Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Johnson Introduces the Guidance Out Of Darkness Act (GOOD) Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Ron Johnson
    WASHINGTON – On Friday, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and 14 of his Senate colleagues introduced the Guidance Out Of Darkness (GOOD) Act.The GOOD Act requires federal agencies to publish their regulatory guidance on the internet in an easily accessible location. This bill will help impacted entities — including small businesses, workers and households — be fully informed of regulatory requirements in order to take any necessary actions for compliance.
    Sen. Johnson was joined by Senators Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), and James Risch (R-Idaho). 
    The full text of the legislation can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed Statement on Firing of Coast Guard Commandant Linda Fagan

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC  — After President Trump abruptly fired Admiral Linda Fagan, the 27th Commandant of the Coast Guard and America’s first female Service Chief who was two-and-a-half years into her four-year term, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement:
    “Admiral Fagan is a consummate professional and a strong leader with a record of distinguished service.  During her time as Commandant, she successfully led more than 55,000 Coast Guard personnel in their critical missions and life-saving operations at sea.
    “I am troubled that this firing was based on politics, not performance. I urge my Republican colleagues to take a closer look at her unwarranted dismissal and speak out against the removal of high-achieving officers for partisan reasons.
    “Admiral Fagan’s removal is a loss for the Coast Guard.  She’s a trailblazer and mentor for many young officers.  Her legacy continues through them and we salute her for a job well done. 
    “Admiral Fagan earned her place in history and raised the bar for others to follow.  No one, not even President Trump, can take that away from her.”
    -end-

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Statement on the Confirmation of Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen

    Published: 01.24.2025

    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement on the confirmation of Pete Hegseth to be Secretary of Defense: 
    “Since I’ve been a member of the U.S. Senate, I have had productive relationships with every Secretary of Defense from both Republican and Democratic administrations—even if we didn’t agree on every policy issue. I have voiced my concerns for our national security related to Mr. Hegseth’s nomination; however, now that he has been confirmed to this position, I sincerely hope we can work together in good faith to ensure the wellbeing of our service members. It’s critical we put the security of Americans and our nation above all else.” 
    Citing national security concerns in a Senate floor speech yesterday, Shaheen announced that she would oppose the President’s nominee for Secretary of Defense for the first time since joining the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee in 2011. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz, Senators Introduce Resolution Warning of Serious Public Health Threats From Trump Administration Freeze on Critical Health Alerts, Including Disease Outbreaks and Food Contamination

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz
    WASHINGTON – Following reports that the Trump Administration has paused critical communications from federal health agencies, including warnings on disease outbreaks and food contamination, U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.) Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) introduced a resolution calling for uninterrupted health warning services for the American people.
    “People deserve to have timely and accurate information about dangerous disease outbreaks or contamination in their food. This shouldn’t be controversial or political. It’s about keeping people healthy and safe,” said Senator Schatz.
    “Federal health agencies must be able to communicate timely and accurate information to health care providers and the public, especially as the devastating Southern California fires burn down community health centers and put hospitals and lives at risk,” said Senator Padilla. “President Trump’s dangerous order halting federal public health communications puts vulnerable California communities at even further risk in a time of crisis. I will keep fighting to protect public access to essential health information.”
    “Disease outbreaks and public health crises don’t stop during presidential transitions. Preventing health agencies from communicating with the public is flat out dangerous,” said Senator Van Hollen.
    “Avian flu is spreading, and the Trump Administration thinks it’s a good idea to stop federal health agencies from communicating with the public? This is dangerous and misguided,” said Senator Welch.
    “President Trump is playing politics with people’s health. At the very least, the federal government should be able to alert the public when it is aware of disease outbreaks or contaminated food.  The Trump Administration should not withhold this information from the public,” said Senator Reed.
    “Halting alerts about deadly disease outbreaks or food contamination serves no one. Just last year, ten people died after a listeria outbreak at a Boar’s Head facility – a number that might have been even higher if public agencies hadn’t been allowed to warn the public. Even in a time of deep political difference, we ought to agree that preventing the spread of deadly disease is a wise use of taxpayer dollars,” said Senator Blumenthal.
    The full text of the resolution is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Employment indicators: December 2024 – Stats NZ information release

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Employment indicators: December 202428 January 2025 – Employment indicators provide an early indication of changes in the labour market.

    Key facts

    Changes in the seasonally adjusted filled jobs for the December 2024 month (compared with the November 2024 month) were:

    • all industries – up 0.1 percent (2,615 jobs) to 2.36 million filled jobs
    • primary industries – up 0.2 percent (182 jobs)
    • goods-producing industries – down 0.1 percent (452 jobs)
    • service industries – up 0.2 percent (4,439 jobs).

    Files:

     

    MIL OSI

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Events – Firefighters Compete at UFBA South Island Waterway Challenge

    Source: United Fire Brigades’ Association

    Each year, over 20,000 fires threaten precious homes, businesses, our natural environment and lives across New Zealand. We have seen several large vegetation fires this summer already and they all require one thing – lots of water and brave people to put it there!
    Firefighting relies on timing, technical expertise, and teamwork to save lives and property; the branch on the hose, the hose to the pump, the standpipe to the hydrant, and each person playing their part.
    Since 1885, the United Fire Brigades’ Association (UFBA) Waterway Challenge has helped firefighters test their hose-running and pump-operating skills in a fun, safe, and competitive environment. The track has 19 different setups covering rural and urban approaches to firefighting.
    On Saturday 1 February, over 50 volunteer firefighters from around the South Island will show off their teamwork and firefighting skills that they use to protect property and lives, as they compete in teams against each other in the annual UFBA South Island Waterway Challenge.
    Teams of firefighters will be coming from Lincoln, Lyttleton, Rangiora, Westport, Greymouth, Brunner, Methven, Cromwell, Mataura, Balclutha, Wyndham, Mossburn, Sefton, Rolleston, Luggate, and Ross Volunteer Fire Brigades.
    Competitors have trained all year, some are highly experienced and we have some fresh faces ready to take on the challenge. This firefighting event helps teams prepare for the biennial UFBA National Waterway Challenge a few weeks after the South Island event.
    Bring the kids along to watch this competitive display of firefighting techniques.
    Location: Darfield Domain
    Date/Time: Saturday 1 February 2025 from 0930hrs till 1600hrs (approx.) 
    About the UFBA – for over 145 years the United Fire Brigades’ Association has been the leading association representing firefighters in New Zealand. Today our services support around 14,000 firefighters throughout the fire and emergency services sector by providing advocacy, skills-based challenges, workshops and service honours.
    For more information visit www.ufba.org.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fire Safety – Restricted fire season begins for Porirua and Kāpiti Coast

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand has declared a restricted fire season for the Porirua and Kāpiti Coast areas from 8am today, until further notice.
    A restricted fire season means anyone who wants to light an outdoor fire must go to checkitsalright.nz and apply for a fire permit authorised by Fire and Emergency.
    District Manager Brett Lockyer says Porirua and the Kāpiti Coast have become extremely dry since the beginning of the year.
    “Although there has been a bit of rain in the last couple of days, we still have a lot of very dry vegetation on the west side of the district, which could easily catch fire,” he says.
    “With that in mind, we’re restricting how and when people can light fires in those areas.
    “We will keep monitoring the conditions, but for now we suggest that people hold off on any planned burn activities, and check on their recent fire sites to make sure these are fully out.”
    Brett Lockyer says if people aren’t sure what the restrictions are in their area, they should go to www.checkitsalright.nz and enter their address.
    “You will need a permit to light a fire, and you will need to comply with any conditions set out,” he says.
    “This is a very risky time of year for wildfires, so we’re asking everyone to help us keep Wellington District’s people, property and environment safe from fires this summer.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business Appointments – Fusion5 appoints CEO for New Zealand

    Source: NZ news tips

    Message: 28 January 2025 – Wellington, New Zealand. Australasian business solutions company Fusion5 has announced the appointment of Kristy Brown as Chief Executive Officer for its New Zealand operations.
    The appointment will see Fusion5 Australia and New Zealand led respectively by Sven Martin and Kristy Brown. Martin took on the initial Australia/New Zealand CEO role in 2023 and will now be entirely focused on the market expansion and growth opportunities in Australia.
    “Appointing dual CEOs in New Zealand and Australia is essential for realising the growth potential in both countries,” says Rebecca Tohill, Fusion5 Executive Chair. “It will allow us to harness local energy and drive without distraction as Fusion5 evolves from a business solutions provider to a transformation partner specialising in systems integration and delivering high-value, holistic solutions.”
    “Kristy has an impressive track record at Fusion5, particularly in advancing our Microsoft capabilities and business,” says Sven Martin, Fusion5 CEO – Australia. “We’ve collaborated successfully over the years, and I’m genuinely excited for her. With her as my counterpart in New Zealand, I can provide dedicated focus on the Australian market, ensuring both regions thrive.”
    An experienced business leader, Brown joined Fusion5 in 2016 and built a highly successful Microsoft practice within New Zealand. Brown was appointed Fusion5’s Chief Microsoft Officer – Australia/New Zealand in 2024. Today, Fusion5’s multi-award-winning Microsoft practice constitutes over 60% of its revenue.
    Brown is also known for her commitment to mentoring and nurturing the next generation of talent within the business.
    “I’m truly excited to be leading Fusion5 New Zealand,” says Brown, “and I appreciate the trust the business continues to show in me and the support from those around me. Being appointed to this role is a privilege and an opportunity for Fusion5 to bring significant performance improvements for our local customers. As we grow, we never want to lose sight of what’s important to our customers and our people. With dual CEOs in place, we can do this – and more – effectively and at scale.”
    “Kristy has outstanding market engagement skills; her passion, drive, and ability to connect with customers, partners, and our people make her the ideal leader to propel our growth in New Zealand,’ says Tohill. “Between Sven and Kristy, Fusion5 is in the best possible hands.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Deadline for pubs and clubs to comply with new ATM laws fast approaching

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 26 January 2025

    Last updated: 28 January 2025

    Released by: Minister for Gaming and Racing


    New laws regarding ATMs and EFTPOS machines near gaming machines will be enforced from next month, as part of the Minns Labor Government’s gambling harm minimisation reforms.

    Under new rules, machines that allow cash withdrawals must be placed at least 5m from the entry to a gaming room and not be visible from any machine or entry to a gaming room.

    Having ATMs and EFTPOS facilities further away from gaming machines encourages a break in play for vulnerable customers, who may benefit from taking a step away to consider how much they are spending.

    The new rules came into place on 1 January, with a one-month grace period to comply. From this Saturday, 1 February Liquor and Gaming NSW will take a zero-tolerance approach, with venues in breach liable to fines, statutory directions and/or prosecution.

    The new measures are the latest in a suite of reforms introduced by the NSW Government since 1 June 2023 to reduce gambling harm, including:

    • banning the placement of any signage or advertising relating to gaming machines either on, or visible from an ATM or EFTPOS terminal with cash withdrawal facilities
    • reducing the statewide gaming machine entitlement cap by more than 3000
    • banning political donations from clubs with electronic gaming machines
    • reducing the cash input limit on new gaming machines from $5,000 to $500
    • banning all external gambling signage in venues
    • introducing Responsible Gambling Officers for venues with more than 20 machine entitlements
    • establishing an Independent Panel to conduct a trial of cashless gaming in pubs and clubs throughout 2024
    • committing $100 million to harm minimisation – investing in research, prevention, services and reform.

    Liquor and Gaming NSW is conducting a compliance campaign throughout January and February to work with venues to ensure they are meeting the new requirements.

    More than 225 venues across 17 Local Government Areas have been inspected and while most have been found to be doing the right thing, 30 of the venues were yet to comply with the requirements.

    Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said:

    “The Minns Labor Government is committed to reforms to reduce gambling harm in clubs and hotels and we have achieved more in 22 months of office than the Liberal Coalition did in 12 years.

    “All pubs and clubs in NSW with gaming machines must comply with gambling harm minimisation requirements and do the right thing by their patrons.

    “It’s pleasing to hear the majority of venues inspected have complied with the new rules regarding placement of cash dispensing machines.

    “I urge any licensees still to make the necessary changes to do so as quickly as possible or they can expect a strong enforcement response.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: NSW’s frontline heroes celebrated with Australia day honours

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 26 January 2025

    Last updated: 28 January 2025

    Released by: Minister for Emergency Services


    Sixteen emergency services personnel from NSW have been recognised on the Australia Day 2025 Honours List for their service to the community during times of crisis.

    The Australian Fire Service Medal was awarded to eleven recipients representing Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) and the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS).

    The Emergency Services Medal was awarded to five recipients representing the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES), Surf Life Saving NSW (SLS NSW), and VRA Rescue NSW.

    Medal recipients are announced twice a year as part of the Australia Day and the Kings Birthday Honours Lists, recognising the dedication, bravery, and leadership of emergency services personnel to keeping our communities safe. 

    Australian Fire Service Medal recipients

    • Mr Gregory Reuben Houston, FRNSW
    • Mr Samuel James Parkhouse, FRNSW
    • Mr Garry James Reardon, FRNSW
    • Mr Samuel Stuart Clark AM, NSW RFS
    • Ms Robyn Leslie Reynolds, NSW RFS
    • Ms Jennifer Ann Farrell, NSW RFS
    • Mr Scott Alexander Campbell, NSW RFS
    • Mr Wayne Robert Keel, NSW RFS
    • Mr Anthony Clough, NSW RFS
    • Mr John Duncan Hedley, NSW RFS
    • Mr Robert James Conroy, NSW RFS

    Emergency Services Medal recipients

    • Mrs Christine Speer, NSW SES
    • Mr Anthony Gerard Battam, NSW SES
    • Mr Michael Anthony Wasley, SLS NSW
    • Mrs Julie Wilcox, SLS NSW
    • Mr Daniel John van Keimpema, VRA Rescue NSW

    Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:

    “I’m thrilled to see so many of our outstanding emergency services personnel recognised on the Australia Day Honours List. Their service is a testament to the very best of our state and we’re proud to honour their achievements.

    “From bushfires to floods, surf rescues and storms – our emergency services workers go above and beyond to protect the people of NSW and demonstrate exceptional bravery, compassion, and commitment.

    “The Australian Fire Service Medal and the Emergency Service Medal is a well-deserved recognition of their tireless efforts to keeping our communities safe.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Championing creativity and diversity during NSW Women’s Week 2025

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 28 January 2025

    Released by: Minister for Women


    Fifteen organisations across New South Wales have received a share of more than $430,000 to host events that highlight women’s creativity, diversity and empowerment during this year’s Women’s Week.

    The NSW Government is building better communities where women and girls can achieve their potential and thrive.

    Women’s Week Grants have been running since 2018 to fund innovative events that empower women and girls to participate in our communities, to advance gender equality in the longer term.

    The 15 successful recipients of the 2025 Women’s Week Grants include:

    1. Interrelate Ltd – Empowerment through education: addressing the need for menstrual education to support young women in need (Coonamble LGA)
    2. Kiama Municipal Council - Paint the Town Femme (Kiama LGA) 
    3. Powerhouse Youth Theatre Inc. - Khair (خير): A Woman’s Tale (Fairfield LGA)
    4. NSW Tonga Netball Association Inc - Her Journey (Queanbeyan-Palerang LGA)
    5. Mudgee Local Aboriginal Land Council - Yinaagirbang Maywang (Women Together) (Mid-Western LGA)
    6. Accessible Arts - Wellbeing Through Art (City of Sydney LGA)
    7. African Sub-Sahara International Development Agency (ASSIDA) - African Women Celebration Week (Liverpool LGA)
    8. SSI – Settlement Service International – Celebrating the diversity of regional women (Coffs Harbour LGA)
    9. Walhallow Local Aboriginal Land Council - Rise & Shine: Gamilaroi Women’s Week Celebration (Liverpool Plains LGA)
    10. Lane Cove Council – Resilience and Radiance (Lane Cove LGA)
    11. Diversity Arts Australia - Empowering Diversity: Women in Arts and Creativity Symposium (Parramatta LGA)
    12. Northern Beaches Council - NSW Women’s Week Writing and Poetry Workshop Series – Celebrating Female Authors living with a Disability (Northern Beaches LGA)
    13. Nourish Nation Foundation Inc – Nourishing Women: A Path to Health Empowerment (Wagga Wagga LGA)
    14. Randwick City Council – Women’s Work art show and live music performance (Randwick LGA)
    15. Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Organisation –Because of Her, We Can: Health and Wellbeing in Far West NSW (Broken Hill, Central Darling Shire and Balranald LGAs)

    NSW Women’s Week, which runs from Sunday 2 to Saturday 8 March, is an annual showcase of the stories and remarkable achievements of women in our state.

    The NSW Government’s Women of the Year Awards at the International Convention Centre is the culmination the week-long celebrations and will be held in Sydney on Thursday 6 March.

    To find out more about Women’s Week 2025 events, visit NSW Women’s Week 2025 | NSW Government.

    Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

    “The NSW Government is thrilled to fund one of the most diverse range of Women’s Week events this year.

    “Alongside some great activities that focus on women’s health, art and stories, we have funded events we hope will engage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, women with a disability and women from rural, regional and remote NSW.

    “We want these events to inspire creativity and talent, empower women of all ages and backgrounds and encourage diversity and inclusion. I encourage everyone to get involved in the events that are planned in your communities.

    “NSW Women’s Week gives women a platform to honour the many contributions to our families and communities in all aspects of social, cultural, and political life.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Seniors set for laughs during free NSW Seniors Festival Comedy Shows in Sydney and Port Stephens

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 28 January 2025

    Released by: Minister for Seniors


    Nine comedy geniuses will take to the stage for the NSW Seniors Festival Comedy Shows this March to entertain seniors in Sydney and Port Stephens.

    The free events will deliver a day of laughs as comedians Bec Melrose, Rebecca De Unamuno, Simon Kennedy, Gary Eck, Anisa Nandaula, Mat Wakefield, Laura Hughes, Peter Berner, and Tommy Dean show off their talents at the Seniors Festival Comedy Shows.

    Emcee Andrew Barnett, will host the fun-filled events at:

    • Sydney Town Hall on Tuesday 4 March at 11am
    • Soldiers Point Hall in Port Stephens on Thursday 6 March at 10:30am and 1:30pm

    Tickets will be available from Tuesday 11 February at 9am at https://www.nsw.gov.au/arts-and-culture/seniors-festival/whats-on/nsw-seniors-festival-comedy-show.

    The annual NSW Seniors Festival takes place from 3 to 16 March. The festival is the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere, with more than 500,000 people participating in events held across NSW.

    Highlights of the festival include the Expo with a range of activities and stalls for seniors to engage in, as well as the free Premier’s Gala Concerts, both of which will be held at Sydney’s International Convention Centre on Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 March.

    For tickets to these events and to keep up to date with everything happening at the NSW Seniors Festival, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/arts-and-culture/seniors-festival.

    Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said:

    “It’s fantastic to see the comedy shows being held again – they always draw a great crowd and leave seniors in stitches.

    “These events offer our seniors the opportunity to enjoy time out with friends, while watching comedians they know or discover new ones. It’s a popular event that helps keep seniors connected and feeling included. I’m looking forward to seeing them enjoy the shows.

    “This is the NSW Government’s way of saying thank you for all the valuable contributions our older generation has made and continues to make to society. I encourage seniors to get their free tickets and attend these great shows in Sydney and Port Stephens.”

    Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington MP said:

    “It’s terrific news that Port Stephens’ seniors are going to have a laugh soon, especially after the difficult weeks we’ve had recently.

    “I just love how the NSW Seniors Festival Comedy Show will be held at two sites in the state – Sydney Town Hall and Soldier’s Point Hall.

    “Port Stephens is a beautiful community because of the significant contribution our seniors make. Like me, the NSW Government is grateful to them, and this comedy show is our way of giving back.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New life-saving defibrillators awarded for NSW sports facilities

    Source: New South Wales Premiere

    Published: 28 January 2025

    Released by: The Premier, Minister for Sport


    The Minns Labor Government is today announcing the delivery of almost 200 life-saving defibrillators to sporting and recreation organisations across the state.

    This announcement brings the total number of devices awarded under this program to more than 2,500 defibrillators.

    Every year, more than 9,000 people experience cardiac arrests outside of hospitals and these defibrillators play a key role in helping save the lives of a number of these people.

    These portable defibrillators detect and analyse a person’s heart activity and, if needed, deliver an electric shock through the chest to the heart.

    The NSW Government’s Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program provides up to $3,000 for the purchase, installation and training in new automated external defibrillators.

    A total of $500,000 has been made available each year to NSW sporting organisations to pay for these devices.

    Importantly, approximately 80 per cent of defibrillators awarded under this round of funding went to regional and remote communities, where emergency medical services naturally are further apart.

    This follows a decision made by the Minns Labor Government to ensure funding was directed to grassroots sporting organisations in some of NSW’s most disadvantaged areas for new life-saving defibrillators at local sports facilities.

    The NSW Labor Government is committed to rebuilding our grassroots sporting communities and ensuring local facilities are fit-for-purpose.

    To view the full list of recipients, visit: https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants/local-sport-defibrillator-grant-program

    Premier of NSW Chris Minns said:

    “Access to one of these defibrillators can be the difference between life and death for thousands of people across NSW who suffer cardiac arrests each year – which is what makes this so important.”

    “Delivering hundreds of new defibrillators to sporting organisations across our state will give even more people the confidence to exercise and play sport safely.”

    “We’re making sure that areas that have been neglected for far too long, also have access to these life saving devices.”

    Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:

    “The Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program equips sports clubs to be able to respond to potentially life-threatening emergencies at their sports facilities.”

    “The first few minutes following out-of-hospital cardiac arrest are critical, that is why the NSW Government is ensuring people participating in sport activities have access to potentially life-saving equipment.

    “This investment by the NSW Government has the potential to mean the difference between life and death.”

    Founder, Heartbeat of Football Andy Paschalidis said:

    “I applaud the NSW Government for the ongoing defibrillator rollout programme which is saving lives.”

    “Last year, at least six footballers in Sydney alone were saved because of defibrillator access at their grounds and the rapid response by individuals trained in CPR.

    “It’s wonderful to see 200 sporting clubs will now be able to purchase and install these life saving devices.”

    Co-deputy Director of the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute Professor Jamie Vandenberg said:

    “Around 10,000 people in NSW suffer a cardiac arrest outside of hospital each year, and currently the vast majority will die.

    “Being able to access a defibrillator in those crucial first minutes can make all the difference, so it’s incredibly heartening to see that almost 200 sporting clubs will now be able to purchase and install these lifesaving devices. This will help keep families together

    “This is a sobering statistic but it’s one we can change for the better by installing more of these lifesaving devices in sports clubs across the State.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI USA: UConn Hand Center Helps Bowler Strike Again

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    In this month’s WFSB Great Day CT segment we meet Stephanie Reitz who has been typing since she was 13 years old, once for fun and then as part of her job as a reporter and spokesperson for the University of Connecticut.  Pain in her finger and knuckle lead her to the UConn Health Hand Center where orthopedic surgeon Dr. Joel Ferreira, diagnosed arthritis in the tip of her finger joint, the most common location in the hand.

    She had surgery shortly after for that finger and the pain was gone. Reitz began bowling competitively and when she began having issues with other fingers that was not only affecting her work but her important past time, she reached back out to Ferreira who worked around her bowling season and with two more surgeries fixed the three affected fingers.

    At the UConn Health Center, Ferreira and his colleagues specialize in hands, wrists and elbows and offer a variety of solutions for problems and many can be treated without surgery.

    “I think you can get used to anything, but you shouldn’t get used to pain and that’s what I have learned through this process,” says Reitz.

    [embedded content]

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEBRUARY 2 – PENNSYLVANIA TO HOST GROUNDHOG DAY 2025

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    February 02, 2025Punxsutawney, PA

    ADVISORY – FEBRUARY 2 – PENNSYLVANIA TO HOST GROUNDHOG DAY 2025

    All eyes will be on Pennsylvania February 2, 2025, to learn if we’ll have six more weeks of winter or an early spring. Pennsylvania’s most famous groundhog Punxsutawney Phill will emerge again for the 139th year to share his “prognostication” with the world.

    This event unites people of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate one of America’s most cherished traditions. From Phil’s top-hatted Inner Circle of handlers to the tens of thousands of attendees who will brave the winter chill, Groundhog Day 2025 promises to be a moment of collective excitement and anticipation.

    From royal weddings to space launches, few events bring the world together like Groundhog Day!

    WHEN:
    Sunday, February 2, 2025; 6:00 AM

    WHERE:
    Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, PA

    LIVE STREAM:
    https://www.visitpa.com/live-stream-phils-prediction

    FACEBOOK LIVE:

    https://www.facebook.com/visitPA NOTE: 7:15 AM Start Time

    YOUTUBE LIVE:
    https://www.youtube.com/visitpa – NOTE: 7:15 AM Start Time

    INSTAGRAM LIVE:
    https://www.instagram.com/visitPA – NOTE: 7:15 AM Start Time

    SATELLITE COORDINATES:
    DATE: Sunday, February 2, 2025
    TIME: 0530 to 0745 (Eastern)
    FORMAT: 16 x 9 HD
    SATELLITE: SES 02 (KU-Band – DIGITAL)
    ORBITAL POSITION: 87 Degrees West
    TRANSPONDER: 10
    CHANNEL: D9 (9Mhz)
    SYM RATE: 6.333 msps
    FEC: 3/4
    BIT RATE: 8.754441
    VIDEO CODEC: MPEG-4 (H.264)
    DOWNLINK POL: Vertical
    DOWNLINK FREQ: 11913.50 MHz
    MODULATION: DVB-S, QPSK
    TROUBLE: 717-772-4282

    Video provided by Pennsylvania Cable Network

    INTERVIEWS:
    For journalists who want to attend and secure interviews with local leaders or members of Phil’s Inner Circle of handlers – the ones in the top hats – get in touch today. Video interviews and calls with the Groundhog Club’s Inner Circle are also possible.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Canoe Lake Cree First Nation — Two charged after man stabbed on Canoe Lake Cree First Nation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Shortly after midnight on January 24, Beauval RCMP responded to a report of a stabbing at a residence on Canoe Lake Cree First Nation. The adult male victim was transported to hospital for treatment of what were described as non-life-threatening injuries.

    RCMP officers from Patuanak and Ile a la Crosse Detachments were patrolling the area and located the suspect truck. The truck fled the area at a high rate of speed on Highway 965 and then 903 towards Meadow Lake. For public safety reasons, RCMP officers, also including Meadow Lake Detachment and Police Dog Services, followed the vehicle, ultimately using a tire deflation device to stop the truck. One driver and one passenger were in the truck and both were arrested.

    As a result of continuing investigation:

    24-year-old Christopher Nolan of Meadow Lake has been charged with:

    • 1 count, aggravated assault, section 268 of the Criminal Code
    • 4 counts, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, section 88 of the Criminal Code
    • 1 count, disguised with intent to commit offence, section 351(2) of the Criminal Code
    • 3 counts, failure to comply with a release order, section 145(5)(a) of the Criminal Code

    Christopher was also wanted on multiple outstanding warrants in relation to a 2024 investigation. Christopher will appear in Meadow Lake Provincial Court on January 27.

    34-year-old Michael Chatelaine of Flying Dust First Nation is charged with:

    • 1 count, aggravated assault, section 268 of the Criminal Code
    • 4 counts, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, section 88 of the Criminal Code
    • 1 count, disguised with intent to commit offence, section 351(2) of the Criminal Code
    • 1 count, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, section 320.13(1) of the Criminal Code
    • 1 count, flight from a police officer, section 320.14(1)(a) of the Criminal Code
    • 1 count, refusal to comply with demand, section 320.15(1) of the Criminal Code

    He will appear in Meadow Lake Provincial Court on January 27.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Greenfield Man Sentenced to 15 Months’ Imprisonment for Paying Healthcare Kickbacks

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that, on January 24, 2025, Mohammed Kazim Ali was sentenced to 15 months’ incarceration for paying healthcare kickbacks in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute.  Ali was also ordered to pay over $2.2 million in restitution to Medicaid and Medicare as well as a $75,000 fine.

    Ali and his co-defendant, Justin Hanson, owned a Milwaukee-area clinical laboratory called Noah Associates.  According to court records, beginning in 2017, Ali and Hanson engaged in a three-year-long scheme to pay kickbacks to the owner of a Milwaukee substance use treatment clinic in exchange for referrals of Medicaid and Medicare patients for urine drug testing performed by Noah Associates.  Ali and Hanson paid over $400,000 in kickbacks to procure the tests.  The tests, however, were not ordered by any physician and were not medically necessary for the treatment of patients.  After one physician learned that his credentials were being used without his authorization to order the tests, the physician told Ali to stop.  Ali nonetheless continued to have Noah Associates accept and bill the government for tests falsely ordered under that physician’s credentials for months.  As a result of the scheme, Medicaid and Medicare paid Noah Associates over $2.2 million for the unnecessary tests.  Ali personally received over $800,000 from Noah Associates during the scheme.

    At sentencing, United States District Judge J.P. Stadtmueller emphasized the seriousness of Ali’s crime, including Ali’s manipulation and breach of trust of the Medicaid and Medicare programs to receive millions of dollars that were not truly earned.  Judge Stadtmueller further noted that Ali knew that his conduct was criminal yet still engaged in a long-running, creative fraud scheme—a decision that Judge Stadtmueller criticized as “beyond belief.”

    In addition to his sentence, Ali will also be excluded from participation in the Medicaid and Medicare programs and has shut down Noah Associates.  His co-defendant, Hanson, has also pleaded guilty for paying healthcare kickbacks and will be sentenced on March 21, 2025.

    “Paying kickbacks for patient referrals is illegal because, as this case demonstrates, kickbacks result in Medicaid and Medicare paying for unnecessary services,” said United States Attorney Haanstad.  “Rather than bill the government for tests that patients actually needed, Ali abused the Medicaid and Medicare programs for ill-gotten gains.  The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to prevent frauds against Medicaid and Medicare.”

    “This sentence demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to investigating individuals like Mr. Ali who erode the public’s trust in our healthcare systems,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael Hensle of the FBI Milwaukee Field Office. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure that those responsible for healthcare fraud are exposed and brought to justice. The safety and well-being of Wisconsin residents remains our highest priority.”

    “Individuals and medical providers who accept kickbacks in exchange for the referral of patients covered under a Federal health care program place personal profit ahead of patient care, which can ultimately lead to the delivery of costly, medically unnecessary services,” said Mario M. Pinto, of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Chicago Region.  “Our agency is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to bring those who violate laws intended to protect patients, and our Federal health care programs, to justice.”

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Office of the Inspector General, Department of Health and Human Services investigated the case.  Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Carter and Julie Stewart handled the prosecution.   

    # # #

    For further information contact:

    Public Information Officer

    Kenneth.Gales@usdoj.gov

    (414) 297-1700

    Follow us on Twitter  

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Huntington Man Sentenced to Prison for Fentanyl Crime and Violating Supervised Release

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Tyson Davis Sr., 45, of Huntington, was sentenced today to seven years and two months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for distribution of fentanyl and violating supervised release.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 14, 2023, Davis sold approximately 2.93 grams of fentanyl to a confidential informant while in a parked vehicle in Huntington. Davis admitted to the transaction. Investigators conducted three additional controlled buys with Davis using the confidential informant, on June 8, August 3 and October 24, 2023. Davis sold a total of 24.057 grams of substances containing fentanyl to the confidential informant during the four transactions.

    Laboratory analysis of the drugs determined that the substances sold by Davis on June 8 and June 14, 2023, were at least 58 percent pure fentanyl, and the substance sold by Davis on August 3, 2023, was at least 46 percent pure fentanyl.  According to investigators, the fentanyl they seize typically ranges from 0.5 percent to 7 percent pure fentanyl.

    Davis has a long criminal history that includes multiple convictions for drug and firearms-related offenses. At the time of this offense, Davis was serving a term of supervised release as a result of his May 17, 2021 conviction for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Today’s sentence includes two years and six months in prison for committing a crime while on supervised release.

    United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Cabell County Sheriff’s Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

    United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Lesley C. Shamblin prosecuted the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-23.

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    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia Economy – WA tops economic leaderboard as Queensland rises up the ranks: CommSec State of the States – CBA

    Source: Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA)

    WA leads on five of eight economic indicators as Australian state economies remain resilient in the face of higher interest rates and inflation pressures.

    Western Australia has held off a fast-finishing Queensland to claim top spot as the country’s best performing economy for the second quarter in a row in the latest CommSec State of the States report.

    Now in its 16th year, the State of the States report determines which state or territory economy is performing best, by tracking eight key economic indicators and comparing the latest data with decade averages (or the “normal”).

    Western Australia led the national performance rankings for the second time in a decade, ranked first on five of the eight economic indicators.

    In a closely fought contest, Queensland moved up from third spot, joining South Australia in second spot. Victoria remains in fourth place, with Tasmania steady in fifth place.

    NSW leapfrogged the ACT into sixth from seventh place, with the nation’s capital slipping back to seventh. The Northern Territory remains in eighth spot.

    “Overall, economies have slowed in response to higher interest rates and inflation, however Australian states and territories are proving resilient due to a strong job market and solid population growth. As consumers respond to higher borrowing costs and price pressures, the future path will depend on whether the job market can hold up as well as the trajectory of interest rates over the coming months,” Chief CommSec Economist Ryan Felsman said

    “Western Australia’s performance across a number of indicators, namely retail spending, unemployment, population growth, housing finance and dwelling starts powered the state to the top of our economic leaderboard for the second quarter in a row. Queensland however is nipping at WA’s heels, having shot up to equal second place alongside South Australia, with solid results across the eight economic indicators and strong economic momentum. As expected, the interest-rate sensitive south-eastern states remained in a tight cluster mid-table.”

    Additional state and territory highlights include:

    Western Australia ranks first on retail spending, relative unemployment, relative population growth, housing finance and dwelling starts.
    Queensland is now equal second, up from third place, with solid results across the board. South Australia, now joint second, ranks first on economic growth.
    Victoria remains in fourth place – leading on construction work done – and is in fourth spot on two indicators.
    Tasmania is steady in fifth spot — ranking second on equipment spending — but is held back by lower rankings on other indicators.
    NSW moves up to sixth from seventh position and now ranks fifth on four indicators. The ACT has slipped back to seventh — in that position on four indicators.
    The Northern Territory remains in last place. But the “Top End” has performed better over the past 12 months, ranking first for retail spending and equipment investment when annual growth rates are considered.

    Annual growth rates

    The State of the States report also compares the annual growth rates of the eight major indicators, enabling comparisons in terms of more recent economic momentum. This quarter’s report showed:

    Resources-focused Queensland and Western Australia both have the strongest annual economic momentum, and Queensland is now in first spot with Western Australia slipping to second.
    There is little to separate the states with Queensland ranked first or second on five out of the eight key economic indicators. Western Australia is top ranked on three indicators.
    The biggest mover is Victoria, which has jumped to third from seventh place in a sign of improvement in underlying economic activity.  
    South Australia has ascended to fourth from sixth place.
    The Northern Territory has eased back to fifth from third spot. The ACT and NSW are now in joint sixth position, ahead of Tasmania in eighth spot – all held back by higher borrowing costs and slower population growth.

    About the CommSec State of the States Report

    The January 2025 edition of the State of the States report uses the most recent economic data available. While population growth data relates to the June quarter of 2024, other data – such as unemployment – is much timelier, covering the month of December 2024, with housing finance figures focusing on the month of September 2024.

    CommSec, the digital broking arm of Australia’s largest bank, assesses the performance of each state and territory on a quarterly basis using eight key indicators. Those indicators include economic growth, retail spending, equipment investment, unemployment, construction work done, population growth, housing finance, and dwelling commencements.

    Just as the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) uses long-term averages to determine the level of “normal” interest rates, CommSec compares the key indicators to decade averages; that is, against “normal” performance.

    CommSec also compares annual growth rates for eight key indicators for all states and territories, in addition to Australia as a whole, enabling a comparison of economic momentum.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tyler County Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Martin Thomas Anderson, age 36, of Sistersville, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 151 months for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Anderson, also known as “Martin McNeil,” was selling methamphetamine in Marshall and Wetzel Counties. Two traffic stops recovered more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, a stolen firearm, cash, and drug paraphernalia from Anderson. Anderson has prior drug, firearms, and escape convictions.

    Anderson will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

    The Marshall County Drug and Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. 

    U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Raleigh County Woman and Man Plead Guilty to Federal Drug Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BECKLEY, W.Va. – Heather Danielle Dunbar, 37, of Terry, pleaded guilty today to distribution of methamphetamine. Dunbar admitted to her role in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) that distributed methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in Beckley and elsewhere within the Southern District of West Virginia. A co-defendant, David Anthony Lacy, 52, of Beckley, pleaded guilty today to use of a communication facility to facilitate a drug trafficking offense in a separate case.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 17, 2023, Dunbar sold 1 ounce of methamphetamine in exchange for $320 to a confidential informant at the residence of co-conspirator Tilford Joe Bradley Jr. in Beckley. Dunbar admitted to the transaction and further admitted to additional drug transactions. On October 23, 2023, Dunbar sold 25.94 grams of methamphetamine in exchange for $320. On December 26, 2023, Dunbar sold approximately 2.3 grams of fentanyl in exchange for $325. Each time, Dunbar sold the controlled substances to a confidential informant.

    On June 28, 2023, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Bradley’s  residence, where Dunbar was staying. Officers seized 38 grams of fentanyl, 6 grams of cocaine, multiple digital scales, a money counter, a large quantity of small plastic bags, and a blender containing white residue. Dunbar admitted that she intended to help Bradley distribute the seized controlled substances in and around the Southern District of West Virginia.

    Dunbar further admitted to working with Bradley to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl and crack in and around the Southern District of West Virginia during the months of April and May 2024. On April 9, 2024, Bradley called Dunbar and they discussed weighing $600 worth of drugs for an individual waiting to purchase them. On May 3, 2024, Dunbar and Bradley discussed selling $100 worth of cocaine to an individual. Dunbar admitted that she now knows that law enforcement intercepted her phone calls with Bradley.

    Lacy received cocaine base, also known as “crack,” from Bradley and redistributed it in and around the Southern District of West Virginia throughout the month of April 2024. Lacy admitted that he called Bradley using his cell phone to discuss and arrange drug transactions. On April 24, 2024, Lacy called Bradley and asked for about 3.5 grams of crack, and told Bradley that he needed to discuss buying fentanyl from Bradley to redistribute. Lacy admitted that he now knows that law enforcement officers intercepted those phone calls.

    Dunbar is scheduled to be sentenced on May 22, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a $1,000,000 fine. Lacy is scheduled to be sentenced on May 29, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of four years in prison, up to one year of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.

    Bradley, 47, of Beckley, pleaded guilty on January 21, 2025 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and awaits sentencing. Dunbar, Lacy and Bradley are among 12 individuals indicted on charges alleging the defendants conspired to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and crack within the Southern District of West Virginia from in or about June 2023 to in or about May 2024. Dunbar, Lacy and Bradley are also among 10 defendants who have pleaded guilty. The charges against the other defendants are pending. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit, which consists of officers from the West Virginia State Police, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, and the Beckley Police Department.

    United States Magistrate Judge Omar J. Aboulhosn presided over the hearings. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew D. Isabell is prosecuting the cases.

    The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The program was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 5:24-cr-90 (Dunbar) and 5:25-cr-1 (Lacy).

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    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Philadelphia Woman Sentenced to over Three Years in Prison for Stabbing on the Choctaw Indian Reservation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jackson, MS – A Philadelphia woman was sentenced to 40 months in federal prison for stabbing a man in the Pearl River community of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians Reservation.

    According to court documents, Telinah Kowi Tek Farve, 24, stabbed a man at a tribal home in the Pearl River Community in March of 2023.  Farve was indicted by a federal grand jury in April of 2023, and pled guilty in April of 2024.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon and Special Agent in Charge Robert Eikhoff of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement.

    The Choctaw Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin J. Payne and Brian K. Burns prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN), a nationwide initiative that was launched in 2001 and works to reduce violent crime and gun violence.  It’s a collaboration between federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial law enforcement, prosecutors, and community leaders.  PSN is coordinated by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in the 94 federal judicial districts throughout the 50 states and U.S. territories.  For more information about Project Safe Neighborhood, please visit www.psn.gov.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Final Two Defendants Plead Guilty to Roles in Charleston Methamphetamine Trafficking Organization

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Today, Kirt Ray King, 48, of Charleston, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine and Anthony Michael Mowery, 48, of Parkersburg, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine. King and Mowery admitted to their roles in a Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO) that distributed methamphetamine in the Charleston area.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, from in or about January 2024 to in or about May 2024, King and Mowery conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine in Charleston and within the Southern District of West Virginia.

    King and Mowery are scheduled to be sentenced on April 21, 2025. King faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a $10,000,000 fine. Mowery faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 in prison, at least four years of supervised release, and a $5,000,000 fine.

    King and Mowery are among four defendants indicted in the case. Co-defendant Michael Dale Cain, 49, of Parkersburg, pleaded guilty on November 6, 2024, and co-defendant John Wayne Harkless, 46, of Charleston, pleaded guilty on November 20, 2024, each to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Cain and Harkless await sentencing.

    United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

    United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearings. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe is prosecuting the case.

    The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The program was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-95.

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    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Lucie County company and woman sentenced for conspiring to harbor aliens by means of employment

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MIAMI – On Jan. 24, Martinez Builders Supply, d/b/a East Coast Trust (ECT) and Kelly Yanira Del Valle, 43, of Fort Pierce, Florida, were sentenced after pleading guilty to conspiring to harbor aliens by means of employment in August and October 2024. Del Valle also pleaded guilty for filing false tax returns and aiding the filing of false tax returns. 

    ECT was sentenced to two years of probation, to include the implementation of a corporate compliance program, ordered to forfeit $450,000 to the United States and ordered to pay a $100,000 fine. Del Valle was sentenced to 13 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, ordered to forfeit $100,000 to the United States and to pay $100,146 in restitution to the IRS. 

    From June 2018 through August 2021, Del Valle, who was employed by ECT at the time, along with several of ECT’s officers and employees, conspired to harbor migrants by means of employment. In June 2018, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) law enforcement agents conducted an audit of ECT. The audit revealed that dozens of ECT’s employees were migrants, who were not authorized to work in the United States. To conceal, harbor, and shield the undocumented migrants from HSI, Del Valle and several of ECT’s officers and employees, transferred the undocumented migrants from ECT’s payroll to the payroll of two shell companies. The undocumented migrants continued to work at ECT while purportedly being employed and paid by the shell companies. ECT paid Del Valle a fee for each undocumented migrant that she transferred from ECT’s to the shell companies’ payroll.

    Between June 2018 and July 2021, ECT, through its agents and employees, transferred money to bank accounts operated by Del Valle in the name of the shell companies for the express purpose of paying the undocumented migrants who worked at ECT. 

    On Aug. 6, 2021, HSI law enforcement agents discovered 28 undocumented migrants working at ECT’s headquarters in St. Lucie County.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Michael S. Davis for the Southern District of Florida, Acting Special Agent in Charge José R. Figueroa Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami and Special Agent in Charge Emmanuel Gomez of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Miami Field Office, made the announcement. 

    The HSI Fort Pierce Field Office and IRS CI Miami Filed Office investigated the case with assistance from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), U.S. Border Patrol Miami Sector, U.S. Secret Service (USSS), Miami Field Office, St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, and Fort Pierce Police Department (FPPD). Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Porter prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case numbers 24-cr-14019 and 24-cr-14035.

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    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lancaster County Brothers Plead Guilty to Vape Shop Armed Robbery

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    COLUMBIA, S.C. —Marterrious Tyresse Hannah, 22, and Jaimon Tywan Hannah, 22, both of Lancaster County, have pleaded guilty to their involvement in an armed robbery of a local vape shop. Marterrious pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit an armed robbery, armed robbery, and possession of a firearm during an armed robbery. Jaimon pleaded guilty to the armed robbery of the vape shop.

    Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that on July 31, 2023, Marterious Hannah and Jaimon Hannah, brothers, arranged to visit a local vape shop to purchase a handgun from the store clerk, an individual they knew. At the time of sale, Jaimon brandished a handgun and proceeded to rob the clerk. While the Hannah brothers were inside the premise, two other men entered through the open front door and assisted with committing the armed robbery. The robbers stole a safe that contained money, cash from the store clerk, and vape products from the store. At least two defendants were armed as seen on surveillance video. The defendants also stole the firearm they had come to purchase from the store clerk. The firearm was later used and recovered in North Carolina during the commission of a violent crime. 

    Both defendants face a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and face a fine of up to $250,000, restitution, and five years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis accepted the guilty pleas and will sentence the defendants after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney William K. Witherspoon is prosecuting the case.

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    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Waterbury Drug Trafficker Sentenced to More Than 18 Years in Federal Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that GAWAYNE FISHER, also known as “Fruit” and “Tank,” 49, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 217 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for heading a large-scale drug trafficking ring while on federal supervised release.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in August 2009, Fisher was sentenced in New Haven federal court to 10 years of imprisonment and eight years of supervised release for cocaine trafficking offenses.  He was released from prison in February 2015.

    In 2022, the DEA New Haven Task Force, the DEA Tactical Diversion Squad, the Waterbury Police Department, and other law enforcement agencies determined that Fisher was trafficking narcotics while on federal supervised release.  The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps on multiple phones, physical surveillance, and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that Fisher and others were selling large quantities of heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine, as well as counterfeit oxycodone and alprazolam (Xanax) pills.

    Fisher and three of his associates were arrested on April 13, 2023.  On that date, a search of a West Main Street apartment in Waterbury that Fisher used as a stash location revealed approximately 16 kilograms of cocaine, three kilograms of fentanyl, 125,000 individual glassine bags containing fentanyl, and $7,574 in cash.  A search of Fisher’s residence on Beverly Avenue in Waterbury, and his vehicle, revealed approximately $175,110 in cash.  In addition, a search of a residence on Yale Street in Waterbury that Fisher’s co-conspirator used as a stash location revealed drug-processing equipment, approximately three kilograms of loose fentanyl, and approximately 75,000 individual bags containing fentanyl.

    Fisher has been detained since his arrest.  On January 11, 2024, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and five kilograms or more of cocaine, and one count of money laundering.

    Judge Bolden sentenced Fisher to 180 months of imprisonment for the narcotics trafficking and money laundering offenses, and a consecutive 37 months of imprisonment for violating the conditions of his supervised release.

    This investigation was conducted by the DEA New Haven Task Force, the DEA Tactical Diversion Squad, and the Waterbury Police Department, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Marshals Service, Connecticut State Police, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Naugatuck, Ansonia, West Haven, Meriden, East Haven, Branford, Shelton, and Bristol Police Departments.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Natasha M. Freismuth through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Lancaster Men Sentenced On Money Laundering Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Christopher Lopez, age 41, and Michael Torres, age 43, both of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, were sentenced on January 23, 2025, by United States District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson on money laundering charges.  Lopez received a sentence of one year and one day in prison and Torres was sentenced to six months in prison.  Both defendants were ordered to serve one year on supervised release following completion of their prison terms.

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Lopez owned C&D Motorsports, a car dealership located in Lancaster, where Torres was employed as a salesperson. Agents with the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) began investigating C&D Motorsports and Lopez in 2019 after receiving reports that C&D Motorsports catered to known drug traffickers who were known to have purchased vehicles from the dealership, and that the dealership had not been filing currency transaction reports for cash sales in excess of $10,000, as required by federal law.

    IRS-CI conducted an undercover operation during which agents purported to be a drug trafficker and his girlfriend.  The undercover agents met with Torres and Lopez at C&D Motorsports on October 16, 2019, and discussed purchasing a vehicle using cash from drug trafficking and ensuring that the vehicle would be put in the girlfriend’s name and that the drug trafficker’s name would be omitted from paperwork filed in connection with the sale.  On December 11, 2019, the undercover agents returned to C&D Motorsports to meet with both Torres and Lopez to complete a cash purchase of a vehicle, which Lopez and Torres caused to be titled in a third party’s name.  A federal grand jury returned an indictment in February 2022, charging Lopez and Torres with conspiring to commit money laundering involving proceeds represented to have been from drug trafficking.

    Following a four-day trial in February 2024, a jury found both Lopez and Torres guilty of conspiring together to accept more than $33,000 in cash proceeds that were represented to be from the sale of cocaine, and to conceal the nature, source, ownership, and control of those proceeds by having the vehicle titled in a third party’s name.

    “IRS Criminal Investigation is committed to unraveling complex financial transactions and money laundering schemes where individuals attempt to conceal the true source of their money,” stated Amy MacNeely, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS-Criminal Investigation, Philadelphia Field Office.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    The case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christian Haugsby and Joseph Terz prosecuted the case.

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    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Talen Energy, Other Parties Reach Reliability Must Run Settlement Agreement for Brandon Shores and H.A. Wagner Power Plants

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Talen Energy Corporation (“Talen”) (NASDAQ: TLN) announced today that it, PJM Interconnection, L.L.C. (“PJM”), and a broad coalition of the Maryland Public Service Commission, Maryland customers, electric utilities, and Sierra Club have agreed on the terms by which Talen will operate its Brandon Shores and H.A. Wagner power plants until May 31, 2029, beyond their scheduled May 31, 2025 retirement dates. The agreement, colloquially called a “reliability-must-run” or “RMR” agreement, is intended to provide the power necessary to maintain grid and transmission reliability in and around the City of Baltimore until necessary transmission upgrades to provide reliable power to the area from other sources are complete.

    The settlement, which must be approved by FERC and may be contested by the PJM Independent Market Monitor, will provide fixed payments to Talen at $312/MW-day ($145 million annually) and $137/MW-day ($35 million annually) to operate Brandon Shores and H.A. Wagner, respectively. These figures include a $5 million performance incentive for Brandon Shores and a $2.5 million performance incentive for H.A. Wagner. The settlement will separately reimburse Talen for fuel costs and variable operations and maintenance expenses.

    Several recent FERC proceedings related to future PJM base residual capacity auction parameters include questions about how to treat RMR generation resources in the capacity markets. Under the terms of the settlement, Brandon Shores and H.A. Wagner will not be considered capacity resources and will not have separate capacity obligations or be subject to capacity performance penalties. The settling parties have, however, agreed that PJM will consider the Brandon Shores and H.A. Wagner plants to be part of the capacity market supply stack. The “offer” price for the plants in upcoming auctions will depend on the outcome of PJM’s pending Section 205 proceeding, which proposes to include RMR resources administratively in supply as price-takers.

    “This RMR agreement is an important milestone in the collective efforts of PJM, Talen, the Maryland Public Service Commission, and other representatives of Maryland consumers to ensure the reliable supply of electricity to the people of Baltimore and its surrounding area,” said Mac McFarland, President and Chief Executive Officer of Talen. “Talen is pleased to do its part to help provide critical infrastructure with an RMR structure that simultaneously creates reliable electricity in Baltimore and protects Maryland consumer rates.”

    About Talen

    Talen Energy (NASDAQ: TLN) is a leading independent power producer and energy infrastructure company dedicated to powering the future. We own and operate approximately 10.7 gigawatts of power infrastructure in the United States, including 2.2 gigawatts of nuclear power and a significant dispatchable fossil fleet. We produce and sell electricity, capacity, and ancillary services into wholesale U.S. power markets, with our generation fleet principally located in the Mid-Atlantic and Montana. Our team is committed to generating power safely and reliably, delivering the most value per megawatt produced and driving the energy transition. Talen is also powering the digital infrastructure revolution. We are well-positioned to capture this significant growth opportunity, as data centers serving artificial intelligence increasingly demand more reliable, clean power. Talen is headquartered in Houston, Texas. For more information, visit https://www.talenenergy.com/.

    Investor Relations:
    Ellen Liu
    Senior Director, Investor Relations
    InvestorRelations@talenenergy.com

    Media:
    Taryne Williams
    Director, Corporate Communications
    Taryne.Williams@talenenergy.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This communication contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, which statements are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this communication, or incorporated by reference into this communication, are forward-looking statements. Throughout this communication, we have attempted to identify forward-looking statements by using words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecasts,” “goal,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “seek,” “should,” “will,” or other forms of these words or similar words or expressions or the negative thereof, although not all forward-looking statements contain these terms. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions concerning, among other things capital expenditures, earnings, litigation, regulatory matters, hedging, liquidity and capital resources and accounting matters. Forward-looking statements are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause our future business, financial condition, results of operations or performance to differ materially from our historical results or those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement contained in this communication. All of our forward-looking statements include assumptions underlying or relating to such statements that may cause actual results to differ materially from expectations, and are subject to numerous factors that present considerable risks and uncertainties.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Capital Bancorp, Inc. Announces 4Q and Full Year 2024 Results; Successful Close of the IFH Acquisition; Robust Organic Loan and Deposit Growth; Diversified Business Model Drives Strong Performance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Results

    • Net Income of $7.5 million, or $0.45 per share, and return on average assets of 0.96%
      • Net Income of $15.5 million, or $0.92 per share, and return on average assets of 1.97% as adjusted to exclude the impact of merger-related expenses, initial Integrated Financial Holdings, Inc. (“IFH”) Allowance for Credit Losses (“ACL”) provision, and a non-recurring legacy IFH equity and debt investment write-down (non-GAAP)(1)
    • Tangible Book Value Per Share(1) of $18.77, decreased 6.8%, or $1.36 as compared to $20.13 (3Q 2024), resulting from the acquisition of IFH and related purchase accounting impacts
    • Return on average equity of 8.50%, and return on average tangible common equity(1) of 9.47%
      • Core return on average equity(1) of 17.68%, and core return on average tangible common equity(1) of 19.19%
    • Net Interest Income increased $6.0 million, or 15.6% (not annualized), from 3Q 2024
    • Net Interest Margin (“NIM”) decreased to 5.87% as compared to 6.41% (3Q 2024)
      • Core NIM, as adjusted to exclude the impact of credit card loans (non-GAAP)(1) decreased to 4.05% as compared to 4.08% (3Q 2024)
      • Net purchase accounting accretion of $0.7 million for 4Q 2024 accounted for 9 basis points of the reported 5.87% NIM and 10 basis points of the reported 4.05% core NIM, respectively
    • Fee Revenue (noninterest income) totaled $11.9 million, or 21.2% of total revenue for 4Q 2024
      • Core Fee Revenue of $14.5 million, or 24.7% of total core revenue, increased $7.9 million from 3Q 2024, excluding a non-recurring equity and debt investment write-down of $2.6 million (non-GAAP)(1), primarily due to the acquisition of IFH
    • Gross Loan Growth in the quarter of $522.6 million includes $373.5 million from the acquisition of IFH, and $149.1 million from organic growth, or 28.2% annualized for 4Q 2024
      • Commercial and industrial loans of $554.6 million, or 21.0% of total gross loans at December 31, 2024 increased $282.7 million from September 30, 2024
    • Total Deposit Growth in the quarter of $575.7 million includes $459.0 million from the acquisition of IFH, and $116.7 million from organic growth, or 21.2% annualized for 4Q 2024
      • Noninterest bearing deposits increased $92.8 million, or 51.4% annualized from 3Q 2024
    • The ratio of allowance for credit losses to total loans equaled 1.85% at December 31, 2024 including 1.44% for the legacy Capital Bank portfolio, down 7 basis points from 3Q. The additional ACL coverage results from the initial $15.5 million impact from the acquisition of the IFH portfolio.
    • Cash Dividend of $0.10 per share declared by the Board of Directors

    ROCKVILLE, Md., Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Capital Bancorp, Inc. (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: CBNK), the holding company for Capital Bank, N.A. (the “Bank”), today reported net income of $7.5 million, or $0.45 per diluted share, for the fourth quarter 2024, compared to net income of $8.7 million, or $0.62 per diluted share, for the third quarter 2024, and $9.0 million, or $0.65 per diluted share, for the fourth quarter 2023. On October 1, 2024, the Company successfully completed its previously announced merger with IFH. Net income for the fourth quarter 2024 would have been $15.5 million, or $0.92 per diluted share if adjusted to exclude the impact of merger-related expenses, the initial IFH ACL provision, and a non-recurring equity and debt investment write down (non-GAAP)(1), compared to $9.2 million, or $0.66 per diluted share, for the third quarter 2024.

    The Company also declared a cash dividend on its common stock of $0.10 per share. The dividend is payable on February 26, 2025 to shareholders of record on February 10, 2025.

    “We are pleased to have successfully closed our acquisition of Integrated Financial Holdings, and we are now focused on merger integration and executing on the opportunities from our complementary lines of business,” said Ed Barry, CEO of the Company and the Bank. “We continue to benefit from our diversified business model which is driving growth across our platforms.”

    “The really strong performance of the commercial bank during the quarter was highlighted by record loan growth, solid deposit growth, and stable core net interest margin. I am particularly pleased by the growth of our commercial and industrial loans,” said Steven J. Schwartz, Chairman of the Company. “This outstanding organic growth is expected to continue to be a major contributing factor in our overall earnings growth in 2025 and beyond. The acquisition of IFH, while creating a lot of noise in the financial results of the 4th quarter, provides us with a new line of business loan servicing, processing, and packaging and a significant expansion of our government-guaranteed lending platform.”

    (1) Reconciliations of the non–U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) measures are set forth in the Appendix at the end of this press release.

    Acquisition of Integrated Financial Holdings, Inc.
    On October 1, 2024, the Company successfully completed its previously announced merger with IFH. Pursuant to the terms of the Merger Agreement, each share of IFH’s common stock, par value $1.00 per share (“IFH Common Stock”) was converted into the right to receive (a) 1.115 shares of common stock of the Company, par value $0.01 per share (“Capital Common Stock”); and (b) $5.36 in cash per share of IFH Common Stock held immediately prior to the Effective Time, in addition to cash in lieu of fractional shares. In addition, each stock option granted by IFH to purchase shares of IFH Common Stock, whether vested or unvested, outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time, was assumed by the Company and converted into an equivalent option to purchase Capital Common Stock, with the same terms and conditions as applied to the IFH stock option.

    Total assets, including purchase accounting adjustments, of $559.4 million acquired in connection with the IFH acquisition included gross loans of $373.5 million, loans held for sale of $41.7 million and total deposits of $459.0 million at October 1, 2024.

    During 2024, the Company incurred pre-tax merger-related expenses of $3.9 million, including expenses totaling $2.6 million for the fourth quarter 2024, generally consistent with modeled expectations.

    The fourth quarter earnings were also impacted by pre-tax provision credit losses on acquired loans of $4.2 million (“Initial IFH ACL Provision”) along with a non-recurring $2.6 million write-down of a legacy IFH equity and debt investment in a start-up. The net remaining value of the equity and debt investment is $0.2 million at December 31, 2024.

    The following table provides a reconciliation of the Company’s net income under GAAP to non-GAAP results excluding merger-related expenses, Initial IFH ACL Provision, and the non-recurring equity and debt write-down.

      Fourth Quarter 2024   Third Quarter 2024
    (in thousands, except per share data) Income Before Income Taxes   Income Tax Expense   Net Income   Diluted Earnings per Share   Income Before Income Taxes   Income Tax Expense(Benefit)   Net Income   Diluted Earnings per Share
    GAAP Earnings $ 10,776     $ 3,243     $ 7,533     $ 0.45     $ 11,499     $ 2,827     $ 8,672     $ 0.62  
    Add: Merger-Related Expenses   2,615       464       2,151           520       (37 )     557      
    Add: Non-recurring Equity and Debt Investment Write-Down   2,620             2,620                            
    Add: Initial IFH ACL Provision   4,194       1,025       3,169                            
    Non-GAAP Earnings $ 20,205     $ 4,732     $ 15,473     $ 0.92     $ 12,019     $ 2,790     $ 9,229     $ 0.66  
      Year Ended December 31, 2024
    (in thousands, except per share data) Income Before Income Taxes   Income Tax Expense   Net Income   Diluted Earnings per Share
    GAAP Earnings $ 41,832     $ 10,860     $ 30,972     $ 2.11  
    Add: Merger-Related Expenses   3,930       622       3,308      
    Add: Non-recurring Equity and Debt Investment Write-Down   2,620             2,620      
    Add: Initial IFH ACL Provision   4,194       1,025       3,169      
    Non-GAAP Earnings $ 52,576     $ 12,507     $ 40,069     $ 2.73  
                                   

    Note: The tax benefit associated with merger-related expenses has been adjusted to reflect the estimated nondeductible portion of the expenses.

    Fourth Quarter 2024 Highlights

    Earnings Summary

    Net income of $7.5 million, or $0.45 per diluted share, decreased $1.1 million compared to $8.7 million, or $0.62 per diluted share, for the third quarter 2024. Net income of $15.5 million, or $0.92 per diluted share, as adjusted to exclude the impact of merger-related expenses, Initial IFH ACL Provision and a $2.6 million non-recurring equity and debt investment write-down (non-GAAP)(1) for the fourth quarter 2024 compared to $9.2 million, or $0.66 per diluted share, for the third quarter 2024.

    • Net interest income of $44.3 million increased $6.0 million, or 15.6%, compared to the third quarter 2024.
      • Interest income of $61.7 million increased $9.1 million, or 17.3%, over the third quarter 2024, primarily from $7.9 million in portfolio loan interest income, as growth in average balances increased $539.3 million. Interest income from interest-bearing deposits held at other financial institutions increased $0.3 million, as average balances increased $49.1 million to $140.2 million. Interest income included $0.7 million from net purchase accounting amortization.
      • Interest expense of $17.4 million increased $3.1 million, or 21.9% over the third quarter 2024 due to increases in time deposits and borrowed funds of $2.7 million and $0.6 million, respectively, offset by a decrease in customer money market deposits of $0.3 million. Average balances increased $367.8 million, $53.5 million and $65.3 million, respectively. Interest expense included $1.4 million from net purchase accounting accretion.
    • The provision for credit losses was $7.8 million, an increase of $4.1 million from the third quarter 2024, which included the Initial IFH ACL Provision of $4.2 million, $2.4 million from organic commercial portfolio loan growth and $1.2 million from OpenSky provision in the quarter. Net charge-offs totaled $2.4 million, a $0.2 million decrease over the third quarter 2024, including $2.1 million from credit card related loans. At December 31, 2024, the allowance for credit losses to total loans ratio was 1.85%, up 34 basis points from the ratio at September 30, 2024 due to the initial purchase credit deteriorated (“PCD”) credit mark and initial non-PCD ACL provision. Excluding IFH, legacy Capital Bank ACL coverage ratio was 1.44%, a decrease of 7 basis points from the third quarter 2024.

    Earnings Summary (Continued)

    • Noninterest income of $11.9 million increased $5.3 million as compared to the third quarter 2024 primarily due to contributions from the IFH acquisition. Government loan servicing revenue (Windsor) totaled $4.0 million, government lending revenue totaled $2.3 million and loan servicing rights totaled $1.0 million, offset by a non-recurring equity and debt write-down of $2.6 million related to an IFH investment. Other income increased $1.0 million including $0.9 million related to an investment in an SBIC, while credit card fees declined $0.3 million.
    • Noninterest expense of $37.5 million increased $7.8 million as compared to the third quarter 2024, primarily from the IFH acquisition. Noninterest expense of $34.9 million, excluding merger-related expenses of $2.6 million, increased $5.7 million as compared to the third quarter 2024. Highlights include:
      • The fourth quarter 2024 includes $0.3 million of intangible amortization resulting from the transaction.
      • Salaries and employee benefits expenses of $16.5 million increased $3.2 million, primarily related to the acquisition of IFH.
      • Occupancy and equipment expenses of $3.0 million increased $1.2 million, primarily related to increased contract expense from the IFH acquisition of $0.5 million and software depreciation of $0.4 million.
      • Estimated total cost synergies resulting from the acquisition totaled $1.5 million in the fourth quarter 2024, generally consistent with modeled expectations.
    • Income tax expense of $3.2 million, or 30.1% of pre-tax income for the fourth quarter 2024, increased $0.4 million from $2.8 million, or 24.6% of pre-tax income for the third quarter 2024. The elevated tax rate in the quarter resulted from non-deductibility of an equity and debt write-down along with some merger-related expenses. Excluding merger-related expenses and the non-recurring equity and debt write-down, the effective income tax rate for the fourth quarter 2024 would have been 22.6%.

    Balance Sheet

    Total assets of $3.2 billion at December 31, 2024 increased $646.1 million, or 25.2% (not annualized), from September 30, 2024. Total assets, including $559.4 million acquired with the IFH acquisition, net of purchase accounting, included gross loans of $373.5 million, loans held for sale of $41.7 million and total deposits of $459.0 million at October 1, 2024.

    • Cash and cash equivalents of $205.3 million at December 31, 2024 increased $48.6 million from September 30, 2024.
    • Total portfolio loans of $2.6 billion at December 31, 2024 increased $522.6 million, or 24.8% (not annualized) from September 30, 2024. Total average loans increased $539.3 million quarter over quarter.
      • Owner-occupied commercial real estate loans increased $88.6 million, or 25.2% (not annualized) from September 30, 2024.
      • The average portfolio loans-to-deposit ratio of 99.27% for the three months ended December 31, 2024 remained stable.
    • Total deposits of $2.8 billion at December 31, 2024 increased $575.7 million, or 26.3% (not annualized), from September 30, 2024. The increase includes $190.6 million of customer time deposits, $92.8 million of noninterest-bearing deposits primarily related to growth in title company deposit balances, $130.2 million of growth in customer money market deposits and $180.0 million of growth in brokered time deposits, partially offset by a decrease in interest-bearing demand accounts of $27.6 million.
      • Insured and protected deposits were approximately $1.6 billion as of December 31, 2024, representing 57.1% of the Company’s deposit portfolio.
      • Low and no interest bearing deposits of $1.1 billion, 38.5% of deposits, increased $74.9 million, or 7.6% (not annualized) from September 30, 2024. Average noninterest-bearing deposits of $729.9 million increased $49.2 million, or 7.2% (not annualized), and represented 27.9% of total average deposits at December 31, 2024.
    • The investment securities portfolio continues to be classified as available-for-sale and had a fair market value of $223.6 million, or 7.0% of total assets, an effective duration of 3.0 years, with U.S. Treasury Securities representing 57% of the overall investment portfolio at December 31, 2024. The accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on the investment securities portfolio increased $2.9 million during the quarter to ($11.5 million) as of December 31, 2024, which represents 3.2% of total stockholders’ equity. The Company does not have a held-to-maturity investment securities portfolio.
    • Liquidity The Company maintains stable and reliable sources of available borrowings, generally consistent with prior quarter. Sources of available borrowings at December 31, 2024 totaled $803.0 million, including available collateralized lines of credit of $595.7 million, unsecured lines of credit with other banks of $76.0 million and unpledged investment securities available as collateral for potential additional borrowings of $131.4 million.
    • Capital Positions As of December 31, 2024, the Company reported a common equity tier 1 capital ratio of 13.74%, compared to 14.78% at September 30, 2024. At December 31, 2024, the Company and the Bank maintain regulatory capital ratios that exceed all capital adequacy requirements.

    Financial Metrics

    Net Interest Margin – Net interest margin decreased 54 basis points to 5.87% for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to prior quarter. Core net interest margin, as adjusted to exclude the impact of OpenSky credit card loans (non-GAAP)(1), decreased 3 basis points to 4.05% as compared to prior quarter. Net purchase accounting accretion for the fourth quarter 2024 was 9 basis points and 10 basis points for NIM and core NIM, respectively.

    • The average yield on interest earning assets of 8.17% decreased 62 basis points compared to the prior quarter, including 40 basis points from inclusion of IFH commercial assets. The yield on portfolio loans, as adjusted to exclude the impact of OpenSky credit card loans (non-GAAP)(1), of 6.98% for the fourth quarter 2024, decreased 17 basis points, primarily as a consequence of reduced market interest rates.
    • The total cost of deposits decreased 14 basis points to 2.50% for the fourth quarter 2024 as compared to the prior quarter. The total cost of interest-bearing deposits decreased 46 basis points to 3.46% for the fourth quarter 2024 as compared to the prior quarter.

    Efficiency Ratios The efficiency ratio was 66.7% for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to 66.1% for the three months ended September 30, 2024. The efficiency ratio was 59.3%, as adjusted to exclude the impact of merger-related expenses and a non-recurring equity and debt investment write-down (non-GAAP)(1), for the three months ended December 31, 2024 compared to 64.9% for the three months ended September 30, 2024.

    Credit Metrics and Asset Quality – The ratio of allowance for credit losses to total loans equaled 1.85% at December 31, 2024, an increase of 34 basis points from September 20, 2024, which includes a 1.44% ACL coverage ratio for the legacy Capital Bank portfolio, down 7 basis points from 3Q. The additional ACL coverage results from the initial $15.5 million reserve on the $373.5 million IFH loan portfolio. Underlying credit performance and metrics were relatively stable and consistent with prior quarter when excluding the impact of the combination with IFH.

    Nonperforming assets increased 34 basis points to 0.94% of total assets at December 31, 2024 as compared to September 30, 2024. Total nonaccrual loans at December 31, 2024 increased $14.8 million to $30.2 million compared to September 30, 2024. At December 31, 2024, special mention loans totaled $60.0 million, or 2.3% of total portfolio loans, as compared to $20.3 million, or 1.0% of total portfolio loans, at September 30, 2024. At December 31, 2024, substandard loans totaled $48.4 million, or 1.8% of total portfolio loans, as compared to $23.8 million, or 1.1% of total portfolio loans, at September 30, 2024.

    Performance Ratios – Annualized return on average assets (“ROAA”) and annualized return on average equity (“ROAE”), and ROATCE were 0.96%, 8.50%, and 9.47% respectively, for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to 1.42%, 12.59%, and 12.59% respectively, for the three months ended September 30, 2024.

    • Annualized ROAA, annualized ROAE, and annualized ROATCE were 1.97%, 17.46%, and 19.19% respectively, as adjusted to exclude the impact of merger-related expenses, Initial IFH ACL Provision, and a non-recurring equity and debt investment write-down (non-GAAP)(1), for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to 1.51%, 13.40%, and 13.40% respectively, for the three months ended September 30, 2024.

    Tangible Book Value – Book value per common share of $21.31 at December 31, 2024 increased $1.19 when compared to September 30, 2024. Tangible book value per common share(1) decreased $1.36, or 6.8%, to $18.77 at December 31, 2024 when compared to September 30, 2024. Tangible book value was impacted by the purchase accounting adjustments made in consequence of the IFH acquisition. The Company did not have goodwill or other intangible assets prior to the fourth quarter 2024. Therefore, tangible book value per share(1) was equal to book value per share for periods prior to the fourth quarter 2024.

    Commercial Bank

    Continued Portfolio Loan Growth – Gross portfolio loans, excluding OpenSky credit card loans, increased $522.9 million, to $2.5 billion, at December 31, 2024 compared to September 30, 2024.

    The $522.9 million gross portfolio loan growth includes commercial real estate loans of $156.4 million, residential real estate loans of $64.9 million and commercial and industrial loans of $282.7 million. Historical gross portfolio loan balances are disclosed in the Composition of Loans table within the Historical Financial Highlights.

    Net Interest Income – Interest income of $45.2 million increased $9.4 million from prior quarter, driven by loan growth and higher loan yields. Interest expense of $17.1 million increased $3.1 million, driven by an increase in average balances in the fourth quarter 2024.

    Credit Metrics – Nonperforming assets, comprised solely of nonaccrual loans, increased 34 basis point to 0.94% of total assets at December 31, 2024 compared to September 30, 2024. Total nonaccrual loans at December 31, 2024 increased to $30.2 million compared to $15.5 million at September 30, 2024 due primarily to the acquisition of IFH.

    Classified and Criticized Loans At December 31, 2024, special mention loans totaled $60.0 million, or 2.3% of total portfolio loans, as compared to $20.3 million, or 1.0% of total portfolio loans, at September 30, 2024. At December 31, 2024, substandard loans totaled $48.4 million, or 1.8% of total portfolio loans, as compared to $23.8 million, or 1.1% of total portfolio loans, at September 30, 2024.

    OpenSky

    Revenues Total revenue of $19.2 million decreased $0.5 million from the prior quarter. Interest income of $15.5 million decreased $0.2 million from the prior quarter. Average OpenSky credit card loan balances, net of reserves and deferred fees of $121.0 million for the fourth quarter 2024, increased $1.5 million, or 1.3% (not annualized), compared to prior quarter. Noninterest income of $3.7 million decreased $0.4 million as compared to the prior quarter, primarily related to lower annual fee income.

    Noninterest Expense – Total noninterest expense of $12.6 million decreased $0.7 million, primarily related to a reduction in quarterly advertising expense.

    Loan and Deposit Balances – Loan balances, net of reserves, of $127.8 million at December 31, 2024 increased by $0.7 million, or 0.5%, compared to $127.1 million at September 30, 2024. Corresponding deposit balances of $166.4 million at December 31, 2024 decreased $4.4 million, or 2.6%, compared to $170.8 million at September 30, 2024. Gross unsecured loan balances of $42.4 million at December 31, 2024 increased $2.7 million, or 6.8%, compared to $39.7 million at September 30, 2024. During the fourth quarter 2024, the number of credit card accounts increased by 3,614 to 552,566 from September 30, 2024.

    OpenSkyCredit – Portfolio credit metrics continue to be generally consistent with modeled expectations during the fourth quarter 2024. The provision for credit losses of $1.2 million decreased $1.1 million when compared to the prior quarter.

    Capital Bank Home Loans

    Originations of loans held for sale totaled $90.0 million during the fourth quarter, with $77.4 million of mortgage loans sold resulting in a gain on sale of loans of $1.9 million, representing a 2.45% of gain on sale as a percentage of total loans sold.

    Windsor Advantage

    Windsor Advantage is a loan service provider that offers community banks and credit unions with a comprehensive outsourced U.S. Small Business Association (“SBA”) 7(a) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) lending platform. Windsor Advantage generates fee income for the Company in connection with its servicing, processing and packaging of such loans for its financial institution clients.

    Fee Income – Gross government loan servicing revenue totaled $4.6 million, including $0.5 million of Capital Bank related servicing fees, during the fourth quarter 2024. Windsor’s total servicing portfolio was $2.5 billion at December 31, 2024.

    COMPARATIVE FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS – Unaudited            
                               
      Quarter Ended   4Q24 vs 3Q24   4Q24 vs 4Q23
    (in thousands, except per share data) December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   December 31, 2023   $ Change   % Change   $ Change   % Change
    Earnings Summary                          
    Interest income $ 61,707     $ 52,610     $ 46,969     $ 9,097     17.3 %   $ 14,738     31.4 %
    Interest expense   17,380       14,256       12,080       3,124     21.9 %     5,300     43.9 %
    Net interest income   44,327       38,354       34,889       5,973     15.6 %     9,438     27.1 %
    Provision for credit losses   7,828       3,748       2,808       4,080     108.9 %     5,020     178.8 %
    Provision for (release of) credit losses on unfunded commitments   122       17       (106 )     105     617.6 %     228     (215.1 )%
    Noninterest income   11,913       6,635       5,936       5,278     79.5 %     5,977     100.7 %
    Noninterest expense   37,514       29,725       26,907       7,789     26.2 %     10,607     39.4 %
    Income before income taxes   10,776       11,499       11,216       (723 )   (6.3 )%     (440 )   (3.9 )%
    Income tax expense   3,243       2,827       2,186       416     14.7 %     1,057     48.4 %
    Net income $ 7,533     $ 8,672     $ 9,030     $ (1,139 )   (13.1 )%   $ (1,497 )   (16.6 )%
                                       
    Pre-tax pre-provision net revenue (“PPNR”) (1) $ 18,726     $ 15,264     $ 13,918     $ 3,462     22.7 %   $ 4,808     34.5 %
    PPNR, as adjusted(1) $ 23,961     $ 15,784     $ 13,918     $ 8,177     51.8 %   $ 10,043     72.2 %
                                       
    Common Share Data                                  
    Earnings per share – Basic $ 0.45     $ 0.62     $ 0.65     $ (0.17 )   (27.4 )%   $ (0.20 )   (30.8 )%
    Earnings per share – Diluted $ 0.45     $ 0.62     $ 0.65     $ (0.17 )   (27.4 )%   $ (0.20 )   (30.8 )%
    Earnings per share – Diluted, as adjusted(1) $ 0.92     $ 0.66     $ 0.65     $ 0.26     39.4 %   $ 0.27     41.5 %
    Weighted average common shares – Basic   16,595       13,914       13,897                  
    Weighted average common shares – Diluted   16,729       13,951       13,989                  
                               
    Return Ratios                          
    Return on average assets (annualized)   0.96 %     1.42 %     1.63 %                
    Return on average assets, as adjusted (annualized)(1)   1.97 %     1.51 %     1.63 %                
    Return on average equity (annualized)   8.50 %     12.59 %     14.44 %                
    Return on average equity, as adjusted (annualized)(1)   17.46 %     13.40 %     14.44 %                
    Return on average tangible common equity (annualized)(1)   9.47 %     12.59 %     14.44 %                
    Core return on average equity, as adjusted (annualized)(1)   17.68 %     13.40 %     14.44 %                
    Core return on average tangible common equity, as adjusted (annualized)(1)   19.19 %     13.40 %     14.44 %                

    ______________
    (1) Refer to Appendix for reconciliation of non-GAAP measures.

    COMPARATIVE FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS – Unaudited (Continued)  
                   
      Year Ended        
      December 31,        
    (in thousands, except per share data)   2024       2023     $ Change   % Change
    Earnings Summary              
    Interest income $ 213,301     $ 183,206     $ 30,095     16.4 %
    Interest expense   58,555       41,680       16,875     40.5 %
    Net interest income   154,746       141,526       13,220     9.3 %
    Provision for credit losses   17,720       9,610       8,110     84.4 %
    Provision for (release of) credit losses on unfunded commitments   385       (101 )     486     (481.2 )%
    Noninterest income   31,410       24,975       6,435     25.8 %
    Noninterest expense   126,219       110,767       15,452     14.0 %
    Income before income taxes   41,832       46,225       (4,393 )   (9.5 )%
    Income tax expense   10,860       10,354       506     4.9 %
    Net income $ 30,972     $ 35,871     $ (4,899 )   (13.7 )%
                     
    Pre-tax pre-provision net revenue (“PPNR”) (1) $ 59,937     $ 55,734     $ 4,203     7.5 %
    PPNR, as adjusted(1) $ 66,487     $ 55,734     $ 10,753     19.3 %
                     
    Common Share Data                
    Earnings per share – Basic $ 2.12     $ 2.56     $ (0.44 )   (17.2 )%
    Earnings per share – Diluted $ 2.11     $ 2.55     $ (0.44 )   (17.3 )%
    Earnings per share – Diluted, as adjusted(1) $ 2.73     $ 2.55          
    Weighted average common shares – Basic   14,584       14,003          
    Weighted average common shares – Diluted   14,660       14,081          
                   
    Return Ratios              
    Return on average assets (annualized)   1.21 %     1.64 %        
    Return on average assets, as adjusted (annualized)(1)   1.57 %     1.64 %        
    Return on average equity (annualized)   10.78 %     14.91 %        
    Return on average equity, as adjusted (annualized)(1)   13.94 %     14.91 %        

    ______________
    (1) Refer to Appendix for reconciliation of non-GAAP measures.

    COMPARATIVE FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS – Unaudited (Continued)        
                           
      Quarter Ended       Quarter Ended
      December 31,     September 30,   June 30,   March 31,
    (in thousands, except per share data)   2024       2023     % Change     2024       2024       2024  
    Balance Sheet Highlights                      
    Assets $ 3,206,911     $ 2,226,176       44.1 %   $ 2,560,788     $ 2,438,583     $ 2,324,238  
    Investment securities available-for-sale   223,630       208,329       7.3 %     208,700       207,917       202,254  
    Mortgage loans held for sale   21,270       7,481       184.3 %     19,554       19,219       10,303  
    Portfolio loans receivable (2)   2,630,163       1,903,288       38.2 %     2,107,522       2,021,588       1,964,525  
    Allowance for credit losses   48,652       28,610       70.1 %     31,925       30,832       29,350  
    Deposits   2,761,939       1,895,996       45.7 %     2,186,224       2,100,428       2,005,695  
    FHLB borrowings   22,000       22,000       %     52,000       32,000       22,000  
    Other borrowed funds   12,062       27,062       (55.4 )%     12,062       12,062       12,062  
    Total stockholders’ equity   355,139       254,860       39.3 %     280,111       267,854       259,465  
    Tangible common equity (1)   312,685       254,860       22.7 %     280,111       267,854       259,465  
                           
    Common shares outstanding   16,662       13,923       19.7 %     13,918       13,910       13,890  
    Book value per share $ 21.31     $ 18.31       16.4 %   $ 20.13     $ 19.26     $ 18.68  
    Tangible book value per share (1) $ 18.77     $ 18.31       2.5 %   $ 20.13     $ 19.26     $ 18.68  
    Dividends per share $ 0.10     $ 0.08       25.0 %   $ 0.10     $ 0.08     $ 0.08  

    ______________
    (1) Refer to Appendix for reconciliation of non-GAAP measures.
    (2) Loans are reflected net of deferred fees and costs.

    Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)        
      Three Months Ended Year Ended
    (in thousands) December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   March 31, 2024   December 31, 2023   December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
    Interest income                          
    Loans, including fees $ 58,602     $ 50,047     $ 48,275     $ 45,991     $ 45,109     $ 202,915     $ 174,760  
    Investment securities available-for-sale   1,539       1,343       1,308       1,251       1,083       5,441       4,815  
    Federal funds sold and other   1,566       1,220       1,032       1,127       777       4,945       3,631  
    Total interest income   61,707       52,610       50,615       48,369       46,969       213,301       183,206  
                               
    Interest expense                          
    Deposits   16,385       13,902       13,050       12,833       11,759       56,170       39,625  
    Borrowed funds   995       354       508       528       321       2,385       2,055  
    Total interest expense   17,380       14,256       13,558       13,361       12,080       58,555       41,680  
                               
    Net interest income   44,327       38,354       37,057       35,008       34,889       154,746       141,526  
    Provision for credit losses   7,828       3,748       3,417       2,727       2,808       17,720       9,610  
    Provision for (release of) credit losses on unfunded commitments   122       17       104       142       (106 )     385       (101 )
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses   36,377       34,589       33,536       32,139       32,187       136,641       132,017  
    Noninterest income                          
    Service charges on deposits   241       235       200       207       240       883       964  
    Credit card fees   3,733       4,055       4,330       3,881       3,970       15,999       17,273  
    Mortgage banking revenue   1,821       1,882       1,990       1,453       1,166       7,146       4,896  
    Government lending revenue   2,301                               2,301        
    Government loan servicing revenue   3,993                               3,993        
    Loan servicing rights (government guaranteed)   1,013                               1,013        
    Non-recurring equity and debt investment write-down   (2,620 )                             (2,620 )      
    Other income   1,431       463       370       431       560       2,695       1,842  
    Total noninterest income   11,913       6,635       6,890       5,972       5,936       31,410       24,975  
    Noninterest expenses                          
    Salaries and employee benefits   16,513       13,345       13,272       12,907       11,638       56,037       48,754  
    Occupancy and equipment   2,976       1,791       1,864       1,613       1,573       8,244       5,673  
    Professional fees   2,150       1,980       1,769       1,947       1,930       7,846       9,270  
    Data processing   7,210       6,930       6,788       6,761       6,128       27,689       25,686  
    Advertising   1,032       1,223       2,072       2,032       1,433       6,359       6,161  
    Loan processing   969       615       476       371       198       2,431       1,633  
    Foreclosed real estate expenses, net         1             1             2       7  
    Merger-related expenses   2,615       520       83       712             3,930        
    Operational losses   993       1,008       782       931       1,490       3,714       4,613  
    Other operating   3,056       2,312       2,387       2,212       2,517       9,967       8,970  
    Total noninterest expenses   37,514       29,725       29,493       29,487       26,907       126,219       110,767  
    Income before income taxes   10,776       11,499       10,933       8,624       11,216       41,832       46,225  
    Income tax expense   3,243       2,827       2,728       2,062       2,186       10,860       10,354  
    Net income $ 7,533     $ 8,672     $ 8,205     $ 6,562     $ 9,030     $ 30,972     $ 35,871  
                                                           
    Consolidated Balance Sheets                  
      (unaudited)   (unaudited)   (unaudited)   (unaudited)   (audited)
    (in thousands, except share data) December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   March 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
    Assets                  
    Cash and due from banks $ 25,433     $ 23,462     $ 19,294     $ 12,361     $ 14,513  
    Interest-bearing deposits at other financial institutions   179,841       133,180       117,160       72,787       39,044  
    Federal funds sold   58       58       57       56       407  
    Total cash and cash equivalents   205,332       156,700       136,511       85,204       53,964  
    Investment securities available-for-sale   223,630       208,700       207,917       202,254       208,329  
    Restricted investments   4,479       5,895       4,930       4,441       4,353  
    Loans held for sale   21,270       19,554       19,219       10,303       7,481  
    Portfolio loans receivable, net of deferred fees and costs   2,630,163       2,107,522       2,021,588       1,964,525       1,903,288  
    Less allowance for credit losses   (48,652 )     (31,925 )     (30,832 )     (29,350 )     (28,610 )
    Total portfolio loans held for investment, net   2,581,511       2,075,597       1,990,756       1,935,175       1,874,678  
    Premises and equipment, net   15,525       5,959       5,551       4,500       5,069  
    Accrued interest receivable   16,664       12,468       12,162       12,258       11,494  
    Goodwill   21,126                          
    Intangible assets   14,072                          
    Loan servicing assets   5,511                          
    Deferred tax asset   16,670       10,748       12,150       12,311       12,252  
    Bank owned life insurance   43,956       38,779       38,414       38,062       37,711  
    Other assets   37,165       26,388       10,973       19,730       10,845  
    Total assets $ 3,206,911     $ 2,560,788     $ 2,438,583     $ 2,324,238     $ 2,226,176  
                       
    Liabilities                  
    Deposits                  
    Noninterest-bearing $ 810,928     $ 718,120     $ 684,574     $ 665,812     $ 617,373  
    Interest-bearing   1,951,011       1,468,104       1,415,854       1,339,883       1,278,623  
    Total deposits   2,761,939       2,186,224       2,100,428       2,005,695       1,895,996  
    Federal Home Loan Bank advances   22,000       52,000       32,000       22,000       22,000  
    Other borrowed funds   12,062       12,062       12,062       12,062       27,062  
    Accrued interest payable   9,393       8,503       6,573       6,009       5,583  
    Other liabilities   46,378       21,888       19,666       19,007       20,675  
    Total liabilities   2,851,772       2,280,677       2,170,729       2,064,773       1,971,316  
                       
    Stockholders’ equity                  
    Common stock   167       139       139       139       139  
    Additional paid-in capital   128,598       55,585       55,005       54,229       54,473  
    Retained earnings   237,843       232,995       225,824       218,731       213,345  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (11,469 )     (8,608 )     (13,114 )     (13,634 )     (13,097 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   355,139       280,111       267,854       259,465       254,860  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 3,206,911     $ 2,560,788     $ 2,438,583     $ 2,324,238     $ 2,226,176  
                                           

    The following tables show the average outstanding balance of each principal category of our assets, liabilities and stockholders’ equity, together with the average yields on our assets and the average costs of our liabilities for the periods indicated. Such yields and costs are calculated by dividing the annualized income or expense by the average daily balances of the corresponding assets or liabilities for the same period.

      Three Months Ended
    December 31, 2024
      Three Months Ended
    September 30, 2024
      Three Months Ended
    December 31, 2023
      Average
    Outstanding
    Balance
      Interest Income/
    Expense
      Average
    Yield/
    Rate(1)
      Average
    Outstanding
    Balance
      Interest Income/
    Expense
      Average
    Yield/
    Rate(1)
      Average
    Outstanding
    Balance
      Interest Income/
    Expense
      Average
    Yield/
    Rate(1)
      (in thousands)
    Assets                                  
    Interest earning assets:                                  
    Interest-bearing deposits $ 140,206     $ 1,446       4.10 %   $ 91,089     $ 1,137       4.97 %   $ 65,336     $ 680       4.13 %
    Federal funds sold   58                   57       1       6.98       1,574       21       5.29  
    Investment securities available-for-sale   236,951       1,539       2.58       221,303       1,343       2.41       223,132       1,083       1.93  
    Restricted investments   7,292       120       6.55       4,911       82       6.64       4,518       76       6.67  
    Loans held for sale   25,614       193       3.00       9,967       161       6.43       4,601       83       7.16  
    Portfolio loans receivable(2)(3)   2,592,960       58,409       8.96       2,053,619       49,886       9.66       1,863,298       45,026       9.59  
    Total interest earning assets   3,003,081       61,707       8.17       2,380,946       52,610       8.79       2,162,459       46,969       8.62  
    Noninterest earning assets   117,026               56,924               40,020          
    Total assets $ 3,120,107             $ 2,437,870             $ 2,202,479          
                                       
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity                                  
    Interest-bearing liabilities:                                  
    Interest-bearing demand accounts $ 257,446       424       0.66     $ 228,365       321       0.56     $ 195,539       90       0.18  
    Savings   13,497       20       0.59       4,135       5       0.48       5,184       2       0.15  
    Money market accounts   763,526       7,131       3.72       698,239       7,442       4.24       680,697       7,139       4.16  
    Time deposits   847,618       8,810       4.13       479,824       6,134       5.09       380,731       4,528       4.72  
    Borrowed funds   97,116       995       4.08       43,655       354       3.23       41,823       321       3.05  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   1,979,203       17,380       3.49       1,454,218       14,256       3.90       1,303,974       12,080       3.68  
    Noninterest-bearing liabilities:                                  
    Noninterest-bearing liabilities   58,460               28,834               27,529          
    Noninterest-bearing deposits   729,907               680,731               622,941          
    Stockholders’ equity   352,537               274,087               248,035          
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 3,120,107             $ 2,437,870             $ 2,202,479          
                                       
    Net interest spread           4.68 %             4.89 %             4.94 %
    Net interest income     $ 44,327             $ 38,354             $ 34,889      
    Net interest margin(4)           5.87 %             6.41 %             6.40 %

    _______________
    (1)   Annualized.
    (2)   Includes nonaccrual loans.
    (3)   For the three months ended December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, collectively, portfolio loans yield excluding credit card loans was 6.98%, 7.15% and 6.89%, respectively.
    (4)   For the three months ended December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, collectively, credit card loans accounted for 182, 233 and 248 basis points of the reported net interest margin, respectively.

      Year Ended December 31,
        2024       2023  
      Average
    Outstanding
    Balance
      Interest Income/
    Expense
      Average
    Yield/
    Rate(1)
      Average
    Outstanding
    Balance
      Interest Income/
    Expense
      Average
    Yield/
    Rate(1)
      (in thousands)
    Assets                      
    Interest earning assets:                      
    Interest-bearing deposits $ 98,319     $ 4,569       4.65 %   $ 70,407     $ 3,211       4.56 %
    Federal funds sold   57       3       5.26       1,597       74       4.63  
    Investment securities available-for-sale   228,909       5,441       2.38       245,466       4,815       1.96  
    Restricted investments   5,563       373       6.71       5,016       346       6.90  
    Loans held for sale   12,121       569       4.69       5,755       382       6.64  
    Portfolio loans receivable(2)(3)   2,142,638       202,346       9.44       1,816,968       174,378       9.60  
    Total interest earning assets   2,487,607       213,301       8.57       2,145,209       183,206       8.54  
    Noninterest earning assets   66,442               43,090          
    Total assets $ 2,554,049             $ 2,188,299          
                           
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity                      
    Interest-bearing liabilities:                      
    Interest-bearing demand accounts $ 221,437     $ 1,003       0.45 %   $ 201,194     $ 298       0.15 %
    Savings   6,732       27       0.40       5,768       8       0.14  
    Money market accounts   704,002       28,741       4.08       642,013       23,510       3.66  
    Time deposits   561,369       26,399       4.70       360,464       15,809       4.39  
    Borrowed funds   63,686       2,385       3.74       59,302       2,055       3.47  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   1,557,226       58,555       3.76       1,268,741       41,680       3.29  
    Noninterest-bearing liabilities:                      
    Noninterest-bearing liabilities   34,043               24,026          
    Noninterest-bearing deposits   675,360               655,013          
    Stockholders’ equity   287,420               240,519          
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 2,554,049             $ 2,188,299          
                           
    Net interest spread           4.81 %             5.25 %
    Net interest income     $ 154,746             $ 141,526      
    Net interest margin(4)           6.22 %             6.60 %

    (1)   Annualized.
    (2)   Includes nonaccrual loans.
    (3)   For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, collectively, portfolio loans yield excluding credit card loans was 7.03% and 6.65%, respectively.
    (4)   For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, collectively, credit card loans accounted for 222 and 264 basis points of the reported net interest margin, respectively.

    The Company’s reportable segments represent business units with discrete financial information whose results are regularly reviewed by management. The five segments include Commercial Banking, Capital Bank Home Loans (the Company’s mortgage loan division), OpenSky (the Company’s credit card division), Windsor Advantage and the Corporate Office.

    Effective January 1, 2024, the Company allocated certain expenses previously recorded directly to the Commercial Bank segment to the other segments. These expenses are for shared services also consumed by OpenSky, CBHL, and Corporate. The Company performs an allocation process based on several metrics the Company believes more accurately ascribe shared service overhead to each segment. The Company believes this reflects the cost of support for each segment that should be considered in assessing segment performance. Historical information has been recast to reflect financial information consistently with the 2024 presentation.

    The following schedule presents financial information for the periods indicated. Total assets are presented as of December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023.

    Segments                            
    For the three months ended December 31, 2024                
    (in thousands)   Commercial Bank   CBHL   OpenSky   Windsor Advantage   Corporate(2)   Eliminations   Consolidated
    Interest income   $ 45,195     $ 192     $ 15,454     $     $ 874     $ (8 )   $ 61,707  
    Interest expense     17,086       131                   171       (8 )     17,380  
    Net interest income     28,109       61       15,454             703             44,327  
    Provision for credit losses     6,651             1,177                         7,828  
    Provision for credit losses on unfunded commitments     122                                     122  
    Net interest income after provision     21,336       61       14,277             703             36,377  
    Noninterest income (loss)     4,547       1,676       3,743       4,566       (2,619 )           11,913  
    Noninterest expense(1)     16,539       2,377       12,595       2,670       3,333             37,514  
    Net income (loss) before taxes   $ 9,344     $ (640 )   $ 5,425     $ 1,896     $ (5,249 )   $     $ 10,776  
                                 
    Total assets   $ 2,994,356     $ 21,691     $ 125,913     $ 7,922     $ 376,930     $ (319,901 )   $ 3,206,911  
                                 
    For the three months ended September 30, 2024                
    (in thousands)   Commercial Bank   CBHL   OpenSky   Windsor Advantage   Corporate(2)   Eliminations   Consolidated
    Interest income   $ 35,805     $ 161     $ 15,625     $     $ 1,049     $ (30 )   $ 52,610  
    Interest expense     13,984       108                   194       (30 )     14,256  
    Net interest income     21,821       53       15,625             855             38,354  
    Provision for credit losses     1,453             2,294             1             3,748  
    Provision for credit losses on unfunded commitments     17                                     17  
    Net interest income after provision     20,351       53       13,331             854             34,589  
    Noninterest income     726       1,811       4,096             2             6,635  
    Noninterest expense(1)     12,422       2,395       13,276             1,632             29,725  
    Net income (loss) before taxes   $ 8,655     $ (531 )   $ 4,151     $     $ (776 )   $     $ 11,499  
                                 
    Total assets   $ 2,358,555     $ 19,831     $ 121,587     $     $ 300,325     $ (239,510 )   $ 2,560,788  
                                 
    For the three months ended December 31, 2023                
    (in thousands)   Commercial Bank   CBHL   OpenSky   Windsor Advantage   Corporate(2)   Eliminations   Consolidated
    Interest income   $ 30,957     $ 83     $ 15,035     $     $ 964     $ (70 )   $ 46,969  
    Interest expense     11,884       31                   235       (70 )     12,080  
    Net interest income     19,073       52       15,035             729             34,889  
    Provision for (release of) credit losses     691             2,125             (8 )           2,808  
    Release of credit losses on unfunded commitments     (106 )                                   (106 )
    Net interest income after provision     18,488       52       12,910             737             32,187  
    Noninterest income     773       1,166       3,996             1             5,936  
    Noninterest expense(1)     12,303       1,617       12,669             318             26,907  
    Net income (loss) before taxes   $ 6,958     $ (399 )   $ 4,237     $     $ 420     $     $ 11,216  
                                 
    Total assets   $ 2,051,945     $ 8,589     $ 117,477     $     $ 277,565     $ (229,400 )   $ 2,226,176  

    ________________________
    (1) Noninterest expense includes $6.3 million, $6.2 million, and $5.7 million in data processing expense in OpenSky’s segment for the three months ended December 31, 2024, September 30, 2024, and December 31, 2023, respectively.
    (2) The Corporate segment invests idle cash in revenue-producing assets including interest-bearing cash accounts, loan participations and other appropriate investments for the Company.

    Segments                            
    For the year ended December 31, 2024                
    (in thousands)   Commercial Bank   CBHL   OpenSky   Windsor Advantage   Corporate(2)   Eliminations   Consolidated
    Interest income   $ 147,464     $ 568     $ 61,785     $     $ 3,646     $ (162 )   $ 213,301  
    Interest expense     57,536       363                   818       (162 )     58,555  
    Net interest income     89,928       205       61,785             2,828             154,746  
    Provision for credit losses     10,331             7,329             60             17,720  
    Provision for credit losses on unfunded commitments     385                                     385  
    Net interest income after provision     79,212       205       54,456             2,768             136,641  
    Noninterest income (loss)     6,654       6,684       16,122       4,566       (2,616 )           31,410  
    Noninterest expense(1)     53,429       9,377       53,245       2,670       7,498             126,219  
    Net income (loss) before taxes   $ 32,437     $ (2,488 )   $ 17,333     $ 1,896     $ (7,346 )   $     $ 41,832  
                                 
    Total assets   $ 2,994,356     $ 21,691     $ 125,913     $ 7,922     $ 376,930     $ (319,901 )   $ 3,206,911  
                                 
    For the year ended December 31, 2023                
    (in thousands)   Commercial Bank   CBHL   OpenSky™   Windsor Advantage   Corporate(2)   Eliminations   Consolidated
    Interest income   $ 116,408     $ 382     $ 62,476     $     $ 4,238     $ (298 )   $ 183,206  
    Interest expense     40,896       135                   947       (298 )     41,680  
    Net interest income     75,512       247       62,476             3,291             141,526  
    Provision for credit losses     1,540             7,948             122             9,610  
    Release of credit losses on unfunded commitments     (101 )                                   (101 )
    Net interest income after provision     74,073       247       54,528             3,169             132,017  
    Noninterest income     2,737       4,909       17,325             4             24,975  
    Noninterest expense(1)     48,347       8,155       52,752             1,513             110,767  
    Net income (loss) before taxes   $ 28,463     $ (2,999 )   $ 19,101     $     $ 1,660     $     $ 46,225  
                                 
    Total assets   $ 2,051,945     $ 8,589     $ 117,477     $     $ 277,565     $ (229,400 )   $ 2,226,176  

    (1) Noninterest expense includes $24.9 million and $23.7 million in data processing expense in OpenSky’s segment for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
    (2) The Corporate segment invests idle cash in revenue-producing assets including interest-bearing cash accounts, loan participations and other appropriate investments for the Company.

    HISTORICAL FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS – Unaudited
        Quarter Ended
    (in thousands, except per share data)   December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      June 30,
    2024
      March 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
    Earnings:                    
    Net income   $ 7,533     $ 8,672     $ 8,205     $ 6,562     $ 9,030  
    Earnings per common share, diluted     0.45       0.62       0.59       0.47       0.65  
    Net interest margin     5.87 %     6.41 %     6.46 %     6.24 %     6.40 %
    Net interest margin, excluding credit card loans (1)     4.05 %     4.08 %     4.00 %     3.85 %     3.92 %
    Return on average assets(2)     0.96 %     1.42 %     1.40 %     1.15 %     1.63 %
    Return on average equity(2)     8.50 %     12.59 %     12.53 %     10.19 %     14.44 %
    Efficiency ratio     66.70 %     66.07 %     67.11 %     71.95 %     65.91 %
                         
    Balance Sheet:                    
    Total portfolio loans receivable, net deferred fees   $ 2,630,163     $ 2,107,522     $ 2,021,588     $ 1,964,525     $ 1,902,643  
    Total deposits     2,761,939       2,186,224       2,100,428       2,005,695       1,895,996  
    Total assets     3,206,911       2,560,788       2,438,583       2,324,238       2,226,176  
    Total stockholders’ equity     355,139       280,111       267,854       259,465       254,860  
    Total average portfolio loans receivable, net deferred fees     2,592,960       2,053,619       1,992,630       1,927,372       1,863,298  
    Total average deposits     2,611,994       2,091,294       2,010,736       1,957,559       1,885,092  
    Portfolio loans-to-deposit ratio (period-end balances)     95.23 %     96.40 %     96.25 %     97.95 %     100.35 %
    Portfolio loans-to-deposit ratio (average balances)     99.27 %     98.20 %     99.10 %     98.46 %     98.84 %
                         
    Asset Quality Ratios:                    
    Nonperforming assets to total assets     0.94 %     0.60 %     0.58 %     0.62 %     0.72 %
    Nonperforming loans to total loans     1.15 %     0.73 %     0.70 %     0.73 %     0.84 %
    Net charge-offs to average portfolio loans (2)     0.37 %     0.51 %     0.39 %     0.41 %     0.53 %
    Allowance for credit losses to total loans     1.85 %     1.51 %     1.53 %     1.49 %     1.50 %
    Allowance for credit losses to non-performing loans     160.88 %     206.50 %     219.40 %     204.37 %     178.34 %
                         
    Bank Capital Ratios:                    
    Total risk based capital ratio     12.82 %     13.76 %     14.51 %     14.36 %     14.81 %
    Tier 1 risk based capital ratio     11.56 %     12.50 %     13.25 %     13.10 %     13.56 %
    Leverage ratio     9.12 %     9.84 %     10.36 %     10.29 %     10.51 %
    Common equity Tier 1 capital ratio     11.56 %     12.50 %     13.25 %     13.10 %     13.56 %
    Tangible common equity     9.31 %     9.12 %     9.53 %     9.66 %     9.91 %
    Holding Company Capital Ratios:                    
    Total risk based capital ratio     15.48 %     16.65 %     16.98 %     16.83 %     17.38 %
    Tier 1 risk based capital ratio     13.83 %     14.88 %     15.19 %     15.03 %     15.55 %
    Leverage ratio     11.07 %     11.85 %     11.93 %     11.87 %     12.14 %
    Common equity Tier 1 capital ratio     13.74 %     14.78 %     15.08 %     14.92 %     15.43 %
    Tangible common equity     11.07 %     10.94 %     10.98 %     11.16 %     11.45 %

    _______________
    (1) Refer to Appendix for reconciliation of non-GAAP measures.
    (2) Annualized.

    HISTORICAL FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS – Unaudited (Continued)
        Quarter Ended
    (in thousands, except per share data)   December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      June 30,
    2024
      March 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
    Composition of Loans:                    
    Commercial real estate, non owner-occupied   $ 471,329     $ 403,487     $ 397,080     $ 377,224     $ 351,116  
    Commercial real estate, owner-occupied     440,026       351,462       319,370       330,840       307,911  
    Residential real estate     688,552       623,684       601,312       577,112       573,104  
    Construction real estate     321,252       301,909       294,489       290,016       290,108  
    Commercial and industrial     554,550       271,811       255,686       254,577       239,208  
    Lender finance     28,574       29,546       33,294       13,484       11,085  
    Business equity lines of credit     3,090       2,663       2,989       14,768       14,117  
    Credit card, net of reserve(3)     127,766       127,098       122,217       111,898       123,331  
    Other consumer loans     2,089       2,045       1,930       738       950  
    Portfolio loans receivable   $ 2,637,228     $ 2,113,705     $ 2,028,367     $ 1,970,657     $ 1,910,930  
    Deferred origination fees, net     (7,065 )     (6,183 )     (6,779 )     (6,132 )     (7,642 )
    Portfolio loans receivable, net   $ 2,630,163     $ 2,107,522     $ 2,021,588     $ 1,964,525     $ 1,903,288  
                         
    Composition of Deposits:                    
    Noninterest-bearing   $ 810,928     $ 718,120     $ 684,574     $ 665,812     $ 617,373  
    Interest-bearing demand     238,881       266,493       266,070       193,963       199,308  
    Savings     13,488       3,763       4,270       4,525       5,211  
    Money markets     816,708       686,526       672,455       678,435       663,129  
    Customer time deposits     548,901       358,300       317,911       302,319       268,619  
    Brokered time deposits     333,033       153,022       155,148       160,641       142,356  
    Total deposits   $ 2,761,939     $ 2,186,224     $ 2,100,428     $ 2,005,695     $ 1,895,996  
                         
    Capital Bank Home Loan Metrics:                    
    Origination of loans held for sale   $ 89,998     $ 74,690     $ 82,363     $ 52,080     $ 45,152  
    Mortgage loans sold     77,399       67,296       66,417       40,377       34,140  
    Gain on sale of loans     1,897       1,644       1,732       1,238       1,015  
    Purchase volume as a % of originations     90.42 %     90.98 %     96.48 %     97.83 %     89.99 %
    Gain on sale as a % of loans sold(4)     2.45 %     2.44 %     2.61 %     3.07 %     2.97 %
    Mortgage commissions   $ 620     $ 598     $ 582     $ 490     $ 465  
                         
    OpenSkyPortfolio Metrics:                    
    Open customer accounts     552,566       548,952       537,734       526,950       525,314  
    Secured credit card loans, gross   $ 87,226     $ 89,641     $ 90,961     $ 85,663     $ 95,300  
    Unsecured credit card loans, gross     42,430       39,730       33,560       28,508       30,817  
    Noninterest secured credit card deposits     166,355       170,750       173,499       171,771       173,857  

    _______________
    (3) Credit card loans are presented net of reserve for interest and fees.
    (4) Gain on sale percentage is calculated as gain on sale of loans divided by mortgage loans sold.  

    Appendix

    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures

     

    The Company has presented the following non-GAAP (U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) financial measures because it believes that these measures provide useful and comparative information to assess trends in the Company’s results of operations and financial condition. Presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures is consistent with how the Company evaluates its performance internally and these non-GAAP financial measures are frequently used by securities analysts, investors and other interested parties in the evaluation of companies in the Company’s industry. Investors should recognize that the Company’s presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures might not be comparable to similarly-titled measures of other companies. These non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered a substitute for GAAP basis measures and the Company strongly encourages a review of its condensed consolidated financial statements in their entirety.

    Earnings Metrics, as Adjusted Quarter Ended
    (in thousands, except per share data) December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      June 30,
    2024
      March 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
                       
    Net Income $ 7,533     $ 8,672     $ 8,205     $ 6,562     $ 9,030  
    Add: Merger-Related Expenses, net of tax   2,151       557       62       538        
    Add: Non-recurring equity and debt investment write-down   2,620                          
    Add: IFH ACL Provision, net of tax   3,169                          
    Net Income, as Adjusted $ 15,473     $ 9,229     $ 8,267     $ 7,100     $ 9,030  
                       
    Weighted Average Common Shares – Diluted   16,729       13,951       13,895       13,919       13,989  
    Earnings per Share – Diluted $ 0.45     $ 0.62     $ 0.59     $ 0.47     $ 0.65  
    Earnings per Share – Diluted, as Adjusted $ 0.92     $ 0.66     $ 0.59     $ 0.51     $ 0.65  
                       
    Average Assets $ 3,120,107     $ 2,437,870     $ 2,353,868     $ 2,299,234     $ 2,202,479  
    Return on Average Assets(1)   0.96 %     1.42 %     1.40 %     1.15 %     1.63 %
    Return on Average Assets, as Adjusted(1)   1.97 %     1.51 %     1.41 %     1.24 %     1.63 %
                       
    Average Equity $ 352,537     $ 274,087     $ 263,425     $ 258,892     $ 248,035  
    Return on Average Equity(1)   8.50 %     12.59 %     12.53 %     10.19 %     14.44 %
    Return on Average Equity, as Adjusted(1)   17.46 %     13.40 %     12.62 %     11.03 %     14.44 %
                       
    Net Interest Income (a) $ 44,327     $ 38,354     $ 37,057     $ 35,008     $ 34,889  
    Noninterest Income   11,913       6,635       6,890       5,972       5,936  
    Total Revenue $ 56,240     $ 44,989     $ 43,947     $ 40,980     $ 40,825  
    Noninterest Expense $ 37,514     $ 29,725     $ 29,493     $ 29,487     $ 26,907  
    Efficiency Ratio(2)   66.70 %     66.07 %     67.11 %     71.95 %     65.91 %
                       
    Noninterest Income $ 11,913     $ 6,635     $ 6,890     $ 5,972     $ 5,936  
    Add: Non-recurring equity and debt investment write-down   2,620                          
    Noninterest Income, as Adjusted (b) $ 14,533     $ 6,635     $ 6,890     $ 5,972     $ 5,936  
    Total Revenue, as Adjusted (a) + (b) $ 58,860     $ 44,989     $ 43,947     $ 40,980     $ 40,825  
                       
    Noninterest Expense $ 37,514     $ 29,725     $ 29,493     $ 29,487     $ 26,907  
    Less: Merger-Related Expenses   2,615       520       83       712        
    Noninterest Expense, as Adjusted $ 34,899     $ 29,205     $ 29,410     $ 28,775     $ 26,907  
    Efficiency Ratio, as Adjusted(2)   59.29 %     64.92 %     66.92 %     70.22 %     65.91 %

    _______________
    (1) Annualized.
    (2) The efficiency ratio is calculated by dividing noninterest expense by total revenue (net interest income plus noninterest income).

    Earnings Metrics, as Adjusted Year Ended
    (in thousands, except per share data) December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
           
    Net Income $ 30,972     $ 35,871  
    Add: Merger-Related Expenses, net of tax   3,308        
    Add: Non-recurring equity and debt investment write-down   2,620        
    Add: IFH ACL Provision, net of tax   3,169        
    Net Income, as Adjusted $ 40,069     $ 35,871  
           
    Weighted average common shares – Diluted   14,660       14,081  
    Earnings per share – Diluted $ 2.11     $ 2.55  
    Earnings per share – Diluted, as Adjusted $ 2.73     $ 2.55  
           
    Average Assets $ 2,554,049     $ 2,188,299  
    Return on Average Assets(1)   1.21 %     1.64 %
    Return on Average Assets, as Adjusted(1)   1.57 %     1.64 %
           
    Average Equity $ 287,420     $ 240,519  
    Return on Average Equity(1)   10.78 %     14.91 %
    Return on Average Equity, as Adjusted(1)   13.94 %     14.91 %
           
    Net Interest Income (a) $ 154,746     $ 141,526  
    Noninterest Income   31,410       24,975  
    Total Revenue $ 186,156     $ 166,501  
    Noninterest Expense $ 126,219     $ 110,767  
    Efficiency Ratio(2)   67.80 %     66.53 %
           
    Noninterest Income $ 31,410     $ 24,975  
    Add: Non-recurring equity and debt investment write-down   2,620        
    Noninterest Income, as Adjusted (b) $ 34,030     $ 24,975  
    Total Revenue, as Adjusted (a) + (b) $ 188,776     $ 166,501  
           
    Noninterest Expense $ 126,219     $ 110,767  
    Less: Merger-Related Expenses   3,930        
    Noninterest Expense, as Adjusted $ 122,289     $ 110,767  
    Efficiency Ratio, as Adjusted(2)   64.78 %     66.53 %

    _______________
    (1) Annualized.
    (2) The efficiency ratio is calculated by dividing noninterest expense by total revenue (net interest income plus noninterest income).

    Net Interest Margin, as Adjusted Quarter Ended
    (in thousands) December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      June 30,
    2024
      March 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
                       
    Net Interest Income $ 44,327     $ 38,354     $ 37,057     $ 35,008     $ 34,889  
    Less: Credit Card Loan Income   15,022       15,137       15,205       14,457       14,677  
    Net Interest Income, as Adjusted $ 29,305     $ 23,217     $ 21,852     $ 20,551     $ 20,212  
    Average Interest Earning Assets   3,003,081       2,380,946       2,307,070       2,254,663       2,162,459  
    Less: Average Credit Card Loans   120,993       119,458       111,288       110,483       114,551  
    Total Average Interest Earning Assets, as Adjusted $ 2,882,088     $ 2,261,488     $ 2,195,782     $ 2,144,180     $ 2,047,908  
    Net Interest Margin, as Adjusted   4.05 %     4.08 %     4.00 %     3.85 %     3.92 %
           
    Net Interest Margin, as Adjusted Year Ended
    (in thousands) December 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
           
    Net Interest Income $ 154,746     $ 141,526  
    Less: Credit Card Loan Income   59,821       61,096  
    Net Interest Income, as Adjusted $ 94,925     $ 80,430  
    Average Interest Earning Assets   2,487,607       2,145,209  
    Less: Average Credit Card Loans   115,581       114,450  
    Total Average Interest Earning Assets, as Adjusted $ 2,372,026     $ 2,030,759  
    Net Interest Margin, as Adjusted   4.00 %     3.96 %
                   
    Portfolio Loans Receivable Yield, as Adjusted Quarter Ended
    (in thousands) December 31,
    2024
      September 30,
    2024
      June 30,
    2024
      March 31,
    2024
      December 31,
    2023
                       
    Portfolio Loans Receivable Interest Income $ 58,409     $ 49,886     $ 48,143     $ 45,908     $ 45,026  
    Less: Credit Card Loan Income   15,022       15,137       15,205       14,457       14,677  
    Portfolio Loans Receivable Interest Income, as Adjusted $ 43,387     $ 34,749     $ 32,938     $ 31,451     $ 30,349  
    Average Portfolio Loans Receivable   2,592,960       2,053,619       1,992,630       1,927,372       1,863,298  
    Less: Average Credit Card Loans   120,993       119,458       111,288       110,483       114,551  
    Total Average Portfolio Loans Receivable, as Adjusted $ 2,471,967     $ 1,934,161     $ 1,881,342     $ 1,816,889     $ 1,748,747  
    Portfolio Loans Receivable Yield, as Adjusted   6.98 %     7.15 %     7.04 %     6.96 %     6.89 %
           
    Portfolio Loans Receivable Yield, as Adjusted Year Ended
    (in thousands) December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
           
    Portfolio Loans Receivable Interest Income $ 202,346     $ 174,378  
    Less: Credit Card Loan Income   59,821       61,096  
    Portfolio Loans Receivable Interest Income, as Adjusted $ 142,525     $ 113,282  
    Average Portfolio Loans Receivable   2,142,638       1,816,968  
    Less: Average Credit Card Loans   115,581       114,450  
    Total Average Portfolio Loans Receivable, as Adjusted $ 2,027,057     $ 1,702,518  
    Portfolio Loans Receivable Yield, as Adjusted   7.03 %     6.65 %
                   
    Pre-tax, Pre-Provision Net Revenue (“PPNR”) Quarter Ended
    (in thousands) December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   March 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
                       
    Net Income $ 7,533     $ 8,672     $ 8,205     $ 6,562     $ 9,030  
    Add: Income Tax Expense   3,243       2,827       2,728       2,062       2,186  
    Add: Provision for Credit Losses   7,828       3,748       3,417       2,727       2,808  
    Add: Provision for (Release of) Credit Losses on Unfunded Commitments   122       17       104       142       (106 )
    Pre-tax, Pre-Provision Net Revenue (“PPNR”) $ 18,726     $ 15,264     $ 14,454     $ 11,493     $ 13,918  
                                           
           
    Pre-tax, Pre-Provision Net Revenue (“PPNR”) Year Ended
    (in thousands) December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
           
    Net Income $ 30,972     $ 35,871  
    Add: Income Tax Expense   10,860       10,354  
    Add: Provision for Credit Losses   17,720       9,610  
    Add: Provision for (Release of) Credit Losses on Unfunded Commitments   385       (101 )
    Pre-tax, Pre-Provision Net Revenue (“PPNR”) $ 59,937     $ 55,734  
                   
    PPNR, as Adjusted Quarter Ended
    (in thousands) December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   March 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
                       
    Net Income $ 7,533     $ 8,672     $ 8,205     $ 6,562     $ 9,030  
    Add: Income Tax Expense   3,243       2,827       2,728       2,062       2,186  
    Add: Provision for Credit Losses   7,828       3,748       3,417       2,727       2,808  
    Add: Provision for (Release of) Credit Losses on Unfunded Commitments   122       17       104       142       (106 )
    Add: Merger-Related Expenses   2,615       520       83       712        
    Add: Non-recurring equity and debt investment write-down   2,620                          
    PPNR, as Adjusted $ 23,961     $ 15,784     $ 14,537     $ 12,205     $ 13,918  
                                           
           
    PPNR, as Adjusted Year Ended
    (in thousands) December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
           
    Net Income $ 30,972     $ 35,871  
    Add: Income Tax Expense   10,860       10,354  
    Add: Provision for Credit Losses   17,720       9,610  
    Add: Provision for (Release of) Credit Losses on Unfunded Commitments   385       (101 )
    Add: Merger-Related Expenses   3,930        
    Add: Non-recurring equity and debt investment write-down   2,620        
    PPNR, as Adjusted $ 66,487     $ 55,734  
                   
    Allowance for Credit Losses to Total Portfolio Loans Quarter Ended
    (in thousands) December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   March 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
                       
    Allowance for Credit Losses $ 48,652     $ 31,925     $ 30,832     $ 29,350     $ 28,610  
    Total Portfolio Loans   2,630,163       2,107,522       2,021,588       1,964,525       1,903,288  
    Allowance for Credit Losses to Total Portfolio Loans   1.85 %     1.51 %     1.53 %     1.49 %     1.50 %
                                           
    Nonperforming Assets to Total Assets Quarter Ended
    (in thousands) December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   March 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
                       
    Total Nonperforming Assets $ 30,241     $ 15,460     $ 14,053     $ 14,361     $ 16,042  
    Total Assets   3,206,911       2,560,788       2,438,583       2,324,238       2,226,176  
    Nonperforming Assets to Total Assets   0.94 %     0.60 %     0.58 %     0.62 %     0.72 %
                                           
    Nonperforming Loans to Total Portfolio Loans Quarter Ended
    (in thousands) December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   March 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
                       
    Total Nonperforming Loans $ 30,241     $ 15,460     $ 14,053     $ 14,361     $ 16,042  
    Total Portfolio Loans   2,630,163       2,107,522       2,021,588       1,964,525       1,903,288  
    Nonperforming Loans to Total Portfolio Loans   1.15 %     0.73 %     0.70 %     0.73 %     0.84 %
                                           
    Net Charge-Offs to Average Portfolio Loans Quarter Ended
    (in thousands) December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   March 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
                       
    Total Net Charge-Offs $ 2,427     $ 2,655     $ 1,935     $ 1,987     $ 2,477  
    Total Average Portfolio Loans   2,592,960       2,053,619       1,992,630       1,927,372       1,863,298  
    Net Charge-Offs to Average Portfolio Loans, Annualized   0.37 %     0.51 %     0.39 %     0.41 %     0.53 %
                                           
    Net Charge-offs to Average Portfolio Loans Year Ended
    (in thousands) December 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
           
    Total Net Charge-Offs $ 9,004     $ 8,473  
    Total Average Portfolio Loans   2,142,638       1,816,968  
    Net Charge-Offs to Average Portfolio Loans, Annualized   0.42 %     0.47 %
                   
    Tangible Book Value per Share Quarter Ended
    (in thousands, except share and per share data) December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   March 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
                       
    Total Stockholders’ Equity $ 355,139     $ 280,111     $ 267,854     $ 259,465     $ 254,860  
    Less: Preferred Equity                            
    Less: Intangible Assets   42,454                          
    Tangible Common Equity $ 312,685     $ 280,111     $ 267,854     $ 259,465     $ 254,860  
    Period End Shares Outstanding   16,662,405       13,917,891       13,910,467       13,889,563       13,922,532  
    Tangible Book Value per Share $ 18.77     $ 20.13     $ 19.26     $ 18.68     $ 18.31  
                                           
    Return on Average Tangible Common Equity Quarter Ended
    (in thousands) December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   March 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
                       
    Net Income $ 7,533     $ 8,672     $ 8,205     $ 6,562     $ 9,030  
    Add: Intangible Amortization, Net of Tax   198                          
    Net Tangible Income $ 7,731     $ 8,672     $ 8,205     $ 6,562     $ 9,030  
    Average Equity   352,537       274,087       263,425       258,892       248,035  
    Less: Average Intangible Assets   27,653                          
    Net Average Tangible Common Equity $ 324,884     $ 274,087     $ 263,425     $ 258,892     $ 248,035  
    Return on Average Equity   8.50 %     12.59 %     12.53 %     10.19 %     14.44 %
    Return on Average Tangible Common Equity   9.47 %     12.59 %     12.53 %     10.19 %     14.44 %
                                           
    Core Return on Average Tangible Common Equity Quarter Ended
    (in thousands) December 31, 2024   September 30, 2024   June 30, 2024   March 31, 2024   December 31, 2023
                       
    Net Income, as Adjusted $ 15,473     $ 9,229     $ 8,267     $ 7,100     $ 9,030  
    Add: Intangible Amortization, Net of Tax   198                          
    Net Tangible Income, as Adjusted $ 15,671     $ 9,229     $ 8,267     $ 7,100     $ 9,030  
    Core Return on Average Equity, as Adjusted   17.68 %     13.40 %     12.62 %     11.03 %     14.44 %
    Core Return on Average Tangible Common Equity, as Adjusted   19.19 %     13.40 %     12.62 %     11.03 %     14.44 %
                                           

    ABOUT CAPITAL BANCORP, INC.

    Capital Bancorp, Inc., Rockville, Maryland is a registered bank holding company incorporated under the laws of Maryland. Capital Bancorp has been providing financial services since 1999 and now operates bank branches in six locations in the greater Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, Maryland markets, one bank branch in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and one bank branch in Chicago, Illinois. Capital Bancorp had assets of approximately $3.2 billion at December 31, 2024 and its common stock is traded in the NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol “CBNK.” More information can be found at the Company’s website www.CapitalBankMD.com under its investor relations page.

    FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    This earnings release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to, among other things, future events and our financial performance. Any statements about our management’s expectations, beliefs, plans, predictions, forecasts, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not historical facts and may be forward-looking. These statements are often, but not always, made through the use of words or phrases such as “anticipate,” “believes,” “can,” “could,” “may,” “predicts,” “potential,” “should,” “will,” “estimate,” “plans,” “projects,” “continuing,” “ongoing,” “expects,” “optimistic,” “intends” and similar words or phrases. Any or all of the forward-looking statements in this earnings release may turn out to be inaccurate. The inclusion of forward-looking information in this earnings release should not be regarded as a representation by us or any other person that the future plans, estimates or expectations contemplated by us will be achieved. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements.  Accordingly, we caution you that any such forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and that actual results may prove to be materially different from the results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements due to a number of factors. For details on some of the factors that could affect these expectations, see risk factors and other cautionary language included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and other periodic and current reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    While there is no assurance that any list of risks and uncertainties or risk factors is complete, below are certain factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained or implied in the forward-looking statements: changes in general economic, political, or industry conditions; geopolitical concerns, including the ongoing wars in Ukraine and in the Middle East; uncertainty in U.S. fiscal and monetary policy, including the interest rate policies of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System; inflation/deflation, interest rate, market, and monetary fluctuations; volatility and disruptions in global capital and credit markets; competitive pressures on product pricing and services; success, impact, and timing of our business strategies, including market acceptance of any new products or services; the impact of changes in financial services policies, laws, and regulations, including those concerning taxes, banking, securities, and insurance, and the application thereof by regulatory bodies; cybersecurity threats and the cost of defending against them, including the costs of compliance with potential legislation to combat cybersecurity at a state, national, or global level; climate change, including any enhanced regulatory, compliance, credit and reputational risks and costs; the expected cost savings, synergies and other financial benefits from the acquisition of IFH or any other acquisition the Company has made or may make might not be realized within the expected time frames or at all; the effect of acquisitions we have made or may make, including, without limitation, the failure to achieve the expected revenue growth and/or expense savings from such acquisitions, and/or the failure to effectively integrate an acquisition target into our operations; and other factors that may affect our future results.

    These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this communication, and the Company does not intend, and assumes no obligation, to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which the statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events or circumstances, except as required by law.

    FINANCIAL CONTACT: Dominic Canuso (301) 468-8848 x1403

    MEDIA CONTACT: Ed Barry (240) 283-1912

    WEB SITE: www.CapitalBankMD.com

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Awilco Drilling PLC: Cancellation of Share Premium Account Completed

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Reference is made to the resolution passed at the extraordinary general meeting of Awilco Drilling PLC on 25 October 2024 regarding the cancellation of the Company’s share premium account. The process has now been completed and the court order has been registered at Companies House. The amount arising from the Reduction is credited to reserves and the Company now has greater flexibility to make dividend payments to shareholders. The Board is evaluating the Company’s strategic options and will notify the market as soon as a conclusion is reached.

    Aberdeen, 27 January 2025

    For further information please contact:

    Eric Jacobs, CEO of Awilco Drilling PLC
    Phone: +47 9529 2271

    Cathrine Haavind, Investor Relations of Awilco Drilling PLC
    Phone: +47 9342 8464
    Email: ch@awilcodrilling.com

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    The MIL Network