $ (158 ) -23% $ 540   $ 698     $ (158 ) -23%  
                                                                 

    ABOUT PACIFIC FINANCIAL CORPORATION

    Pacific Financial Corporation of Aberdeen, Washington, is the bank holding company for Bank of the Pacific, a state chartered and federally insured commercial bank. Bank of the Pacific offers banking products and services to small-to-medium sized businesses and professionals in western Washington and Oregon. At December 31, 2024, the Company had total assets of $1.15 billion and operated fifteen branches in the communities of Grays Harbor, Pacific, Thurston, Whatcom, Skagit, Clark and Wahkiakum counties in the State of Washington, and three branches in the communities of Clatsop and Clackamas counties in Oregon. The Company also operated loan production offices in the communities of Burlington, Washington and Salem, Oregon. Visit the Company’s website at www.bankofthepacific.com. Member FDIC.

    Cautions Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other laws, including all statements in this release that are not historical facts or that relate to future plans or events or projected results of Pacific Financial Corporation and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Bank of the Pacific. Such statements are based on information available at the time of communication and are based on current beliefs and expectations of the Company’s management and are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected, anticipated or implied, and could negatively impact the Company’s operating and stock price performance. These risks and uncertainties include various risks associated with growing the Bank and expanding the services it provides, development of new business lines and markets, competition in the marketplace, general economic conditions, changes in interest rates, extensive and evolving regulation of the banking industry, and many other risks. Any forward-looking statements in this communication are based on information at the time the statement is made. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement. Readers of this release are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Helport AI Opens Office in the Philippines

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New ‘Global Center of Excellence’ to Drive Artificial Intelligence Operations and Service Offerings in the Business Process Outsourcing Industry

    SINGAPORE and SAN DIEGO, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Helport AI Limited (NASDAQ: HPAI) (“Helport AI”), an AI technology company serving enterprise clients with intelligent customer communication software, services, and solutions, today announced the grand opening of its new office in the Philippines. Located at the IBM Plaza in Eastwood City, Quezon City, this facility is expected to establish Helport AI’s Global Center of Excellence for AI operations and training.

    The new office represents Helport AI’s commitment to fostering innovation in the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry and supporting the growing demand for advanced AI solutions in Southeast Asia. The office will serve as a hub for Helport AI’s research and development efforts.

    A Strategic Step for Helport AI

    Guanghai Li, CEO of Helport AI, highlighted the significance of this milestone during the opening ceremony. “Our decision to establish a presence in the Philippines underscores the immense potential of this region,” said Li. “The Philippines is home to a thriving BPO sector and a highly skilled workforce. We believe this office will play a pivotal role in advancing our AI-driven solutions, helping our clients achieve greater efficiency, enhancing customer satisfaction, and anticipating potential industry disruption.”

    The Philippines office will focus on refining Helport AI’s flagship product, an intelligent co-pilot software for call center agents. This technology provides real-time guidance to agents, optimizing customer interactions while reducing onboarding time and training costs. As an integral part of Helport AI’s portfolio, this tool has already proven its scalability, with clients reporting improved agent performance and operational efficiency.

    A Celebration of Innovation and Collaboration

    The grand opening event featured a series of keynotes and discussions, including a presentation on “The Future of AI in BPO” and a live demonstration of Helport AI’s software. The program concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a networking session attended by industry leaders, government officials, and alliance partners.

    Over fifty guests, including representatives from local BPO companies, investors, industry associations, and members of the news media, attended the gathering. They expressed interest in Helport AI’s solutions and demonstrated a desire for future collaboration, signaling the potential for partnerships in the region.

    Looking Ahead

    This new office marks another chapter in Helport AI’s journey toward redefining the future of AI in the BPO sector. With robust in-house AI training capabilities and a growing global footprint, Helport AI aspires to empower businesses, transform customer interactions, and drive sustainable growth.

    About Helport AI

    Helport AI (NASDAQ: HPAI) is an AI technology company dedicated to optimizing customer communication through its digital platform and intelligent software solutions. Offering enterprise level customer contact services, Helport AI’s mission is to empower everyone to work as an expert. Learn more at www.helport.ai.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, Helport AI’s business plan and outlook. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on Helport AI’s current expectations and projections about future events that Helport AI believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “approximates,” “believes,” “hopes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may” or other similar expressions. Helport AI undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although Helport AI believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and Helport AI cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in Helport AI’s registration statement and other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Helport AI Investor Relations:
    Website: https://ir.helport.ai/
    Email: ir@helport.ai

    External Investor Relations Contact:
    Chris Tyson 
    Executive Vice President
    MZ North America
    Direct: 949-491-8235
    HPAI@mzgroup.us
    www.mzgroup.us

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9fdedad8-fef3-4e3b-8b9e-40960895c3a5

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Orrstown Financial Services, Inc. Reports Fourth Quarter 2024 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • Net income of $13.7 million, or $0.71 per diluted share, for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to net loss of $7.9 million, or $0.41 per diluted share, for the three months ended September 30, 2024; the fourth quarter of 2024 included $3.9 million in expenses related to the merger and $0.5 million for a legal settlement compared to $17.0 million in expenses related to the merger, $15.5 million of provision for credit losses on non-purchase credit deteriorated loans and $4.8 million for an executive retirement, net of taxes, for the third quarter of 2024;
    • Excluding the impact of the non-recurring charges referenced above, net income and diluted earnings per share, respectively, were $16.7 million(1) and $0.87(1) for the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to adjusted net income and diluted earnings per share of $21.4 million(1) and $1.11(1), respectively;
    • The Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.26 per common share, payable February 21, 2025, to shareholders of record as of February 14, 2025; this represents an increase in the Company’s quarterly cash dividend of $0.03 per share, or 13%;
    • The previously announced cost save target of 18% has been achieved for the go-forward operating run rate as of December 31, 2024;
    • With the core conversion being completed in November 2024, the fourth quarter results reflected several ongoing activities associated with the conversion and the transitional period; the fourth quarter also included elevated salaries and employee benefit expenses due to year end performance-based incentive accruals;
    • Net interest margin, on a tax equivalent basis, was 4.05% in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to 4.14% in the third quarter of 2024; the net accretion impact of purchase accounting marks was $7.2 million of net interest income, which represents 52 basis points of net interest margin for the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to $5.8 million of net interest income, which represents 42 basis points of net interest margin, for the third quarter of 2024;
    • Commercial loans declined by $59.5 million, or 2%, from September 30, 2024 to December 31, 2024 due primarily to strategic actions to reduce risk in the portfolio, including reducing commercial real estate (“CRE”) loan concentrations; a pool of mostly commercial and industrial loans totaling $6.0 million was sold, including $2.6 million of nonaccrual loans; total classified loans declined by $16.9 million during the fourth quarter of 2024;
    • Noninterest income decreased by $1.2 million to $11.2 million in the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to $12.4 million in the three months ended September 30, 2024; this reduction was driven by certain courtesy fee waivers provided to clients as well as tax credits recognized in the third quarter of 2024 that did not recur in the fourth quarter;
    • The provision for credit losses was $1.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, inclusive of a charge-off of $2.4 million for one commercial and industrial (C&I) relationship and charge-offs associated with the loan sale of $0.6 million, which was offset by the acceleration of a purchase mark for the same amount;
    • Tangible book value per common share(1) increased to $21.19 per share at December 31, 2024 compared to $21.12 per share at September 30, 2024.

    (1) Non-GAAP measure. See Appendix A for additional information.

    HARRISBURG, Pa., Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orrstown Financial Services, Inc. (NASDAQ: ORRF), the parent company of Orrstown Bank (the “Bank”), announced earnings for the three months ended December 31, 2024. Net income totaled $13.7 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to net loss of $7.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and net income of $7.6 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023. Diluted earnings per share was $0.71 for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to diluted loss per share of $0.41 for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and diluted earnings per share of $0.73 for the three months ended December 31, 2023. For the fourth quarter of 2024, excluding the impact of merger-related expenses and other non-recurring charges, net of taxes, net income and diluted earnings per share were $16.7 million(1) and $0.87(1), respectively. For the third quarter of 2024, excluding the impact of the merger-related expenses, net of taxes, net income and diluted earnings per share were $21.4 million(1) and $1.11(1), respectively. For the fourth quarter of 2023, excluding the impact from the merger-related expenses, net income and diluted earnings per share were $8.6 million(1) and $0.83(1), respectively.

    “While we are pleased with another year of strong core earnings, we are even more excited about what lies ahead,” said Thomas R. Quinn, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer. “We successfully completed our core conversion in November and have achieved the targeted 18% cost savings in our future operating run rate of the two banks’ combined noninterest expense base. With the integration behind us, we look forward to returning our focus to growing the company, enhancing shareholder value and building the premier community banking franchise in our Pennsylvania and Maryland markets.”

    (1) Non-GAAP measure. See Appendix A for additional information.

    DISCUSSION OF RESULTS

    Balance Sheet

    Loans

    Loans held for investment was $3.9 billion at December 31, 2024, a decrease of $50.2 million, compared to $4.0 billion at September 30, 2024. The decrease from the third quarter of 2024 was primarily due to strategic actions to reduce risk in the portfolio, including reducing CRE loan concentrations.

    Investment Securities

    Investment securities, all of which are classified as available-for-sale, increased by $2.9 million to $829.7 million at December 31, 2024 from $826.8 million at September 30, 2024. During the fourth quarter of 2024, investment securities totaling $37.7 million were purchased, partially offset by paydowns of $18.1 million and net unrealized losses of $16.2 million. The overall duration of the Company’s investment securities portfolio was 4.1 years at December 31, 2024 compared to 4.6 years at September 30, 2024. See Appendix B for a summary of the Bank’s investment securities at December 31, 2024, highlighting their concentrations, credit ratings and credit enhancement levels.

    Deposits

    During the fourth quarter of 2024, deposits decreased by $35.1 million to $4.6 billion at December 31, 2024 compared to $4.7 billion at September 30, 2024 due to normal seasonal activity. The Bank’s loan-to-deposit ratio decreased slightly to 85% at December 31, 2024 from 86% at September 30, 2024.

    Borrowings

    The Bank actively manages its liquidity position through its various sources of funding to meet the needs of its clients. FHLB advances and other borrowings remained at $115.4 million at December 31, 2024 and September 30, 2024. The Bank seeks to maintain sufficient liquidity to ensure client needs can be addressed in a timely basis. The Bank had available alternative funding sources, such as FHLB advances and other wholesale options, of approximately $1.7 billion at December 31, 2024.

    Goodwill and Intangible Assets

    Goodwill decreased by $2.5 million from September 30, 2024 to December 31, 2024 due to certain purchase accounting adjustments, primarily an increase in the core deposit intangible of $4.1 million.

    Income Statement

    Net Interest Income and Margin

    Net interest income was $50.6 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to $51.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024. The net interest margin, on a tax equivalent basis, decreased to 4.05% in the fourth quarter of 2024 from 4.14% in the third quarter of 2024. The net interest margin was positively impacted by the net accretion impact of purchase accounting marks on loans, securities, deposits and borrowings of $7.2 million, which represents 52 basis points of net interest margin during the fourth quarter of 2024. During the third quarter of 2024, the net accretion impact of purchase accounting marks was $5.8 million, which represented 42 basis points of net interest margin. Funding costs show signs of stabilizing.

    Interest income on loans, on a tax equivalent basis, decreased by $2.7 million to $68.1 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to $70.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024. Average loans decreased by $28.0 million during the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to the three months ended September 30, 2024.

    Interest income on investment securities, on a tax equivalent basis, was $9.9 million for the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to $10.1 million in the third quarter of 2024.

    Interest expense, on a tax equivalent basis, decreased by $1.9 million to $29.4 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to $31.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024. Average interest-bearing deposits decreased by $58.1 million during the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to the three months ended September 30, 2024. Average borrowings decreased by $1.3 million during the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to the three months ended September 30, 2024. Interest expense includes $0.9 million and $1.5 million of amortization of purchase accounting marks for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and September 30, 2024, respectively.

    Provision for Credit Losses

    The allowance for credit losses (“ACL”) on loans decreased to $48.7 million at December 31, 2024 from $49.6 million at September 30, 2024. The ACL to total loans was 1.24% at December 31, 2024 compared to 1.25% at September 30, 2024. The Company recorded a provision for credit losses on loans of $2.1 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to $14.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024. Net charge-offs were $3.0 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to net charge-offs of $0.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024. During the fourth quarter of 2024, the Bank sold $6.0 million of mostly C&I loans, which resulted in a charge-off totaling $0.6 million. There was also a corresponding $0.6 million of purchase accounting accretion associated with these loans.

    Classified loans decreased by $16.9 million to $88.6 million at December 31, 2024 from $105.5 million at September 30, 2024 primarily due to a combination of repayments and net rating upgrades, in addition to the loan sale. Non-accrual loans decreased by $2.8 million to $24.1 million at December 31, 2024 from $26.9 million at September 30, 2024 partially due to a sale of mostly C&I loans on nonaccrual status totaling $2.6 million during the fourth quarter of 2024. Nonaccrual loans to total loans decreased to 0.61% at December 31, 2024 compared to 0.68% at September 30, 2024 and decreased from 1.11% at December 31, 2023. Management believes the ACL to be adequate based on current asset quality metrics and economic conditions.

    Noninterest Income

    Noninterest income decreased by $1.2 million to $11.2 million in the three months ended December 31, 2024 from $12.4 million in the three months ended September 30, 2024. There were reduced service charges in the fourth quarter due to fee waivers provided to clients in the post-conversion period from November through the end of the year.

    Wealth management income decreased to $4.9 million in the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to $5.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024. The team continues to provide value added services to clients and deliver strong results.

    Other income decreased by $0.3 million to $1.6 million in the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to $1.9 million in the three months ended September 30, 2024 due to income from solar tax credits totaling $0.3 million recorded during the third quarter of 2024.

    Noninterest Expenses

    Noninterest expenses decreased by $17.4 million to $42.9 million in the three months ended December 31, 2024 from $60.3 million in the three months ended September 30, 2024.

    The Company’s financial results for any periods ended prior to July 1, 2024 reflect Orrstown’s results only on a standalone basis. As a result of this factor and the merger-related items below, the Company’s financial results for the fourth quarter of 2024 may not be directly comparable to prior reported periods.

    For the three months ended December 31, 2024, merger-related expenses totaled $3.9 million, a decrease of $13.1 million, compared to $17.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024. The merger costs incurred during the fourth quarter of 2024 include employee separation costs, software conversion costs and professional fees. The Company expect to incur some additional merger-related expenses in the first quarter of 2025.

    Salaries and benefits expense decreased by $4.8 million to $22.4 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to $27.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024. The three months ended September 30, 2024 included $4.8 million of expenses associated with the retirement of an executive.

    Intangible asset amortization increased to $2.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to $2.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024. This increase is due to the amortization expense recognized on the core deposit intangible of $40.1 million and wealth customer relationship intangible of $10.4 million established on July 1, 2024 from the merger. Due to the aforementioned purchase accounting adjustment, the three months ended December 31, 2024 included $0.4 million of additional amortization expense associated with this adjustment.

    Taxes other than income decreased by $0.8 million in the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to the three months ended September 30, 2024. This decrease reflects tax credits recognized during the fourth quarter of 2024.

    Income Taxes

    The Company’s effective tax rate was 20.1% for both the fourth and third quarters of 2024. The Company’s effective tax rate for the three months ended December 31, 2024 is less than the 21% federal statutory rate primarily due to tax-exempt income, including interest earned on tax-exempt loans and securities and income from life insurance policies and tax credits partially offset by the disallowed portion of interest expense against earnings in association with the Bank’s tax-exempt investments under the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982 (“TEFRA”) and the impact of nondeductible merger-related costs. The Company regularly analyzes its projected taxable income and makes adjustments to the provision for income taxes accordingly.

    Capital

    Shareholders’ equity totaled $516.7 million at December 31, 2024 compared to $516.2 million at September 30, 2024. The impact of net income of $13.7 million was offset by a reduction of $10.4 million in accumulated other comprehensive loss from an increase in unrealized losses in the investment portfolio and dividend payments of $4.4 million.

    Tangible book value per share(1) increased to $21.19 per share at December 31, 2024 from $21.12 per share at September 30, 2024.

    The Company’s tangible common equity ratio was 7.5% at both December 31, 2024 and September 30, 2024. The Company’s total risk-based capital ratio was 12.4% at both December 31, 2024 and September 30, 2024. The Company’s Tier 1 leverage ratio increased to 8.3% at December 31, 2024 compared to 8.0% at September 30, 2024 driven by earnings and a decrease in average assets during the fourth quarter of 2024.

    At December 31, 2024, all four capital ratios applicable to the Company were above regulatory minimum levels to be deemed “well capitalized” under current bank regulatory guidelines. The Company continues to believe that capital is adequate to support the risks inherent in the balance sheet, as well as growth requirements.

    (1) Non-GAAP measure. See Appendix A for additional information.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Neelesh Kalani
    Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
    Phone (717) 510-7097
    FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (Unaudited)              
                   
      Three Months Ended   Twelve Months Ended
      December 31,   December 31,   December 31,   December 31,
    (In thousands)   2024       2023       2024       2023  
                   
    Profitability for the period:              
    Net interest income $ 50,573     $ 26,018     $ 155,254     $ 104,906  
    Provision for credit losses   1,755       418       16,546       1,682  
    Noninterest income   11,247       6,491       37,435       25,652  
    Noninterest expenses   42,930       22,392       148,337       83,843  
    Income before income tax expense   17,135       9,699       27,806       45,033  
    Income tax expense   3,451       2,056       5,756       9,370  
    Net income available to common shareholders $ 13,684     $ 7,643     $ 22,050     $ 35,663  
                   
    Financial ratios:              
    Return on average assets (1)   1.00 %     1.00 %     0.51 %     1.19 %
    Return on average assets, adjusted (1) (2) (3)   1.22 %     1.13 %     1.30 %     1.22 %
    Return on average equity (1)   10.54 %     12.21 %     5.62 %     14.66 %
    Return on average equity, adjusted (1) (2) (3)   12.86 %     13.77 %     14.29 %     15.06 %
    Net interest margin (1)   4.05 %     3.71 %     3.92 %     3.80 %
    Efficiency ratio   69.4 %     68.9 %     77.0 %     64.2 %
    Efficiency ratio, adjusted (2) (3)   62.3 %     65.6 %     62.5 %     63.4 %
    Income per common share:              
    Basic $ 0.72     $ 0.74     $ 1.49     $ 3.45  
    Basic, adjusted (2) (3) $ 0.87     $ 0.84     $ 3.80     $ 3.54  
    Diluted $ 0.71     $ 0.73     $ 1.48     $ 3.42  
    Diluted, adjusted (2) (3) $ 0.87     $ 0.83     $ 3.76     $ 3.51  
                   
    Average equity to average assets   9.45 %     8.18 %     9.08 %     8.11 %
                   
    (1) Annualized for the three months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.
    (2) Ratio has been adjusted for the non-recurring charges for all periods presented.
    (3) Non-GAAP based financial measure. Please refer to Appendix A – Supplemental Reporting of Non-GAAP Measures and GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliations for a discussion of our use of non-GAAP based financial measures, including tables reconciling GAAP and non-GAAP financial measures appearing herein.
    FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (Unaudited)      
    (continued)      
      December 31,   December 31,
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)   2024       2023  
    At period-end:      
    Total assets $ 5,431,023     $ 3,064,240  
    Loans, net of allowance for credit losses   3,882,525       2,269,611  
    Loans held-for-sale, at fair value   6,614       5,816  
    Securities available for sale, at fair value   829,711       513,519  
    Total deposits   4,615,706       2,558,814  
    FHLB advances and other borrowings and Securities sold under agreements to repurchase   141,227       147,285  
    Subordinated notes and trust preferred debt   68,680       32,093  
    Shareholders’ equity   516,682       265,056  
           
    Credit quality and capital ratios (1):      
    Allowance for credit losses to total loans   1.24 %     1.25 %
    Total nonaccrual loans to total loans   0.61 %     1.11 %
    Nonperforming assets to total assets   0.45 %     0.83 %
    Allowance for credit losses to nonaccrual loans   202 %     112 %
    Total risk-based capital:      
    Orrstown Financial Services, Inc.   12.4 %     13.0 %
    Orrstown Bank   12.4 %     12.8 %
    Tier 1 risk-based capital:      
    Orrstown Financial Services, Inc.   10.2 %     10.8 %
    Orrstown Bank   11.2 %     11.6 %
    Tier 1 common equity risk-based capital:      
    Orrstown Financial Services, Inc.   10.0 %     10.8 %
    Orrstown Bank   11.2 %     11.6 %
    Tier 1 leverage capital:      
    Orrstown Financial Services, Inc.   8.3 %     8.9 %
    Orrstown Bank   9.1 %     9.5 %
           
    Book value per common share $ 26.65     $ 24.98  
           
    (1) Capital ratios are estimated for the current period, subject to regulatory filings. The Company elected the three-year phase in option for the day-one impact of ASU 2016-13 for current expected credit losses (“CECL”) to regulatory capital. Beginning in 2023, the Company adjusted retained earnings, allowance for credit losses includable in tier 2 capital and the deferred tax assets from temporary differences in risk weighted assets by the permitted percentage of the day-one impact from adopting the CECL standard.
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited)      
           
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts) December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
    Assets      
    Cash and due from banks $ 51,026     $ 32,586  
    Interest-bearing deposits with banks   187,282       32,575  
    Cash and cash equivalents   238,308       65,161  
    Restricted investments in bank stocks   20,232       11,992  
    Securities available for sale (amortized cost of $864,920 and $549,089 at December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively)   829,711       513,519  
    Loans held for sale, at fair value   6,614       5,816  
    Loans   3,931,214       2,298,313  
    Less: Allowance for credit losses   (48,689 )     (28,702 )
    Net loans   3,882,525       2,269,611  
    Premises and equipment, net   50,217       29,393  
    Cash surrender value of life insurance   143,854       73,204  
    Goodwill   68,106       18,724  
    Other intangible assets, net   47,765       2,414  
    Accrued interest receivable   21,058       13,630  
    Deferred tax assets, net   42,647       22,017  
    Other assets   79,986       38,759  
    Total assets $ 5,431,023     $ 3,064,240  
           
    Liabilities      
    Deposits:      
    Noninterest-bearing $ 886,786     $ 430,959  
    Interest-bearing   3,728,920       2,127,855  
    Total deposits   4,615,706       2,558,814  
    Securities sold under agreements to repurchase and federal funds purchased   25,863       9,785  
    FHLB advances and other borrowings   115,364       137,500  
    Subordinated notes and trust preferred debt   68,680       32,093  
    Other liabilities   88,728       60,992  
    Total liabilities   4,914,341       2,799,184  
           
    Shareholders’ Equity      
    Preferred stock, $1.25 par value per share; 500,000 shares authorized; no shares issued or outstanding          
    Common stock, no par value—$0.05205 stated value per share; 50,000,000 shares authorized; 19,722,640 shares issued and 19,389,967 outstanding at December 31, 2024; 11,204,599 shares issued and 10,612,390 outstanding at December 31, 2023   1,027       583  
    Additional paid—in capital   423,274       189,027  
    Retained earnings   126,540       117,667  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (26,316 )     (28,476 )
    Treasury stock— 332,673 and 592,209 shares, at cost at December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively   (7,843 )     (13,745 )
    Total shareholders’ equity   516,682       265,056  
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 5,431,023     $ 3,064,240  
    ORRSTOWN FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.
    CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (Unaudited)
                     
        Three Months Ended   Twelve Months Ended
        December 31,   December 31,   December 31,   December 31,
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)     2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Interest income                
    Loans   $ 67,870     $ 33,910     $ 210,287     $ 126,595  
    Investment securities – taxable     8,773       4,787       27,361       18,031  
    Investment securities – tax-exempt     880       871       3,521       3,462  
    Short-term investments     2,492       460       7,764       1,809  
    Total interest income     80,015       40,028       248,933       149,897  
    Interest expense                
    Deposits     26,850       12,118       84,234       37,510  
    Securities sold under agreements to repurchase and federal funds purchased     67       30       215       114  
    FHLB advances and other borrowings     1,165       1,358       4,945       5,350  
    Subordinated notes and trust preferred debt     1,360       504       4,285       2,017  
    Total interest expense     29,442       14,010       93,679       44,991  
    Net interest income     50,573       26,018       155,254       104,906  
    Provision for credit losses     1,755       418       16,546       1,682  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses     48,818       25,600       138,708       103,224  
    Noninterest income                
    Service charges     2,050       1,198       6,893       4,866  
    Interchange income     1,608       952       5,259       3,873  
    Swap fee income     597       588       1,676       1,039  
    Wealth management income     4,902       2,945       16,353       11,340  
    Mortgage banking activities     517       143       1,835       591  
    Investment securities (losses) gains     (5 )     (39 )     249       (47 )
    Other income     1,578       704       5,170       3,990  
    Total noninterest income     11,247       6,491       37,435       25,652  
    Noninterest expenses                
    Salaries and employee benefits     22,444       12,848       76,581       50,983  
    Occupancy, furniture and equipment     4,893       2,534       14,570       9,593  
    Data processing     1,540       1,247       6,088       4,913  
    Advertising and bank promotions     878       501       2,587       2,157  
    FDIC insurance     955       460       2,677       1,960  
    Professional services     1,591       702       4,142       2,905  
    Taxes other than income     (312 )     203       734       1,050  
    Intangible asset amortization     2,838       236       5,742       953  
    Merger-related expenses     3,887       1,059       22,671       1,059  
    Restructuring expenses     39             296        
    Other operating expenses     4,177       2,602       12,249       8,270  
    Total noninterest expenses     42,930       22,392       148,337       83,843  
    Income before income tax expense     17,135       9,699       27,806       45,033  
    Income tax expense     3,451       2,056       5,756       9,370  
    Net income   $ 13,684     $ 7,643     $ 22,050     $ 35,663  
    continued
                     
        Three Months Ended   Twelve Months Ended
        December 31,   December 31,   December 31,   December 31,
          2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Share information:                
    Basic earnings per share   $ 0.72     $ 0.74     $ 1.49     $ 3.45  
    Diluted earnings per share   $ 0.71     $ 0.73     $ 1.48     $ 3.42  
    Dividends paid per share   $ 0.23     $ 0.20     $ 0.86     $ 0.80  
    Weighted average shares – basic     19,118       10,321       14,761       10,340  
    Weighted average shares – diluted     19,300       10,419       14,914       10,435  
    ANALYSIS OF NET INTEREST INCOME        
    Average Balances and Interest Rates, Taxable-Equivalent Basis (Unaudited)    
         
      Three Months Ended
      12/31/2024   9/30/2024   6/30/2024   3/31/2024   12/31/2023
          Taxable-   Taxable-       Taxable-   Taxable-       Taxable-   Taxable-       Taxable-   Taxable-       Taxable-   Taxable-
      Average   Equivalent   Equivalent   Average   Equivalent   Equivalent   Average   Equivalent   Equivalent   Average   Equivalent   Equivalent   Average   Equivalent   Equivalent
    (In thousands) Balance   Interest   Rate   Balance   Interest   Rate   Balance   Interest   Rate   Balance   Interest   Rate   Balance   Interest   Rate
    Assets                                                          
    Federal funds sold & interest-bearing bank balances $ 199,236   $ 2,492     4.96 %   $ 184,465   $ 2,452     5.29 %   $ 142,868   $ 1,864     5.25 %   $ 74,523   $ 956     5.16 %   $ 37,873   $ 460     4.82 %
    Investment securities (1)(2)   849,389     9,887     4.66       849,700     10,123     4.77       538,451     6,114     4.54       519,851     5,694     4.39       508,891     5,890     4.63  
    Loans (1)(3)(4)(5)(6)   3,961,269     68,073     6.82       3,989,259     70,849     7.07       2,324,942     35,690     6.17       2,308,103     36,382     6.34       2,286,678     34,055     5.91  
    Total interest-earning assets   5,009,894     80,452     6.38       5,023,424     83,424     6.61       3,006,261     43,668     5.84       2,902,477     43,032     5.96       2,833,442     40,405     5.67  
    Other assets   454,271             491,719             204,863             196,295             204,382        
    Total assets $ 5,464,165           $ 5,515,143           $ 3,211,124           $ 3,098,772           $ 3,037,824        
    Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity                                                
    Interest-bearing demand deposits(7) $ 1,257,316     5,360     1.69     $ 2,554,743     16,165     2.52     $ 1,649,753     10,118     2.47     $ 1,570,622     9,192     2.35     $ 1,543,575     8,333     2.14  
    Savings deposits(7)   1,538,287     10,381     2.68       283,337     148     0.21       165,467     140     0.34       170,005     144     0.34       178,351     153     0.34  
    Time deposits   998,963     11,109     4.41       1,014,628     12,290     4.82       481,721     5,007     4.18       428,443     4,180     3.92       392,085     3,632     3.67  
    Total interest-bearing deposits   3,794,566     26,850     2.81       3,852,708     28,603     2.95       2,296,941     15,265     2.67       2,169,070     13,516     2.51       2,114,011     12,118     2.27  
    Securities sold under agreements to repurchase and federal funds purchased   21,572     67     1.23       23,075     96     1.66       13,412     27     0.81       12,010     25     0.85       13,874     30     0.85  
    FHLB advances and other borrowings   115,373     1,165     4.01       115,388     1,154     3.98       115,000     1,152     4.03       137,505     1,474     4.31       127,843     1,358     4.21  
    Subordinated notes and trust preferred debt   68,571     1,360     7.88       68,399     1,437     8.36       32,118     734     9.19       32,100     754     9.45       32,083     504     6.29  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   4,000,082     29,442     2.92       4,059,570     31,290     3.07       2,457,471     17,178     2.81       2,350,685     15,769     2.70       2,287,811     14,010     2.43  
    Noninterest-bearing demand deposits   849,999             807,886             423,037             417,469             441,695        
    Other liabilities   97,685             110,017             57,828             62,329             59,876        
    Total liabilities   4,947,766             4,977,473             2,938,336             2,830,483             2,789,382        
    Shareholders’ equity   516,399             537,670             272,788             268,289             248,442        
    Total $ 5,464,165           $ 5,515,143           $ 3,211,124           $ 3,098,772           $ 3,037,824        
    Taxable-equivalent net interest income / net interest spread       51,010     3.46 %         52,134     3.55 %         26,490     3.02 %         27,263     3.26 %         26,395     3.24 %
    Taxable-equivalent net interest margin         4.05 %           4.14 %           3.54 %           3.77 %           3.71 %
    Taxable-equivalent adjustment       (437 )             (437 )             (387 )             (382 )             (377 )    
    Net interest income     $ 50,573             $ 51,697             $ 26,103             $ 26,881             $ 26,018      
    Ratio of average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities         125 %           124 %           122 %           123 %           124 %
                                                               
    NOTES:                                                          
    (1) Yields and interest income on tax-exempt assets have been computed on a taxable-equivalent basis assuming a 21% tax rate.
    (2) Average balance of investment securities is computed at fair value.
    (3) Average balances include nonaccrual loans.
    (4) Interest income on loans includes prepayment and late fees, where applicable.
    (5) Interest income on loans includes interest recovered of $1.6 million from the payoff of a commercial real estate loan on nonaccrual status in the three months ended March 31, 2024.
    (6) Interest income on loans includes accretion on purchase accounting marks of $7.6 million, $7.3 million, $0.2 million, $0.1 million and $0.1 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, June 30, 2024, March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.
    (7) Changes between average deposit type balances are due to operational updates for deposit sweeps during the three months ended December 31, 2024.
    ANALYSIS OF NET INTEREST INCOME        
    Average Balances and Interest Rates, Taxable-Equivalent Basis (Unaudited)    
    (continued)                      
      Twelve Months Ended
      December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
          Taxable-   Taxable-       Taxable-   Taxable-
      Average   Equivalent   Equivalent   Average   Equivalent   Equivalent
    (In thousands) Balance   Interest   Rate   Balance   Interest   Rate
    Assets                      
    Federal funds sold & interest-bearing bank balances $ 150,500     $ 7,764       5.14 %   $ 40,856     $ 1,809       4.43 %
    Investment securities (1)(2)   690,223       31,817       4.60       520,465       22,414       4.31  
    Loans (1)(3)(4)(5)(6)   3,150,425       210,994       6.68       2,239,574       127,107       5.68  
    Total interest-earning assets   3,991,148       250,575       6.26       2,800,895       151,330       5.40  
    Other assets   330,324               198,632          
    Total assets $ 4,321,472             $ 2,999,527          
    Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity                      
    Interest-bearing demand deposits(7) $ 1,147,124       21,455       1.87     $ 1,525,204       26,944       1.77  
    Savings deposits(7)   1,153,097       30,193       2.61       198,157       585       0.30  
    Time deposits   732,446       32,586       4.44       338,170       9,981       2.95  
    Total interest-bearing deposits   3,032,667       84,234       2.77       2,061,531       37,510       1.82  
    Securities sold under agreements to repurchase and federal funds purchased   17,543       215       1.22       14,111       114       0.80  
    FHLB advances and other borrowings   120,787       4,945       4.08       123,697       5,350       4.32  
    Subordinated notes and trust preferred debt   50,397       4,285       8.48       32,058       2,017       6.29  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   3,221,394       93,679       2.91       2,231,397       44,991       2.02  
    Noninterest-bearing demand deposits   625,714               470,349          
    Other liabilities   82,084               54,447          
    Total liabilities   3,929,192               2,756,193          
    Shareholders’ equity   392,280               243,334          
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 4,321,472             $ 2,999,527          
    Taxable-equivalent net interest income / net interest spread       156,896       3.36 %         106,339       3.39 %
    Taxable-equivalent net interest margin           3.92 %             3.80 %
    Taxable-equivalent adjustment       (1,642 )             (1,433 )    
    Net interest income     $ 155,254             $ 104,906      
    Ratio of average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities           124 %             126 %
                           
    NOTES TO ANALYSIS OF NET INTEREST INCOME:
    (1) Yields and interest income on tax-exempt assets have been computed on a taxable-equivalent basis assuming a 21% tax rate.
    (2) Average balance of investment securities is computed at fair value.
    (3) Average balances include nonaccrual loans.
    (4) Interest income on loans includes prepayment and late fees, where applicable.
    (5) Interest income on loans includes interest recovered of $1.6 million from the payoff of a commercial real estate loan on nonaccrual status for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024.
    (6) Interest income on loans includes accretion on purchase accounting marks of $15.2 million and $0.7 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
    (7) Changes between average deposit type balances are due to operational updates for deposit sweeps during the three months ended December 31, 2024.
    ORRSTOWN FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.        
    HISTORICAL TRENDS IN QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (Unaudited)        
                       
    (In thousands) December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      June 30,
    2024
      March 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
    Profitability for the quarter:                  
    Net interest income $ 50,573     $ 51,697     $ 26,103     $ 26,881     $ 26,018  
    Provision for credit losses   1,755       13,681       812       298       418  
    Noninterest income   11,247       12,386       7,172       6,630       6,491  
    Noninterest expenses   42,930       60,299       22,639       22,469       22,392  
    Income (loss) before income taxes   17,135       (9,897 )     9,824       10,744       9,699  
    Income tax expense (benefit)   3,451       (1,994 )     2,086       2,213       2,056  
    Net income (loss) $ 13,684     $ (7,903 )   $ 7,738     $ 8,531     $ 7,643  
                       
    Financial ratios:                  
    Return on average assets (1)   1.00 %     (0.57) %     0.97 %     1.11 %     1.00 %
    Return on average assets, adjusted (1)(2)(3)   1.22 %     1.55 %     1.09 %     1.19 %     1.13 %
    Return on average equity (1)   10.54 %     (5.85) %     11.41 %     12.79 %     12.21 %
    Return on average equity, adjusted (1)(2)(3)   12.86 %     15.85 %     12.88 %     13.79 %     13.77 %
    Net interest margin (1)   4.05 %     4.14 %     3.54 %     3.77 %     3.71 %
    Efficiency ratio   69.4 %     94.1 %     68.0 %     67.0 %     68.9 %
    Efficiency ratio, adjusted (2)(3)   62.3 %     67.2 %     64.6 %     65.0 %     65.6 %
                       
    Per share information:                  
    Income (loss) per common share:                  
    Basic $ 0.72     $ (0.41 )   $ 0.74     $ 0.82     $ 0.74  
    Basic, adjusted (2)(3)   0.87       1.12       0.84       0.89       0.84  
    Diluted   0.71       (0.41 )     0.73       0.81       0.73  
    Diluted, adjusted (2)(3)   0.87       1.11       0.83       0.88       0.83  
    Book value   26.65       26.65       25.97       25.38       24.98  
    Book value, adjusted (2) (3)   28.40       28.24       26.12       25.44       25.07  
    Tangible book value (3)   21.19       21.12       24.08       23.47       23.03  
    Tangible book value, adjusted (2) (3)   22.94       22.72       24.23       23.53       23.12  
    Cash dividends paid   0.23       0.23       0.20       0.20       0.20  
                       
    Average basic shares   19,118       19,088       10,393       10,349       10,321  
    Average diluted shares   19,300       19,226       10,553       10,482       10,419  
                                           
    (1) Annualized.
    (2) Ratio has been adjusted for non-recurring expenses for all periods presented.
    (3) Non-GAAP based financial measure. Please refer to Appendix A – Supplemental Reporting of Non-GAAP Measures and GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliations for a discussion of our use of non-GAAP based financial measures, including tables reconciling GAAP and non-GAAP financial measures appearing herein.
    ORRSTOWN FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.                
    HISTORICAL TRENDS IN QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (Unaudited)        
    (continued)                  
    (In thousands) December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      June 30,
    2024
      March 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
    Noninterest income:                  
    Service charges $ 2,050     $ 2,360     $ 1,283     $ 1,200     $ 1,198  
    Interchange income   1,608       1,779       961       911       952  
    Swap fee income   597       505       375       199       588  
    Wealth management income   4,902       5,037       3,312       3,102       2,945  
    Mortgage banking activities   517       491       369       458       143  
    Other income   1,578       1,943       884       765       704  
    Investment securities (losses) gains   (5 )     271       (12 )     (5 )     (39 )
    Total noninterest income $ 11,247     $ 12,386     $ 7,172     $ 6,630     $ 6,491  
                       
    Noninterest expenses:                  
    Salaries and employee benefits $ 22,444     $ 27,190     $ 13,195     $ 13,752     $ 12,848  
    Occupancy, furniture and equipment   4,893       4,333       2,705       2,639       2,534  
    Data processing   1,540       2,046       1,237       1,265       1,247  
    Advertising and bank promotions   878       537       774       398       501  
    FDIC insurance   955       862       419       441       460  
    Professional services   1,591       1,119       801       631       702  
    Taxes other than income   (312 )     503       49       494       203  
    Intangible asset amortization   2,838       2,464       215       225       236  
    Merger-related expenses   3,887       16,977       1,135       672       1,059  
    Restructuring expenses   39       257                    
    Other operating expenses   4,177       4,011       2,109       1,952       2,602  
    Total noninterest expenses $ 42,930     $ 60,299     $ 22,639     $ 22,469     $ 22,392  
    HISTORICAL TRENDS IN QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (Unaudited)            
    (continued)                  
    (In thousands) December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      June 30,
    2024
      March 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
    Balance Sheet at quarter end:                  
    Cash and cash equivalents $ 238,308     $ 236,780     $ 132,509     $ 182,722     $ 65,161  
    Restricted investments in bank stocks   20,232       20,247       11,147       11,453       11,992  
    Securities available for sale   829,711       826,828       529,082       514,909       513,519  
    Loans held for sale, at fair value   6,614       3,561       1,562       535       5,816  
    Loans:                  
    Commercial real estate:                  
    Owner occupied   633,567       622,726       371,301       364,280       373,757  
    Non-owner occupied   1,160,238       1,164,501       710,477       707,871       694,638  
    Multi-family   274,135       276,296       151,542       147,773       150,675  
    Non-owner occupied residential   179,512       190,786       89,156       91,858       95,040  
    Agricultural   125,156       129,486       25,551       25,909       26,847  
    Commercial and industrial   451,384       471,983       349,425       339,615       340,238  
    Acquisition and development:                  
    1-4 family residential construction   47,432       56,383       32,439       22,277       24,516  
    Commercial and land development   241,424       262,317       129,883       118,010       115,249  
    Municipal   30,044       27,960       10,594       10,925       9,812  
    Total commercial loans   3,142,892       3,202,438       1,870,368       1,828,518       1,830,772  
    Residential mortgage:                  
    First lien   460,297       451,195       271,153       270,748       266,239  
    Home equity – term   5,988       6,508       4,633       4,966       5,078  
    Home equity – lines of credit   303,561       303,165       192,736       189,966       186,450  
    Installment and other loans   18,476       18,131       8,713       8,875       9,774  
    Total loans   3,931,214       3,981,437       2,347,603       2,303,073       2,298,313  
    Allowance for credit losses   (48,689 )     (49,630 )     (29,864 )     (29,165 )     (28,702 )
    Net loans held for investment   3,882,525       3,931,807       2,317,739       2,273,908       2,269,611  
    Goodwill   68,106       70,655       18,724       18,724       18,724  
    Other intangible assets, net   47,765       46,144       1,974       2,189       2,414  
    Total assets   5,431,023       5,470,589       3,198,782       3,183,331       3,064,240  
    Total deposits   4,615,706       4,650,853       2,702,884       2,695,951       2,558,814  
    FHLB advances and other borrowings and Securities sold under agreements to repurchase   141,227       137,310       129,625       127,099       147,285  
    Subordinated notes and trust preferred debt   68,680       68,510       32,128       32,111       32,093  
    Total shareholders’ equity   516,682       516,206       278,376       271,682       265,056  
    HISTORICAL TRENDS IN QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (Unaudited)            
    (continued)                  
      December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      June 30,
    2024
      March 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
    Capital and credit quality measures (1):                  
    Total risk-based capital:                  
    Orrstown Financial Services, Inc.   12.4 %     12.4 %     13.3 %     13.4 %     13.0 %
    Orrstown Bank   12.4 %     12.2 %     13.1 %     13.1 %     12.8 %
    Tier 1 risk-based capital:                  
    Orrstown Financial Services, Inc.   10.2 %     10.0 %     11.1 %     11.2 %     10.8 %
    Orrstown Bank   11.2 %     11.0 %     12.0 %     11.9 %     11.6 %
    Tier 1 common equity risk-based capital:                  
    Orrstown Financial Services, Inc.   10.0 %     9.8 %     11.1 %     11.2 %     10.8 %
    Orrstown Bank   11.2 %     11.0 %     12.0 %     11.9 %     11.6 %
    Tier 1 leverage capital:                  
    Orrstown Financial Services, Inc.   8.3 %     8.0 %     8.9 %     9.0 %     8.9 %
    Orrstown Bank   9.1 %     8.8 %     9.5 %     9.6 %     9.5 %
                       
    Average equity to average assets   9.45 %     9.75 %     8.50 %     8.66 %     8.18 %
    Allowance for credit losses to total loans   1.24 %     1.25 %     1.27 %     1.27 %     1.25 %
    Total nonaccrual loans to total loans   0.61 %     0.68 %     0.36 %     0.56 %     1.11 %
    Nonperforming assets to total assets   0.45 %     0.49 %     0.26 %     0.40 %     0.83 %
    Allowance for credit losses to nonaccrual loans   202 %     184 %     357 %     226 %     112 %
                       
    Other information:                  
    Net charge-offs (recoveries) $ 3,002     $ 269     $ 113     $ (42 )   $ (6 )
    Classified loans   88,628       105,465       48,722       48,997       55,030  
    Nonperforming and other risk assets:                  
    Nonaccrual loans   24,111       26,927       8,363       12,886       25,527  
    Other real estate owned   138       138                    
    Total nonperforming assets   24,249       27,065       8,363       12,886       25,527  
    Financial difficulty modifications still accruing   4,897       9,497                   9  
    Loans past due 90 days or more and still accruing   641       337       187       99       66  
    Total nonperforming and other risk assets $ 29,787     $ 36,899     $ 8,550     $ 12,985     $ 25,602  
     
    (1) Capital ratios are estimated for the current period, subject to regulatory filings. The Company elected the three-year phase in option for the day-one impact of ASU 2016-13 for current expected credit losses (“CECL”) to regulatory capital. Beginning in 2023, the Company adjusted retained earnings, allowance for credit losses includable in tier 2 capital and the deferred tax assets from temporary differences in risk weighted assets by the permitted percentage of the day-one impact from adopting the new CECL standard.


    Appendix A – Supplemental Reporting of Non-GAAP Measures and GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliations

    Management believes providing certain other “non-GAAP” financial information will assist investors in their understanding of the effect on recent financial results from non-recurring charges.

    As a result of acquisitions, the Company has intangible assets consisting of goodwill, core deposit and other intangible assets, which totaled $115.9 million and $21.1 million at December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. In addition, during the three months ended December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, June 30, 2024, March 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, the Company incurred $3.9 million, $17.0 million, $1.1 million, $0.7 million and $1.1 million in merger-related expenses, respectively. During the three months ended December 31, 2024 and September 30, 2024, the Company incurred other non-recurring charges totaling $0.5 million and $20.2 million, respectively.

    Tangible book value per common share and the impact of the non-recurring expenses on net income and associated ratios, as used by the Company in this earnings release, are determined by methods other than in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”). While we believe this information is a useful supplement to GAAP based measures presented in this earnings release, readers are cautioned that this non-GAAP disclosure has limitations as an analytical tool, should not be viewed as a substitute for financial measures determined in accordance with GAAP, and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of our results and financial condition as reported under GAAP, nor are such measures necessarily comparable to non-GAAP performance measures that may be presented by other companies. This supplemental presentation should not be construed as an inference that our future results will be unaffected by similar adjustments to be determined in accordance with GAAP.

    The following tables present the computation of each non-GAAP based measure:

    (In thousands)

    Tangible Book Value per Common Share   December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      June 30,
    2024
      March 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
    Shareholders’ equity (most directly comparable GAAP-based measure)   $ 516,682     $ 516,206     $ 278,376     $ 271,682     $ 265,056  
    Less: Goodwill     68,106       70,655       18,724       18,724       18,724  
    Other intangible assets     47,765       46,144       1,974       2,189       2,414  
    Related tax effect     (10,031 )     (9,690 )     (415 )     (460 )     (507 )
    Tangible common equity (non-GAAP)   $ 410,842     $ 409,097     $ 258,093     $ 251,229     $ 244,425  
                         
    Common shares outstanding     19,390       19,373       10,720       10,705       10,612  
                         
    Book value per share (most directly comparable GAAP-based measure)   $ 26.65     $ 26.65     $ 25.97     $ 25.38     $ 24.98  
    Intangible assets per share     5.46       5.53       1.89       1.91       1.95  
    Tangible book value per share (non-GAAP)   $ 21.19     $ 21.12     $ 24.08     $ 23.47     $ 23.03  
    (In thousands) Three Months Ended   Twelve Months Ended
    Adjusted Ratios for Non-recurring Charges December 31,
    2024
      September 30, 2024   June 30,
    2024
      March 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
      December 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
    Net income (loss) (A) – most directly comparable GAAP-based measure $ 13,684     $ (7,903 )   $ 7,738     $ 8,531     $ 7,643     $ 22,050     $ 35,663  
    Plus: Merger-related expenses (B)   3,887       16,977       1,135       672       1,059       22,671       1,059  
    Plus: Executive retirement expenses (B)   35       4,758                         4,793        
    Plus: Provision for credit losses on non-PCD loans (B)         15,504                         15,504        
    Plus: Provision for legal settlement (B)   478                               478        
    Less: Related tax effect (C)   (1,386 )     (7,915 )     (139 )     (1 )     (79 )     (9,442 )     (79 )
    Adjusted net income (D=A+B-C) – Non-GAAP $ 16,698     $ 21,421     $ 8,734     $ 9,202     $ 8,623     $ 56,054     $ 36,643  
                               
    Average assets (E) $ 5,464,165     $ 5,515,143     $ 3,211,124     $ 3,098,772     $ 3,037,824     $ 4,321,472     $ 2,999,527  
    Return on average assets (= A / E) – most directly comparable GAAP-based measure (1)   1.00 %      (0.57) %     0.97 %     1.11 %     1.00 %     0.51 %     1.19 %
    Return on average assets, adjusted (= D / E) – Non-GAAP (1)   1.22 %     1.55 %     1.09 %     1.19 %     1.13 %     1.30 %     1.22 %
                               
    Average equity (F) $ 516,399     $ 537,670     $ 272,788     $ 268,289     $ 248,442     $ 392,280     $ 243,334  
    Return on average equity (= A / F) – most directly comparable GAAP-based measure (1)   10.54 %     (5.85) %     11.41 %     12.79 %     12.21 %     5.62 %     14.66 %
    Return on average equity, adjusted (= D / F) – Non-GAAP (1)   12.86 %     15.85 %     12.88 %     13.79 %     13.77 %     14.29 %     15.06 %
                               
    Weighted average shares – basic (G) – most directly comparable GAAP-based measure   19,118       19,088       10,393       10,349       10,321       14,761       10,340  
    Basic earnings (loss) per share (= A / G) – most directly comparable GAAP-based measure $ 0.72     $ (0.41 )   $ 0.74     $ 0.82     $ 0.74     $ 1.49     $ 3.45  
    Basic earnings per share, adjusted (= D / G) – Non-GAAP $ 0.87     $ 1.12     $ 0.84     $ 0.89     $ 0.84     $ 3.80     $ 3.54  
                               
    Weighted average shares – diluted (H) – most directly comparable GAAP-based measure   19,300       19,226       10,553       10,482       10,419       14,914       10,435  
    Diluted earnings (loss) per share (= A / H) – most directly comparable GAAP-based measure $ 0.71     $ (0.41 )   $ 0.73     $ 0.81     $ 0.73     $ 1.48     $ 3.42  
    Diluted earnings per share, adjusted (= D / H) – Non-GAAP $ 0.87     $ 1.11     $ 0.83     $ 0.88     $ 0.83     $ 3.76     $ 3.51  
                               
    continued
    (1) Annualized                          
      Three Months Ended   Twelve Months Ended
      December 31,
    2024
      September 30, 2024   June 30,
    2024
      March 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
      December 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
    Noninterest expense (I) – most directly comparable GAAP-based measure $ 42,930     $ 60,299     $ 22,639     $ 22,469     $ 22,392     $ 148,337     $ 83,843  
    Less: Merger-related expenses (B)   (3,887 )     (16,977 )     (1,135 )     (672 )     (1,059 )     (22,671 )     (1,059 )
    Less: Executive retirement expenses (B)   (35 )     (4,758 )                       (4,793 )      
    Less: Provision for legal settlement (B)   (478 )                             (478 )      
    Adjusted noninterest expense (J = I – B) – Non-GAAP $ 38,531     $ 38,564     $ 21,504     $ 21,797     $ 21,333     $ 120,396     $ 82,784  
                               
    Net interest income (K) $ 50,573     $ 51,697     $ 26,103     $ 26,881     $ 26,018     $ 155,254     $ 104,906  
    Noninterest income (L)   11,247       12,386       7,172       6,630       6,491       37,435       25,652  
    Total operating income (M = K + L) $ 61,820     $ 64,083     $ 33,275     $ 33,511     $ 32,509     $ 192,689     $ 130,558  
                               
    Efficiency ratio (= I / M) – most directly comparable GAAP-based measure   69.4 %     94.1 %     68.0 %     67.0 %     68.9 %     77.0 %     64.2 %
    Efficiency ratio, adjusted (= J / M) – Non-GAAP   62.3 %     60.2 %     64.6 %     65.0 %     65.6 %     62.5 %     63.4 %
                               
    (1) Annualized                          


    Appendix B – Investment Portfolio Concentrations

    The following table summarizes the credit ratings and collateral associated with the Company’s investment security portfolio, excluding equity securities, at December 31, 2024:

    (In thousands)

    Sector Portfolio
    Mix
      Amortized
    Book
      Fair Value   Credit Enhancement   AAA   AA   A   BBB   NR   Collateral / Guarantee Type
    Unsecured ABS %   $ 3,073   $ 2,854   27 %   %   %   %   %   100 %   Unsecured Consumer Debt
    Student Loan ABS 1       4,060     4,035   27                     100     Seasoned Student Loans
    Federal Family Education Loan ABS 9       80,121     80,063   11     7     81         12         Federal Family Education Loan (1)
    PACE Loan ABS       1,985     1,727   7     100                     PACE Loans (2)
    Non-Agency CMBS 2       15,920     15,901   27                     100      
    Non-Agency RMBS 2       16,555     14,528   16     100                     Reverse Mortgages (3)
    Municipal – General Obligation 12       99,515     90,767       11     82     7              
    Municipal – Revenue 14       120,903     109,261           82     12         6      
    SBA ReRemic (5)       2,283     2,278           100                 SBA Guarantee (4)
    Small Business Administration 1       5,926     6,263           100                 SBA Guarantee (4)
    Agency MBS 19       160,027     155,778           100                 Residential Mortgages (4)
    Agency CMO 38       332,380     326,045           100                  
    U.S. Treasury securities 2       20,043     18,063           100                 U.S. Government Guarantee (4)
    Corporate bonds       1,935     1,954               52     48          
      100 %   $ 864,726   $ 829,517       4 %   89 %   3 %   1 %   3 %    
                                           
    (1) 97% guaranteed by U.S. government
    (2) PACE acronym represents Property Assessed Clean Energy loans
    (3) Non-agency reverse mortgages with current structural credit enhancements
    (4) Guaranteed by U.S. government or U.S. government agencies
    (5) SBA ReRemic acronym represents Re-Securitization of Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduits
                                           
    Note: Ratings in table are the lowest of the six rating agencies (Standard & Poor’s, Moody’s, Fitch, Morningstar, DBRS and Kroll Bond Rating Agency). Standard & Poor’s rates U.S. government obligations at AA+.


    About the Company

    With $5.4 billion in assets, Orrstown Financial Services, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Orrstown Bank, provide a wide range of consumer and business financial services in Berks, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lancaster, Perry, and York Counties, Pennsylvania and Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Harford, Howard, and Washington Counties, Maryland, as well as Baltimore City, Maryland. The Company’s lending area also includes adjacent counties in Pennsylvania and Maryland, as well as Loudon County, Virginia and Berkeley, Jefferson and Morgan Counties, West Virginia. Orrstown Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and its deposits are insured up to the legal maximum by the FDIC. Orrstown Financial Services, Inc.’s common stock is traded on Nasdaq (ORRF). For more information about Orrstown Financial Services, Inc. and Orrstown Bank, visit www.orrstown.com.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. Forward-looking statements reflect the current views of the Company’s management with respect to, among other things, future events and the Company’s financial performance. These statements are often, but not always, made through the use of words or phrases such as “may,” “should,” “could,” “predict,” “potential,” “believe,” “will likely result,” “expect,” “continue,” “will,” “anticipate,” “seek,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “goal,” “target,” “would” and “outlook,” or the negative variations of those words or other comparable words of a future or forward-looking nature. These forward-looking statements are not historical facts, and are based on current expectations, estimates, predictions or projections about events or the Company’s industry, management’s beliefs and certain assumptions made by management, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and beyond the Company’s control. Accordingly, the Company cautions you that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, assumptions and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date made, actual results may prove to be materially different from the results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and there can be no assurances that the Company will achieve the desired level of new business development and new loans, growth in the balance sheet and fee-based revenue lines of business, cost savings initiatives and continued reductions in risk assets or mitigation of losses in the future. Factors which could cause the actual results of the Company’s operations to differ materially from expectations include, but are not limited to: general economic conditions (including inflation and concerns about liquidity) on a national basis or in the local markets in which the Company operates; ineffectiveness of the Company’s strategic growth plan due to changes in current or future market conditions; changes in interest rates; the diversion of management’s attention from ongoing business operations and opportunities; the effects of competition and how it may impact our community banking model, including industry consolidation and development of competing financial products and services; changes in consumer behavior due to changing political, business and economic conditions, or legislative or regulatory initiatives; changes in laws and regulations; changes in credit quality; inability to raise capital, if necessary, under favorable conditions; volatility in the securities markets; the demand for our products and services; deteriorating economic conditions; geopolitical tensions; operational risks including, but not limited to, cybersecurity incidents, fraud, natural disasters and future pandemics; expenses associated with litigation and legal proceedings; the possibility that the anticipated benefits of the merger with Codorus (the “Merger”) are not realized when expected or at all; the possibility that the Merger may be more expensive to complete than anticipated; the possibility that revenues following the Merger may be lower than expected; potential adverse reactions or changes to business or employee relationships, including those resulting from the completion of the Merger; the ability to complete the integration of the two companies successfully; the dilution caused by the Company’s issuance of additional shares of its capital stock in connection with the Merger; and other risks and uncertainties, including those detailed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 under the sections titled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and in subsequent filings made with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. If one or more events related to these or other risks or uncertainties materializes, or if the Company’s underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual results may differ materially from what the Company anticipates. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and the Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. New risks and uncertainties arise from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict those events or how they may affect it. In addition, the Company cannot assess the impact of each factor on its business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements, expressed or implied, included in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. This cautionary statement should also be considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that the Company or persons acting on the Company’s behalf may issue.

    The review period for subsequent events extends up to and includes the filing date of a public company’s financial statements, when filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, the consolidated financial information presented in this announcement is subject to change. Annualized, pro forma, projected and estimated numbers in this document are used for illustrative purposes only and are not forecasts and may not reflect actual results.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Chris Kent goes ‘Offline’ for night of laughter at the Alley

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Chris Kent goes ‘Offline’ for night of laughter at the Alley

    31 January 2025

    Prepare for an evening of sharp wit and hilarious observations when comedian Chris Kent takes on the ultimate digital detox in his new stand-up show ‘Offline’, which comes to the Alley Theatre, Strabane on Saturday 15th February.

    At 40, Chris Kent wonders if it’s possible to reclaim a simpler time – before Google, before constant notifications, and before every question could be answered with a quick scroll. In ‘Offline’, he sets out to give up the internet entirely, navigating life without asking his phone what to eat, where to go, or how to get home. He longs for the days of playing Snake on his Nokia and constructing emojis manually. But can he really survive in a world without Wi-Fi? Join him on a journey of self-discovery and hilarity that could either make him or break him.

    Chris Kent, known for his appearances on The Late Late Show and RTE Radio 1, delivers a night of side-splitting comedy as he grapples with modern life, technology, and the ultimate challenge: thinking for himself.

    The Alley Theatre, one of the premier cultural venues in Strabane, offers an intimate and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect setting for an evening of comedy.

    Don’t miss this hilarious journey of digital detox and self-reflection! Get your tickets now and join Chris Kent as he goes ‘Offline’ at the Alley Theatre.

    Tickets are £20 available from the Alley Theatre website www.alley-theatre.com or call the Alley Theatre Box Office on 028 71 384444.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Phillips 66 Reports Fourth-Quarter Results and Announces Next Phase of Strategic Initiatives

    Source: Phillips

    Fourth Quarter
    Reported fourth-quarter earnings of $8 million or $0.01 per share; adjusted loss of $61 million or $0.15 per share
    Earnings impacted by $230 million pre-tax of accelerated depreciation related to Los Angeles Refinery
    Returned $1.1 billion to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases
    Record NGL fractionation and LPG export volumes in Midstream
    Record clean product yield in Refining
    Surpassed targeted $3 billion in announced asset dispositions
    Full-Year 2024
    Earnings of $2.1 billion or $4.99 per share and adjusted earnings of $2.6 billion or $6.15 per share
    $4.2 billion of operating cash flow, $4.8 billion excluding working capital
    $5.3 billion returned to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases
    Second consecutive year above industry-average crude utilization
    Achieved $1.5 billion in run-rate business transformation savings and $500 million in synergy capture from successful DCP integration

    HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX), a leading integrated downstream energy provider, announced fourth-quarter earnings.
    “During the fourth quarter, we achieved our strategic priority targets for shareholder distributions and asset dispositions,” said Mark Lashier, chairman and CEO. “We also delivered on our goal of improving Refining performance by continuing to run above industry-average crude utilization, setting record clean product yields and achieving our targeted cost reductions of $1 per barrel.
    “In support of our Midstream wellhead-to-market strategy, we recently announced an agreement to acquire EPIC’s NGL business, bolstering our Permian and Gulf Coast footprint,” said Lashier. “Upon closing, these assets will be accretive to earnings and highly integrated with our existing infrastructure, providing additional opportunities to enhance returns and shareholder value.”
    Lashier added, “Building on our successes, I am pleased to announce that we have set new financial and operational targets that prioritize debt reduction, a lowered cost structure and EBITDA growth. Supported by world-class operations, we are committed to returning over 50% of operating cash flow to shareholders.”
    On behalf of the Board of Directors, Glenn Tilton, lead independent director, remarked, “2024 was a pivotal year for Phillips 66. The team executed well on an ambitious set of strategic priorities, substantially improving the company’s competitiveness, and is well positioned to successfully deliver on a new set of targets through 2027.”
    Financial Results Summary (in millions of dollars, except as indicated)

     

     

    4Q 2024

    3Q 2024

    Earnings

    $

    8

    346

    Adjusted Earnings (Loss)1

     

    (61)

    859

    Adjusted EBITDA1

     

    1,130

    1,998

    Earnings (Loss) Per Share

     

     

    Earnings Per Share – Diluted

     

    0.01

    0.82

    Adjusted Earnings (Loss) Per Share – Diluted1

     

    (0.15)

    2.04

    Cash Flow From Operations

     

    1,198

    1,132

    Cash Flow From Operations, Excluding Working Capital1

     

    901

    1,513

    Capital Expenditures & Investments2

     

    506

    358

    Return of Capital to Shareholders

     

    1,119

    1,277

    Repurchases of common stock

     

    647

    800

    Dividends paid on common stock

     

    472

    477

    Cash

     

    1,738

    1,637

    Debt

     

    20,062

    19,998

    Debt-to-capital ratio

     

    41%

    40%

    Net debt-to-capital ratio1

     

    39%

    38%

    1Represents a non-GAAP financial measure. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measure are included within this release.

    2Excludes net acquisitions of $58 million and $567 million in the fourth and third quarters of 2024, respectively, and purchases of government obligations of $1.1 billion in the third quarter of 2024.

    Segment Financial and Operating Highlights (in millions of dollars, except as indicated)

     

     

    4Q 2024

    3Q 2024

    Change

     

    Earnings (Loss)1

    $

    8

    346

    (338)

    Midstream

     

    673

    644

    29

    Chemicals

     

    107

    342

    (235)

    Refining

     

    (775)

    (108)

    (667)

    Marketing and Specialties

     

    252

    (22)

    274

    Renewable Fuels

     

    28

    (116)

    144

    Corporate and Other

     

    (298)

    (327)

    29

    Income tax (expense) benefit

     

    38

    (44)

    82

    Noncontrolling interests

     

    (17)

    (23)

    6

     

     

     

     

    Adjusted Earnings (Loss)1,2

    $

    (61)

    859

    (920)

    Midstream

     

    708

    672

    36

    Chemicals

     

    72

    342

    (270)

    Refining

     

    (759)

    (67)

    (692)

    Marketing and Specialties

     

    185

    583

    (398)

    Renewable Fuels

     

    28

    (116)

    144

    Corporate and Other

     

    (294)

    (327)

    33

    Income tax (expense) benefit

     

    16

    (205)

    221

    Noncontrolling interests

     

    (17)

    (23)

    6

     

     

     

     

    Adjusted EBITDA2

    $

    1,130

    1,998

    (868)

    Midstream

     

    938

    892

    46

    Chemicals

     

    209

    466

    (257)

    Refining

     

    (298)

    188

    (486)

    Marketing and Specialties

     

    307

    656

    (349)

    Renewable Fuels

     

    50

    (92)

    142

    Corporate and Other

     

    (76)

    (112)

    36

     

     

     

     

    Operating Highlights

     

     

     

    Pipeline Throughput – Y-Grade to Market (MB/D)3

     

    759

    762

    (3)

    Chemicals Global O&P Capacity Utilization

     

    98%

    98%

    —%

    Refining

     

     

     

    Turnaround Expense

     

    123

    137

    (14)

    Realized Margin ($/BBL)2

     

    6.08

    8.31

    (2.23)

    Crude Capacity Utilization

     

    94%

    94%

    —%

    Clean Product Yield

     

    88%

    87%

    1%

    Renewable Fuels Produced (MB/D)

     

    42

    44

    (2)

    1Segment reporting is pre-tax.

     

     

     

    2Represents a non-GAAP financial measure. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measure are included within this release.

    3Represents volumes delivered to major fractionation hubs, including Mont Belvieu, Sweeny and Conway. Includes 100% of DCP Midstream Class A Segment and Phillips 66’s direct interest in DCP Sand Hills Pipeline, LLC and DCP Southern Hills Pipeline, LLC

    Fourth-Quarter 2024 Financial Results
    Reported earnings were $8 million for the fourth quarter of 2024 versus $346 million in the third quarter. Fourth-quarter earnings included pre-tax special item adjustments of $67 million in the Marketing and Specialties segment, $35 million in the Chemicals segment, $(35) million in the Midstream segment, $(16) million in the Refining segment, and $(4) million impacting the Corporate and Other segment. Adjusted losses for the fourth quarter were $61 million versus earnings of $859 million in the third quarter.
    Midstream fourth-quarter 2024 adjusted pre-tax income increased compared with the third quarter mainly due to higher NGL margins and volumes.
    Chemicals adjusted pre-tax income decreased mainly due to lower margins, as well as higher turnaround and maintenance costs.
    Refining adjusted pre-tax loss increased primarily due to a decline in realized margins largely driven by lower market crack spreads and accelerated depreciation associated with the planned ceasing of operations at the Los Angeles Refinery, partially offset by a higher clean product yield.
    Marketing and Specialties adjusted pre-tax income decreased primarily due to seasonally lower margins.
    Renewable Fuels pre-tax results increased primarily due to higher margins at the Rodeo Complex and stronger international results.
    Corporate and Other adjusted pre-tax loss decreased mainly due to lower net interest expense and employee-related costs, partially offset by depreciation expense.
    As of Dec. 31, 2024, the company had $1.7 billion of cash and cash equivalents and $4.6 billion of committed capacity available under credit facilities.
    Strategic Priorities Update
    Phillips 66 successfully delivered on its strategic priorities first announced in October 2022. The company remains committed to leveraging its integrated portfolio to enhance long-term shareholder value and is announcing its next phase of priorities through 2027. Highlights include:
    Delivering shareholder returns by returning greater than 50% of operating cash flow to shareholders;
    Executing world-class operations by achieving 2% higher than industry-average crude utilization and targeting annual adjusted controllable costs of $5.50 per barrel in Refining, excluding adjusted turnaround expense;
    Delivering disciplined growth and returns by growing Midstream and Chemicals mid-cycle adjusted EBITDA $1 billion in total by 2027; and
    Maintaining financial strength and flexibility by reducing total debt to $17 billion.
    Additional details will be covered in our investor webcast.
    Investor Webcast
    Members of Phillips 66 executive management will host a webcast at noon ET to provide an update on the company’s strategic initiatives and discuss the company’s fourth-quarter performance. To access the webcast and view related presentation materials, go to phillips66.com/investors and click on “Events & Presentations.” For detailed supplemental information, go to phillips66.com/supplemental.
    About Phillips 66
    Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX) is a leading integrated downstream energy provider that manufactures, transports and markets products that drive the global economy. The company’s portfolio includes Midstream, Chemicals, Refining, Marketing and Specialties, and Renewable Fuels businesses. Headquartered in Houston, Phillips 66 has employees around the globe who are committed to safely and reliably providing energy and improving lives while pursuing a lower-carbon future. For more information, visit phillips66.com or follow @Phillips66Co on LinkedIn.
    Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information —This news release includes the terms “adjusted earnings (loss),” “adjusted pre-tax income (loss),” “adjusted EBITDA,” “adjusted earnings (loss) per share,” “refining realized margin per barrel,” “cash from operations, excluding working capital,” and “net debt-to-capital ratio.” These are non-GAAP financial measures that are included to help facilitate comparisons of operating performance across periods and to help facilitate comparisons with other companies in our industry. Where applicable, these measures exclude items that do not reflect the core operating results of our businesses in the current period or other adjustments to reflect how management analyzes results. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP financial measure are included within this release.
    References in the release to earnings refer to net income attributable to Phillips 66. References to run-rate business transformation savings include cost savings and other benefits that will be captured in the sales and other operating revenues impacting gross margin; purchased crude oil and products costs impacting gross margin; operating expenses; selling, general and administrative expenses; and equity in earnings of affiliates lines on our consolidated statement of income when realized. Run-rate savings include run-rate sustaining capital savings. Run-rate sustaining capital savings include savings that will be captured in the capital expenditures and investments on our consolidated statement of cash flows when realized.
    Basis of Presentation — Effective April 1, 2024, we changed the internal financial information reviewed by our chief executive officer to evaluate performance and allocate resources to our operating segments. This included changes in the composition of our operating segments, as well as measurement changes for certain activities between our operating segments. The primary effects of this realignment included establishment of a Renewable Fuels operating segment, which includes renewable fuels activities and assets historically reported in our Refining, Marketing and Specialties (M&S), and Midstream segments; change in method of allocating results for certain Gulf Coast distillate export activities from our M&S segment to our Refining segment; reclassification of certain crude oil and international clean products trading activities between our M&S segment and our Refining segment; and change in reporting of our investment in NOVONIX from our Midstream segment to Corporate and Other. Accordingly, prior period results have been recast for comparability.
    In the third quarter of 2024, we began presenting the line item “Capital expenditures and investments” on our consolidated statement of cash flows exclusive of acquisitions, net of cash acquired. Accordingly, prior period information has been reclassified for comparability.
    Cautionary Statement for the Purposes of the “Safe Harbor” Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 —This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws relating to Phillips 66’s operations, strategy and performance. Words such as “anticipated,” “estimated,” “expected,” “planned,” “scheduled,” “targeted,” “believe,” “continue,” “intend,” “will,” “would,” “objective,” “goal,” “project,” “efforts,” “strategies” and similar expressions that convey the prospective nature of events or outcomes generally indicate forward-looking statements. However, the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements included in this news release are based on management’s expectations, estimates and projections as of the date they are made. These statements are not guarantees of future events or performance, and you should not unduly rely on them as they involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecast in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements include: changes in governmental policies or laws that relate to our operations, including regulations that seek to limit or restrict refining, marketing and midstream operations or regulate profits, pricing, or taxation of our products or feedstocks, or other regulations that restrict feedstock imports or product exports; our ability to timely obtain or maintain permits necessary for projects; fluctuations in NGL, crude oil, refined petroleum, renewable fuels and natural gas prices, and refining, marketing and petrochemical margins; the effects of any widespread public health crisis and its negative impact on commercial activity and demand for refined petroleum or renewable fuels products; changes to worldwide government policies relating to renewable fuels and greenhouse gas emissions that adversely affect programs including the renewable fuel standards program, low carbon fuel standards and tax credits for renewable fuels; potential liability from pending or future litigation; liability for remedial actions, including removal and reclamation obligations under existing or future environmental regulations; unexpected changes in costs for constructing, modifying or operating our facilities; our ability to successfully complete, or any material delay in the completion of, any asset disposition, acquisition, shutdown or conversion that we have announced or may pursue, including receipt of any necessary regulatory approvals or permits related thereto; unexpected difficulties in manufacturing, refining or transporting our products; the level and success of drilling and production volumes around our midstream assets; risks and uncertainties with respect to the actions of actual or potential competitive suppliers and transporters of refined petroleum products, renewable fuels or specialty products; lack of, or disruptions in, adequate and reliable transportation for our products; failure to complete construction of capital projects on time or within budget; our ability to comply with governmental regulations or make capital expenditures to maintain compliance with laws; limited access to capital or significantly higher cost of capital related to illiquidity or uncertainty in the domestic or international financial markets, which may also impact our ability to repurchase shares and declare and pay dividends; potential disruption of our operations due to accidents, weather events, including as a result of climate change, acts of terrorism or cyberattacks; general domestic and international economic and political developments, including armed hostilities (such as the Russia-Ukraine war), expropriation of assets, and other diplomatic developments; international monetary conditions and exchange controls; changes in estimates or projections used to assess fair value of intangible assets, goodwill and property and equipment and/or strategic decisions with respect to our asset portfolio that cause impairment charges; investments required, or reduced demand for products, as a result of environmental rules and regulations; changes in tax, environmental and other laws and regulations (including alternative energy mandates); political and societal concerns about climate change that could result in changes to our business or increase expenditures, including litigation-related expenses; the operation, financing and distribution decisions of equity affiliates we do not control; and other economic, business, competitive and/or regulatory factors affecting Phillips 66’s businesses generally as set forth in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Phillips 66 is under no obligation (and expressly disclaims any such obligation) to update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Earnings (Loss)

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Millions of Dollars

     

    2024

     

    2023

     

    4Q

    3Q

    Year

     

    4Q

    Year

    Midstream

    $

    673

     

    644

     

    2,638

     

     

    759

     

    2,819

     

    Chemicals

     

    107

     

    342

     

    876

     

     

    106

     

    600

     

    Refining

     

    (775

    )

    (108

    )

    (365

    )

     

    859

     

    5,340

     

    Marketing and Specialties

     

    252

     

    (22

    )

    1,011

     

     

    396

     

    1,897

     

    Renewable Fuels

     

    28

     

    (116

    )

    (198

    )

     

    (11

    )

    153

     

    Corporate and Other

     

    (298

    )

    (327

    )

    (1,287

    )

     

    (348

    )

    (1,340

    )

    Pre-Tax Income (Loss)

     

    (13

    )

    413

     

    2,675

     

     

    1,761

     

    9,469

     

    Less: Income tax expense (benefit)

     

    (38

    )

    44

     

    500

     

     

    476

     

    2,230

     

    Less: Noncontrolling interests

     

    17

     

    23

     

    58

     

     

    25

     

    224

     

    Phillips 66

    $

    8

     

    346

     

    2,117

     

     

    1,260

     

    7,015

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Adjusted Earnings (Loss)

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Millions of Dollars

     

    2024

     

    2023

     

    4Q

    3Q

    Year

     

    4Q

    Year

    Midstream

    $

    708

     

    672

     

    2,746

     

     

    757

     

    2,672

     

    Chemicals

     

    72

     

    342

     

    841

     

     

    106

     

    600

     

    Refining

     

    (759

    )

    (67

    )

    (211

    )

     

    842

     

    5,367

     

    Marketing and Specialties

     

    185

     

    583

     

    1,490

     

     

    396

     

    1,897

     

    Renewable Fuels

     

    28

     

    (116

    )

    (198

    )

     

    (11

    )

    153

     

    Corporate and Other

     

    (294

    )

    (327

    )

    (1,283

    )

     

    (298

    )

    (1,110

    )

    Pre-Tax Income (Loss)

     

    (60

    )

    1,087

     

    3,385

     

     

    1,792

     

    9,579

     

    Less: Income tax expense (benefit)

     

    (16

    )

    205

     

    693

     

     

    405

     

    2,173

     

    Less: Noncontrolling interests

     

    17

     

    23

     

    88

     

     

    25

     

    243

     

    Phillips 66

    $

    (61

    )

    859

     

    2,604

     

     

    1,362

     

    7,163

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Millions of Dollars

     

    Except as Indicated

     

    2024

     

    2023

     

    4Q

    3Q

    Year

     

    4Q

    Year

    Reconciliation of Consolidated Earnings to Adjusted Earnings (Loss)

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Consolidated Earnings

    $

    8

     

    346

     

    2,117

     

     

    1,260

     

    7,015

     

    Pre-tax adjustments:

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Certain tax impacts

     

    (9

    )

     

    (9

    )

     

    (19

    )

    (19

    )

    Impairments1

     

    35

     

    28

     

    450

     

     

     

     

    Net gain on asset dispositions2

     

    (67

    )

     

    (305

    )

     

     

    (123

    )

    Change in inventory method for acquired business

     

     

     

     

     

     

    (46

    )

    Winter-storm-related costs (recovery)

     

    (35

    )

     

    (35

    )

     

     

     

    Los Angeles Refinery cessation costs3

     

    7

     

    41

     

    48

     

     

     

     

    Legal accrual4

     

    22

     

    605

     

    627

     

     

     

    30

     

    Legal settlement

     

     

     

    (66

    )

     

     

     

    Business transformation restructuring costs

     

     

     

     

     

    50

     

    177

     

    Loss on early redemption of DCP debt

     

     

     

     

     

     

    53

     

    DCP integration restructuring costs

     

     

     

     

     

     

    38

     

    Tax impact of adjustments5

     

    9

     

    (161

    )

    (162

    )

     

    (12

    )

    (26

    )

    Other tax impacts

     

    (31

    )

     

    (31

    )

     

    83

     

    83

     

    Noncontrolling interests

     

     

     

    (30

    )

     

     

    (19

    )

    Adjusted earnings (loss)

    $

    (61

    )

    859

     

    2,604

     

     

    1,362

     

    7,163

     

    Earnings per share of common stock ( dollars )

    $

    0.01

     

    0.82

     

    4.99

     

     

    2.86

     

    15.48

     

    Adjusted earnings (loss) per share of common stock ( dollars )6

    $

    (0.15

    )

    2.04

     

    6.15

     

     

    3.09

     

    15.81

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Reconciliation of Segment Pre-Tax Income

     

     

     

     

     

     

    (Loss) to Adjusted Pre-Tax Income (Loss)

    Midstream Pre-Tax Income

    $

    673

     

    644

     

    2,638

     

     

    759

     

    2,819

     

    Pre-tax adjustments:

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Impairments1

     

    35

     

    28

     

    346

     

     

     

     

    Certain tax impacts

     

     

     

     

     

    (2

    )

    (2

    )

    Net gain on asset disposition

     

     

     

    (238

    )

     

     

    (137

    )

    Change in inventory method for acquired business

     

     

     

     

     

     

    (46

    )

    DCP integration restructuring costs

     

     

     

     

     

     

    38

     

    Adjusted pre-tax income

    $

    708

     

    672

     

    2,746

     

     

    757

     

    2,672

     

    Chemicals Pre-Tax Income

    $

    107

     

    342

     

    876

     

     

    106

     

    600

     

    Pre-tax adjustments:

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Winter-storm-related costs (recovery)

     

    (35

    )

     

    (35

    )

     

     

     

    Adjusted pre-tax income

    $

    72

     

    342

     

    841

     

     

    106

     

    600

     

    Refining Pre-Tax Income (Loss)

    $

    (775

    )

    (108

    )

    (365

    )

     

    859

     

    5,340

     

    Pre-tax adjustments:

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Impairments1

     

     

     

    104

     

     

     

     

    Los Angeles Refinery cessation costs3

     

    3

     

    41

     

    44

     

     

     

     

    Certain tax impacts

     

    (9

    )

     

    (9

    )

     

    (17

    )

    (17

    )

    Net loss on asset disposition

     

     

     

     

     

     

    14

     

    Legal accrual

     

    22

     

     

    22

     

     

     

    30

     

    Legal settlement

     

     

     

    (7

    )

     

     

     

    Adjusted pre-tax income (loss)

    $

    (759

    )

    (67

    )

    (211

    )

     

    842

     

    5,367

     

    Marketing and Specialties Pre-Tax Income (Loss)

    $

    252

     

    (22

    )

    1,011

     

     

    396

     

    1,897

     

    Pre-tax adjustments:

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Legal accrual4

     

     

    605

     

    605

     

     

     

     

    Net gain on asset disposition2

     

    (67

    )

     

    (67

    )

     

     

     

    Legal settlement

     

     

     

    (59

    )

     

     

     

    Adjusted pre-tax income

    $

    185

     

    583

     

    1,490

     

     

    396

     

    1,897

     

    Renewable Fuels Pre-Tax Income (Loss)

    $

    28

     

    (116

    )

    (198

    )

     

    (11

    )

    153

     

    Pre-tax adjustments:

     

     

     

     

     

     

    None

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Adjusted pre-tax income (loss)

    $

    28

     

    (116

    )

    (198

    )

     

    (11

    )

    153

     

    Corporate and Other Pre-Tax Loss

    $

    (298

    )

    (327

    )

    (1,287

    )

     

    (348

    )

    (1,340

    )

    Pre-tax adjustments:

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Business transformation restructuring costs

     

     

     

     

     

    50

     

    177

     

    Loss on early redemption of DCP debt

     

     

     

     

     

     

    53

     

    Los Angeles Refinery cessation costs3

     

    4

     

     

    4

     

     

     

     

    Adjusted pre-tax loss

    $

    (294

    )

    (327

    )

    (1,283

    )

     

    (298

    )

    (1,110

    )

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    1Impairments primarily related to certain gathering and processing assets in the Midstream segment, as well as certain crude oil processing and logistics assets in California, reported in the Refining segment.

    2In connection with the asset sale of our 49% non-operated equity interest in Coop Mineraloel AG closing early 2025, a before-tax unrealized gain was recognized from a foreign currency derivative in the Marketing & Specialties segment.

    3Cessation costs include pre-tax charges for severance costs.

    4Third-quarter legal accrual primarily related to ongoing litigation.

    5We generally tax effect taxable U.S.-based special items using a combined federal and state statutory income tax rate of approximately 24%. Taxable special items attributable to foreign locations likewise use a local statutory income tax rate. Nontaxable events reflect zero income tax. These events include, but are not limited to, most goodwill impairments, transactions legislatively exempt from income tax, transactions related to entities for which we have made an assertion that the undistributed earnings are permanently reinvested, or transactions occurring in jurisdictions with a valuation allowance.

    6YTD 2024, Q4 2024, Q3 2024 and Q4 2023 are based on adjusted weighted-average diluted shares of 422,538 thousand, 411,687 thousand, 419,827 thousand and 440,582 thousand, respectively. Other periods are based on the same weighted-average diluted shares outstanding as that used in the GAAP diluted earnings per share calculation. Income allocated to participating securities, if applicable, in the adjusted earnings per share calculation is the same as that used in the GAAP diluted earnings per share calculation.

     

    Millions of Dollars

     

    Except as Indicated

     

    2024

     

    4Q

    3Q

    Reconciliation of Consolidated Net Income to Adjusted EBITDA

     

     

    Net Income

    $

    25

     

    369

     

    Plus:

     

     

    Income tax expense

     

    (38

    )

    44

     

    Net interest expense

     

    168

     

    191

     

    Depreciation and amortization

     

    819

     

    543

     

    Phillips 66 EBITDA

    $

    974

     

    1,147

     

    Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax):

     

     

    Certain tax impacts

     

    (9

    )

     

    Impairments

     

    35

     

    28

     

    Winter-storm-related costs (recovery)

     

    (35

    )

     

    Net gain on asset disposition

     

    (67

    )

     

    Los Angeles Refinery cessation costs

     

    7

     

    41

     

    Legal accrual

     

    22

     

    605

     

    Total Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax)

     

    (47

    )

    674

     

    Change in Fair Value of NOVONIX Investment

     

    1

     

     

    Phillips 66 EBITDA, Adjusted for Special Items and Change in Fair Value of NOVONIX Investment

    $

    928

     

    1,821

     

    Other Adjustments (pre-tax):

     

     

    Proportional share of selected equity affiliates income taxes

     

    17

     

    24

     

    Proportional share of selected equity affiliates net interest

     

    14

     

    12

     

    Proportional share of selected equity affiliates depreciation and amortization

     

    209

     

    188

     

    Adjusted EBITDA attributable to noncontrolling interests

     

    (38

    )

    (47

    )

    Phillips 66 Adjusted EBITDA

    $

    1,130

     

    1,998

     

     

     

     

    Reconciliation of Segment Income before Income Taxes to Adjusted EBITDA

     

     

    Midstream Income before income taxes

    $

    673

     

    644

     

    Plus:

     

     

    Depreciation and amortization

     

    234

     

    233

     

    Midstream EBITDA

    $

    907

     

    877

     

    Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax):

     

     

    Impairments

     

    35

     

    28

     

    Midstream EBITDA, Adjusted for Special Items

    $

    942

     

    905

     

    Other Adjustments (pre-tax):

     

     

    Proportional share of selected equity affiliates income taxes

     

    3

     

    5

     

    Proportional share of selected equity affiliates net interest

     

    3

     

    3

     

    Proportional share of selected equity affiliates depreciation and amortization

     

    28

     

    26

     

    Adjusted EBITDA attributable to noncontrolling interests

     

    (38

    )

    (47

    )

    Midstream Adjusted EBITDA

    $

    938

     

    892

     

    Chemicals Income before income taxes

    $

    107

     

    342

     

    Plus:

     

     

    None

     

     

     

    Chemicals EBITDA

    $

    107

     

    342

     

    Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax):

     

     

    Winter-storm-related costs (recovery)

     

    (35

    )

     

    Chemicals EBITDA, Adjusted for Special Items

    $

    72

     

    342

     

    Other Adjustments (pre-tax):

     

     

    Proportional share of selected equity affiliates income taxes

     

    11

     

    13

     

    Proportional share of selected equity affiliates net interest

     

     

    (2

    )

    Proportional share of selected equity affiliates depreciation and amortization

     

    126

     

    113

     

    Chemicals Adjusted EBITDA

    $

    209

     

    466

     

    Refining Loss before income taxes

    $

    (775

    )

    (108

    )

    Plus:

     

     

    Depreciation and amortization

     

    435

     

    230

     

    Refining EBITDA

    $

    (340

    )

    122

     

    Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax):

     

     

    Certain tax impacts

     

    (9

    )

     

    Los Angeles Refinery cessation costs

     

    3

     

    41

     

    Legal accrual

     

    22

     

     

    Refining EBITDA, Adjusted for Special Items

    $

    (324

    )

    163

     

    Other Adjustments (pre-tax):

     

     

    Proportional share of selected equity affiliates income taxes

     

    (1

    )

    (1

    )

    Proportional share of selected equity affiliates net interest

     

     

    (1

    )

    Proportional share of selected equity affiliates depreciation and amortization

     

    27

     

    27

     

    Refining Adjusted EBITDA

    $

    (298

    )

    188

     

    Marketing and Specialties Income (loss) before income taxes

    $

    252

     

    (22

    )

    Plus:

     

     

    Depreciation and amortization

     

    79

     

    32

     

    Marketing and Specialties EBITDA

    $

    331

     

    10

     

    Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax):

     

     

    Legal accrual

     

     

    605

     

    Net gain on asset disposition

     

    (67

    )

     

    Marketing and Specialties EBITDA, Adjusted for Special Items

    $

    264

     

    615

     

    Other Adjustments (pre-tax):

     

     

    Proportional share of selected equity affiliates income taxes

     

    4

     

    7

     

    Proportional share of selected equity affiliates net interest

     

    11

     

    12

     

    Proportional share of selected equity affiliates depreciation and amortization

     

    28

     

    22

     

    Marketing and Specialties Adjusted EBITDA

    $

    307

     

    656

     

    Renewable Fuels Income (loss) before income taxes

    $

    28

     

    (116

    )

    Plus:

     

     

    Depreciation and amortization

     

    22

     

    24

     

    Renewable Fuels EBITDA

    $

    50

     

    (92

    )

    Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax):

     

     

    None

     

     

     

    Renewable Fuels EBITDA, Adjusted for Special Items

    $

    50

     

    (92

    )

    Corporate and Other Loss before income taxes

    $

    (298

    )

    (327

    )

    Plus:

     

     

    Net interest expense

     

    168

     

    191

     

    Depreciation and amortization

     

    49

     

    24

     

    Corporate and Other EBITDA

    $

    (81

    )

    (112

    )

    Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax):

     

     

    Los Angeles Refinery cessation costs

     

    4

     

     

    Total Special Item Adjustments (pre-tax)

     

    4

     

     

    Change in Fair Value of NOVONIX Investment

     

    1

     

     

    Corporate EBITDA, Adjusted for Special Items and Change in Fair Value of NOVONIX Investment

    $

    (76

    )

    (112

    )

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Millions of Dollars

     

    Except as Indicated

     

    December 31, 2024

    Debt-to-Capital Ratio

     

    Total Debt

    $

    20,062

     

    Total Equity

     

    28,463

     

    Debt-to-Capital Ratio

     

    41

    %

    Total Cash

     

    1,738

     

    Net Debt-to-Capital Ratio

     

    39

    %

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Millions of Dollars

     

    December 31, 2024

    Reconciliation of Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities to Operating Cash Flow, Excluding Working Capital

     

    Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities

    $

    1,198

     

    Less: Net Working Capital Changes

     

    297

     

    Operating Cash Flow, Excluding Working Capital

    $

    901

     

     

     

     

    Millions of Dollars

     

    Except as Indicated

     

    2024

     

    4Q

    3Q

    Reconciliation of Refining Loss Before Income Taxes to Realized Refining Margins

     

     

    Loss before income taxes

    $

    (775

    )

    (108

    )

    Plus:

     

     

    Taxes other than income taxes

     

    92

     

    100

     

    Depreciation, amortization and impairments

     

    436

     

    230

     

    Selling, general and administrative expenses

     

    60

     

    60

     

    Operating expenses

     

    968

     

    922

     

    Equity in earnings of affiliates

     

    79

     

    12

     

    Other segment expense, net

     

    58

     

    (4

    )

    Proportional share of refining gross margins contributed by equity affiliates

     

    132

     

    193

     

    Special items:

     

     

    Certain tax impacts

     

    (9

    )

     

    Realized refining margins

    $

    1,041

     

    1,405

     

    Total processed inputs ( thousands of barrels )

     

    147,880

     

    145,440

     

    Adjusted total processed inputs ( thousands of barrels )*

     

    171,031

     

    168,951

     

    Loss before income taxes ( dollars per barrel )**

    $

    (5.24

    )

    (0.74

    )

    Realized refining margins ( dollars per barrel )***

    $

    6.08

     

    8.31

     

    *Adjusted total processed inputs include our proportional share of processed inputs of an equity affiliate.

     

    **Income before income taxes divided by total processed inputs.

     

    ***Realized refining margins per barrel, as presented, are calculated using the underlying realized refining margin amounts, in dollars, divided by adjusted total processed inputs, in barrels. As such, recalculated per barrel amounts using the rounded margins and barrels presented may differ from the presented per barrel amounts.

    Source: Phillips 66

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI: Brookfield Business Partners Reports 2024 Year End Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BROOKFIELD, News, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brookfield Business Partners (NYSE: BBU, BBUC; TSX: BBU.UN, BBUC) announced today financial results for the year ended December 31, 2024.

    “Our business had another successful year in 2024. We generated over $2 billion from our capital recycling initiatives, acquired two market-leading operations and achieved solid financial results,” said Anuj Ranjan, CEO of Brookfield Business Partners. “The enhanced strength of our balance sheet and substantial liquidity provides us optionality to meaningfully advance our capital allocation priorities with a focus on increasing the intrinsic value of our business for our unitholders.”

           
      Three Months Ended
    December 31,
      Year Ended
    December 31,
    US$ millions (except per unit amounts), unaudited   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Net income (loss) attributable to Unitholders1 $ (438 )   $ 1,423     $ (109 )   $ 1,405  
    Net income (loss) per limited partnership unit2 $ (2.02 )   $ 6.57     $ (0.50 )   $ 6.49  
               
    Adjusted EBITDA3 $ 653     $ 608     $ 2,565     $ 2,491  
                                   

    Net loss attributable to Unitholders for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $109 million (loss of $0.50 per limited partnership unit) compared to net income of $1,405 million ($6.49 per limited partnership unit) in the prior year. Net loss attributable to Unitholders includes a one-time non-cash expense at our healthcare services operation, combined with provisions at our construction operation. Prior year included net gains primarily related to the sale of our nuclear technology services operation.

    Adjusted EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $2,565 million compared to $2,491 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, reflecting improved performance of operations and tax benefits recorded at our advanced energy storage operation. Prior year results included $308 million of contribution from operations which have been sold.

    Operational Update

    The following table presents Adjusted EBITDA by segment:

      Three Months Ended
    December 31,
      Year Ended
    December 31,
    US$ millions, unaudited   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Industrials $ 306     $ 222     $ 1,247     $ 855  
    Business Services   217       227       832       900  
    Infrastructure Services   160       184       606       853  
    Corporate and Other   (30 )     (25 )     (120 )     (117 )
    Adjusted EBITDA $ 653     $ 608     $ 2,565     $ 2,491  

    Our Industrials segment generated Adjusted EBITDA of $1,247 million in 2024, compared to $855 million in 2023. Current year results included $371 million of tax benefits at our advanced energy storage operation. Strong underlying performance at our advanced energy storage operation and growing contribution from water and wastewater services offset reduced performance at our engineered components manufacturing operation due to weak market conditions. Prior year results included contribution from disposed operations including our Canadian aggregates production operation which was sold in June 2024.

    Our Business Services segment generated Adjusted EBITDA of $832 million in 2024, compared to $900 million in 2023. Strong performance at our residential mortgage insurer was primarily offset by the impact of a cyber incident at our dealer software and technology services operation and reduced performance at our construction and healthcare services operations during the year. Prior year results included contribution from our road fuels operation which was sold in July 2024.

    Our Infrastructure Services segment generated Adjusted EBITDA of $606 million in 2024, compared to $853 million in 2023. Prior year results included $236 million of contribution from our nuclear technology services operation which was sold in November 2023. Current year results benefited from improved performance of offshore oil services, offset by reduced contribution at work access services.

    The following table presents Adjusted EFO4 by segment:

      Three Months Ended
    December 31,
      Year Ended
    December 31,
    US$ millions, unaudited   2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Adjusted EFO          
    Industrials $ 193     $ 115     $ 935     $ 492  
    Business Services   142       181       641       636  
    Infrastructure Services   78       1,790       287       2,070  
    Corporate and Other   (83 )     (77 )     (331 )     (335 )

    Adjusted EFO for the year ended December 31, 2024 included $306 million in net gains primarily related to the dispositions of our road fuels operation and Canadian aggregates production operation, the sale of public securities and the deconsolidation of our payment processing services operation. Infrastructure Services Adjusted EFO reflected the impact of the prior year disposition of our nuclear technology services operation. Prior year results included $2,006 million in after-tax net gains primarily related to the sale of our nuclear technology services operation.

    Strategic Initiatives

    • Advanced Energy Storage Operation
      In January, our advanced energy storage operation raised $5 billion of new first lien debt – $4.5 billion of the proceeds are not required in the business and therefore were used to fund a special distribution to owners, of which Brookfield Business Partners’ share was approximately $1.2 billion. This represented a multiple of 1.5x of our initial equity investment and we still own our entire share of the business.
    • Offshore Oil Services
      In January, we completed the previously announced sale of our offshore oil services’ shuttle tanker operation. Cash proceeds to Brookfield Business Partners for the sale of its interest after the repayment of debt are expected to be approximately $250 million.
    • Unit Repurchase Program and Capital Deployment
      We are allocating up to $250 million of capital to accelerate the repurchase of Brookfield Business Partners’ securities under our existing and future normal course issuer bids (NCIB).

      In January, we completed the acquisition of Chemelex, a leading manufacturer of electric heat tracing systems, through a carve-out from a larger industrial company for total enterprise value of $1.7 billion. Brookfield Business Partners invested $212 million for an approximate 25% economic interest in the business, with the balance funded by institutional partners.

    Liquidity

    We ended the year with approximately $1.3 billion of liquidity at the corporate level including $91 million of cash and liquid securities, $25 million of remaining preferred equity commitment from Brookfield Corporation and $1.2 billion of availability on our corporate credit facilities. Pro forma for announced and recently closed transactions, corporate liquidity is $2.7 billion.

    Distribution

    The Board of Directors has declared a quarterly distribution in the amount of $0.0625 per unit, payable on March 31, 2025 to unitholders of record as at the close of business on February 28, 2025.

    Additional Information

    The Board has reviewed and approved this news release, including the summarized unaudited consolidated financial statements contained herein.

    Brookfield Business Partners’ Letter to Unitholders and the Supplemental Information are available on our website https://bbu.brookfield.com under Reports & Filings.

       
    Notes:  
    1 Attributable to limited partnership unitholders, general partnership unitholders, redemption-exchange unitholders, special limited partnership unitholders and BBUC exchangeable shareholders.
    2 Net income (loss) per limited partnership unit calculated as net income (loss) attributable to limited partners divided by the average number of limited partnership units outstanding for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2024 which were 74.3 million and 74.3 million, respectively (December 31, 2023: 74.3 million and 74.5 million, respectively).
    3 Adjusted EBITDA is a non-IFRS measure of operating performance presented as net income and equity accounted income at the partnership’s economic ownership interest in consolidated subsidiaries and equity accounted investments, respectively, excluding the impact of interest income (expense), net, income taxes, depreciation and amortization expense, gains (losses) on acquisitions/dispositions, net, transaction costs, restructuring charges, revaluation gains or losses, impairment expenses or reversals, other income or expenses, and preferred equity distributions. The partnership’s economic ownership interest in consolidated subsidiaries and equity accounted investments excludes amounts attributable to non-controlling interests consistent with how the partnership determines net income attributable to non-controlling interests in its IFRS consolidated statements of operating results. The partnership believes that Adjusted EBITDA provides a comprehensive understanding of the ability of its businesses to generate recurring earnings which allows users to better understand and evaluate the underlying financial performance of the partnership’s operations and excludes items that the partnership believes do not directly relate to revenue earning activities and are not normal, recurring items necessary for business operations. Please refer to the reconciliation of net income (loss) to Adjusted EBITDA included elsewhere in this news release.
    4 Adjusted EFO is the partnership’s segment measure of profit or loss and is presented as net income and equity accounted income at the partnership’s economic ownership interest in consolidated subsidiaries and equity accounted investments, respectively, excluding the impact of depreciation and amortization expense, deferred income taxes, transaction costs, restructuring charges, unrealized revaluation gains or losses, impairment expenses or reversals and other income or expense items that are not directly related to revenue generating activities. The partnership’s economic ownership interest in consolidated subsidiaries excludes amounts attributable to non-controlling interests consistent with how the partnership determines net income attributable to non-controlling interests in its IFRS consolidated statements of operating results. In order to provide additional insight regarding the partnership’s operating performance over the lifecycle of an investment, Adjusted EFO includes the impact of preferred equity distributions and realized disposition gains or losses recorded in net income, other comprehensive income, or directly in equity, such as ownership changes. Adjusted EFO does not include legal and other provisions that may occur from time to time in the partnership’s operations and that are one-time or non-recurring and not directly tied to the partnership’s operations, such as those for litigation or contingencies. Adjusted EFO includes expected credit losses and bad debt allowances recorded in the normal course of the partnership’s operations. Adjusted EFO allows the partnership to evaluate its segments on the basis of return on invested capital generated by its operations and allows the partnership to evaluate the performance of its segments on a levered basis.
       

    Brookfield Business Partners is a global business services and industrials company focused on owning and operating high-quality businesses that provide essential products and services and benefit from a strong competitive position. Investors have flexibility to invest in our company either through Brookfield Business Partners L.P. (NYSE: BBU; TSX: BBU.UN), a limited partnership or Brookfield Business Corporation (NYSE, TSX: BBUC), a corporation. For more information, please visit https://bbu.brookfield.com.

    Brookfield Business Partners is the flagship listed vehicle of Brookfield Asset Management’s Private Equity Group. Brookfield Asset Management is a leading global alternative asset manager with over $1 trillion of assets under management.

    Please note that Brookfield Business Partners’ previous audited annual and unaudited quarterly reports have been filed on SEDAR+ and EDGAR and are available at https://bbu.brookfield.com under Reports & Filings. Hard copies of the annual and quarterly reports can be obtained free of charge upon request.

    For more information, please contact:

    Conference Call and 2024 Earnings Webcast Details

    Investors, analysts and other interested parties can access Brookfield Business Partners’ 2024 results as well as the Letter to Unitholders and Supplemental Information on our website https://bbu.brookfield.com under Reports & Filings.

    The results call can be accessed via webcast on January 31, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time at BBU2024Q4Webcast or participants can pre-register at BBU2024Q4ConferenceCall. Upon registering, participants will be emailed a dial-in number and unique PIN. A replay of the webcast will be available at https://bbu.brookfield.com.

     
    Brookfield Business Partners L.P.
    Consolidated Statements of Financial Position
     
      As at
    US$ millions, unaudited December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
                         
    Assets                    
    Cash and cash equivalents         $ 3,239             $ 3,252  
    Financial assets           12,371               13,176  
    Accounts and other receivable, net           6,279               6,563  
    Inventory and other assets           5,728               5,321  
    Property, plant and equipment           13,232               15,724  
    Deferred income tax assets           1,744               1,220  
    Intangible assets           18,317               20,846  
    Equity accounted investments           2,325               2,154  
    Goodwill           12,239               14,129  
    Total Assets         $ 75,474             $ 82,385  
                         
    Liabilities and Equity                    
    Liabilities                    
    Corporate borrowings         $ 2,142             $ 1,440  
    Accounts payable and other           16,691               18,378  
    Non-recourse borrowings in subsidiaries of Brookfield Business Partners           36,720               40,809  
    Deferred income tax liabilities           2,613               3,226  
                         
    Equity                    
    Limited partners $ 1,752         $ 1,909    
    Non-controlling interests attributable to:          
    Redemption-exchange units   1,644           1,792    
    Special limited partner                
    BBUC exchangeable shares   1,721           1,875    
    Preferred securities   740           740    
    Interest of others in operating subsidiaries   11,451           12,216    
          17,308           18,532  
    Total Liabilities and Equity   $ 75,474         $ 82,385  
     
    Brookfield Business Partners L.P.
    Consolidated Statements of Operating Results
     
    US$ millions, unaudited Three Months Ended
    December 31,
      Year Ended
    December 31,
      2024       2023       2024       2023  
               
    Revenues $ 7,427     $ 13,405     $ 40,620     $ 55,068  
    Direct operating costs   (6,008 )     (12,209 )     (34,883 )     (50,021 )
    General and administrative expenses   (324 )     (336 )     (1,267 )     (1,538 )
    Interest income (expense), net   (752 )     (858 )     (3,104 )     (3,596 )
    Equity accounted income (loss), net   35       48       90       132  
    Impairment reversal (expense), net   (991 )     (780 )     (981 )     (831 )
    Gain (loss) on acquisitions/dispositions, net         4,477       692       4,686  
    Other income (expense), net   (360 )     (344 )     (573 )     (178 )
    Income (loss) before income tax   (973 )     3,403       594       3,722  
    Income tax (expense) recovery          
    Current   (158 )     (171 )     (646 )     (775 )
    Deferred   23       252       947       830  
    Net income (loss) $ (1,108 )   $ 3,484     $ 895     $ 3,777  
    Attributable to:          
    Limited partners $ (150 )   $ 488     $ (37 )   $ 482  
    Non-controlling interests attributable to:          
    Redemption-exchange units   (141 )     457       (35 )     451  
    Special limited partner                      
    BBUC exchangeable shares   (147 )     478       (37 )     472  
    Preferred securities   13       17       52       83  
    Interest of others in operating subsidiaries   (683 )     2,044       952       2,289  
     
    Brookfield Business Partners L.P.
    Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Measures
     
    US$ millions, unaudited  Three Months Ended December 31, 2024
        Business Services       Infrastructure Services       Industrials       Corporate and Other       Total  
                         
    Net income (loss)   $ (955 )   $ (72 )   $ (31 )   $ (50 )   $ (1,108 )
                         
    Add or subtract the following:                    
    Depreciation and amortization expense     223       228       328             779  
    Impairment reversal (expense), net     690       1       300             991  
    Gain (loss) on acquisitions/dispositions, net                              
    Other income (expense), net1     312       4       47       (3 )     360  
    Income tax (expense) recovery     28       9       115       (17 )     135  
    Equity accounted income (loss), net     (4 )     (12 )     (19 )           (35 )
    Interest income (expense), net     233       166       313       40       752  
    Equity accounted Adjusted EBITDA2     25       47       17             89  
    Amounts attributable to non-controlling interests3     (335 )     (211 )     (764 )           (1,310 )
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 217     $ 160     $ 306     $ (30 )   $ 653  
     Notes:  
     1 Other income (expense), net corresponds to amounts that are not directly related to revenue earning activities and are not normal, recurring income or expenses necessary for business operations. The components of other income (expense), net include $407 million related to a provision for payment of a litigation settlement at our dealer software and technology services operation, $116 million of net gains on the sale of property, plant and equipment and other assets, $57 million related to provisions recorded at our construction operation, $52 million of business separation expenses, stand-up costs and restructuring charges, $27 million of net gains on debt modification and extinguishment, $16 million of net revaluation gains and $3 million in transaction costs.
     2 Equity accounted Adjusted EBITDA corresponds to the Adjusted EBITDA attributable to the partnership that is generated by its investments in associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method.
     3 Amounts attributable to non-controlling interests are calculated based on the economic ownership interests held by the non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries.
     
    Brookfield Business Partners L.P.
    Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Measures
         
    US$ millions, unaudited Year Ended December 31, 2024
        Business Services       Infrastructure Services       Industrials       Corporate and Other       Total  
                         
    Net income (loss)   $ (169 )   $ (347 )   $ 1,654     $ (243 )   $ 895  
                         
    Add or subtract the following:                    
    Depreciation and amortization expense     961       888       1,355             3,204  
    Impairment reversal (expense), net     686       (11 )     306             981  
    Gain (loss) on acquisitions/dispositions, net     (608 )           (84 )           (692 )
    Other income (expense), net1     365       32       164       12       573  
    Income tax (expense) recovery     75       6       (341 )     (41 )     (301 )
    Equity accounted income (loss), net     (4 )     (23 )     (63 )           (90 )
    Interest income (expense), net     972       701       1,279       152       3,104  
    Equity accounted Adjusted EBITDA2     79       168       61             308  
    Amounts attributable to non-controlling interests3     (1,525 )     (808 )     (3,084 )           (5,417 )
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 832     $ 606     $ 1,247     $ (120 )   $ 2,565  
    Notes:  
    1 Other income (expense), net corresponds to amounts that are not directly related to revenue earning activities and are not normal, recurring income or expenses necessary for business operations. The components of other income (expense), net include $407 million related to a provision for payment of a litigation settlement at our dealer software and technology services operation, $251 million related to provisions recorded at our construction operation, $168 million of net revaluation gains, $158 million of business separation expenses, stand-up costs and restructuring charges, $108 million of net gains on the sale of property, plant and equipment and other assets, $52 million of net gains on debt modification and extinguishment, $50 million of other income related to a distribution at our entertainment operation, $35 million in transaction costs and $100 million of other expenses.
    2 Equity accounted Adjusted EBITDA corresponds to the Adjusted EBITDA attributable to the partnership that is generated by its investments in associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method.
    3 Adjusted EBITDA that is attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries.
     
    Brookfield Business Partners L.P.
    Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Measures
     
    US$ millions, unaudited Three Months Ended December 31, 2023
        Business Services       Infrastructure Services       Industrials       Corporate and Other       Total  
                         
    Net income (loss)   $ 51     $ 3,744     $ (264 )   $ (47 )   $ 3,484  
                         
    Add or subtract the following:                    
    Depreciation and amortization expense     287       257       347             891  
    Impairment reversal (expense), net     650       33       97             780  
    Gain (loss) on acquisitions/dispositions, net     (566 )     (3,902 )     (9 )           (4,477 )
    Other income (expense), net1     (24 )     46       317       5       344  
    Income tax (expense) recovery     18       (10 )     (68 )     (21 )     (81 )
    Equity accounted income (loss), net     (6 )     (22 )     (20 )           (48 )
    Interest income (expense), net     259       225       336       38       858  
    Equity accounted Adjusted EBITDA2     17       51       17             85  
    Amounts attributable to non-controlling interests3     (459 )     (238 )     (531 )           (1,228 )
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 227     $ 184     $ 222     $ (25 )   $ 608  
    Notes:  
    1 Other income (expense), net corresponds to amounts that are not directly related to revenue earning activities and are not normal, recurring income or expenses necessary for business operations. The components of other income (expense), net include $247 million loss related to the reclassification of our graphite electrode operations as a financial asset, $96 million of net gains on debt extinguishment/modifications, $80 million of business separation expenses, stand-up costs and restructuring charges, $37 million in transaction costs and $76 million of other expenses.
    2 Equity accounted Adjusted EBITDA corresponds to the Adjusted EBITDA attributable to the partnership that is generated by its investments in associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method.
    3 Adjusted EBITDA that is attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries.
     
    Brookfield Business Partners L.P.
    Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Measures
     
    US$ millions, unaudited Year Ended December 31, 2023
        Business Services       Infrastructure Services       Industrials       Corporate and Other       Total  
                         
    Net income (loss)   $ 602     $ 3,616     $ (245 )   $ (196 )   $ 3,777  
                         
    Add or subtract the following:                    
    Depreciation and amortization expense     1,045       1,174       1,373             3,592  
    Impairment reversal (expense), net     656       (13 )     188             831  
    Gain (loss) on acquisitions/dispositions, net     (720 )     (3,916 )     (50 )           (4,686 )
    Other income (expense), net1     (138 )     (90 )     396       10       178  
    Income tax (expense) recovery     245       (6 )     (218 )     (76 )     (55 )
    Equity accounted income (loss), net     (25 )     (51 )     (56 )           (132 )
    Interest income (expense), net     1,031       1,051       1,369       145       3,596  
    Equity accounted Adjusted EBITDA2     61       183       63             307  
    Amounts attributable to non-controlling interests3     (1,857 )     (1,095 )     (1,965 )           (4,917 )
    Adjusted EBITDA   $ 900     $ 853     $ 855     $ (117 )   $ 2,491  
    Notes:  
    1 Other income (expense), net corresponds to amounts that are not directly related to revenue earning activities and are not normal, recurring income or expenses necessary for business operations. The components of other income (expense), net include $446 million of net gains on debt modification and extinguishment, $247 million loss related to the reclassification of our graphite electrode operations as a financial asset, $246 million of business separation expenses, stand-up costs and restructuring charges, $116 million in transaction costs, $93 million of net revaluation gains and $108 million of other expenses.
    2 Equity accounted Adjusted EBITDA corresponds to the Adjusted EBITDA attributable to the partnership that is generated by its investments in associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method.
    3 Adjusted EBITDA that is attributable to non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiaries.
       

    Brookfield Business Corporation Reports 2024 Year End Results

    Brookfield, News, January 31, 2025 – Brookfield Business Corporation (NYSE, TSX: BBUC) announced today its net income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2024.

      Three Months Ended
    December 31,
      Year Ended
    December 31,
    US$ millions, unaudited   2024       2023       2024       2023  
               
    Net income (loss) attributable to Brookfield Business Partners $ (396 )   $ 454     $ (888 )   $ 519  

    Net loss attributable to Brookfield Business Partners for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $888 million compared to net income of $519 million in 2023 which included net gains primarily related to the sale of our nuclear technology services operation. Current year results included $208 million of remeasurement loss on our exchangeable and class B shares that are classified as liabilities under IFRS. As at December 31, 2024, the exchangeable and class B shares were remeasured to reflect the closing price of $23.42 per unit.

    Dividend

    The Board of Directors has declared a quarterly dividend in the amount of $0.0625 per share, payable on March 31, 2025 to shareholders of record as at the close of business on February 28, 2025.

    Additional Information

    Each exchangeable share of Brookfield Business Corporation has been structured with the intention of providing an economic return equivalent to one unit of Brookfield Business Partners L.P. Each exchangeable share will be exchangeable at the option of the holder for one unit. Brookfield Business Corporation will target that dividends on its exchangeable shares will be declared and paid at the same time as distributions are declared and paid on the Brookfield Business Partners’ units and that dividends on each exchangeable share will be declared and paid in the same amount as distributions are declared and paid on each unit to provide holders of exchangeable shares with an economic return equivalent to holders of units.

    In addition to carefully considering the disclosures made in this news release in its entirety, shareholders are strongly encouraged to carefully review the Letter to Unitholders, Supplemental Information and other continuous disclosure filings which are available at https://bbu.brookfield.com.

    Please note that Brookfield Business Corporation’s previous audited annual and unaudited quarterly reports have been filed on SEDAR+ and EDGAR and are available at https://bbu.brookfield.com/bbuc under Reports & Filings. Hard copies of the annual and quarterly reports can be obtained free of charge upon request.

     
    Brookfield Business Corporation
    Consolidated Statements of Financial Position
     
      As at
    US$ millions, unaudited December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
                           
    Assets                      
    Cash and cash equivalents         $ 1,008             $ 772  
    Financial assets           353               224  
    Accounts and other receivable, net           3,229               3,569  
    Inventory, net           52               61  
    Other assets           627               737  
    Property, plant and equipment           2,480               2,743  
    Deferred income tax assets           197               221  
    Intangible assets           5,966               6,931  
    Equity accounted investments           198               222  
    Goodwill           4,988               5,702  
    Total Assets         $ 19,098             $ 21,182  
                           
    Liabilities and Equity                      
    Liabilities                      
    Accounts payable and other         $ 5,276             $ 4,818  
    Non-recourse borrowings in subsidiaries of Brookfield Business Corporation           8,490               8,823  
    Exchangeable and class B shares           1,709               1,501  
    Deferred income tax liabilities           988               1,280  
                           
    Equity                      
    Brookfield Business Partners $ (59 )       $ 880      
    Non-controlling interests   2,694           3,880      
          2,635         4,760  
    Total Liabilities and Equity   $ 19,098       $ 21,182  
     
    Brookfield Business Corporation
    Consolidated Statements of Operating Results
     
    US$ millions, unaudited Three Months Ended
    December 31,
      Year Ended
    December 31,
      2024       2023       2024       2023  
    Continuing operations          
    Revenues $ 2,209     $ 1,946     $ 8,208     $ 7,683  
    Direct operating costs   (2,041 )     (1,749 )     (7,568 )     (6,794 )
    General and administrative expenses   (107 )     (78 )     (326 )     (268 )
    Interest income (expense), net   (212 )     (206 )     (832 )     (878 )
    Equity accounted income (loss), net   2       2       8       3  
    Impairment reversal (expense), net   (689 )     (599 )     (691 )     (606 )
    Gain (loss) on acquisitions/dispositions, net                     87  
    Remeasurement of exchangeable and class B shares   (9 )     (392 )     (208 )     (264 )
    Other income (expense), net   (469 )     44       (666 )     126  
    Income (loss) before income tax from continuing operations   (1,316 )     (1,032 )     (2,075 )     (911 )
    Income tax (expense) recovery          
    Current   (8 )     (5 )     (50 )     (167 )
    Deferred   42       1       198       95  
    Net income (loss) from continuing operations $ (1,282 )   $ (1,036 )   $ (1,927 )   $ (983 )
    Discontinued operations          
    Net income (loss) from discontinued operations         3,885             3,812  
    Net income (loss) $ (1,282 )   $ 2,849     $ (1,927 )   $ 2,829  
    Attributable to:          
    Brookfield Business Partners $ (396 )   $ 454     $ (888 )   $ 519  
    Non-controlling interests   (886 )     2,395       (1,039 )     2,310  


    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-looking Statements and Information

    Note: This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian provincial securities laws and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws. Forward-looking statements include statements that are predictive in nature, depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, include statements regarding the operations, business, financial condition, expected financial results, performance, prospects, opportunities, priorities, targets, goals, ongoing objectives, strategies and outlook of Brookfield Business Partners, as well as regarding recently completed and proposed acquisitions, dispositions, and other transactions, and the outlook for North American and international economies for the current fiscal year and subsequent periods, and include words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “believes”, “estimates”, “seeks”, “intends”, “targets”, “projects”, “forecasts”, “views”, “potential”, “likely” or negative versions thereof and other similar expressions, or future or conditional verbs such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “would” and “could”.

    Although we believe that our anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and information are based upon reasonable assumptions and expectations, investors and other readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond our control, which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Brookfield Business Partners to differ materially from anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and information. These beliefs, assumptions and expectations can change as a result of many possible events or factors, not all of which are known to us or are within our control. If a change occurs, our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations and our plans and strategies may vary materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements and forward-looking information herein.

    Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: the cyclical nature of our operating businesses and general economic conditions and risks relating to the economy, including unfavorable changes in interest rates, foreign exchange rates, inflation and volatility in the financial markets; global equity and capital markets and the availability of equity and debt financing and refinancing within these markets; strategic actions including our ability to complete dispositions and achieve the anticipated benefits therefrom; the ability to complete and effectively integrate acquisitions into existing operations and the ability to attain expected benefits; changes in accounting policies and methods used to report financial condition (including uncertainties associated with critical accounting assumptions and estimates); the ability to appropriately manage human capital; the effect of applying future accounting changes; business competition; operational and reputational risks; technological change; changes in government regulation and legislation within the countries in which we operate; changes to U.S. laws or policies, including changes in U.S. domestic economic policies and foreign trade policies and tariffs; governmental investigations; litigation; changes in tax laws; ability to collect amounts owed; catastrophic events, such as earthquakes, hurricanes and pandemics/epidemics; cybersecurity incidents; the possible impact of international conflicts, wars and related developments including terrorist acts and cyber terrorism; and other risks and factors detailed from time to time in our documents filed with the securities regulators in Canada and the United States including those set forth in the “Risk Factors” section in our annual report for the year ended December 31, 2024 to be filed on Form 20-F.

    Statements relating to “reserves” are deemed to be forward-looking statements as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, that the reserves described herein can be profitably produced in the future. We qualify any and all of our forward-looking statements by these cautionary factors.

    We caution that the foregoing list of important factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When relying on our forward-looking statements and information, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether written or oral, that may be as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding the Use of a Non-IFRS Measure

    This news release contains references to a Non-IFRS measure. Adjusted EBITDA is not a generally accepted accounting measure under IFRS and therefore may differ from definitions used by other entities. We believe this is a useful supplemental measure that may assist investors in assessing the financial performance of Brookfield Business Partners and its subsidiaries. However, Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered in isolation from, or as a substitute for, analysis of our financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS.

    References to Brookfield Business Partners are to Brookfield Business Partners L.P. together with its subsidiaries, controlled affiliates and operating entities. Unitholders’ results include limited partnership units, redemption-exchange units, general partnership units, BBUC exchangeable shares and special limited partnership units. More detailed information on certain references made in this news release will be available in our Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in our annual report for the year ended December 31, 2024 to be filed on Form 20-F.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Environment Secretary announces Land Use Framework

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Steve Reed sets out how the most sophisticated land use data ever published will support decision-making by local government, landowners, businesses and farmers

    Thanks to Tim for the introduction, and to the Royal Geographical Society for hosting us here today.

    I want to start by celebrating the work of the late Sir Dudley Stamp, President of the Royal Geographical Society from 1963 – 1966.

    In the 1930s, Sir Dudley carried out the Land Utilisation Survey of Great Britain, the first-of-its-kind nation-wide survey of how land was then being used in our country.

    He recruited the help of thousands of schoolchildren and their teachers, who embarked on a trip right around Britain to map mountains, rivers, fields, back gardens, forests, covering every piece of land across the country.

    You can see examples of these maps can be found in this room today.

    Across the survey, some maps were clearly done quickly as a pupil ran out of time, or perhaps even lost interest, others are coloured meticulously with additional notes and labels for good measure.

    Yet, whether they were rushed or done in painstaking detail, Sir Dudley’s maps are invaluable, providing a comprehensive record of how land was being used across England, Wales and Scotland.

    These maps were quickly put to use with the dawn of the Second World War, used by the local War Agricultural Committees to identify land that could maximise food production.

    Sir Dudley’s maps are a snapshot in history – a fascinating insight into how the countryside has changed over time.

    But the story of our land goes much deeper even than that.

    Our landscape embodies our lives, our culture, our celebrations, and our tragedies.

    How it looks has changed as our population has grown and shrunk, through wars, in times of disease and hardship, through changing industries and shifting habits. The stories of our ancestors are embedded in the rich heritage of our land.

    In the woodlands of the New Forest where, in 1697, trees were protected by law to supply timber for the Royal Navy’s growing fleet.

    In the ridges and furrows in our fields, and the stone walls of enclosures, that give a glimpse into the lives of millions of farmers who’ve worked our land for tens of thousands of years.

    In the parkland designed by ‘Capability’ Brown across England’s glorious Georgian Estates, visited by millions of us to this day.

    Our landscape reflects generations of innovators.

    In the emergence of new terraced houses in the industrial towns of Lancashire and West Yorkshire, remnants of the late 18th century textile revolution.

    In the creation of our transport system, from canals to the railways through the 19th century, to the opening of England’s first motorway in 1958.

    From the world’s first public electricity supply in Surrey in 1851, to the UK producing its trillionth kilowatt hour of electricity from renewable sources in May 2023.

    It’s the fabric of Stevenage and Harlow, created under the New Towns Act of 1946 to meet the urgent need for housing in the post war years, and in the opening of our National Parks during that same period, representing the desire of a nation to get out and enjoy the great outdoors.

    It tells the story of farmers who have changed how they farm time and again to grow the food we need and steward our countryside, embracing mechanisation in the 20th century, automation in more recent decades, and the nature-friendly practices we’re seeing emerge today.

    Wherever you are in England, the history of our landscape is ever present. The distinctive features that make up the nation we know and love are never far away.

    Two hours from the room we’re all in right now, I could be at Stonehenge. Go the other way, I’m in the Norfolk Broads or on the beach at Margate. I can easily get to the canals of Birmingham, the uplands of the Yorkshire Dales or the sparkling white cliffs of Dover.

    This is one of England’s greatest joys. But also one of its challenges. Because England’s land area is small. To put it in perspective, France is four times bigger than England but our population is around the same.

    And there are more demands and more opportunities on our land than ever before.

    To grow the economy and deliver the change that this Government was elected to do, we must make the best use of the land around us. But we need better data and tools to inform decision making. 

    So we can grow the food to feed the nation. Build 1.5 million new homes to address the housing crisis. Construct the energy infrastructure to secure home-grown clean power. And, underpinning all these ambitions, protect and restore nature here in one of the most nature-depleted countries on Earth. 

    In the years since Sir Dudley’s work, we’ve seen subsequent land use surveys, and advances in spatial data science and earth observation means we have detailed land analysis at our fingertips, including that used by Tim in Land App, to help people plan how we use our land better.

    But, until now, there has been no clear direction set by Government on how our land could best be used across England. How to support those who make decisions about the land. How to minimise trade-offs and maximise its potential.

    Today, following Sir Dudley’s groundbreaking survey almost 100 years ago, I’m asking for your help to shape the first-ever comprehensive Land Use Framework for England.

    This will be the most sophisticated land use data and toolkit ever published in our country’s history.

    This Government has a cast-iron commitment to maintain long-term food security.

    The primary purpose of farming will always be to produce the food that feeds the nation.

    This framework will give decision makers the toolkit they need to protect our highest quality agricultural land, and make decisions about the long term future of farm businesses.

    Farming faces a rapidly changing climate. More severe flooding and droughts are damaging food production, hitting yields and hitting profits. At the same time our natural environment is in decline. Much-loved British birds and wildlife are at risk of national extinction.

    Our rivers, lakes and seas are choked by unacceptable levels of pollution.

    Some of our most treasured landscapes are in a very poor condition.

    This is the scale of the challenge we face.  And we must do more to restore our natural world while maintaining and strengthening food production. 

    That is why the Government must go further and faster to support farmers through the transition to a more sustainable way of farming.

    But there’s good news too.  That transition is already underway. Embracing innovation that will boost long-term food production. Restoring habitats and supporting once-endangered species. Doing things like planting orchards alongside cropland, or restoring and maintaining peatland.

    I know from conversations with farmers and landowners that they not only understand the need for change, they are already making change happen. 

    They know their land best, and it is only right that they lead this transition.

    We can make the most of food production, nature’s restoration and economic growth if we support farmers and landowners with better information to help them navigate their way into the future. 

    That may mean doing things differently, and I know that can be worrying, but the decision on how to manage land will and must always rest with the individual farmer or landowner.

    We will work with farmers to shape the framework and support them in making their businesses more sustainable, productive and profitable by opening up Government data so innovators like Tim can put new insights into the hands of farmers, planners and developers when taking their own decisions about the best use for their land.

    It will look at how we create the certainty that private investors need to invest in farming businesses, and consider how best to use public funding to secure the most benefits for food production and for nature.

    We are working on common sense changes that create a win-win for nature and the economy, and the Land Use Framework is a significant part of that.

    Nature is the common thread that runs through the Government’s missions. It is healthy soils and abundant pollinators that enable us to grow the food we need despite the changing climate. It’s a resilient water supply that is essential to building the homes, schools, hospitals, and datacentres that we need. And trees and vegetation that help the land hold more water and give us better protection from flooding.

    It’s the biodiversity and wildlife that safeguards our ecosystems to fight off animal and plant diseases, while access to our wild landscapes and green spaces helps improve mental and physical health and reduce the burden on our NHS.

    Beyond nature and the farming sector, this Framework will unlock growth through better spatial planning.

    It will work hand in hand with our housing and our energy plans, so we can meet our ambitious housing targets and achieve Clean Power by 2030, without jeopardising food production or nature.

    This land use data will shape decision-making about where and how we build things in this country so we can grow the economy and meet the challenges of future decades.

    Major infrastructure will be built with sensitivity to our landscapes, by ensuring our strategic spatial energy plan and 10 year infrastructure strategy draw from the land use framework.

    And by linking the Framework with our spatial approach to housing, we can develop new settlements that make space for nature and allow access to our beautiful green countryside.

    This is about creating a coherent set of policies that work together, rather than against each other.

    We have taken on recommendations from Henry Dimbleby’s Food Strategy, the Food Farming and Countryside Commission, a House of Lords Committee, and a range of other voices – many who I see in front of me in this room, to consult on a Land Use Framework for England.

    Starting a national conversation on the vast opportunities for how we use land in this country.  

    It won’t tell anyone what to do with their land, it will help them take better decisions shaped by the life experiences of farmers, landowners and planners.

    Using the most sophisticated land use data ever published, we will boost food production, protect the best agricultural land, restore our natural world and drive economic growth.

    This is not a set of rules. This is providing better data and information to make sure the farming transition that is already happening is fair and just.

    Ensuring the evidence gathered here will also feed into the wider reform that we are delivering through our Farming Roadmap and Food Strategy.

    So just as Sir Dudley asked schoolteachers and their pupils for help all those years ago, I am asking for your help.

    I won’t be giving out mapping sheets and testing your colouring skills you’ll be pleased to hear.

    But I do want to hear your views and draw from your expertise on what a Land Use Framework for England should look like and – importantly – how we get there.

    Today we are launching a 12-week consultation, that will be supported by workshops and roundtables around the country.

    Bringing together farmers, landowners, businesses, planners – everyone involved in how we use our land.

    We’ll be asking for your views on a future vision for the land, what our policies on land use need to include, and what you need to realise that vision.

    Tell us how can we change the way our spatial data is presented and shared so it’s more valuable in decision making and can be used to drive economic growth.

    Tell us where the skills gaps are, and what skills we need to transition our land.

    Tell us how we can best help landowners, land managers and communities understand and prepare for the challenges of climate change,

    Or support farmers to make land-use changes while boosting food production.

    If we get that right, the prize is huge.

    We can have a multifunctional landscape that delivers economic growth and puts money back in the pockets of hardworking people.

    Where farmers continue to produce the food we need, working with nature and maximising the potential of their land to strengthen food security in the face of climate change and geopolitical shocks. 

    We can have healthy ecosystems, abundant habitats and species, clean waterways and beautiful countryside for everyone to enjoy.

    We can have families living in well-designed homes, with green spaces, amenities and protection from flooding.

    We can lower energy bills and increase national energy security by generating more homegrown, clean energy.

    This is about shaping the future England we want to see.

    The consultation may be just 12 weeks – but the conversation will be ongoing.

    Just as it has throughout history, our landscape will continue to change – and we will work with you so that the Land Use Framework evolves to reflect this. 

    Our landscape is shaped by those who’ve lived and worked it for generations.

    This is England’s next chapter. We are the authors. Let’s write it together.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rail fare hikes will cause misery for workers and commuters

    Source: Scottish Greens

    Inflation-busting increases are inaccessible and unaffordable for everyone.

    Rail travel must be accessible and affordable for all, says Scottish Green MSP Mark Ruskell, following the announcement that ScotRail fares will increase by an inflation-busting 3.8% from April 1st.
     
    When in government the Scottish Greens secured a landmark scheme to remove peak rail fares for 12 months, with the SNP reintroducing them last year.
     
    The Greens have joined trade unions in calling for cheaper public transport through ending peak rail fares and introducing a £2 bus fare cap, to ensure that cleaner, greener travel is more available, affordable and accessible for all.
     
    In this year’s budget the Scottish Greens secured  the regional trial of a £2 bus fare cap beginning in January 2026, a move that they want to see extended across the country.
     

    The Scottish Greens’ spokesperson for transport, Mark Ruskell MSP, said:

    “These hikes will cause misery for commuters. If we want rail to be the first and best option for regular journeys then it has to be affordable and accessible for all.
     
    “When the Scottish Greens were in government we secured the removal of peak rail fares, only for the SNP to bring them back as soon as we were out of the room.
     
    “With household budgets being stretched to their limits, workers and regular commuters across our country are looking to find the cheapest ways to travel. These hikes will only deter people from using trains.
     
    “If we want safer and cleaner communities and less cars on our roads then we need to cut the cost of public transport. That is how we will encourage more commuters to leave their cars at home and hop on the train or bus, while benefiting people and planet.”

    Mr Ruskell added:

    “It was right to take ScotRail into public ownership, but we have a long way to go in building a modern and affordable rail network.
     
    “It shouldn’t have to cost a fortune to get to work, to hospital appointments or even to explore Scotland. We must end peak rail fares and stop financially penalising those who have no say on when they have to travel.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities with Certain Patient Monitors from Contec and Epsimed: FDA Safety Communication

    Source: US Food and Drug Administration

    Date Issued: January 30, 2025 

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is raising awareness among health care providers, health care facilities, patients, and caregivers that cybersecurity vulnerabilities in Contec CMS8000 patient monitors and Epsimed MN-120 patient monitors (which are Contec CMS8000 patient monitors relabeled as MN-120) may put patients at risk after being connected to the internet.

    Three cybersecurity vulnerabilities have been identified:

    • The patient monitor may be remotely controlled by an unauthorized user or not work as intended.
    • The software on the patient monitors includes a backdoor, which may mean that the device or the network to which the device has been connected may have been or could be compromised.
    • Once the patient monitor is connected to the internet, it begins gathering patient data, including personally identifiable information (PII) and protected health information (PHI), and exfiltrating (withdrawing) the data outside of the health care delivery environment.

    These cybersecurity vulnerabilities can allow unauthorized actors to bypass cybersecurity controls, gaining access to and potentially manipulating the device.

    The FDA is not aware of any cybersecurity incidents, injuries, or deaths related to these cybersecurity vulnerabilities at this time. 

    Recommendations for Patients and Caregivers  

    • Talk to your health care provider about whether your device relies on remote monitoring features. Remote monitoring means the device uses an internet connection to allow a health care provider to evaluate patient vital signs from another location (such as a remote monitoring system or central monitoring system).
      • If your health care provider confirms that your device relies on remote monitoring features, unplug the device and stop using it. Talk to your health care provider about finding an alternative patient monitor. 
      • If your device does not rely on remote monitoring features, use only the local monitoring features of the patient monitor. This means unplugging the device’s ethernet cable and disabling wireless (that is, WiFi or cellular) capabilities, so that patient vital signs are only observed by a caregiver or health care provider in the physical presence of a patient. 
        • If you cannot disable the wireless capabilities, unplug the device and stop using it. Talk to your health care provider about finding an alternative patient monitor.   
    • Be aware the FDA is not aware of any cybersecurity incidents, injuries, or deaths related to this vulnerability at this time.
    • Report any problems or complications with your Contec CMS8000 patient monitor or Epsimed MN-120 patient monitor to the FDA. 

    Recommendations for Health Care Providers

    • Work with health care facility staff to determine if a patient’s Contec CMS8000 patient monitor or Epsimed MN-120 patient monitor may be affected and how to reduce any associated risk.  
    • Read and follow the recommendations for patients and caregivers in this safety communication. 
    • Check the Contec CMS8000 patient monitors and Epsimed MN-120 patient monitors for any signs of unusual functioning, such as inconsistencies between the displayed patient vitals and the patient’s actual physical state. 
    • Report any problems with your Contec CMS8000 patient monitor or Epsimed MN-120 patient monitor to the FDA. 

    Recommendations for Health Care Facility Staff (including Information Technology (IT) and Cybersecurity Staff)  

    • Use only the local monitoring features of the device.
      • If your patient monitor relies on remote monitoring features, unplug the device and stop using it. 
      • If your device does not rely on remote monitoring features, unplug the device’s ethernet cable and disable wireless (that is, WiFi or cellular) capabilities. If you cannot disable the wireless capabilities, then continuing to use the device will expose the device to the backdoor and possible continued patient data exfiltration.
    • Review the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) “Mitigations” section in the vulnerabilities related advisory.  
    • Be aware, at this time there is no software patch available to help mitigate this risk.
    • Check the Contec CMS8000 patient monitors and Epsimed MN-120 patient monitors for any signs of unusual functioning, such as inconsistencies between the displayed patient vitals and the patient’s actual physical state. 
    • Report any problems with your Contec CMS8000 patient monitor or Epsimed MN-120 patient monitor to the FDA.

    Device Description

    Patient monitors are used in health care and home settings for displaying information, such as the vital signs of a patient, including temperature, heartbeat, and blood pressure.

    Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities May Affect Contec CMS8000 and Epsimed MN-120 Patient Monitors

    Three cybersecurity vulnerabilities have been identified, whose potential impacts fall into two main categories. A vulnerable device could be exploited to:

    • Deny access to the device, such as cause the device to crash and be unable to work as intended.
    • Take over the device to remotely control it to perform unexpected or undesired actions, such as corrupting the data.

    The vulnerabilities could allow all vulnerable Contec and Epsimed patient monitors on a given network to be exploited at the same time.

    Additionally, the software on the patient monitors includes a backdoor. “Backdoor” is the term used to describe hidden functionality that device users are not told about and can allow unauthorized actors to bypass cybersecurity controls. The unauthorized actors could access and potentially manipulate the device. Given the backdoor, the device and/or the network to which the device has been connected may have been or could be compromised.

    Also, the FDA has authorized these patient monitors only for wired functionality (that is, ethernet connectivity). However, the FDA is aware that some patient monitors may be available with wireless (that is, WiFi or cellular) capabilities without FDA authorization.

    The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has identified that once the patient monitor is connected to the internet, it begins gathering and exfiltrating (withdrawing) patient data outside of the health care delivery environment, including when the device is used in a home setting. The FDA and CISA continue to work with Contec to correct these vulnerabilities as soon as possible.

    Unique Device Identifier (UDI)

    The unique device identifier helps identify individual medical devices, including patient monitors, sold in the United States from manufacturing through distribution to patient use. The UDI allows for more accurate reporting, reviewing, and analyzing of adverse event reports so that devices can be identified, and problems potentially corrected more quickly.

    You can identify the devices affected by checking the unique device identifier (UDI), which is a unique numeric or alphanumeric code that generally includes a device identifier (DI) that identifies the labeler and the specific version or model of a device.

    Brand Name Version or Model UDI-DI
    Contec CMS8000  06945040100034
    Epsimed MN-120 N/A

    FDA Actions 

    The FDA takes seriously any reports of cybersecurity vulnerabilities in medical devices and will continue to work with Contec and CISA to correct these vulnerabilities as soon as possible.

    The FDA will continue to assess new information concerning the vulnerabilities and will keep the public informed if significant new information becomes available.

    Read more about medical device cybersecurity.

    Reporting Problems with Your Device

    If you think you had a problem with a Contec CMS8000 or Epsimed MN-120 patient monitors, the FDA encourages you to report the problem through the MedWatch Voluntary Reporting Form.

    Health care personnel employed by facilities that are subject to the FDA’s user facility reporting requirements should follow the reporting procedures established by their facilities.

    Questions?

    If you have questions,

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Newsom proclaims Fred Korematsu Day 2025

    Source: US State of California 2

    Jan 30, 2025

    Sacramento, California – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring January 30, 2025, as Fred Korematsu Day.

    The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below:

    PROCLAMATION

    Fred Korematsu did not set out to become a civil rights hero, but at the age of 23, he made the bold choice to challenge the policy of Japanese internment – and forever altered the course of history. This year, as we commemorate the 106th anniversary of his birth, we reflect on his courageous crusade for civil rights.

    When the United States entered World War II, Korematsu tried to enlist and fight for his country but was turned away. Not long after, under Executive Order 9066, he was one of the more than 120,000 Japanese Americans ordered to report to internment camps. Korematsu defied the order, a brave act of protest that led to his arrest and conviction, which he fought all the way to the Supreme Court.

    Though the Court ultimately ruled against him, Korematsu found vindication forty years later, when a federal court overturned his criminal conviction. In that courtroom, Korematsu said, regarding his case, that “being an American citizen was not enough…you have to look like one, otherwise they say you can’t tell a difference between a loyal and a disloyal American,” asking the government to ensure that such wrongs never happen again.  In 1998, President Bill Clinton awarded Korematsu the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

    Throughout his life, Korematsu worked tirelessly to ensure Americans understood the lessons learned from a dark chapter of our history. Today, as we confront attacks on our fundamental rights and freedoms and hate-fueled violence across the country, it is clear that Korematsu’s extraordinary fight for civil rights is far from over. His legacy is an inspiration and reminder to all of us that we must continue to stand against injustice in our daily lives.

    NOW THEREFORE I, GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim January 30, 2025, as “Fred Korematsu Day.”

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 30th day of January 2025.

    GAVIN NEWSOM

    Governor of California

    ATTEST:

    SHIRLEY N. WEBER, Ph.D.

    Secretary of State                     

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Court charges tenant £7,964.75 for failed disrepair complaint

    Source: City of York

    Published Friday, 31 January 2025

    Council tenants are being reminded to report repairs to their landlord as ‘no win, no fee’ legal firms target York tenants and a judge orders an unsuccessful disrepair claimant to pay £7,964.75 costs.

    The Council’s reminder follows a campaign advising its tenants to tell City of York Council about any concerns with repairs so they can be put right. It also comes during another rise in housing disrepair claims brought by firms of solicitors on behalf of housing tenants. Some of these disrepair claims have failed in court, with tenants being ordered to pay £1,000s in costs.

    These ‘no win no fee’ legal firms press tenants to make claims against the council for failing to repair their home or not doing it well enough. Unsolicited and unaccredited ‘surveyors’ have been reported going door to door, cajoling tenants to make compensation claims against their landlord. They then sell this information on to legal firms for their own gain, with some suggesting that they work for the Council, when they do not. 

    A ‘no win, no fee’ case by a tenant against the Council was heard in York County Court this month (January 2025). It was dismissed by the District Judge who ordered the unsuccessful tenant to pay costs of £7,964.75.

    This follows another unsuccessful ‘no win, no fee’ case against the Council in 2023 which left that tenant being ordered by a judge to pay costs of £10,409.72.

    Any tenant approached by people touting for this work is urged to:

    • talk to your Housing Management Officer (HMO) first!
    • call the police if they feel scared or threatened
    • always ask to see identification and check it
    • call Trading Standards on 0808 223 1133 if these workers at the doorstep claim to be from the Council.

    Councillor Michael Pavlovic, Executive Member for Housing, Planning and Safer Communities said: “We strive to get repairs done quickly and efficiently and 86% of them are completed on a first visit. Our tenants are always invited to talk to officers about any repairs needed, or any delay or dissatisfaction with them.

    “We are committed to making good any repairs for which we are responsible, and our ongoing and significant housing repair programme is upgrading and modernising homes.

    “These claims against the Council mean that everyone loses – except for these legal firms – and have left tenants owing £1,000s in court costs. The time and money spent by the Council to defend these claims could be better invested in tenants’ homes.”

    Any council tenant who feels their home needs a repair or if there’s a problem with a repair, please call the Council first on 01904 551550 (option 4, option 1). Our team will ensure you get the right support.

    Anyone unhappy about how we have responded to a request for a repair, or how we have carried out one, should please tell us first.

    All concerns will be assessed and handled impartially. Find out more here or email your concerns.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City centre – updates for St Mary’s Boulevard

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Highway works to help improve road, pedestrian and cycling safety, and support ongoing developments at Riverside Sunderland, are getting underway.

    Works are on St Mary’s Boulevard alongside St Mary’s multi-storey car park and the Holiday Inn hotel.

    The first section of works will see one of the three eastbound lanes next to the multi-storey reallocated to increase the width of the shared footway for pedestrians and cyclists. This is to help make it safer and reduce conflict between pedestrians and cyclists at the multi-storey’s pedestrian entrance.

    The box junction and traffic lights next to the multi-storey will remain. Work, beginning after peak journey hours on Monday 3 February, is expected to take around eight weeks to complete.

    A second set of works is then scheduled on the westbound carriageway of the boulevard alongside the Holiday Inn. This is to introduce a taxi lay-by and improve pedestrian and cycle connectivity at the crossing point between Keel Square, City Hall and to the new Wear footbridge which is due to open this summer.

    This second set of works is expected to also take around eight weeks and all works to be completed by June. Traffic management will be in place throughout the works to minimise any possible disruption.

    Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Net Zero, Councillor Lindsey Leonard said: “As we continue to deliver one of the UK’s most ambitious regeneration projects at Riverside Sunderland, we’re seeing more people living, visiting and working in our city centre.

    “Footfall will increase significantly when Maker and Faber, the new footbridge, and Culture House open later this year and as development of the new Sunderland Eye Hospital, Vaux housing and Riverside Park continue at pace.

    “We can also anticipate more pedestrians as we look forward to being a host city for the women’s rugby World Cup.

    “We’re implementing these changes now to help encourage sustainable travel and improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists and other highways users.

    “In addition, these changes support the delivery of our low carbon framework and City Plan that is creating a more dynamic, healthy, vibrant and smart Sunderland for all residents, businesses and visitors.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New parking charges to help safeguard frontline services to residents

    Source: City of Norwich

    Published on Friday, 31st January 2025

    Fees for parking in the city’s surface and multi-storey parking facilities will change at the end of March.

    The increase will generate an additional £300,000, enabling the council to continue investing in vital frontline services that our residents rely on us to provide. The money raised from these car parks has helped the council to avoid making cuts to services in the next financial year.

    Based on a typical parking stay of between one and two hours, the increase will be 10-20 pence.

    Season ticket prices will also increase, but on-street residential parking permits will remail unchanged. Blue Badge holders will continue to receive a 50% discount.

    As non-residents travelling from outside the city are subject to the same charges, it means they also contribute to the running costs of the city council’s services.

    Next year the council will spend around £100 million on vital services across the city. While funding from central government has gone down, the cost of things like energy and materials has gone up due to inflation.

    Councillor Emma Hampton, cabinet member for a climate responsive Norwich, said: “Increasing fees for our services is always a last resort. With funding from central government dwindling, and the cost of things like energy and materials going up due to inflation, we are under financial pressure to do more with less – like all local council up and down the country.

    “The cost-of-living crisis has also meant more people need our help, creating extra demand for council services. 

    “Despite these really difficult budget challenges, the city council has a strong record of sound financial management and that means we’ve been able to find a way to ensure that there will be no cuts to frontline services in the next financial year.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: North Cornwall coast path improvements completed

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    The path around the South West’s glorious coastline is further enhanced thanks to improvements to the Marsland Mouth to Newquay section in Cornwall.

    Walking the coast path from Pentire Point towards Polzeath

    These works form part of a national programme to create a coastal path around the whole of England. Once completed this will be the longest managed coastal walking route in the world and the UK’s longest National Trail.

    Stretching from Marsland Mouth on the North Cornwall coast down to Newquay, some 75 miles in total, the path follows the route of the existing South West Coast Path (SWCP) National Trail, beginning at the border with Devon and stretching to the railway station in Newquay.

    For anyone walking the path, there is plenty to see, with towns and villages such as Bude, Boscastle, Tintagel, Port Isaac, Polzeath, Padstow and Mawgan Porth.  Plus, the path passes by the historic highlights of Crackington Haven, Tintagel Castle, the Rumps at Pentire with its Bronze age burial mounds, the Camel Estuary (including the ferry), Trevose Head and its lighthouse and Bedruthan Steps.  In addition, there are glorious sandy beaches to stop off throughout the route.

    Making the path line up with the sea

    In establishing the new trail, Natural England has sought to improve the alignment of the SWCP where possible or move it closer to the sea. For example, at Penhalt Cliff it has been taken off road on to farmland, improving safety for walkers and drivers. For the first time wider coastal access rights on foot have been established between the trail and the sea, including cliff tops and beaches.  

    It also brings legal provision for the trail to ‘roll back’ in response to coastal erosion, thereby securing people’s rights into the future and protecting the investment being made now. You will still encounter steep climbs and descents as well as gently undulating walking along the cliff tops.

    Boscastle harbour viewed from the coast path

    Better alignment, better surfacing, better drainage

    Andrea Ayres, Deputy Area Director for Natural England said:

    This improved stretch of path takes in some of the best views in the South West and much-loved places that have been attracting visitors for many years.

    With the improvements to the path and the additional access rights, we hope it will continue to give people the chance to get out and enjoy nature, as well as continue to bring visitors to the county, since tourism is so vital to the local economy.

    While much of Cornwall’s 300-mile section of the South West Coast Path is owned by private landowners and organisations, the path is managed by Cornwall Council. The council and Cormac have worked to deliver the improvements on this stretch.

    Martyn Alvey, Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for environment, said:

    The South West Coast Path is a wonderful asset popular with local residents and visitors alike, but by its very nature, is susceptible to the elements and coastal erosion.

    This funding has meant we have been able to make significant improvements to the path in Cornwall, bringing forward many projects which may otherwise have been many years away from happening.

    We’ve been able to move inland sections closer to the coast, improve surfacing and drainage, repair paths and realign hazardous sections. It is fantastic to see completion of the Marsland Mouth to Newquay section and I’m sure it will be enjoyed by all for many years to come.

    Julian Gray, Director, South West Coast Path Association (SWCPA) said:

    The King Charles III England Coast Path creates new open access rights around the coast to help connect people to nature. It also gives us new powers to manage the National Trail in the face of coastal erosion, helping us continue to improve the South West Coast Path as one of the world’s great trails.

    What is the King Charles III England Coast Path?

    The King Charles III England Coast Path (KCIIIECP) is a National Trail around the entire coast of England. Existing coastal national trails and other regional walks make up parts of the KCIIIECP and this newly improved stretch of the South West Coast Path forms part of the KCIIIECP.

    You can plan your walk on the KCIIIECP, which follows the enhanced route of the SWCP between Marsland Mouth to Newquay, by visiting the KCIIIECP or the South West Coast Path pages of the National Trails website.

    Background

    The Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 places a duty on the Secretary of State and Natural England to secure a long-distance walking trail around the open coast of England, together with public access rights to a wider area of land along the way for people to enjoy. 

    Natural England is working at pace to ensure completion of the KCIIIECP. By the end of 2024 it had opened 1,400 miles. Subject to resources we expect to complete the KCIIIECP by spring 2026.

    To plan their visit walkers can access route maps of all opened sections of the King Charles III England Coast Path and any local diversions on the National Trails website. And can check for any restrictions to access on Natural England’s Open Access maps.

    You can promote your business, service, event or place of interest for free on the National Trails website, inspire people to spend more time in your area and benefit from the economic impact of visitors.

    National Trails, marked by the acorn symbol, pass through spectacular scenery, support local tourism and offer a range of routes from short circular walks to long distance challenges.

    King Charles III England Coast Path: 

    We have a map showing progress to complete the King Charles III England Coast Path.

    The King Charles III England Coast Path will be our longest, National Trail, passing through some of our finest countryside, maritime and industrial heritage, coastal settlements and rural locations.

    It will also be the world’s longest managed coastal trail (i.e. the trail is maintained to National Trail standards). It will secure legal rights of public access for the first time to typical coastal land including foreshore, beaches, dunes and cliffs that lies between the trail and the sea.

    Improvements to existing access to the coastline include: 

    • a clear and continuous way-marked walking route along this part of the coast, bringing some sections of the existing coastal footpath closer to the sea and linking some places together for the first time

    • targeted adjustments to make the trail more accessible for people with reduced mobility, where reasonable

    • uniquely amongst our National Trails the KCIIIECP may be moved in response to natural coastal changes, through ‘roll back’ if the coastline erodes or slips, solving the long-standing difficulties of maintaining a continuous route along the coast – and making a true coastal path practicable

    • the legal provision for roll back is proposed to sections of the trail where a need has been foreseen but can be retrospectively applied to other parts of the route if deemed necessary

    • the route of the trail can also be altered through planning proposals and where coastal and flood defence works or habitat creation would impact on the proposed or open route of the KCIIIECP

    • we have a webpage showing progress near you to create the King Charles III England Coast path

    • we work closely with a broad range of national and regional stakeholders around the country including wildlife trusts, National Trust, RSPB, NFU, CLA, RA, OSS, Environment Agency and local authorities

    The Countryside Code is the official guide on how to enjoy nature and treat both it, and the people who live and work there, with respect.  

    For landowners

    Landowners who have KCIIIECP coastal access rights on their land enjoy the lowest liabilities in England. Here is our guidance on managing your land in the coastal margin.

    About Natural England  

    Established in 2006, Natural England is the government’s independent adviser on the natural environment. Our work is focused on enhancing England’s wildlife and landscapes and maximising the benefits they bring to the public. 

    We establish and care for England’s main wildlife and geological sites, ensuring that over 4,000 National Nature Reserves (NNRs) and Sites of Special Scientific Interest are looked after and improved,

    We work to ensure that England’s landscapes are effectively protected, designating England’s National Parks and National Landscapes , and advising widely on their conservation.

    We run Environmental Stewardship and other green farming schemes that deliver over £400 million a year to farmers and landowners, enabling them to enhance the natural environment across two thirds of England’s farmland.

    We fund, manage, and provide scientific expertise for hundreds of conservation projects each year, improving the prospects for thousands of England’s species and habitats.

    We promote access to the wider countryside, helping establish National Trails and coastal trails and ensuring that the public can enjoy and benefit from them.

    For more information, visit our page on how the King Charles III England Coast Path is improving public access to England’s coast

    About the South West Coast Path Association

    The South West Coast Path Association is a charity (Registered Charity Number 1163422) that works to ensure the South West Coast Path is one of the best walks in the world and protects it for all to enjoy. Supporting the charity helps the South West Coast Path Association to improve the South West Coast Path and keeps the way open to beautiful coastal places.

    For more information visit the South West Coast Path Association website.

    Updates to this page

    Published 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man convicted of fatally stabbing Hackney resident following Met investigation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been convicted of fatally stabbing Hackney resident Robert Weston, following an investigation by the Metropolitan Police Service.

    Jaden Sheriff, 20 (22.01.05), of Forston Street, Hackney, was found guilty of murder at the Old Bailey on Thursday, 30 January.

    A jury convicted him of killing 37-year-old Robert Weston, who was stabbed in Hamilton Crescent, Harrow, on Monday, 26 February, 2024.

    DI Devan Taylor, who led the investigation into the murder, said: “This is a tragic case. Robert Weston lost his life, and Jaden Sheriff has to live the rest of his life knowing that he killed a man.

    “He stabbed his victim over what was effectively a neighbourhood dispute. Despite the efforts of paramedics to save his life, Mr Weston was pronounced dead shortly after.

    “This senseless murder has had a devastating impact on the victim’s loved ones. They conducted themselves with great dignity throughout the trial, and my thoughts are with them at this time.”

    Police attended an address Hamilton Crescent around 14:10hrs on 26 February last year. Mr Weston had suffered two stab wounds – one of them to the heart – and, despite the efforts of emergency services, was pronounced dead at the scene.

    In his initial interviews with officers, Sheriff claimed he accidentally stabbed Mr Weston in self-defence, after the victim pulled a knife on him.

    However, police spoke to witnesses, who revealed that the killer set upon Mr Weston following a dispute.

    Forensic evidence revealed that the wounds on Mr Weston could only have been caused by deliberate stabbing to the chest.

    Investigators obtained phone records, which showed that Mr Weston had called 999 on February 23 to complain about Sheriff.

    After an argument with the defendant, Mr Weston told police: ‘I’ve just been threatened in my own house.’

    This was used at trial to illustrate the spiralling relationship between the two men, which culminated in murder days later.

    Sheriff will be sentenced on Friday, 14 February.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: JLT Mobile Computers AB nomination committee 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Växjö, Sweden, 31 January 2025 * * * JLT Mobile Computers, announces today that, in accordance with the established principles for appointing JLT Mobile Computers’ Nomination Committee, the company’s major shareholders/shareholder groups have appointed a Nomination Committee, with Emil Hjalmarsson as convener.

    The company’s Nomination Committee shall consist of three members, with one member appointed by each of the three largest shareholders. The members of the Nomination Committee are:

    • Jan Olofsson, representing personal holdings
    • Emil Hjalmarsson, appointed by AB Grenspecialisten
    • Wilhelm Gruvberg, appointed by Alcur Fonder 

    The Nomination Committee has appointed Emil Hjalmarsson as its Chairman.

    The Nomination Committee is responsible for preparing proposals on the following matters to be presented for resolution at the 2025 Annual General Meeting:

    • Proposal for the Chairman of the Annual General Meeting
    • Proposal for Board members
    • Proposal for the Chairman of the Board
    • Proposal for director fees and other remuneration for Board assignments, including compensation for committee work
    • Proposal for the company’s auditor
    • Proposal for auditor’s fees
    • Instructions for the Nomination Committee ahead of the 2025 Annual General Meeting 

    Shareholders who wish to submit proposals to the Nomination Committee may do so via email to Emil Hjalmarsson at emil@grenspecialisten.com or by mail to:

    JLT Mobile Computers nomination committee
    Attn: Emil Hjalmarsson, AB Grenspecialisten
    Box 4042
    203 11 Malmö, Sweden

    Proposals must be submitted no later than February 28, 2025.

    Financial information about JLT is available online on: jltmobile.com/investor-relations/.

    About JLT Mobile Computers

    JLT Mobile Computers is a leading supplier of rugged mobile computing devices and solutions for demanding environments. 30 years of development and manufacturing experience have enabled JLT to set the standard in rugged computing, combining outstanding product quality with expert service, support and solutions to ensure trouble-free business operations for customers in warehousing, transportation, manufacturing, mining, ports and agriculture. JLT operates globally from offices in Sweden, France, and the US, complemented by an extensive network of sales partners in local markets. The company was founded in 1994, and the share has been listed on the Nasdaq First North Growth Market stock exchange since 2002 under the symbol JLT. Eminova Fondkommission AB acts as Certified Adviser. Learn more at jltmobile.com.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Thales to present advanced defence and aerospace innovations at Aero India 2025, reinforcing its ‘Make in India’ commitment

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Thales to present advanced defence and aerospace innovations at Aero India 2025, reinforcing its ‘Make in India’ commitment

    • Thales will be present at Aero India 2025 (3.3 in Hall B) to exhibit its cutting-edge capabilities across defence and aerospace.
    • In support of the modernisation and indigenisation ambitions of the Indian armed forces, Thales will reinforce its commitment to “Make in India for India and for the world”, as well as the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision.
    • Thales HR representatives will be available on 13 and 14 February at the stand to engage with engineers and discuss various career opportunities at the company’s engineering centres in Bangalore and Noida

    Thales will showcase its cutting-edge technologies across the defence and aerospace sectors at the 15thedition of Aero India 2025, India’s flagship air show, highlighting the Group’s commitment to ‘Make in India for India and for the world’, aligned with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision.

    Empowering India’s defence and aerospace capabilities at Aero India 2025

    Thales offers a comprehensive array of capabilities and services designed to support the Indian armed forces in attaining operational excellence. At Aero India 2025, Thales will showcase its latest capabilities- across air, land and naval defence as well as space, cyber and digital – that are tailored for modern and future needs of the forces.

    Thales provides state-of-the-art equipment on board fighter aircrafts, including the RBE2 AESA radar, the Spectra electronic warfare suite, optronics, the communication, navigation and identification suite (CNI), key cockpit display systems and a logistics support component. The Thales stand at Aero India 2025 will have a dedicated section on these capabilities.

    Thales will also highlight its combat-proven airborne optronics, including TALIOS (Targeting Long-range Identification Optronic System) pod, the 2-in-1 system that delivers unmatched image quality, and the InfraRed Search and Track (IRST) system. Also on display will be Thales’s air defence solutions such as the Lightweight Multi-role Missile (LMM), the STARStreak missile and ForceShield, alongside air surveillance capabilities such as the GM 200 MM/A radar and the SkyView air command and control system.

    For the first time in India, Thales will showcase its innovation in avionics through the FlytX suite for helicopters, in advanced aeronautics navigation systems such as TopAxyz, TopShield and TopStar M. Connectivity solutions such as SYNAPS-A, the airborne member of the SYNAPS software-defined radio family designed to support battlespace digitisation, Modem 21 Air Compact, and the NextW@ve TRA 6030 radio, will also be brought to Aero India this year.

    As a leader in the fast-growing market of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), Thales will provide an overview of its portfolio of drone solutions, including its EagleShield drone countermeasures (an integrated nano, micro, mini and small drone countermeasures solution to protect and secure civil and military sites); the PARADE system that provides 360° protection of people, properties and activities, optimised for micro and mini UAS, ranging from 100g to 25kg; and Gamekeeper (a holographic radar that allows detection, tracking and classification of unlimited targets simultaneously including micro and mini drones), in addition to its safe and efficient UTM (Unmanned Traffic Management) system for cooperative and non-cooperative drones, to be unveiled for the first time in India.

    Thales will also present its LGR 68 and LGR 70 Laser Guided Rockets that come with laser guidance precision, are jamming-proof and are extremely precise for guiding ammunition to target.

    As part of its underwater solutions for efficient Maritime Security Operations, Thales will feature its Sonoflash sonobuoy, an anti-submarine warfare system that allows the detection, classification and localisation of submarines. It will also showcase the AirMaster C radar- the latest addition to its Air Master range of airborne surveillance radars -that is highly adaptable and can be integrated into both manned and unmanned airborne platforms.

    Thales presents AI systems we can trust at Aero India 2025

    Thales is a major AI player in these complex environments. The company is Europe’s top patent applicant in the field and devotes a lot of effort to research on AI, both in-house and through academic and industry partnerships. The Group, a major player in trusted AI, provides armed forces with greater efficiency in data analysis and decision-making, while taking into account the specific constraints, such as cybersecurity, embeddability and frugality, associated with critical environments. You will be able to see how Thales embarked IA on its solutions such as Talios or AirMaster C radar.

    Expanding its team in India – hiring at Aero India 2025

    Thales is expanding its team in India and seeking engineers in hardware, software and systems for its engineering centres in Bengaluru and Noida. Thales HR executives will be present during the public days of the show on 13 and 14 February 2025 to meet engineers and share various possible career opportunities available.

    “As India progresses towards its Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, Thales is proud to be a trusted partner in the nation’s ambitious journey. We remain committed to ‘Make in India’ and are advancing our roadmap by strengthening our local teams, collaborations and bringing advanced defence and aerospace technologies to the country. We look forward to continue equipping the Indian armed forces with the next generation of innovative and effective solutions to support their strategic defence ambitions. Aero India 2025 will serve as a key platform for us to present our flagship capabilities and engage with the authorities, forces and our industry partners.” said Pascale Sourisse, President & CEO, Thales International.

    For more details on Thales’s presence at the Aero India 2025, please visit this webpage.

    About Thales

    Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies specialized in three business domains: Defence, Aerospace and Cyber & Digital. It develops products and solutions that help make the world safer, greener and more inclusive.

    The Group invests close to €4 billion a year in Research & Development, particularly in key innovation areas such as AI, cybersecurity, quantum technologies, cloud technologies and 6G.

    Thales has close to 81,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2023, the Group generated sales of €18.4bn.

    About Thales in India

    Present in India since 1953, Thales is headquartered in Noida and has other operational offices and sites spread across Delhi, Bengaluru and Mumbai, among others. Over 2200 employees are working with Thales and its joint ventures in India. Since the beginning, Thales has been playing an essential role in India’s growth story by sharing its technologies and expertise in Defence, Aerospace and Cybersecurity & Digital Identity markets. Thales has two engineering competence centres in India – one in Noida focused on Cybersecurity & Digital Identity business, while the one in Bengaluru focuses on hardware, software and systems engineering capabilities for both the civil and defence sectors, serving global needs.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI: Banco Santander-Chile Announces Fourth Quarter 2024 Earnings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTIAGO, Chile, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Banco Santander Chile (NYSE: BSAC; SSE: Bsantander) announced today its results1 for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2024, and fourth quarter 2024 (4Q24).

    Strong Financial Performance with ROAE2of 26.0% in 4Q243and 20.2% in 12M244.

    As of December 31, 2024, the Bank’s net income attributable to shareholders totaled $858 billion ($4.55 per share and US$1.83 per ADR), marking a 72.8% increase compared to the same period of the previous year and with an ROAE of 20.2%.

    In 4Q24, net income attributable to shareholders of the Bank totaled $277 billion, increasing 13.7% in the quarter with a quarterly ROAE of 26.0%. This marks the third consecutive quarter with an ROAE above 20%.

    The improvement in results is explained by an increase in the Bank’s main revenue lines. Operating income increased by 34.5% YoY, supported by a stronger interest margin and readjustments.

    Robust NIM5recovery, reaching 3.6% in 2024 and 4.2% in 4Q24.

    Net interest and readjustment income (NII) for the year ended December 31, 2024 increased by 62.1% compared to the same period in 2023. This growth was primarily due to higher net interest income, resulting from a lower monetary policy rate that reduced our funding costs from 6.8% to 4.7% in 12M24. This was partially offset by lower readjustment income due to a smaller variation in the UF compared to the previous year. Consequently, the NIM improved from 2.2% in 2023 to 3.6% in 2024, and further to 4.2% in 4Q24.

    Continued Expansion of Customer Base with a 6.4% YoY Increase in Total Customers and a 5.9% YoY Increase in Digital Customers

    Our strategy to enhance digital products has led to a continued growth in our customer base reaching approximately 4.3 million customers, with over 2.2 million digital customers (88% of our active customers).

    The Bank’s market share in current accounts remains robust at 23.2% as of October 2024, driven by increased customer demand for US dollar current accounts which can be easily opened digitally by our customers. It also demonstrates the success of Getnet’s strategy in encouraging cross-selling of other products such as the Cuenta Pyme Life.

    Customer funds increased 4.7% QoQ and 12.6% since December 2023.

    Customer funds (demand deposits, time deposits and mutual funds) increased by 4.7% QoQ and 12.6% from December 2023, reflecting client growth and fund accumulation. The Bank’s total deposits increased by 5.7% from December 31, 2023, explained by the 5.3% increase in demand deposits and the 6.0% increase in time deposits. In the quarter, total deposits grew by 5.9%, with demand deposits up by 8.7% and time deposits by 3.7%. The strong growth in the quarter is explained by the seasonality of deposits at the end of the year, especially among corporate clients.

    Our customer’s investments through mutual funds intermediated by the Bank also grew in the quarter, reaching an increase of 2.2% QoQ and 32.6% since December 31, 2023, given the clients’ preference for mutual funds in this scenario of falling rates.

    Net fees and commissions increase 8.8% in 12M24, achieving a recurrence6level of 60.3%.

    Net fees increased 8.8% in the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 compared to the same period in 2023 due to increased client numbers and higher product usage. As a result, the recurrence ratio (total net fees divided by structural support expenses) increased from 57.4% YTD as of December 2023 to 60.3% YTD as of December 2024, demonstrating that more than half of the Bank’s expenses are financed by fees generated by our clients.

    Efficiency ratio of 36.5% in 4Q24 and 39.0% in 4Q24

    The Bank’s efficiency ratio reached 39.0% as of December 31, 2024, compared to the 46.6% of the same period last year, with a quarterly efficiency ratio of 36.5%. On the other hand, the cost to assets ratio increased to 1.5% in 12M24 vs. 1.3% in the same period of the previous year.

    Structural support expenses (salaries, administration and amortization) grew 3.5% in 12M24 compared to 12M23, below inflation, and in line with the guidance provided previously and a slight decrease of 1.8% compared to 3Q24 mainly due to lower salary expenses.

    Total operating expenses (which includes other expenses) increased 12.4% in 12M24 compared to 12M23 driven by higher other operating expenses, related to a provision for the restructuring of our branch network and the transformation to Work/Café and also advances in digital banking.

    Cost of credit of 1.29% in 12M24, and NPL coverage at 115.4%

    During the Covid-19 pandemic, asset quality benefited from state aid and pension fund withdrawals, which led to a positive performance in assets during that period, before normalizing in line with the performance of the economy and the drainage of excess liquidity from households. Currently, our clients’ performance is reflecting the state of the economy and the labor market, where delinquency is higher than the levels we saw before the pandemic with the non-performing loans (NPL) ratio increasing to 3.2% and the impaired portfolio to 6.7% at December 2024. Overall the cost of credit remained stable at 1.29% in the quarter.

    Solid capital levels with a BIS7ratio of 17.1% and a CET18of 10.5%.

    Our CET1 (Common Equity Tier 1) ratio remains at solid levels of 10.5% and the total Basel III ratio reaches 17.1% at the end of December 2024, which includes a provision of dividend payment of 70% of 2024 earnings.

    We made significant progress in our Chile First strategy in 2024

    • Largest bank in terms of loans and deposits (16.9% market share according to latest information from the CMF).
    • More than US$ 450 million committed to invest in infrastructure and technology between 2023 and 2026.
    • A total of 99 Workcafés in Chile, serving our clients and the community in their different formats.
    • Recognized by Euromoney as the Best Bank in the Country in the SME and ESG Categories.
    • The only Chilean bank included in the DJSI emerging markets and within the top 3% of the most sustainable banks in the world.
    • Top Employer Certification January 2025 (seventh consecutive year).
    • Recognized as the Best Bank in Chile for SMEs by Global Finance.
    • ALAS20: First place in the category of leading company in sustainability.
    • Institutional Investor: “Most Honored Company.”

    Banco Santander Chile is one of the companies with the highest risk ratings in Latin America, with an A2 rating from Moody’s, A- from Standard and Poor’s, A+ from Japan Credit Rating Agency, AA- from HR Ratings and A from KBRA. All our ratings as of the date of this report have a stable outlook.

    As of December 31, 2024, the Bank has total assets of $68,458,933 million (US$68,865 million), total gross loans (including loans to banks) at amortized cost of $41,323,844 million (US$41,569 million), total deposits of $31,359,234 million (US$31,545 million) and shareholders’ equity of $4,292,440 million (US$4,318 million). The BIS capital ratio was 17.1%, with a core capital ratio of 10.5%. As of December 31, 2024, Santander Chile employs 8,757 people and has 236 branches throughout Chile.

    CONTACT INFORMATION
    Cristian Vicuña
    Chief Strategy Officer and Head of Investor Relations
    Banco Santander Chile
    Bandera 140, Floor 20
    Santiago, Chile
    Email: irelations@santander.cl Website: www.santander.cl


    1 The information contained in this report is presented in accordance with Chilean Bank GAAP as defined by the Financial Markets Commission (FMC).
    2 Annualized net income attributable to shareholders of the Bank divided by the average equity attributable to equity holders
    3 The fourth quarter of 2024
    4 The twelve months accumulated as of December31, 2024
    5 NIM: Net interest margin. Annualized net interest income and annualized readjustments divided by interest-earning assets
    6Recurrence: Net commissions divided by structural operating expenses (excludes other operating expenses).
    7 Regulatory capital divided by risk-weighted assets, according to CMF BIS III definitions
    8 Core capital divided by risk-weighted assets, according to CMF BIS III definitions.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Speakers at Biz2X Frontiers of Digital Finance Conference Kick Off 2025 and Predict What’s Next in Fintech and Business Finance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK and MIAMI, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Biz2X 2025 Frontiers of Digital Finance (FDF) Conference at University of Miami’s Business School, held on January 14, brought together top global leaders in technology, business and government to examine the rapidly changing digital finance landscape, particularly AI’s transformative impact on small business lending. For video highlights, click here.

    FDF assembled a ‘Who’s Who’ of digital finance experts who delved into major issues, such as potential changes in regulation in the new Trump administration, increased use of AI in lending, and the rise of alternative lenders. Speakers from over 25 organizations were represented, in an invite-only audience of more than 200 delegates. Among the A-List speakers were:

    • Former Congressman Patrick McHenry, who served as Chair of the House Financial Services Committee for the past two years. His keynote address, The Future of Fintech Regulation, drew upon his more than two-decades in Congress. The session was moderated by Charlie Gasparino of Fox Business News.
    • USAA President & CEO Wayne Peacock spoke about Leadership in Fintech in The Next Decade. Under Peacock’s visionary leadership, USAA has become a household name. At FDF, he shared insights from his expertise in mission-driven leadership to navigate the evolving financial services landscape.
    • Jim Esposito, President of Citadel Securities, led a discussion entitled Building the Future: Technology in Financial Markets in which he shared his insights for driving long-term growth and building global client and partner relationships.
    • Miami Mayor Francis X. Suarez examined Where Innovation Meets Opportunity – A Legal and Economic Vision, together with legendary litigator Marc Kasowitz from Kasowitz Benson Torres. They shared their perspectives on the legal and economic forces shaping today’s business landscape, and Mayor Suarez explored how cities like Miami can become innovation hubs for the private sector.

    BCG & Biz2X Launch New SMB Finance White Paper at FDF Miami

    Biz2X partnered with Boston Consulting Group (BCG), one of the world’s top business consulting firms, to unveil a brand-new proprietary white paper entitled, The Forthcoming Revolution in Small Business Lending.

    The study examines the rapidly changing dynamics of small business lending. Biz2X and BCG analyzed the reasons why banks — particularly the country’s largest institutions — place limitations on lending to small and medium-sized businesses. BCG identifies a global small business funding gap that exceeds $5 trillion.

    Biz2X and BCG conclude that SMB lending must be fundamentally altered through technology such as digital lending platforms to achieve lower risk, broader access to capital, and a significantly-improved digital experience for both borrowers and lenders. To download the full report, click here.

    Looking Ahead to Future FDF Conferences

    “FDF Miami 2025 was the highest-attended conference yet in our continuing series of these events. Our goal with FDF is to create a platform that drives the finance industry forward by bringing together the right people from all sides of industry and policy,” said Conference Chair and the CEO & Co-Founder of Biz2X, Rohit Arora.

    Future editions of FDF in 2025 are being planned in Riyadh and Mumbai, along with a likely return to Miami, with dates to be announced. For more information about FDF sponsors, speakers, and to see exclusive content from FDF Miami and previous FDF events, visit frontiersofdigitalfinance.com.

    About Frontiers of Digital Finance (FDF)
    FDF is an invitation only, global conference series that assembles global experts in the field. These include top financial institutions, innovative startups, investors, policy makers, technologists, and other leaders to learn about trends in digital finance and build relationships with key executives in the fintech industry.

    Attendees gain valuable insights from distinguished speakers and forge meaningful connections with key industry executives through curated networking events. Previous conferences have been held in some of the world’s most dynamic financial hubs: Dubai, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, Mumbai, New York (at Columbia Business School) and Miami. Visit frontiersofdigitalfinance.com and LinkedIn for more information and highlights from the conferences.

    About Biz2X 
    Biz2X® is the digital lending platform chosen by successful business lenders, with more than $10 billion funded globally to businesses through the company’s innovative technology. The platform has been chosen for business lending at banks and financial institutions around the world. Lenders choose the platform because they want to transform their lending practices digitally. Biz2X makes this possible through best-in-class technology and AI-powered underwriting models. Biz2X LLC is a subsidiary of Biz2Credit. Visit Biz2X.com for more information.

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    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Review of EU electric-vehicle strategy and impact of decision to ban combustion-engine vehicles by 2035 – E-002171/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The revised CO2 emission standards for new cars and vans[1] provide a clear framework for the transition to zero-emission vehicles, which is essential to deliver on the European Union’s objective of becoming climate neutral by 2050.

    The agreed 2035 targets create certainty for manufacturers and investors on the road ahead, with sufficient lead time to plan for a fair transition. They support the EU industry’s competitiveness, in a global vehicle electrification context.

    The impacts of the revised CO2 standards on employment and consumers have been analysed in the Commission’s impact assessment[2]. A small overall increase in employment was projected.

    Both first- and second-hand car users would benefit from a lower total cost of ownership over the vehicles’ lifetime. This will be increasingly the case as more affordable zero-emission vehicles become available.

    The Commission has set up a Social Climate Fund and will work with Member States on their Social Climate Plans to ensure that resources are spent to support the most affected vulnerable groups, such as households in energy or transport poverty.

    The forthcoming Clean Industrial Deal Communication and an Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act will support companies by simplifying, investing and ensuring access to cheap, sustainable and secure energy supplies and raw materials.

    In 2025, th e Commission will prepare a progress report on the transition[3]. In 2026, the Commission will review the regulation[4], which will be an opportunity to assess how to best ensure a fair transition, also considering changing global circumstances.

    • [1] http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2023/851/oj
    • [2] Impact assessment accompanying Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Regulation (EU) 2019/631 as regards strengthening the CO2 emission performance standards for new passenger cars and new light commercial vehicles in line with the Union’s increased climate ambition.
    • [3] Article 14a of Regulation (EU) 2019/631.
    • [4] Article 15 of Regulation (EU) 2019/631.
    Last updated: 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Competition in the waste incineration plant sector and the conduct of the Municipality of Rome in the management of the municipal energy and environment company (ACEA) – E-002077/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. EU waste legislation is technology neutral and ensures a high level of environmental protection while respecting the waste hierarchy: first prevention, then preparation for re-use, then recycling, then other recovery (incineration with energy recovery), and ultimately disposal as a last resort (incineration without energy recovery or landfilling)[1]. The Commission has no information that the mentioned incineration plant undermines recycling efforts. Incineration plants[2] must operate in accordance with a permit based on Best Available Techniques[3]. EU competition law does not prohibit exclusivity agreements which are assessed on a case-by-case basis to establish if they are capable of excluding actual or potential competitors from the market. Without prejudice to national or EU rules governing public procurement procedures, this is typically not the case if exclusivity is the result of an open, transparent and non-discriminatory tender procedure.

    2. Emissions from waste incineration are subject to national commitments under the Effort Sharing Regulation[4]. Member States can opt to include these emissions into the Emission Trading system[5]. There are stringent emissions targets for 2030 under both systems. The communication ‘Towards an ambitious Industrial Carbon Management for the EU’[6] recalls that the 2026 review of the EU emissions trading system (ETS)[7] will assess the feasibility of including municipal waste incineration installations and other waste management processes in the EU ETS. Regardless of the scheme, EU institutions and Member States shall take the necessary measures to enable the collective achievement of the climate-neutrality objective by 2050[8].

    • [1] Article 4 and 13 of Directive 2008/98/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 19 November 2008 on waste and repealing certain Directives, OJ L 312, 22.11.2008, p. 3-30, as amended by Directive (EU) 2018/851 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May, OJ L 150, 14.6.2018, p. 109-140.
    • [2] Annex I to the Industrial Emissions Directive, Directive 2010/75/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 November 2010 on industrial emissions (integrated pollution prevention and control), OJ L 334, 17.12.2010, p. 17-119.
    • [3] As described in BAT conclusions: Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2022/2110 of 11 October 2022 establishing the best available techniques (BAT) conclusions, under Directive 2010/75/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council on industrial emissions, for the ferrous metals processing industry (notified under document C(2022) 7054), OJ L 284, 4.11.2022, p. 69-133.
    • [4] https://climate.ec.europa.eu/eu-action/effort-sharing-member-states-emission-targets/overview_en
    • [5] https://climate.ec.europa.eu/eu-action/eu-emissions-trading-system-eu-ets_en
    • [6] COM(2024) 62 final.
    • [7] Directive (EU) 2023/959 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 10 May 2023 amending Directive 2003/87/EC establishing a system for greenhouse gas emission allowance trading within the Union and Decision (EU) 2015/1814 concerning the establishment and operation of a market stability reserve for the Union greenhouse gas emission trading system.
    • [8] Article 2 of the European Climate Law, Regulation (EU) 2021/1119 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 June 2021 establishing the framework for achieving climate neutrality and amending Regulations (EC) No 401/2009 and (EU) 2018/1999, OJ L 243, 9.7.2021, p. 1-17.
    Last updated: 31 January 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: IOM Raises Alarm Over Displacement of Hundreds of Thousands in Goma, DRC

    Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

    Kinshasa, 31 January 2025 – The International Organization for Migration (IOM), is deeply concerned about the hundreds of thousands of civilians displaced over the last few days in Goma, North Kivu Province, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). An upsurge in heavy fighting and violence in recent days has forced people– some already previously displaced – out of their homes. IOM is appealing to the international community to recognize the staggering scale of the crisis, and to support the humanitarian needs of those displaced.  

    “Millions of people were already displaced by years of conflict in eastern DRC, and humanitarian needs were massive. With the current alarming upsurge in fighting, an already dire situation is rapidly becoming very much worse,” said Amy Pope, IOM Director General. “IOM joins the UN Secretary-General’s call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and full humanitarian access, so that we can rapidly scale up our response and ensure that life-saving aid reaches those in need.”   

    On January 23, intense clashes broke out between the M23 armed group and government forces in Goma and nearby Sake, as well as in South Kivu towns such as Minova.  The fighting occurred near densely populated camps sheltering tens of thousands of internally displaced people, including women and children.   

    Several displacement sites, including on the outskirts of Goma, where over 300,000 displaced persons have sought refuge, have been partially or completely emptied as families fled the fighting. Those displaced urgently need shelter, food, clean water, medical assistance, and protection services for women and children. Essential items like blankets, mats and cooking utensils are also in critical demand.  

    IOM has been supporting displaced and host communities in Goma and the surrounding areas by providing emergency shelter, water; sanitation, and hygiene assistance, camp co-ordination and management services, and monitoring population movements through IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix.   

    However, the organization and other humanitarian partners are struggling to meet the urgent needs of displaced communities amidst the insecurity and the limited funding. Escalating violence has forced IOM and other humanitarian organizations to suspend operations in the most affected areas, cutting off lifesaving aid to thousands.  

    Without immediate humanitarian access and additional funding, response efforts will be paralyzed. By the end of 2024, only 51 per cent of the 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan had been funded to respond to the protracted conflict. The current 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan for DRC appeals for USD 2.5 billion with at least USD 50 million urgently needed as a result of this new wave of displacement, to scale up life-saving humanitarian assistance and prevent further suffering.  

    Given the scale of the crisis, IOM calls for comprehensive response across humanitarian, development, and peace sectors through stronger partnerships and putting communities at the center.  

    IOM’s top strategic objective is to save lives, protect people on the move and find solutions to internally displaced populations by providing urgent essential needs inside their homelands otherwise people will have no choice but to cross borders. In 2024, the organization provided life-saving support to almost 32 million people in 168 countries and expanded programs supporting internally displaced persons in over 20 countries around the world.   

     

    For more information, please contact  

    In Kinshasa: Daco Tambilika, dtambilika@iom.int,   

    In Nairobi: Yvonne Ndege, yndege@iom.int  

    In Geneva: Kennedy Okoth, kokoth@iom.int  

     

    MIL OSI United Nations News