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Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Yuri Trutnev: The Russian President’s order to implement master plans will be fulfilled

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Yuri Trutnev held a meeting on the implementation of long-term plans for the integrated development of cities in the Amur Region

    Deputy Prime Minister and Presidential Plenipotentiary Representative in the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev held a meeting on the implementation of long-term plans for the integrated development of cities in the Amur Region.

    “In accordance with the instructions of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, a large-scale program for the renovation of cities has begun in the Far East and the Arctic. Our task is to make them as comfortable as possible for people to live in. This is a big job with a large amount of necessary funding. I repeat once again: it has been mobilized throughout the Far East and the Arctic. We will constantly keep it under control. Today we will hear how the work is going in the Amur Region,” Yuri Trutnev opened the meeting.

    “In the Amur Region, long-term comprehensive plans have been approved for four cities – Blagoveshchensk, Tynda, Svobodny and Belogorsk, a draft master plan has been developed for the closed administrative-territorial entity Tsiolkovsky, and a general plan for the agglomeration of Svobodny and Tsiolkovsky is at an advanced stage of readiness. Key projects are already being implemented in each of them. A regional headquarters has been created. It includes the regional government, heads of municipalities, and representatives of development institutions. The headquarters meets weekly. Work is ongoing in the project management information system under the supervision of the Ministry for the Development of the Russian Far East and the Far East Development Committee,” said Vasily Orlov, Governor of the Amur Region.

    A number of master plan objects will be built using funding from a single presidential subsidy provided by the Ministry for the Development of the Russian Far East and special treasury loans.

    The Blagoveshchensk master plan includes 54 events for the development of municipal, social, transport and tourism infrastructure. The master plan includes such key events as the construction of the Blagoveshchensk-Heihe cross-border cableway, the modernization of the Blagoveshchensk International Airport (Ignatievo), the construction of the large city center “Tribuna Hall”, the construction of a regional blood transfusion station and a children’s art school, the creation of an international university campus and many others.

    In the first year of implementing the long-term plan for comprehensive socio-economic development, several areas became central for the city. Among them are the creation of spaces for comfortable living, self-realization and education of citizens, platforms for Russian-Chinese business cooperation and other projects. In total, 13 events are being implemented this year, six of which will be completed by the end of the year.

    One of the tasks included in the Blagoveshchensk master plan was to unite the city with a system of green spaces. Citizens will get a new park – Lomonosovsky. The second space, where work started in 2024, was the Valery Priyomykhov Square. The famous actor, film director and screenwriter was born in the Amur Region. The area adjacent to the site of the installation of the bust of Valery Mikhailovich will be landscaped in a cinema theme. The Katushka cafe, an open-air cinema, and the Montazhnaya coworking area will open in the square. The entire facility will be completed by October 2025. Along with the square, part of 50 Let Oktyabrya Street will be landscaped. It will connect the Priyomykhov Square with another public space – the Babochka Square.

    A major renovation of the city park of culture and recreation is planned in Blagoveshchensk. The concept of the park has already been formed, the territory will be divided into two parts. The first is a green zone with places for quiet rest, themed areas and equipment for children of different ages. The second zone will be an area with attractions and catering points. The concept formed the basis of the technical specifications for the design and estimate documentation, which will be developed by the end of 2024.

    Within the framework of the master plan, a large project of comprehensive reconstruction of the infrastructure of the Blagoveshchensk International Airport is being implemented. Work on the creation of the city center “Tribuna Hall” has reached the final stage. The complex is conceived as a space with a landscape park and a cultural center with an observation deck. Improvement of courtyard areas is underway.

    The master plan for Belogorsk in Amur positions the city as an industrial and logistics center with a developed service economy. At the request of residents, the strategy emphasizes the development of social and transport infrastructure, renovation of microdistricts, modernization of the city center and the coastal area. The construction of a water supply system from water intake wells to the Yuzhny microdistrict and the overhaul of the children’s art school have been completed. The construction of a gas boiler house and a supply gas pipeline, which started in 2022, is in the final stage. Design and estimate documentation is being developed for two important projects – the creation of treatment facilities in the Transportny district of the city and the construction of a central water intake. Work has begun on the construction of a sports and recreation complex with a skating rink in the Yuzhny microdistrict.

    The development plan for the BAM capital Tynda includes 34 events. Within the framework of the master plan, 12 events have already been completed, the key ones being the overhaul of the Tynda Central Library, the reconstruction of the BAM History Museum, the renovation of the drama theater, as well as the renovation and illumination of the facades of city buildings, the improvement of 13 courtyard areas and the Bagulnik Park.

    According to the master plan, several areas have become priorities for the city: gasification, repair of social facilities, improvement of transport infrastructure and other projects. The city is reconstructing and modernizing heat supply facilities with the replacement of other types of fuel with natural gas. According to the plan, three new gas boiler houses will be built in Tynda; contracts for the preparation of documentation for them have already been concluded. In addition, the central boiler house of the city awaits reconstruction with the transfer to gas. The capital repairs of the city cultural center “Rus” and the public bathhouse are nearing completion. The street and road network is being brought up to standard and 32 new bus stops are being installed.

    Within the framework of the master plan of the city of Svobodny, 22 events will be implemented. By 2030, the city will become the center of the gas chemical cluster with a high level of urban environment and services. This year, work has begun on five events, two of which should be completed by the end of the year.

    The renovation of Svobodny is connected with the renewal of social infrastructure. In the Yuzhny microdistrict, a school for 528 children is being prepared for construction. The design and estimate documentation for the facility is already ready. In the Mikhailo-Chesnokovsky microdistrict, a building of a physical education and health complex with a universal games hall is being built. The development of design documentation for a children’s art school for 650 children in the Central District has begun. The construction of a new registry office building has been completed; its official opening took place in October. The improvement of the urban environment is underway. In November 2024, the improvement of the city park on Upravlencheskaya Street will be completed. The construction of a new Alekseevsky microdistrict for employees of the Amur Gas Processing Plant continues. In addition to residential buildings, communal and social infrastructure facilities are being built in the microdistrict: a school, a kindergarten, a clinic, a department store, a sports complex, a cultural and leisure center, an apart-hotel, multi-level parking lots, and engineering infrastructure facilities. In September of this year, a school for 900 students opened in the Alekseevsky microdistrict.

    An important point in the development of Svobodny is improving the quality of the city’s engineering infrastructure. A large amount of work is being carried out within the framework of this area of the master plan. At the moment, design and estimate documentation is being developed for the reconstruction of treatment facilities in the Dubovsky, Surazhevsky and Zalineyny microdistricts, as well as the reconstruction of the main engineering networks of heat, water supply and sanitation. A large amount of work is associated with the capital repairs of the existing and the construction of a new street and road network and the reconstruction of the road bridge across the Klyuchevaya River along Zagorodnaya Street.

    “Work on implementing master plans has begun. Stadiums and libraries are being restored in the Amur Region. A lot of work is being done to provide master plans with funding. It is necessary for the events to be reflected in state programs and national projects. This work is underway. We will do everything to fulfill the President’s instructions so that people receive comfortable living conditions,” Yuri Trutnev summed up the meeting.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SJ attends conference in Singapore

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Justice Paul Lam today attended the 14th China-ASEAN Prosecutors-General Conference in Singapore, where he delivered a speech at the plenary session.

    The conference, organised by the Attorney-General’s Chambers of Singapore, brought together officials, prosecutors and legal experts from 13 delegations to share their views on the conference’s theme “Fostering Co-operation on Combating Financial Crimes”.

    Addressing the plenary session, Mr Lam elaborated that Hong Kong has been adopting a multipronged approach in combating financial crimes with international elements, including adopting international regulatory standards, establishing a collaborative network for effective prosecution and asset recovery, making better use of emerging technologies and encouraging knowledge and experience sharing, in order to build a trustworthy and secure financial environment.

    He also mentioned that Hong Kong has established a comprehensive co-operation regime for the mutual legal assistance and surrender of fugitives, and that geopolitical considerations should not be allowed to hinder international co-operation in fighting financial crimes.

    The fight against financial crimes with international elements is a daunting and ongoing challenge, Mr Lam said, adding that he hoped Hong Kong and all other jurisdictions will continue to strengthen collaboration to jointly combat related crimes.

    At the conference’s closing session, the justice chief remarked that the 15th China-ASEAN Prosecutors-General Conference will be held in Hong Kong next year.

    During his visit to Singapore, Mr Lam attended other related activities. As a member of the Chinese delegation, he attended bilateral meetings between the delegation and member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations – Singapore, Myanmar, Vietnam, Brunei, Laos and Thailand, to exchange views on issues of mutual interest.

    Yesterday, he attended a lecture given by Prosecutor-General of the Supreme People’s Procuratorate Ying Yong on the theme “The Chinese Prosecutorial System in the Process of Comprehensive Implementation of the Rule of Law”.

    Mr Lam will conclude his visit to Singapore tomorrow and return to Hong Kong.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EEB signs Cooperation Arrangement on Capacity Building for Ecological and Environmental Protection Staff with Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Environment and Ecology Bureau of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (HKMAO of MEE) of the People’s Republic of China signed the Cooperation Arrangement on Capacity Building for Ecological and Environmental Protection Staff today (October 29). The Cooperation Arrangement leverages on the HKSAR’s advantages to strengthen the work of both parties on implementing international environmental conventions and pressing ahead with the ecological and environmental protection work for the green Belt and Road.
         
         The Cooperation Arrangement was signed by the Permanent Secretary for Environment and Ecology (Environment), Miss Janice Tse, and the Director of the HKMAO of MEE, Ms Zhou Guomei. It covers the strengthening of high-level exchanges, information sharing, staff training and related capacity building, as well as organisation of and participation in important events in respect of ecological and environmental protection. The Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, and the Secretary of the Leading Party Members Group and Vice Minister of the MEE, Mr Sun Jinlong, attended the signing ceremony.
         
         The implementation of the Cooperation Arrangement will effectively promote exchanges between high-level officials of both sides; pressing ahead with the establishment of effective, reliable and efficient communication channels; strengthening the sharing of information, documents, reports and data on international environmental conventions and green Belt and Road development; and taking forward training and related capacity building for ecological and environmental protection staff including arranging staff exchanges and learning in respective organisations.
         
         The delegation from the MEE will join Eco Expo Asia 2024 during their stay in Hong Kong, and the head of delegation, Mr Sun, the Secretary of the Leading Party Members Group and Vice Minister of the MEE, will give a speech at the opening ceremony of Eco Expo Asia 2024 tomorrow (October 30).           

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Shelburne — Shelburne RCMP charge man with attempted murder

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Shelburne RCMP Detachment has charged a man with attempted murder after a stabbing in Shelburne.

    On October 27, at approximately 2:50 a.m., officers responded to a report that a man had been stabbed at a home on Shore Rd. Upon arrival at the residence, they located a man with serious injuries; he was transported to hospital by EHS. The suspect and victim were known to each other, and the suspect had fled the home before police arrived.

    Officers, including RCMP Police Dog Services, followed up at another home in Shelburne, where they located and safely arrested one man related to this incident.

    Jason Morash, 41, of Shelburne, has been charged with Attempted Murder, Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose, and Aggravated Assault. Morash had a first court appearance in Yarmouth Provincial Court on October 28 and was held in custody pending his next court appearance on November 4.

    The investigation is ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Serious assault and verbal abuse in Homerton

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives are appealing for help to identify a woman in connection with a hate crime where a man was assaulted in Homerton.

    The victim was walking along Homerton High Street at about 05:15hrs on Sunday, 27 October when he was verbally abused before being seriously assaulted with a glass bottle by an unknown woman. She then left the scene.

    The victim presented himself at hospital with serious injuries to his face.

    Enquiries remain ongoing and no arrests have been made at this stage.

    At this early stage in the investigation, the assault is being treated as a hate crime.

    Detectives are now appealing for the public’s help and have today released an image of a woman who they would like to speak with in connection with the investigation.

    If you recognise her or have any information which could assist the investigation, please contact us by calling 101 or message @MetCC on X and quote CAD 1890/27Oct.

    You can also provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Israel/OPT: Law to ban UNRWA is ‘inhumane’ and an ‘outright attack’ on the rights of Palestinian refugees

    Source: Amnesty International –

    UNRWA has long served as a sole lifeline to Palestinian refugees offering indispensable humanitarian aid, education and shelter

    The UN agency also provides desperately needed aid for millions of other Palestinian refugees living in neighbouring Arab countries

    ‘This appalling, inhumane law will only exacerbate the suffering of Palestinians who have endured unimaginable hardship’ – Agnès Callamard

    In response to the news that the Israeli parliament has passed a law to ban the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) from operating inside Israel, Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, said:  

    “This unconscionable law is an outright attack on the rights of Palestinian refugees. It is clearly designed to make it impossible for the agency to operate in the Occupied Palestinian Territory by forcing the closure of the UNRWA headquarters in East Jerusalem and ending visas for its staff. It amounts to the criminalisation of humanitarian aid and will worsen an already catastrophic humanitarian crisis.

    “UNRWA has played an indispensable role in offering, food, water, medical aid, education and shelter to the nearly 2 million Palestinians in Gaza who have been forcibly displaced, subjected to an engineered famine, and stand at serious risk of genocide as a result of Israel’s relentless offensive in the last 12 months. This law flies in the face of the International Court of Justice order to Israel to ensure sufficient humanitarian assistance and facilitate basic services.

    “UNRWA has been a lifeline for Palestinian refugees in the occupied Gaza Strip and the West Bank and in neighbouring countries throughout the 75 years since its foundation. The plight of the Palestinian people would be even more severe if not for UNRWA’s tireless work over the last three quarters of a century.

    “This appalling, inhumane law will only exacerbate the suffering of Palestinians who have endured unimaginable hardship since the horrific attacks by Hamas and other armed groups in southern Israel one year ago, and whose need for global support is greater than ever.

    “The international community must be quick to condemn it in the strongest possible terms and exert any influence they have on the Israeli government to repeal it.”

    UNWRA

    Founded in 1949, UNRWA is a UN agency that supports the relief and human development of Palestinian refugees. It is funded almost entirely by voluntary contributions from UN Member States. UNRWA has defined Palestine refugees as “persons whose regular place of residence was Palestine during the period 1 June 1946 to 15 May 1948, and who lost both home and means of livelihood as a result of the 1948 conflict.”

    At a time when Israel, the occupying power, continues to flagrantly violate its obligations vis-à-vis Palestinian refugees in Gaza and the rest of the Occupied Palestinian Territory, UNRWA has long served as a sole lifeline, offering indispensable humanitarian aid, education and shelter. The agency also provides desperately needed aid for millions of other Palestinian refugees living in neighbouring Arab countries.

    In January 2024 over a dozen states and the EU announced the suspension of funding to UNRWA following allegations that individual staff members were involved in the 7 October attacks carried out by Hamas and other armed groups in southern Israel. UNRWA immediately dismissed nine employees over the allegations at the time.

    Almost all of the countries that had previously suspended funding for UNRWA have since reinstated their financial support, aside from the United States, where funding remains frozen until at least March 2025.

    MIL OSI NGO –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: Secretary Blinken remarks on the economic benefits of U.S. travel and tourism

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken delivers remarks with Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo on the economic benefits of U.S. travel and tourism at the Department of State, on October 29, 2024.

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/StateDept
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/statedept
    Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/statephotos/

    Subscribe to the State Department Blog: https://www.state.gov/blogs
    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: http://ow.ly/diiN30ro7Cw

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
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    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjADb8Gihp0

    MIL OSI Video –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Worcestershire brook pollution brings prosecution of 2 companies

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The companies have been ordered to pay fines and costs in excess of £90,000 for causing trade effluent to pollute 3 kilometres of a Worcestershire brook.

    • Fines and costs totalling over £90,000 imposed by court
    • Human error and corporate failings caused 3 kilometres of brook to be impacted
    • Case heard at Worcester Crown Court on 24 October 2024

    A prosecution by the Environment Agency has resulted in the conviction of 2 companies for causing trade effluent to pollute 3 kilometres of a Worcestershire brook. The companies have been ordered to pay fines and costs in excess of £90,000.

    At Worcester Crown Court on 24 October 2024, Elisabeth The Chef (ETC) and Civil Environmental Project Services Ltd (CEPS) were sentenced for causing the discharge into the Laugherne Brook in September 2017.

    ETC, a food manufacturer operating in Lower Broadheath, was fined £18,000 and ordered to pay prosecution costs of £52,000. CEPS, an engineering company in Bidford-upon-Avon was fined £4,000 and ordered to pay prosecution costs of £20,000.

    The discharge

    The Court was told that the discharge caused the deaths of a significant number of fish and that it followed a series of human and corporate failings.

    The manufacturing process at ETC produces around 40,000 gallons per day of trade effluent and human sewage.

    CEPS provided quarterly maintenance, and a telemetry monitoring service, for a pumping station at ETC’s premises. It was designed to pump trade effluent and sewage from the works to a foul sewer.

    On 1 September 2017, an employee of CEPS attended the ETC site’s pumping station to conduct routine maintenance.  Following completion of the maintenance work, the employee failed to switch the pumps within the pumping station back on.

    As a result, trade effluent built up in the pump well rather than being sent to the foul sewer.  This caused an overflow of trade effluent from the pumping station into a containment lagoon.

    The containment lagoon filled up and then discharged the pollutant through a broken sluice gate and into a ditch running alongside the factory.

    This pollution discharge flowed from the ditch into the Laugherne Brook, flowing towards Worcester and the River Teme in the south of the city.

    The situation was compounded by the same CEPS employee reporting to ETC on 4 September 2017, whilst the pollution was going on, stating that it was ‘working ok’.

    The same employee had also attended the ETC site in April 2017 and erroneously fitted an alarm too high within the pumpwell. This meant that the alarm did not function properly and consequently ETC was not notified that the pumping station was not working.

    Environment Agency response to the incident

    On 5 September 2017, members of the public contacted the Environment Agency to report that the Laugherne Brook was cloudy and dead fish were on the surface. 

    The Environment Agency managed the response to the incident and identified the source of the pollution and ETC then took action to stop the pollution.

    Officers carried out water quality testing and found that there had been a severe short-term impact covering some 3 kilometres of the Laugherne Brook.

    Some 86 dead fish were counted in the accessible sections of the Brook, including brown trout, bullhead, dace, and gudgeon.

    Hundreds of fish were estimated to have been killed as a result of the incident.

    ETC, a company with previous convictions for environmental offending, initially blamed CEPS for the incident.

    But subsequently accepted that it had failed to put in checks and procedures to ensure its on-site pumping station was working correctly.

    The company also accepted that it had failed to conduct day-to-day physical checks of its pumping station and containment lagoon.

    CEPS was vicariously liable for the actions of its employee. It had failed to put in place appropriate checks and monitoring to instruct its employee to ensure that work was done competently.

    The sentence

    In sentencing, the Court remarked that the state of rivers were ‘at the front of the public consciousness’ and that this was a ‘serious breach of law’.

    In mitigation, the Court remarked that both companies had undertaken investigations and taken all remedial action to prevent a recurrence. 

    The Court noted that ETC had been under different ownership when the pollution event occurred. But the new owners were taking the company’s environmental responsibilities seriously. 

    The Court also noted that there have been no further pollution events at the site since 2017.

    CEPS admitted responsibility for the incident at an early stage.

    The Court noted that the company’s engagement and co-operation with the Environment Agency’s investigation was ‘impressive.’ It had no previous convictions of any kind.

    Kelly Horsley, an Environment Officer for the West Midlands Environment Agency, said:

    We welcome this sentence as this was a serious pollution which caused considerable disruption besides fish deaths. 

    The Environment Agency will pursue any company that fails to uphold the law or protect nature and will continue to press for the strongest possible penalties. 

    Failure to comply with these legal requirements is a serious offence that can damage the environment and harm human health.    

     If anyone has environmental concerns they should call our 24/7 hotline on 0800 80 70 60 or Crimestoppers anonymously and in confidence on 0800 555 111. 

    The Charge

    Between 1 September 2017 and 5 September 2017, (1) Elisabeth the Chef Ltd and (2) Civil and Environmental Project Services Ltd caused a water discharge activity.

    This was namely a discharge of polluting trade effluent into a ditch adjacent to and joining the Laugherne Brook, Worcester.

    This was not authorised by an environmental permit, contrary to Regulation 38(1)(a) and Regulation 12(1)(b) of the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016.

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    Published 29 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: “I would be interested in talking to Chinese farmers”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    Veronika Smirnova studies the Chinese approach to global food security and spent a year at the Renmin University of China in Beijing. In an interview with the HSE Young Scientists project, she spoke about Xi Jinping’s flagship initiatives, her interest in FAO’s John Boyd Orr, and her love of malatan and xiao long bao.

    How I got started in science

    It wasn’t a strategic plan. Science chose me, like many future scientists who enjoyed studying many subjects at school. Surprisingly, math and physics were the easiest for me, but I ended up choosing the humanities.

    Around the 9th grade, I thought about what direction I would like to choose in the future, and the topic of international relations seemed interesting to me. At that time, I was not yet interested in Chinese culture, I only heard in the news that Russian-Chinese relations were developing at a rapid pace. When it was time to choose a second language (internationalists always learn two), I spent a long time choosing between German and French. But then something sank in my heart, and I began to study Chinese, not yet knowing what awaited me in the future. This is how my love for China began, I gradually began to take an interest in culture and politics.

    In my undergraduate studies at Nizhny Novgorod State University, we had amazing courses on analytics for government bodies. I really liked this subject, and I became interested in working in this field. When I went to the master’s program at HSE, I saw that CCEMI, where I now work, was recruiting interns, and I applied. That’s how my path in science began. Then I went to graduate school and continued scientific research.

    What am I studying?

    China’s participation in the global food security system. Interest in this topic did not develop immediately. In my bachelor’s degree, I studied more about culture and soft power. But in my master’s degree, I thought: I would like to study something more practice-oriented, which could contribute to the improvement of Russian-Chinese relations. The food topic found me itself.

    The HSE education system involves earning several credits for projects during the course of study. In my Master’s program, I chose a project that was conducted by the School of Oriental Studies together with Azbuka Vkusa. Against the backdrop of Covid, we studied how retail is developing in Asian countries. I was doing research on China. And then one of the teachers said that there was an opportunity to do an internship at the UN.

    At first I wasn’t interested, but my friend, who had this experience, explained that it was a very interesting track where you act as a manager of an educational course.

    I applied for the next intake and was accepted to this project. The internship was online. I helped organize a course for UNITAR (United Nations Institute for Training and Research) and FAO (FAO, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations). The course was designed for officials from the post-Soviet space on the topic of agriculture in international trade agreements.

    I thought it was an interesting topic because China and Russia were developing relations in the agricultural sector, so I decided to take it up more seriously and continued to study it in graduate school.

    What was my master’s thesis about?

    I studied Chinese concepts in global governance. This topic is close to my PhD thesis, where I examine how China promotes its approaches to food security co-operation internationally.

    In my master’s degree, I was interested to see how China’s policy ambitions are growing in practical terms, what approaches it offers – whether it is trying to take the place of the United States or is offering something unique.

    I decided to look at the theoretical approaches of Chinese scholars and compare them with the statements of Chinese leaders Hu Jintao and Xi Jinping. And I saw that, in principle, the same thing happened to the concept of global governance developed in the West as to many other Western concepts in China – from complete rejection to active participation.

    At first, China came out with sharp criticism, claiming that the concept was aimed at Western countries controlling global development. Then with interest – how to apply it with Chinese specifics. Then, gradual testing began in specific areas. For example, Chinese scientists separately studied issues of sovereignty, participation of non-profit organizations. And already at the next stage, they proposed their own approaches.

    At the same time, Chinese leader Xi Jinping put forward the concept of a Community of Shared Future for Humanity and the flagship Belt and Road Initiative, and Chinese scholars were studying how to develop global governance together with other countries through these projects.

    What is the Community of Shared Destiny for Humanity?

    Xi Jinping put forward this concept in 2013 — by the way, he first spoke about it in Moscow, at MGIMO. At the first stage, it was quite simple, it could be characterized by his words: “In me there is you, in you there is me.” The world is interconnected, and we need to manage things together, because if one participant starts having problems (as we saw during the pandemic), they arise for others as well.

    A more correct translation of the name is “the concept of a common destiny.” “A common destiny” implies unification. And China insists that everyone has the right to follow their own path of development, and this community is expressed in the fact that we develop together, but in different ways.

    Why China Believes the World Needs Food Security

    China is primarily interested in ensuring internal security. It relies on the concept of self-sufficiency. This issue is particularly sensitive for it. In the past, periods of famine were associated with political instability.

    During the Cold War, when China suffered famine, the country also faced a food embargo from the United States. And now China believes that “it must hold the rice bowl firmly in its own hands,” as Xi Jinping says.

    But having joined the WTO and participated in world trade, one cannot be completely autonomous. If there are problems in the food security sphere somewhere, it affects everyone. China is interested in maintaining general world stability. It is also developing cooperation in the “south-south” direction. This is cooperation between a developing country and a similar country, where it acts not as a donor, but as a partner, sharing its experience in solving problems.

    In the area of food security, China’s experience is a strong case: the country was able to defeat hunger with very few resources, land and water. Therefore, this is one of the key areas for cooperation with developing countries. China focuses on them, and mainly seeks to develop partnerships with them.

    Russian-Chinese relations

    Our relations are now at the peak of prosperity. During the Cold War, Sinologists had a hard time. Relations were tense, we had different views on what communism should be. The Chinese reacted quite sharply to the debunking of Stalin’s personality cult. We had border conflicts. China then, especially against the backdrop of rapprochement with the United States, diverged even more from the USSR.

    I remember my first academic supervisor in my bachelor’s degree told me that he was criticized in his close circle for studying the language of a country where he would never go, with which we are at odds. But he said that he was right. The prerequisites for normalizing relations began to emerge in the Brezhnev era, later the issues of demarcation and delimitation of the border were resolved, economic relations also developed, and now our relations have become the best.

    What results and achievements I am proud of

    I spent the last year in China, and returned in July. I was accepted to the New Sinology program for postgraduate students. It is designed to develop new approaches to China studies, building connections so that scholars can see their subject up close. I chose Renmin University of China, one of the largest in Beijing. I was able to work on my topic with a Chinese supervisor, Professor Song Wei, who is developing the theoretical framework I used in my work.

    My other achievements are not really in the scientific sphere. Within my center, I am actively involved in the implementation of joint humanitarian projects between Russia and China.

    We organized a Russian-Chinese summer school for students, and we had a project called “China Perspective,” where students from our department met with China experts and learned how to build a career in cooperation with the PRC.

    Basically, my journey of getting to know HSE and CCEIS began with me being a participant in the Russian-Chinese summer school — the 9th intake. And the next time, I was already on the organizing committee. The school was held online because of COVID, but there were many participants, some even joined from Brazil.

    What I dream about

    I am very interested in getting more field experience. For example, going to Chinese villages and talking to farmers. In China, most agricultural products are still produced on small farmsteads.

    Where I was in China

    I traveled a lot around China, visited ten cities: Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Xi’an, Luoyang, Tianjin, Chengdu and Chongqing. In Shanghai, colleagues from my center organized a conference of the Valdai Club together with the East China Normal University. I was included in the delegation.

    There was also a trip to a conference in Shenzhen, to MSU-PPI – a joint university of Moscow State University and Beijing Polytechnic University. I already went to other cities with friends, to immerse myself in Chinese culture. A guy from India studied with me on the program, we became friends, he was more advanced in studying Chinese culture, and I went on my first trip with him.

    Science for me is a way of life, a space of connections. You are constantly looking for something to talk about, something to study.

    If I hadn’t become a scientist, I could have become a manager or producer of educational courses in the humanities. I still combine this with my scientific career, but I would have concentrated on it.

    Who would I like to meet?

    For my dissertation, I would like to meet the first FAO Secretary-General, John Boyd Orr, and talk more about his failed initiatives. My research is more in the area of international cooperation, while his research is specifically looking at how certain policies reduce malnutrition in the world.

    I was very inspired by the history of the creation of FAO. Boyd Orr was the first Secretary-General, he stood at its origins. He advocated a comprehensive approach to food security. At that time, food security was considered to be only access to products and their availability. He suggested looking at the problem more broadly and advocated that the newly formed organization should control not only development issues and information collection, but also trade, production, and food delivery.

    For example, during World War II, scientists discovered that if you increase the rations for pregnant women, then infant mortality drops sharply. They made several such discoveries, were inspired, and thought that this new knowledge would allow them to significantly reduce hunger within the organization.

    But due to the onset of the Cold War, due to the importance and criticality of this topic for the world’s major powers, there was not enough space for trust to be created so that a common supranational structure in the form of a UN institution could control all these processes.

    What my typical day looks like

    Now my typical day is loaded with work: the last year of graduate school, finishing my dissertation, going to the pre-defense. So I wake up, have breakfast, go to work and sit here for a long time. I solve work issues, and when I have a free minute, I finish the text of the dissertation.

    What will I do after my defense?

    I will continue working at CCEMI. I think that there will be more time for scientific work. I would like to study the topic of Russian-Chinese agricultural cooperation in more detail. It is also interesting to look at the development of the foodtech sphere in China, startups in this area. I would also try to publish in Chinese journals. They are not taken into account in our systems, which is critical for a postgraduate student, and after the defense this issue will no longer be so acute.

    Do I get burnout?

    I think it was at the beginning, when I didn’t understand how to combine work and study, but here my colleagues helped. We have a friendly atmosphere in the team, everyone supports each other. I adhere to the approach that there are always many interesting projects, but it is important to refuse most of them and concentrate on the most important, otherwise burnout can occur.

    What are my interests besides science?

    I love yoga. It helps me maintain a sports regimen during periods of intense work. I also like digital drawing, sometimes I even do something design-related. At the launch stage of our project “Chinese Perspective”, I made posters for the VKontakte group.

    Where do I recommend starting your acquaintance with China?

    I would recommend looking at VK groups dedicated to China. In our Russian-speaking community, for example, there is a group called “Grey Mocha” that publishes cultural notes about China. The Vyshka Chinese Club also provides a lot of useful information.

    China has its own social networks. If you want to watch Chinese videos, you should go not to YouTube, but to Bilibili and Kuaishou. WeChat is a must to communicate with Chinese colleagues. They have an interesting service called “Little Red Book” — something like a combination of Instagram and Telegram, it helped me a lot while traveling around China. You can type in “Tasty places there,” and it will show you. You could even find out which of the many cafeterias at my university serves the best food. Or figure out how to take a photo in the Temple of Heaven without people being visible. But to immerse yourself in the Chinese blogosphere, you need to know the language and understand how it works. If you come to China with only English, it will be more difficult.

    The leading contemporary Chinese writer

    Probably Mo Yan. In the book “Frogs” he describes the social reality of the “One Family – One Child” era. I also liked the plot of the book “Children of the Herd Age” written by Liu Zhenyun. One of the stories describes how a man gave a large ransom for a woman, and she ran away with this ransom without marrying him, and his sister tries to find her.

    Popular Chinese Attractions Among Russians

    Beijing, Shanghai and Harbin — because of the proximity of the border. In Beijing, the heritage of ancient culture is interesting: the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, the Great Wall of China. In Shanghai, people walk along the embankment, look at the Pearl Tower, there are more monuments of Western culture there. Hainan Island is also popular, especially among residents of Siberia and the Far East. The sea there is very clean. There are many interesting delicacies, for example, candies made from shark meat. Other destinations are for more advanced tourists who are also interested in nature. For example, the province of Sichuan, where pandas live and there are national parks.

    Differences between Western and Chinese culture

    There are, and very strong ones. In China, they tend to be collectivist, not individualistic. We have the concept of conscience, and they have shame. This is a capacious topic, it is difficult to talk about briefly, but it can be outlined with a series of illustrations by Chinese artist Yan Liu.

    What was the last thing I read and watched?

    Our colleague Ivan Yuryevich Zuenko recently published a book, “China in the Era of Xi Jinping.” I read it and even attended the presentation.

    Because of my dissertation, everything is about China now, and I watch something to support Chinese. For example, the talk show “This is China” with Professor Zhang Weiwei and the program “Round Table” with the popular host Dou Wentao.

    Advice to young scientists

    Get involved in the scientific community early on, as talking to colleagues helps you understand early on what to watch out for and what new and interesting perspectives there are on the issues you’re studying.

    Try to publish and speak at conferences. The sooner you gain such experience, the easier it will be to move along this path. And for a sinologist, it is especially important to have your own knowledge base and know exactly where to find certain materials. Order disciplines and helps in scientific work.

    Favorite place in Moscow

    VDNKh. I lived there during my first year of graduate school, and often walked there. This place is associated with my first pleasant memories after moving to Moscow.

    Favorite places in Beijing

    First of all, Beihai Park. Chinese parks are different from ours. When I came there for the first time in the evening, I felt like I was in a fairy tale. I also love Houhai, it’s also in the center, a walking place around the lake. And Qianmen Street, it’s quite lively, there are a lot of Chinese eateries, street food.

    At first, I didn’t quite have the right idea of Beijing. I thought it was high-rise and modern. But if you travel around southern cities, you’ll notice that Beijing has many low buildings in the center and it’s not so densely built up. There are hutongs on Qianmen Street – ancient buildings. And a nice coffee shop called Metal Hands.

    Chinese cuisine

    I like it. I often ate xiao long bao (steamed meat buns like dumplings), malatan (a spicy soup where you put the ingredients yourself), and different types of beef noodles. Because of my Indian friends, I also fell in love with Indian food. But in general, there are a couple of places in Beijing where you can eat Russian food. When I started missing mashed potatoes with a cutlet, it was easy to get them.

    Where would I go in China

    See the natural attractions near the cities of Chengdu and Chongqing. You need to go there in a group and think everything through in advance. There are two large national parks near Chengdu. And next to Chongqing is the Wulong Karst geological park. And there is also a beautiful place Zhangjiajie, you also need to go there for five days, preferably with a group and a guide.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Clarenville — Clarenville RCMP investigates mischief at Canadian Tire Gas Bar, seeks public’s assistance identifying suspect

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Clarenville RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect in relation to property damage that occurred yesterday, October 27, 2024, at the Canadian Tire Gas Bar on Manitoba Drive in Clarenville.

    At approximately 8:30 a.m. on Sunday, Clarenville RCMP received the report of property damage. Surveillance footage obtained from the business showed a man throwing firewood at the front entrance of the gas bar at approximately 4:00 a.m. A copy of the surveillance video is attached.

    The investigation is continuing.

    Anyone having information about this crime or the identity of the suspect is asked to contact Clarenville RCMP (709-466-3211). To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    Video

      Video description

      An unknown male can be seen throwing an object at the front entrance of a gas bar.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Record, Transcribe and Translate: Effortless Festivities with Note Assist on the Galaxy S24 Ultra

    Source: Samsung

    This Diwali, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is taking ease and efficiency to new heights with the Galaxy AI-powered Note Assist feature, designed to empower users to capture, organize, and share moments with unmatched simplicity.
     
    Now you can seamlessly navigate the hustle of festive gatherings, using Note Assist as a trusted partner. With just a tap, you can record heartfelt conversations, transcribe important details, and translate messages for loved ones who speak different languages. Note Assist brings to you a true celebration of effortless connections.
     
    It ensures that every moment is preserved, shared, and understood with ease.
     
    Watch more to see how Note Assist transforms every interaction:
     

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: WANTED: MECHANICS! | U.S. Army

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    : AEMO

    About the U.S. Army:

    The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.

    Interested in joining the U.S. Army?
    Visit: spr.ly/6001igl5L

    Connect with the U.S. Army online:
    Web: https://www.army.mil
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
    X: https://www.twitter.com/USArmy
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military #15U #Chinook

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PfyVlIn_N50

    MIL OSI Video –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: US tech investment curbs rejected

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today rejected a US measure restricting investment in China, including the Hong Kong SAR, on semiconductors and microelectronics, quantum information technologies, and artificial intelligence systems.

    In a statement this evening, the Hong Kong SAR Government expressed strong objection to the US for intentionally targeting China and the Hong Kong SAR using various excuses out of political interests, causing damage to normal trade and investment activities as well as severely undermining the principles of a free market and economic order.

    The US will ultimately reap the consequences, in particular the impact on the trade surplus it has realised in bilateral trade with Hong Kong throughout the years, the statement added.

    It pointed out that in 2023, the US was Hong Kong’s third-largest trading partner, with the total merchandise trade value amounting to HK$472.2 billion or US$60.3 billion.

    Meanwhile, Hong Kong is the 27th largest trading partner of the US. As at end 2022, the US ranked sixth in inward direct investment (IDI) into Hong Kong, with an IDI stock of HK$351.4 billion, or US$45 billion.

    The US was placed eighth in outward direct investment (ODI) from Hong Kong, with an ODI stock of HK$164.2 billion, or US$21 billion.

    In addition, the US has realised a trade surplus of US$271.5 billion with Hong Kong during the past 10 years, the largest among its global trading partners.

    These figures demonstrate the close economic interaction between Hong Kong and the US, as well as the vast business interests of US businesses in Hong Kong, the Hong Kong SAR Government noted.

    It said US politicians once again have shown that they have acted out of their own political interests, causing damage to normal trade and investment, the free market and economic order.

    The so-called restriction not only causes damage to normal business activities between Hong Kong and the US, but also affects the stability of the global supply chain.

    Such a restriction, which would also harm US enterprises, as well as their business interests, and adversely impact bilateral economic activities, was politically driven and in nobody’s interest, it added.

    The Hong Kong SAR Government reiterated that it would work with our country to safeguard our national interests and protect the interests of Hong Kong enterprises.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Taylor County Disaster Recovery Center Reopens in New Location

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Taylor County Disaster Recovery Center Reopens in New Location

    Taylor County Disaster Recovery Center Reopens in New Location

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– The Disaster Recovery Center in Taylor County is open in a new location to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Helene and Debby. Survivors of Hurricane Milton can also be served by the center.Center location:Taylor County20116 Keaton Beach RoadPerry, FL 32348Hours: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-SundaySurvivors do not need to visit a center to apply for assistance. Homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. If you choose to apply by phone, please understand wait times may be longer because of increased volume for multiple recent disasters. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance – YouTube.For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
    kirsten.chambers
    Tue, 10/29/2024 – 11:44

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: MTN SA and Huawei Launch World’s First Commercial SDB IBT 2D Microwave Deployment Oct 29, 2024

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: MTN SA and Huawei Launch World’s First Commercial SDB IBT 2D Microwave Deployment
    Oct 29, 2024

    [Johannesburg, South Africa, October 29th, 2024] MTN South Africa (hereinafter referred to as MTN SA) and Huawei have completed the world’s first commercial deployment of the innovative SDB IBT 2D microwave solution in Johannesburg. This breakthrough solution leverages Super Dual Band (SDB) and two-dimensional intelligent beam tracking (IBT 2D) to prevent pole shaking from affecting link stability in dual-band scenarios.
    With a large portion of its territory on a plateau, South Africa is typically exposed to intense sunlight. Separately, the considerable temperature difference between day and night can lead to deformation of towers across the country, typically monopole and mast towers. This deformation degrades the performance of existing large-capacity SDB transmission links (the E-band frequencies sub-system particularly) and has a negative impact on services. Given that it is difficult to obtain tower space and permission for installing two separate antennas for one physical link at a single site, the new IBT-capable SDB antenna fulfils an urgent market need.
    Huawei continuously invests in E-band IBT and SDB technologies and launched the innovative SDB IBT 2D solution that allows a single antenna to support dual-band transmission via both traditional band and E-band. The solution also supports two-dimensional IBT function, which enables vertical sway and horizontal twist to be adjusted in real time to counteract the shaking, warping, and deformation of poles and towers caused by sunshine or wind. The co-deployment of this solution with MTN SA in Johannesburg marks its first commercial deployment in the world.
    MTN SA and Huawei Launch World’s First SDB IBT 2D Microwave link

    Through this deployment, the SDB IBT 2D solution helps MTN SA address periodic fading and unstable performance of microwave links caused by periodic pole deformation, while also enhancing the anti-shaking performance of SDB links. This guarantees 100% reliable transmission and expands SDB deployment scenarios by 66% for MTN SA. Deploying this new antenna occupies less space on a tower than installing two separate single-band antennas. Additionally, the IBT function removes restrictions on tower type and antenna installation height and ensures that services are always online. The SDB IBT 2D solution will enhance MTN SA’s site construction by providing large-capacity and consistently stable transmission.
    Commenting on the deployment of the IBT solution, Rodney Reddy, Transmission Planning Senior Manager of MTN SA, remarked: “We are dedicated to delivering the best network and services for users by adhering to high construction standards. IBT solution helps us solve link problems caused by the external environment to ensure stable service running. It is now an essential solution for our E-band network construction.”
    James Zeng, President of Huawei’s Microwave Product Line, commented: “We are committed to continuous innovation in microwave transmission. We offer high-quality microwave transmission solutions tailored to multiple complex scenarios. Our latest SDB IBT solution supports stable transmission even in complex weather conditions, enabling customers to build high-quality networks to exacting standards.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: MTN SA and Huawei Launch World’s First Commercial SDB IBT 2D Microwave Deployment

    Source: Huawei

    Headline: MTN SA and Huawei Launch World’s First Commercial SDB IBT 2D Microwave Deployment

    [Johannesburg, South Africa, October 29th, 2024] MTN South Africa (hereinafter referred to as MTN SA) and Huawei have completed the world’s first commercial deployment of the innovative SDB IBT 2D microwave solution in Johannesburg. This breakthrough solution leverages Super Dual Band (SDB) and two-dimensional intelligent beam tracking (IBT 2D) to prevent pole shaking from affecting link stability in dual-band scenarios.
    With a large portion of its territory on a plateau, South Africa is typically exposed to intense sunlight. Separately, the considerable temperature difference between day and night can lead to deformation of towers across the country, typically monopole and mast towers. This deformation degrades the performance of existing large-capacity SDB transmission links (the E-band frequencies sub-system particularly) and has a negative impact on services. Given that it is difficult to obtain tower space and permission for installing two separate antennas for one physical link at a single site, the new IBT-capable SDB antenna fulfils an urgent market need.
    Huawei continuously invests in E-band IBT and SDB technologies and launched the innovative SDB IBT 2D solution that allows a single antenna to support dual-band transmission via both traditional band and E-band. The solution also supports two-dimensional IBT function, which enables vertical sway and horizontal twist to be adjusted in real time to counteract the shaking, warping, and deformation of poles and towers caused by sunshine or wind. The co-deployment of this solution with MTN SA in Johannesburg marks its first commercial deployment in the world.
    MTN SA and Huawei Launch World’s First SDB IBT 2D Microwave link

    Through this deployment, the SDB IBT 2D solution helps MTN SA address periodic fading and unstable performance of microwave links caused by periodic pole deformation, while also enhancing the anti-shaking performance of SDB links. This guarantees 100% reliable transmission and expands SDB deployment scenarios by 66% for MTN SA. Deploying this new antenna occupies less space on a tower than installing two separate single-band antennas. Additionally, the IBT function removes restrictions on tower type and antenna installation height and ensures that services are always online. The SDB IBT 2D solution will enhance MTN SA’s site construction by providing large-capacity and consistently stable transmission.
    Commenting on the deployment of the IBT solution, Rodney Reddy, Transmission Planning Senior Manager of MTN SA, remarked: “We are dedicated to delivering the best network and services for users by adhering to high construction standards. IBT solution helps us solve link problems caused by the external environment to ensure stable service running. It is now an essential solution for our E-band network construction.”
    James Zeng, President of Huawei’s Microwave Product Line, commented: “We are committed to continuous innovation in microwave transmission. We offer high-quality microwave transmission solutions tailored to multiple complex scenarios. Our latest SDB IBT solution supports stable transmission even in complex weather conditions, enabling customers to build high-quality networks to exacting standards.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Video: Department of State Daily Press Briefing – October 29, 2024 – 1:15 PM

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Spokesperson Matthew Miller leads the Department Press Briefing, at the Department of State, onnOctober 29, 2024.

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/StateDept
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/statedept
    Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/statephotos/

    Subscribe to the State Department Blog: https://www.state.gov/blogs
    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: http://ow.ly/diiN30ro7Cw

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
    Careers website: https://careers.state.gov/
    White House website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/
    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0DZRsxwOqM

    MIL OSI Video –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Navy Week Charts Course to Kansas City

    Source: United States Navy

    Kansas City Navy Week brings Sailors from across the fleet to the area to emphasize the importance of the Navy to Kansas City, the states of Missouri and Kansas, and the nation.

    More than 50 Sailors will participate in education and community outreach events throughout the city.

    Participating Navy organizations include Navy Band Great Lakes, USS Constitution, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, Navy Talent Acquisition Group Mid-America, Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron Two, Navy History and Heritage Command, The Strike Group, Fleet Outreach Ambassador Team (FLOAT), Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Office of Small Business Programs, Office of Civilian Human Resources, Naval Reserve Center Kansas City, and Independence-class littoral combat ship USS Kansas City (LCS 22).

    The Navy’s senior executive is Rear Adm. Larry Watkins, Vice Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe/Vice Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Africa. He commissioned through the University of Missouri-Columbia Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps program in December 1990, graduating with an economics degree. He is also a 2012 graduate of Webster University with a Master of Business Administration and completed Joint Professional Military Education curriculum at Army Command & General Staff College. During Kansas City Navy Week, he is participating in community engagements, and meeting with local organizations, higher education, local business, civic, and government leaders.

    Navy Weeks are a series of outreach events coordinated by the Navy Office of Community Outreach designed to give Americans an opportunity to learn about the Navy, its people, and its importance to national security and prosperity. Since 2005, the Navy Week program has served as the Navy’s flagship outreach effort into areas of the country without a significant Navy presence, providing the public a firsthand look at why the Navy matters to cities like Kansas City.

    “Sailors are the reason America’s Navy is the most powerful in the world,” said NAVCO’s director, Cmdr. Julie Holland. “We are thrilled to bring your Navy Warfighters to Kansas City.  At Navy Weeks, Americans will connect with Sailors who have strong character, competence, and dedication to the mission, and who continue a nearly 250-year tradition of decisive power from seabed to cyberspace.”

    Throughout the week, Sailors are participating in various community events across the area, including ceremonial celebrations at Harry S. Truman Museum, WWI Museum, and Negro League Baseball Museum; volunteering with the Kansas City Urban Youth Academy, Habitat for Humanity Kansas City, Bishop Sullivan’s Center, Happy Bottoms, and Thelma’s Kitchen; and engaging with students across multiple high schools. Residents will also enjoy free live music by Navy Band Great Lakes at venues throughout the week.

    Kansas City Navy Week is the last of 15 Navy Weeks in 2024, which brings a variety of assets, equipment, and personnel to a single city for a weeklong series of engagements designed to bring America’s Navy closer to the people it protects. Each year, the program reaches more than 130 million people — about half the U.S. population.

    Media organizations wishing to cover Kansas City Navy Week events should contact Ensign Lamar Badger at (901) 229-5709 or erick.l.badger.mil@us.navy.mil.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Patrushev took part in the keel-laying ceremony of the research expedition vessel Ivan Frolov in St. Petersburg

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev, as part of a working visit to St. Petersburg, together with the city’s governor, Alexander Beglov, took part in the ceremonial laying of the keel of the scientific expedition vessel Ivan Frolov.

    Dmitry Patrushev took part in the keel-laying ceremony of the research expedition vessel Ivan Frolov in St. Petersburg

    October 29, 2024

    Keel-laying ceremony of the research expedition vessel “Ivan Frolov”

    October 29, 2024

    Keel-laying ceremony of the research expedition vessel “Ivan Frolov” in St. Petersburg

    October 29, 2024

    Dmitry Patrushev took part in the keel-laying ceremony of the research expedition vessel Ivan Frolov in St. Petersburg

    October 29, 2024

    Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Alexander Kozlov took part in the keel-laying ceremony of the research expedition vessel Ivan Frolov in St. Petersburg

    October 29, 2024

    Keel-laying ceremony of the research expedition vessel “Ivan Frolov”

    October 29, 2024

    Keel-laying ceremony of the research expedition vessel “Ivan Frolov”

    October 29, 2024

    Keel-laying ceremony of the research expedition vessel “Ivan Frolov”

    October 29, 2024

    Keel-laying ceremony of the research expedition vessel “Ivan Frolov”

    October 29, 2024

    Previous news Next news

    Dmitry Patrushev took part in the keel-laying ceremony of the research expedition vessel Ivan Frolov in St. Petersburg

    According to the Deputy Prime Minister, after commissioning, the vessel should become the flagship of the Roshydromet fleet. It will house a powerful scientific complex that will allow research to be conducted even in the harshest weather conditions. And in general, this multi-purpose project will ensure the uninterrupted operation of Roshydromet polar stations – five year-round and five field bases in Antarctica.

    “Studying the Arctic and Antarctic is one of the key areas of activity of the federal service. More than 20 expeditions are already conducted annually. They allow us to track climate change, collect data for the development of navigation along the Northern Sea Route and clarify the boundaries of the country’s continental shelf. The appearance of the new vessel “Ivan Frolov” will certainly strengthen our positions in the polar regions,” said Dmitry Patrushev.

    The Deputy Prime Minister noted that a range of advanced knowledge and technologies is being used in construction. This will contribute to the development of Russia’s competencies in high-tech areas.

    It is planned that the research and expedition vessel Ivan Frolov will replace the flagship of the polar fleet Akademik Fedorov and will remain in service for at least 30 years. The vessel will be about 165 m long. Up to 20 laboratories and a platform for helicopters will be located on board. The research vessel will allow scientific research to be carried out on modular programs of any complexity by different scientific teams. Dozens of scientific projects will be carried out on board at the same time – from research of the ocean floor to the upper atmosphere and space, depending on the need and priority of research in polar latitudes.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE meets top ecology official

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee today met Leading Party Members Group of the Ministry of Ecology & Environment Secretary Sun Jinlong to exchange views on issues of mutual concern.

    Mr Lee welcomed Mr Sun’s visit with his delegation to attend the opening ceremony of the 19th Eco Expo Asia and to learn more about Hong Kong’s work in improving harbour water quality and waste management through site visits. 

    The Chief Executive also thanked the central government and the Ministry of Ecology & Environment for their strong support to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government’s work in protecting the ecological environment.

    He said the Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China focused on achieving the objective of building a beautiful China by ramping up green transition in all areas of economic and social development and improving the environmental governance system.

    “The Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to work closely with the Ministry of Ecology & Environment and the governments of provinces and cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) to promote environmental governance in the GBA, including improving water quality of Shenzhen River and enhancing regional air quality, in efforts to build a beautiful China and a beautiful Hong Kong.”

    Mr Lee also stated that the Hong Kong SAR Government will leverage the city’s unique advantages of enjoying strong national support while maintaining unparalleled connectivity with the world to introduce ecological protection and development technologies from the Mainland and internationally, with a view to establishing Hong Kong as a demonstration base for green technologies.

    He added that Hong Kong will play its role as a super connector and a super value-adder, combining its world-class professional services and advantages in financing to contribute to ecological protection and development.

    Secretary for Environment & Ecology Tse Chin-wan and Director of the Chief Executive’s Office Carol Yip also attended the meeting.      

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI USA: Gateway: Centering Science

    Source: NASA

    Gateway is set to advance science in deep space, bringing groundbreaking research opportunities to lunar orbit.

    Stephanie Dudley sits at the intersection of human spaceflight and science for Gateway, humanity’s first lunar space station that will host astronauts and unique scientific investigations.
    Gateway’s mission integration and utilization manager, Dudley recently posed for this photo in a high-fidelity mockup of the space station’s HALO (Habitation and Logistics Outpost), where astronauts will live, conduct science, and prepare for missions to investigate the lunar South Pole region. Dudley works with NASA’s partner space agencies and academia to identify science opportunities on Gateway.
    HALO will host various science experiments, including the Heliophysics Environmental and Radiation Measurement Experiment Suite, led by NASA, and the Internal Dosimeter Array, led by ESA (European Space Agency) and JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency). The heliophysics experiment will fly on HALO’s exterior, and the dosimeter will be housed inside Gateway in a series of racks, mockups of which are shown to the right of Dudley in the image above. Both experiments will study solar and cosmic radiation to help the science community better understand how to protect astronauts and hardware during deep space travels to places like Mars.
    “We are building [Gateway] for a 15-year lifespan, but definitely hope that we go longer than that,” Dudley recently said on Houston We Have a Podcast. “And so that many years of scientific study in a place where humans have never worked and lived long-term, Gateway is going to allow us to do that.”
    Dudley pulls double duty as a deputy director for the Exploration Operations Office within NASA’s Moon to Mars Program, a role that connects her to Artemis science beyond Gateway, including science investigations on the Orion and Human Landing System spacecraft and lunar terrain vehicle.
    “My work…is helping to make sure that across all of the six [Artemis] programs, including Gateway, we’re all focusing on utilization in the same way,” Dudley said.
    Dudley’s team coordinates science payloads for Artemis II, the first mission to send humans to the Moon since 1972, and Artemis III, the first landing in the lunar South Pole region that is of keen interest to the global science community.
    Gateway’s HALO will launch with the space station’s Power and Propulsion Element ahead of the Artemis IV mission in 2028, the first lunar mission to include an orbiting space station.
    “Gateway sounds so science fiction, but it’s real,” Dudley recently said. “And we’re building it. And in a few years, it’s going to be around the Moon and that’s when the real work, the fun work in my opinion, is going to begin and science will never be the same.”
    Gateway is humanity’s first lunar space station as a central component of the Artemis campaign that will return humans to the Moon for scientific discovery and chart a path for the first human missions to Mars.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Joins International Action Against RedLine and META Infostealers

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RedLine and META Infostealers stole information from millions of victims around the world; U.S. complaint charges developer and administrator; U.S. law enforcement seizes infrastructure

    AUSTIN, Texas – The Department of Justice joined the Netherlands, Belgium, Eurojust and other partners in announcing an international disruption effort against the current version of RedLine Infostealer, one of the most prevalent infostealers in the world that has targeted millions of victim computers, and the closely-related META Infostealer.

    The Justice Department, FBI, Naval Criminal Investigative Service, IRS Criminal Investigation, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and Army Criminal Investigation Division joined international partners in the Joint Cybercrime Action Taskforce (“JCAT”) Operation Magnus (supported by Europol) to seize domains, servers, and Telegram accounts used by the RedLine and META administrators to disrupt the operations of the infostealers.

    International authorities have created a website at www.operation-magnus.com with additional resources for the public and potential victims.

    Infostealers are a prevalent form of malware used to steal sensitive information from victim’s computers including usernames and passwords, financial information, system information, cookies, and cryptocurrency accounts. The stolen information—referred to as “logs”—is sold on cybercrime forums and used for further fraudulent activity and other hacks. RedLine has been used to conduct intrusions against major corporations. RedLine and META infostealers can also enable cyber criminals to bypass multi-factor authentication (MFA) through the theft of authentication cookies and other system information.

    RedLine and META are sold through a decentralized Malware as a Service (“MaaS”) model where affiliates purchase a license to use the malware, and then launch their own campaigns to infect their intended victims. The malware is distributed to victims using malvertising, e-mail phishing, fraudulent software downloads, and malicious software sideloading. Various schemes, including COVID-19 and Windows update related ruses have been used to trick victims into downloading the malware. The malware is advertised for sale on cybercrime forums and through Telegram channels that offer customer support and software updates. RedLine and META have infected millions of computers worldwide and, by some estimates, RedLine is one of the top malware variants in the world.

    Through various investigative steps, law enforcement has collected victim log data stolen from computers infected with RedLine and META. While an exact number has not been finalized, agents have identified millions of unique credentials (usernames and passwords), email addresses, bank accounts, cryptocurrency addresses, credit card numbers, etc. The United States does not believe it is in possession of all the stolen data and continues to investigate.

    The Department has unsealed a warrant issued in the Western District of Texas that authorized law enforcement to seize two domains used by RedLine and META for command and control.

    In conjunction with the disruption effort, the Justice Department unsealed charges against Maxim Rudometov, one of the developers and administrators of RedLine Infostealer. According to the complaint, Rudometov regularly accessed and managed the infrastructure of RedLine Infostealer, was associated with various cryptocurrency accounts used to receive and launder payments and was in possession of RedLine malware. For his actions, he has been charged with access device fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1029, conspiracy to commit computer intrusion, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1030 and 371, and money laundering, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1956.

    If convicted, Rudometov faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for access device fraud, five years in prison for conspiracy to commit computer intrusion, and 20 years in prison for money laundering. The complaint is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    The FBI Austin Cyber Task Force is investigating the case. The Task Force participants include the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, IRS Criminal Investigation, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and Army Criminal Investigation Division, among other agencies.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney G. Karthik Srinivasan is prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Cybercrime Liaison Prosecutor to Eurojust and Office of International Affairs also provided significant assistance.

    The disruption effort announced today was in conjunction with Operation Magnus, a JCAT law enforcement operation to investigate RedLine and META Infostealers. The participating agencies included the Dutch National Police, Belgian Federal Police, Belgian Federal Prosecutor’s Office, United Kingdom National Crime Agency, Australian Federal Police, Portuguese Federal Police, and Eurojust.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Security: Darnell Bishop Sentenced To 15 Years For Role In Benton Harbor Dunham’s Store Handgun Theft

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

              GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Darnell Bishop, 32, of Benton Harbor, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for kidnapping and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. 

              “Mr. Bishop’s criminal scheme, had it succeeded, would have flooded the streets of southwest Michigan with illegal guns,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “The proliferation of illegal guns is one cause behind the gun violence epidemic we are experiencing in Benton Harbor, across the state, and across the nation. I am grateful to our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners for their swift and smart response that prevented the worst from happening. Moving forward, we will continue to focus our efforts on those few individuals who are driving gun violence in their communities.”

              Bishop was charged along with his brother and codefendant, Dontrell Nance, for the theft of 123 handguns from Benton Harbor Dunham’s Sports Store. Bishop and Nance kidnapped the Dunham’s manager from outside the manager’s home using a pistol, blindfolded and handcuffed him, took him to a second location, and threatened the manager into providing the alarm code for Dunham’s. Bishop then went to the store and stole 123 pistols, which he carried away in two large coolers. Law enforcement has since recovered all the firearms.  

              Nance previously pled guilty to kidnapping and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.  He was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison.

              “Today’s sentence is an example of our commitment to our industry partners and their employees, that their safety and security is one of ATF’s top priorities,” said Detroit Field Division Special Agent in Charge James Deir. “Mr. Bishop and his cohorts need to be held accountable for their actions and represent the most deserving of Federal prosecution. They are criminals who put personal greed before the safety of Dunham’s employees and their families. Now, they will have plenty of time in prison to reflect on their wrongdoing.”

              “Mr. Bishop’s sentencing brings closure to a community left rattled by a violent attack against Dunham’s Sports and its manager in a plot to traffic over 100 illegal guns into our streets,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “I am thankful for the cooperation of our law enforcement partners, especially the Benton Harbor Safe Streets Task Force, whose prompt response thwarted this plot and averted potentially devastating consequences.”

              This case was investigated by the Benton Charter Township Police Department, Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety, Berrien County Sheriff’s Department, Michigan State Police, ATF, and FBI.

    ###

              The previous press releases, complaint, and press conference can be viewed at the following links here, here, here, here, and here. 

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Bybit Card Expands Into New Regions, Offering Seamless and Rewarding International Crypto Payments

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, elevates off-ramp experiences for crypto users in more regions with the Bybit Card. Officially open for registration for new users in select regions, the Bybit Card marks another step forward in the company’s mission to enable digital asset investors worldwide to access, hold and spend their cryptocurrencies with ease and confidence.

    In collaboration with S1LKPAY, principal member of Mastercard’s payment network and a provider of Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) and Card-as-a-Service (CaaS), the Bybit Card is now accepting applications from customers of Bybit Limited, the entity regulated by the Astana Financial Services Authority (AFSA). Having obtained the full license in Sep., this is the first time Bybit Limited (AFSA) issued a prepaid card for international customers. 

    To celebrate the launch, eligible users who successfully register for the campaign will receive 10% cashback up to 600 USD for a limited time only. The Bybit Card simplifies the integration of crypto into everyday spending by offering users the ability to make payments in multiple currencies wherever Mastercard is accepted worldwide.

    The Bybit Card has been mapping out new markets globally throughout 2024, now serving customers in multiple markets across four continents.

    “Bybit is dedicated to bridging the gap between our customers’ digital assets and their real-world needs. As the Bybit Card continues to gain traction, it is being recognized as a trusted and easy-to-use crypto payment solution. We’re excited to welcome more users to the future of crypto and are committed to delivering more rewards and features in the near future,” said Joan Han, Sales and Marketing Director at Bybit. “SILKPAY is the first in the region to bring cutting-edge digital asset payment technology to market. Our partnership with Bybit brings together complementary strengths, enabling us to deliver more secure, seamless, and faster transactions through the Bybit Card. Together, we are setting a new standard for innovation and inclusion in the region’s financial landscape,” said Gani Uzbekov, Founder and CEO of SILKPAY.

    Key Features of the Bybit Card

    • Free virtual card: Zero fees for the virtual Bybit Card
    • No hidden charges: No annual or monthly fees
    • Attractive rewards: Up to $600 USD in rewards during the promotional period with 10% cashback, followed by 2-10% rebates and up to 8% APY
    • Instant access: Virtual card available immediately for use
    • Wide range of digital assets: The Bybit Card supports USDT, BTC, ETH, and more.

    Users can read more about how to qualify for the rewards: Bybit Card – 10% Cashback and Card Bonuses (Selected International Users Only)

    #Bybit / #TheCryptoArk

    About Bybit

    Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving over 50 million users. Established in 2018, Bybit provides a professional platform where crypto investors and traders can find an ultra-fast matching engine, 24/7 customer service, and multilingual community support. Bybit is a proud partner of Formula One’s reigning Constructors’ and Drivers’ champions: the Oracle Red Bull Racing team.

    For more details about Bybit, users can visit: Bybit Press 

    For media inquiries, users can contact: media@bybit.com

    For more information, users can visit: https://www.bybit.com

    For updates, users can follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media

    Discord | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Reddit | Telegram | TikTok | X | Youtube

    About Mastercard

    Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Their mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships and passion, their innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments and businesses realize their greatest potential. Mastercard decency quotient, or DQ, drives our culture and everything they do inside and outside of their company. With connections across more than 210 countries and territories, they are building a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all.

    Mastercard press office in Kazakhstan

    Tel: +7 (727) 264 67 37

    mastercard@pressclub.kz

    Contact

    Head of PR

    Tony Au

    Bybit

    tony.au@bybit.com

    The MIL Network –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Locus Unveils Refrigerant Management Software Aligned with the EPA’s Final Rule on Hydrofluorocarbon Phasedown

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Locus Technologies the sustainability and Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) compliance software leader, today announced the release of Locus Refrigerant Management software, the cloud-based, mobile-friendly product that generates exceedance alerts, facilitates leak detection, and automates response protocols in addition to providing comprehensive tracking of fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases), chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), and substitutes like hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). The software empowers companies to manage complex refrigerant phasedowns with accuracy and confidence, ultimately avoiding excessive emissions. The software also positions Locus clients to comply with tougher US federal regulations taking effect 14 months from now and to easily adapt as US and EU rules evolve in the future.

    On September 20, 2024, EPA Administrator, Michael S. Regan, signed the final rule Phasedown of Hydrofluorocarbons: Management of Certain Hydrofluorocarbons and Substitutes under of the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act which indicates tougher requirements will be phased in starting January 1, 2026. Refrigerants are the most potent of greenhouse gases, with some varieties having a global warming potential hundreds and even thousands of times greater than CO2. Even small leaks pack a big punch on the environment, which is why stricter regulations are emerging.

    “These next 12 months will be critical for companies to articulate their refrigerant management plans, train their technicians, and adopt technology that will help them avoid costly errors and get this right,” said Mark Harbin, veteran refrigerant compliance expert and Locus product designer. “Locus is pleased to bring to market refrigerant management software as well as refrigerant management training and certification to help each client manage the phase down and transition successfully.”

    Immediate regulatory priorities include detecting leaks and resolving them within mandated timeframes; comprehensive record keeping of equipment, inspections, refrigerant inventories, and rates of use; and meticulously disposing and reclaiming used refrigerants. Locus Refrigerant Management software simplifies these challenges. Locus manages everything from service records to cylinder barcodes and automatically alerts users when any dates or datapoints are out of compliance. Immediate notifications and dynamic dashboards deliver real-time insights, and the software’s fully configurable components flex to future demands.

    “Refrigeration and air conditioning cause up to 10 percent of global carbon emissions, and the leaks alone produce more carbon than all the air travel worldwide, which is why waiting on periodic reports pulled from static refrigerant databases just won’t cut it,” said Wes Hawthorne, President of Locus Technologies. “Locus software enables clients to act quickly; the software immediately alerts users of potential problems with their equipment so that issues can be resolved before becoming disastrous.”

    Locus Refrigerant Management is one of several integrated applications available in Locus software. Other Locus offerings include EHS risk and compliance, sustainable construction, waste management, water quality, incident management, ESG reporting, and robust environmental data management software. This collection of specialized and unified SaaS applications enables clients to manage every facet of refrigerant management and environmental data in one place. To learn more about Locus Refrigerant Management or the full suite of applications, please visit www.locustec.com.

    About Locus Technologies
    Locus Technologies, the global environmental, social, governance (ESG), sustainability, and EHS compliance software leader, empowers companies of every size and industry to be credible with ESG reporting. From 1997, Locus pioneered enterprise software-as-a-service (SaaS) for EHS compliance, water management, and ESG credible reporting. Locus apps and software solutions improve business performance by strengthening risk management and EHS for organizations across industries and government agencies. Organizations ranging from medium-sized businesses to Fortune 500 enterprises, such as Sempra, Corteva, Chevron, DuPont, Chemours, San Jose Water Company, The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Port of Seattle, and Los Alamos National Laboratory, have selected Locus. Locus is headquartered in Mountain View, California. For further information regarding Locus and its commitment to excellence in SaaS solutions, please visit www.locustec.com or email info@locustec.com.

    The MIL Network –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Mattermost Wins “Overall Incident Response Solution of the Year” in 2024 Cybersecurity Breakthrough Awards

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Palo Alto, Calif., Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mattermost, Inc., a leader in delivering the secure, real-time collaboration and workflow tools that modern defense, security, and intelligence teams need to maintain command, control, and operational tempo, today announced that it has won the “Overall Incident Response Solution of the Year” award in the eighth annual Cybersecurity Breakthrough Awards.

    The Cybersecurity Breakthrough Awards are one of the cybersecurity industry’s most comprehensive programs dedicated to recognizing the world’s best information security companies, products, and people. Mattermost’s win signifies the efficacy of its cybersecurity incident response playbooks, as the solution was weighed against thousands of global entries for its innovation, functionality, ease of use, performance, value, and impact.

    Today, it takes an average of 277 days to identify and contain a single attack, according to research from IBM and Ponemon Institute, resulting in costly, unexpected downtime, reputational damage, and potential compliance implications. To address these hurdles, Mattermost offers customizable digital Playbooks that document workflows and individual roles and responsibilities, and support real-time, out-of-band collaboration.

    Activating the moment an incident is detected, Playbooks alert designated teams across IT, security, legal, communications, and other business units via a secure channel with persona-based access controls. The Playbooks checklist-based automation is valuable in a variety of proactive and reactive incident response use cases such as managing a cyber attack, deploying a patch, issuing reports to customers and regulatory entities, and more. Near-term enhancements to Playbooks will serve to further transform incident response with advanced workflow features to help companies better respond to threats and maintain compliance with industry regulations.

    “Effective incident response is crucial for mitigating the fallout of cyberattacks, especially with the rapid evolution of today’s threat vectors. Response teams must have access to real-time insights and cross-department collaboration to ensure secure, timely resolution,” said Dr. Bill Anderson, principal product manager at Mattermost. “This award is a testament to our team’s unwavering commitment to empowering our customers across the public and private sectors to achieve excellence in cybersecurity.”

    Beyond cybersecurity, Mattermost Playbooks can also support workflows for logistics, DevOps, mission operations, and more by ensuring employees across business functions have access to the right information at the right time. Additionally, the Mattermost operational and collaboration platform’s open source nature aligns with strict security and compliance requirements by delivering complete data sovereignty when hosted on-premises. The Air Mobility Command is one of many customers that relies on the secure, collaborative power of Mattermost Playbooks to coordinate operations in real-time.  

    For more information about how Mattermost can streamline incident response, please visit: https://mattermost.com/solutions/use-cases/out-of-band-incident-response/. 

    About Mattermost

    Mattermost is the leading collaboration and workflow platform for mission-critical work. We serve national security, government, and critical infrastructure enterprises, from the U.S. Department of Defense, to global tech giants, to utilities, banks, and other vital services. We accelerate out-of-band incident response, DevSecOps workflow, mission operations, and self-sovereign collaboration to bolster the focus, adaptability, and resilience of the world’s most important organizations. 

    Our enterprise software and single-tenant SaaS platforms are built to meet the custom needs of rigorous and complex environments while offering a secure and unrivaled collaboration experience across web, desktop, and mobile with channel-based messaging, file sharing, audio calling and screen share, with integrated tooling, workflow automation and AI assistance. 

    Mattermost is developed on an open core platform vetted by the world’s leading security organizations, and co-built with over 4,000 open source project contributors who’ve provided over 30,000 code improvements towards our shared vision of accelerating the world’s mission-critical work. 

    For more information visit mattermost.com. 

    The MIL Network –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Paycor Launches Integration Platform to Transform Connectivity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CINCINNATI, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Paycor HCM, Inc. (Nasdaq: PYCR) (“Paycor”), a leading provider of human capital management (HCM) software, today announced the launch of its Integration Platform, offering flexible solutions to make connecting data and systems easier, especially for organizations who don’t have in-house IT or developer support. The platform enables customers to integrate their third-party HR software and business applications more efficiently, as well as drive better data accuracy and real-time availability.

    The Paycor Integration Platform comes at a critical time, as Finch reports half of HR professionals leverage seven or more employment systems and most of these applications are not integrated, leading to time-consuming manual workarounds, errors, and inefficiencies. Paycor’s Integration Platform offers three flexible ways to enhance connectivity:

    1. Paycor Marketplace: Provides access to over 320 pre-built connectors to industry-leading HCM vendor partners, including vertical-specific market needs.
    2. Developer Services: Offers expert teams to scope, design, build and support custom integrations for clients, many of which are built in 10 days or less.
    3. Developer Tools: Supplies resources that make it easier for customers to build a range of integrations, data feeds and reports. Our robust Developer Portal includes 140+ APIs, customizable templates and pre-built connectors to Paycor’s reporting and data sharing tools.

    “Our Integration Platform represents an industry step change, enabling customers to seamlessly connect their preferred business solutions to our HCM platform,” said Ryan Bergstrom, Chief Product & Technology Officer at Paycor. “By offering industry-specific, highly customized solutions, we’re not just connecting systems, we’re fueling scalable operational efficiency by empowering leaders to meaningfully connect with their people, data and expertise. With this platform, we’re giving mid-market companies the ability to connect systems at a level and scope historically reserved for larger enterprises.”

    To learn more about how Paycor is transforming connectivity, visit Paycor Integration Platform.

    About Paycor
    Paycor’s HR, payroll, and talent platform connects leaders to people, data, and expertise. We help leaders drive engagement and retention by giving them tools to coach, develop, and grow employees. We give them unprecedented insights into their operational data with a unified HCM experience that can seamlessly connect to other mission-critical technology. By providing expert guidance and consultation, we help them achieve business results and become an extension of their teams. Learn more at paycor.com.​

    Media Relations:
    Carly Pennekamp 
    513-954-7282 
    PR@paycor.com 

    Investor Relations:
    Rachel White
    513-954-7388
    IR@paycor.com

    The MIL Network –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Synchronoss Technologies Announces Third Quarter 2024 Earnings Call Date

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BRIDGEWATER, N.J., Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Synchronoss Technologies Inc. (“Synchronoss” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: SNCR), a global leader and innovator in Personal Cloud platforms, will hold a conference call on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at 4:30 p.m. Eastern time (1:30 p.m. Pacific time) to discuss its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024. Financial results will be issued in a press release prior to the call.

    Synchronoss management will host the presentation, followed by a question-and-answer period.

    Date: Tuesday, November 12, 2024
    Time: 4:30 p.m. Eastern time (1:30 p.m. Pacific time)
    Dial-In Number: 877-451-6152 (domestic) or 201-389-0879 (international)
    Conference ID: 13749828

    The conference call will be broadcast live and available for replay here and via the Investor Relations section of Synchronoss’ website.

    About Synchronoss
    Synchronoss Technologies (Nasdaq: SNCR), a global leader in personal Cloud solutions, empowers service providers to establish secure and meaningful connections with their subscribers. Our SaaS Cloud platform simplifies onboarding processes and fosters subscriber engagement, resulting in enhanced revenue streams, reduced expenses, and faster time-to-market. Millions of subscribers trust Synchronoss to safeguard their most cherished memories and important digital content. Explore how our Cloud-focused solutions redefine the way you connect with your digital world at www.synchronoss.com.

    Media Relations Contact:
    Domenick Cilea
    Springboard
    dcilea@springboardpr.com

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Ryan Gardella
    ICR for Synchronoss
    SNCRIR@icrinc.com

    The MIL Network –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Duck Creek Technologies Announces 2024 Partner of the Year Award Winners

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Duck Creek Technologies, the intelligent solutions provider defining the future of property and casualty (P&C) and general insurance, today announced the winners of the company’s second annual Partner of the Year Awards. Accenture, Aggne Global, EY, Hexaware, LTIMindtree and Xceedance received Systems Integrator Partners awards, while Quadient and Verisk were named Solution Partners of the Year. 

    The awards recognize the power of partnerships and their role in driving success across the P&C and general insurance ecosystem. This year’s Systems Integrator Award winners include: 

    • Accenture: recognized as the Value Creation Partner of the Year for helping our joint customers recognize value and see efficiencies through innovation. Accenture has consistently delivered high-quality solutions to customers in North America and is expanding into Asia-Pacific and Europe. Accenture has also invested heavily in creating specialized assets including a Duck Creek claims gen AI co-pilot.
    • Aggne Global, a wipro company: received North America’s Systems Integrator Partner of the Year, which recognizes a partner who excels in joint go-to-market and delivering Duck Creek solutions to customers in North America and consistently exceeds delivery adherence standards. Aggne has proven instrumental in driving new sales and quality implementations meeting and exceeding Duck Creek’s best practices, Certified Resources, and overall project health across implementations.
    • EY: named Partner of the Year: Advisory Services for successfully delivering implementation services for customers and providing invaluable regional Insurance Advisory expertise in markets outside of North America. EY continues to bring value to Duck Creek’s customers and prospects around the globe.
    • Hexaware: received the Emerging Partner of the Year, which recognizes an emerging Systems Integrator partner in the Duck Creek ecosystem for exhibiting an eagerness to build their best practices and jointly go-to-market with Duck Creek to serve our global customers. They have been awarded for teaming up with Duck Creek to showcase value in a new geography and partnering to provide local language and implementation support.
    • LTIMindtree: received Partner of the Year: Digital Transformation which recognizes a partner who has excelled in helping Duck Creek customers move to the latest Duck Creek OnDemand solution suite and innovatively addressed common issues around migration and integration. LTIMindtree helped to migrate a variety of Duck Creek customers to the latest platform by introducing those innovative technology solutions.
    • Xceedance: Recognized as International Partner of the Year. This award is given to a partner who excels in joint go-to-market activities, effectively delivers Duck Creek solutions to customers in emerging international markets and exceeds implementation standards. Xceedance has played a valuable role in helping Duck Creek secure a large insurer client in a new territory and has a highly successful implementation record.

    This year’s Solution Partner Award winners include:

    • Quadient: recognized as Go-to-Market Solution Partner of the Year because they excelled in co-marketing with Duck Creek to generate increased demand and brand equity for both parties. They stood out amongst our solution partners for their creative marketing with Duck Creek both at Insurtech Connect 2023 and Formation 2024, driving significant interest amongst prospects, and their consistent presence at international Duck Creek events for three consecutive years.
    • Verisk: awarded Solution Partner of the Year for its impact on integrations. Verisk, a leading global data analytics and technology provider, has the most integrations with Duck Creek of any solution partner. Verisk is one of the longest active solution partners with Duck Creek and continues to be a strong collaborator for innovation and go-to-market strategy across multiple Duck Creek products.

    “Our partner ecosystem is an essential element in enabling Duck Creek to continue to deliver solutions that are reimagining the future of insurance,” said Mike Jackowski, Chief Executive Officer, Duck Creek Technologies. “Together, we are accelerating innovation in the insurance industry by providing top-tier cloud-based solutions paired with exceptional services. We value all our partners and celebrate their contributions and accomplishments.” 

    For more information about these award-winning Duck Creek partners, visit https://www.duckcreek.com/partner/ and these partner websites: 

    Systems Integrator award winners: 

    Accenture 

    Aggne

    EY

    Hexaware 

    LTIMindtree 

    Xceedance

    Solution Partner award winners: 

    Quadient

    Verisk

    About Duck Creek Technologies 

    Duck Creek Technologies is the intelligent solutions provider defining the future of the property and casualty (P&C) and general insurance industry. We are the platform upon which modern insurance systems are built, enabling the industry to capitalize on the power of the cloud to run agile, intelligent, and evergreen operations. Authenticity, purpose, and transparency are core to Duck Creek, and we believe insurance should be there for individuals and businesses when, where, and how they need it most. Our market-leading solutions are available on a standalone basis or as a full suite, and all are available via Duck Creek OnDemand. Visit www.duckcreek.com to learn more. Follow Duck Creek on our social channels for the latest information – LinkedIn and X. 

    Media Contacts: 
    Marianne Dempsey/Tara Stred 

    duckcreek@threeringsinc.com 

    The MIL Network –

    January 25, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: CALIFORNIA BANCORP REPORTS FINANCIAL RESULTS FOR THE THIRD QUARTER OF 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    San Diego, Calif., Oct. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — California BanCorp (“us,” “we,” “our,” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: BCAL), the holding company for California Bank of Commerce, N.A. (the “Bank”) announces its consolidated financial results for the third quarter of 2024.

    The Company reported net loss of $16.5 million for the third quarter of 2024, or $0.59 diluted loss per share, compared to net income of $190 thousand, or $0.01 per diluted share in the second quarter of 2024, and $6.6 million, or $0.35 per diluted share in the third quarter of 2023.

    “As we previously reported, the merger of Southern California Bancorp and California BanCorp closed on July 31, 2024, and I am pleased to announce we executed a successful core conversion on September 20, 2024,” said David Rainer, Executive Chairman of the Company and the Bank. “We are excited to have created a commercial banking franchise with a footprint that covers the best banking markets in both Northern and Southern California and that is based on our trusted brands and reputations. Our scalable business model is expected to bring cost savings and greater efficiency to our operations, while allowing us to offer complementary products and services to all our clients. We will continue to build on our history of service to our communities and remain dedicated to increasing shareholder value.”

    “With the close of the merger and successful conversion behind us, we are now focused on the prudent growth of our franchise by offering the highest quality and level of customer service available to middle-market businesses in both Northern and Southern California,” said Steven Shelton, CEO of the Company and the Bank. “We are excited about our future and look forward to the traction we expect our combined banking franchise will realize in the coming quarters.”

    Third Quarter 2024 Highlights

      ● Merger closed on July 31, 2024, whereby California BanCorp (“CALB”) merged with and into Southern California Bancorp and California Bank of Commerce merged with and into Bank of Southern California, N.A. CALB had total loans of $1.43 billion, total assets of $1.91 billion, and total deposits of $1.64 billion. The combined holding company has assumed the California BanCorp name, and the combined bank has assumed the California Bank of Commerce, N.A. name. The merger created a bank holding company with approximately $4.25 billion in assets and 14 branches across California, with approximately 300 employees serving our communities.
      ● Total aggregate consideration paid was approximately $216.6 million and resulted in approximately $74.7 million of preliminary goodwill subject to adjustment in accordance with ASC 805.
      ● Net loss of $16.5 million or $0.59 diluted loss per share for the third quarter reflects the after-tax one-time initial provision for credit losses (“day one provision”) related to non-purchased credit deteriorated (“non-PCD”) loans and unfunded loan commitments of $15.0 million and merger related expenses of $10.6 million; adjusted net income (non-GAAP1) was $9.1 million or $0.33 per share for the third quarter.
      ● Net interest margin of 4.43%, compared with 3.94% in the prior quarter; average total loan yield of 6.79% compared with 6.21% in the prior quarter.
      ● Provision for credit losses of $23.0 million for the third quarter, of which $21.3 million was due to the day one provision for credit losses on non-PCD loans and unfunded loan commitments.

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

      ● Return on average assets of (1.82)%, compared with 0.03% in the prior quarter.
      ● Return on average common equity of (15.28)%, compared with 0.26% in the prior quarter.
      ● Efficiency ratio (non-GAAP1) of 98.9% compared with 85.7% in the prior quarter; excluding merger related expenses the efficiency ratio was 60.5%, compared with 83.5% in the prior quarter.
      ● Tangible book value per common share (“TBV”) (non-GAAP1) of $11.28 at September 30, 2024, down $2.43 from $13.71 at June 30, 2024.
      ● Total assets of $4.36 billion at September 30, 2024, compared with $2.29 billion at June 30, 2024.
      ● Total loans, including loans held for sale of $3.23 billion at September 30, 2024, compared with $1.88 billion at June 30, 2024, largely due to the merger, with the fair value of the acquired loans totaling $1.36 billion.
      ● Nonperforming assets to total assets ratio of 0.68% at September 30, 2024, compared with 0.20% at June 30, 2024, which included the fair value of $13.9 million in nonaccrual PCD loans in connection with the merger.
      ● Allowance for credit losses (“ACL”) was 1.80% of total loans held for investment at September 30, 2024; allowance for loan losses (“ALL”) was 1.67% of total loans held for investment at September 30, 2024.
      ● Total deposits of $3.74 billion at September 30, 2024, increased $1.81 billion or 93.2% compared with $1.94 billion at June 30, 2024, largely due to the $1.64 billion of deposits acquired in the merger.
      ● Noninterest-bearing demand deposits of $1.37 billion at September 30, 2024, an increase of $701.7 million or 105.3%, of which $635.5 million was related to the merger; noninterest bearing deposits represented 36.6% of total deposits, compared with $666.6 million, or 34.4% of total deposits at June 30, 2024.
      ● Cost of deposits was 2.09%, compared with 2.12% in the prior quarter.
      ● Cost of funds was 2.19%, compared with 2.21% in the prior quarter.
      ● The Company’s capital exceeds minimums required to be “well-capitalized,” the highest regulatory capital category.

    Third Quarter Operating Results

    Net Loss

    Net loss for the third quarter of 2024 was $16.5 million, or $0.59 loss per diluted share, compared with net income of $190 thousand, or $0.01 per diluted share in the second quarter of 2024. Our third quarter results were negatively impacted by a day one $15.0 million after-tax CECL-related provision for credit losses on non-PCD loans and unfunded loan commitments related to the merger, or $0.54 loss per diluted share, and $10.6 million of after-tax merger expenses, or $0.38 loss per diluted share. Excluding one-time CECL-related provision for credit losses on acquired loans and unfunded loan commitments, and merger related expenses, the Company would have reported net income (non-GAAP1) of $9.1 million, or $0.33 per diluted share, for the third quarter of 2024. Pre-tax, pre-provision income (non-GAAP1) for the third quarter was $436 thousand, a decrease of $2.7 million or 86.3% from the prior quarter.

    Net Interest Income and Net Interest Margin

    Net interest income for the third quarter of 2024 was $36.9 million, compared with $21.0 million in the prior quarter. The increase in net interest income was primarily due to a $22.3 million increase in total interest and dividend income, partially offset by a $6.3 million increase in total interest expense in the third quarter of 2024, as compared to the prior quarter. During the third quarter of 2024, loan interest income increased $18.5 million, of which $4.1 million was related to accretion income from the net purchase accounting discounts on acquired loans, total debt securities income increased $458 thousand, and interest and dividend income from other financial institutions increased $3.3 million. The increase in interest income was primarily driven by the mix of interest-earning assets added by the merger and the impact of the accretion and amortization of fair value marks. Average total interest-earning assets increased $1.17 billion, the result of a $900.7 million increase in average total loans, a $114.2 million increase in average deposits in other financial institutions, a $25.1 million increase in average total debt securities, a $124.1 million increase in average Fed funds sold/resale agreements and a $7.5 million increase in average restricted stock investments and other bank stock. The increase in interest expense for the third quarter of 2024 was primarily due to a $6.0 million increase in interest expense on interest-bearing deposits, the result of a $763.7 million increase in average interest-bearing deposits, coupled with a $34.3 million increase in average subordinated debt, partially offset by a 6 basis point decrease in average interest-bearing deposit costs, and a $378 thousand decrease in interest expense on Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) borrowings, the result of a $26.8 million decrease in average FHLB borrowings in the third quarter of 2024.

    Net interest margin for the third quarter of 2024 was 4.43%, compared with 3.94% in the prior quarter. The increase was primarily related to a 52 basis point increase in the total interest-earning assets yield, coupled with a 2 basis point decrease in the cost of funds. The yield on total average earning assets in the third quarter of 2024 was 6.49%, compared with 5.97% in the prior quarter. The yield on average total loans in the third quarter of 2024 was 6.79%, an increase of 58 basis points from 6.21% in the prior quarter. Accretion income from the net purchase accounting discounts on acquired loans was $4.1 million and the amortization expense impact on interest expense was $283 thousand, which increased the net interest margin by 46 basis points in the third quarter of 2024. Accretion income from the net purchase accounting discounts on acquired loans was $4.1 million, which increased the yield on average total loans by 59 basis points in the third quarter of 2024.

    Cost of funds for the third quarter of 2024 was 2.19%, a decrease of 2 basis points from 2.21% in the prior quarter. The decrease was primarily driven by a 6 basis point decrease in the cost of average interest-bearing deposits, and an increase in average noninterest-bearing deposits, partially offset by an increase of 187 basis points in the cost of total borrowings, which was driven primarily by the amortization expense of $373 thousand, or 281 basis points from the purchase accounting discounts on acquired subordinated debts. Average noninterest-bearing demand deposits increased $373.8 million to $1.03 billion and represented 33.6% of total average deposits for the third quarter of 2024, compared with $658.0 million and 34.1%, respectively, in the prior quarter; average interest-bearing deposits increased $763.7 million to $2.04 billion during the third quarter of 2024. The total cost of deposits in the third quarter of 2024 was 2.09%, a decrease of 3 basis points from 2.12% in the prior quarter. The cost of total interest-bearing deposits decreased primarily due to the Company’s deposit repricing strategy and paying off high cost brokered deposits in the third quarter of 2024.

    Average total borrowings increased $7.6 million to $52.9 million for the third quarter of 2024, primarily due to an increase of $34.3 million in average subordinated debt from the $50.8 million in fair value of subordinated debt acquired in the merger, partially offset by a decrease of $26.8 million in average FHLB borrowings during the third quarter of 2024. The average cost of total borrowings was 7.71% for the third quarter of 2024, up from 5.84% in the prior quarter.

    Provision for Credit Losses

    The Company recorded a provision for credit losses of $23.0 million in the third quarter of 2024, compared to $2.9 million in the prior quarter. The increase was largely related to the merger, and the resulting one-time initial provision for credit losses on acquired non-PCD loans of $18.5 million and unfunded commitments of $2.7 million. Total net charge-offs were $1.2 million in the third quarter of 2024, which included $967 thousand from a construction loan and $135 thousand from an acquired consumer solar loan portfolio. The provision for credit losses in the third quarter of 2024 included a $3.3 million provision for unfunded loan commitments, of which $2.7 million was related to the one-time initial provision for credit losses on acquired unfunded loan commitments, and $511 thousand related to the increase in unfunded loan commitments during the third quarter of 2024, coupled with higher loss rates and average funding rates used to estimate the allowance for credit losses on unfunded commitments. Total unfunded loan commitments increased $662.4 million to $1.03 billion at September 30, 2024, including $574.3 million in unfunded loan commitment related to the merger, compared to $371.5 million in unfunded loan commitments at June 30, 2024. The provision for credit losses for loans held for investment in the third quarter of 2024 was $19.7 million, an increase of $16.7 million from $3.0 million in the prior quarter. The increase was driven primarily by the one-time initial provision for credit losses on acquired non-PCD loans and increases in legacy special mention loans and loans held for investment. Additionally, qualitative factors, coupled with changes in the portfolio mix and in net charge-offs, and in the reasonable and supportable forecast, primarily related to the economic outlook for California which were partially offset by decreases in legacy substandard accruing loans, were factors related to the increase in the provision for credit losses. The Company’s management continues to monitor macroeconomic variables related to increasing interest rates, inflation and the concerns of an economic downturn, and believes it has appropriately provisioned for the current environment.

    Noninterest Income

    The Company recorded noninterest income of $1.2 million in the third quarter of 2024, a decrease of $5 thousand compared to $1.2 million in the second quarter of 2024. There was no gain on SBA 7A loan sales in the second and third quarters of 2024. Noninterest income was impacted by the merger through increases in service charges and fees on deposit accounts, bank owned life insurance income, and servicing and related income on loans; offset by a $614 thousand valuation allowance on other real estate owned (“OREO”) due to a decline in the fair value of the underlying property in the third quarter of 2024.

    Noninterest Expense

    Total noninterest expense for the third quarter of 2024 was $37.7 million, an increase of $18.7 million from total noninterest expense of $19.0 million in the prior quarter, which was largely due to the increase in merger related expenses.

    Salaries and employee benefits increased $6.6 million during the quarter to $15.4 million. The increase in salaries and employee benefits was primarily the result of the merger and included $1.4 million related to one-time costs associated with non-continuing directors, executives and employees. Merger and related expenses in connection with the merger increased $14.1 million to $14.6 million. These costs primarily included retention bonus, severance and change in control costs of $6.2 million, financial advisory fees of $2.3 million, information technology expenses of $4.5 million, insurance costs of $919 thousand and legal and other professional costs of $305 thousand. The increase in core deposit intangible amortization was primarily driven by $622 thousand related to the additional amortization from the core deposit intangible of $22.7 million acquired in the merger.

    The Company sold other real estate owned and recognized a $4.8 million loss in the second quarter of 2024. There was no comparable transaction in the third quarter of 2024.

    Efficiency ratio (non-GAAP1) for the third quarter of 2024 was 98.9%, compared to 85.7% in the prior quarter. Excluding the merger and related expenses of $14.6 million, the efficiency ratio (non-GAAP1) for the third quarter of 2024 would have been 60.5%.

    Income Tax

    In the third quarter of 2024, the Company’s income tax benefit was $6.1 million, compared with an $88 thousand income tax expense in the second quarter of 2024. The effective rate was 26.9% for the third quarter of 2024 and 31.7% for the second quarter of 2024. The decrease in the effective tax rate for the third quarter of 2024 was primarily attributable to the impact of the vesting and exercise of equity awards combined with changes in the Company’s stock price over time, as well as non-deductible merger-related expenses.

    Balance Sheet

    Assets

    Total assets at September 30, 2024 were $4.36 billion, an increase of $2.07 billion or 90.2% from June 30, 2024. The increase in total assets from the prior quarter was primarily related to the $1.86 billion in fair value of total assets acquired in the merger, which included increases of $1.36 billion in loans held for investment, $42.6 million in debt securities, and $336.3 million in cash and cash equivalents. In addition, the Company recorded preliminary goodwill of $74.7 million related to the merger in the third quarter of 2024.

    Loans

    Total loans held for investment were $3.20 billion at September 30, 2024, an increase of $1.32 billion, compared to June 30, 2024, primarily the result of the $1.36 billion fair value of loans acquired in the merger. During the third quarter 2024, there were new originations of $70.0 million and net advances of $8.9 million, offset by payoffs of $64.9 million, and the transfer of a multifamily nonaccrual loan of $4.7 million to OREO and the partial charge-off of loans in the amount of $1.2 million. Total loans secured by real estate increased by $814.5 million, including $780.9 million acquired in the merger, construction and land development loans increased by $42.9 million, commercial real estate and other loans increased by $712.2 million, 1-4 family residential loans decreased by $4.8 million and multifamily loans increased by $64.2 million. Commercial and industrial loans increased by $482.3 million, and consumer loans increased by $25.3 million, largely due to a $25.2 million increase in consumer loans related to the merger. The Company had $33.7 million in loans held for sale at September 30, 2024, compared to $7.0 million at June 30, 2024.

    Deposits

    Total deposits at September 30, 2024 were $3.74 billion, an increase of $1.81 billion from June 30, 2024 due to the $1.64 billion in fair value of deposits related to the merger. Noninterest-bearing demand deposits at September 30, 2024, were $1.37 billion, including $635.5 million noninterest-bearing demand deposits related to the merger, or 36.6% of total deposits, compared with $666.6 million, or 34.4% of total deposits at June 30, 2024. At September 30, 2024, total interest-bearing deposits were $2.37 billion, compared to $1.27 billion at June 30, 2024. At September 30, 2024, total brokered time deposits were $222.6 million, including a $251.4 million increase of brokered time deposits related to the merger, compared to $103.4 million in brokered time deposits at June 30, 2024. The Company used excess cash acquired from the merger to pay off high cost callable and noncallable brokered time deposits totaling $131.9 million during the third quarter 2024. The Company also offers the Insured Cash Sweep (ICS) product, providing customers with FDIC insurance coverage at ICS network institutions. At September 30, 2024, ICS deposits were $699.6 million, or 18.7% of total deposits, compared to $239.8 million, or 12.4% of total deposits at June 30, 2024. Legacy CALB was also a participant in the Certificate of Deposit Account Registry Service (CDARS), and Reich & Tang Deposit Solutions (R&T) network, both of which provide reciprocal deposit placement services to fully qualified large customer deposits for FDIC insurance among other participating banks. At July 31, 2024, the Company acquired the fair value of $37.7 million in CDARS deposits and $306.6 million in R&T deposits.

    Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) and Liquidity

    The Company repaid all FHLB borrowings with liquidity primarily derived from the cash acquired in the merger during the third quarter of 2024. At September 30, 2024, the Company had no overnight FHLB borrowings, a $25.0 million decrease from June 30, 2024. There were no outstanding Federal Reserve Discount Window borrowings at September 30, 2024 or June 30, 2024.

    At September 30, 2024, the Company had available borrowing capacity from the FHLB secured line of credit of approximately $663.6 million and available borrowing capacity from the Federal Reserve Discount Window of approximately $446.4 million. The Company also had available borrowing capacity from eight unsecured credit lines from correspondent banks of approximately $121.0 million at September 30, 2024, with no outstanding borrowings. Total available borrowing capacity was $1.23 billion at September 30, 2024. Additionally, the Company had unpledged liquid securities at fair value of approximately $159.3 million and cash and cash equivalents of $614.4 million at September 30, 2024.

    In connection with the merger, the Company assumed subordinated borrowings of $55.0 million, with a fair value of $50.8 million. The subordinated borrowings include $20.0 million with a maturity date in September 2030 and $35.0 million with a maturity date in September 2031.

    Asset Quality

    Total non-performing assets increased to $29.8 million, or 0.68% of total assets at September 30, 2024, compared with $4.7 million, or 0.20% of total assets at June 30, 2024.

    The increase in non-performing assets in the third quarter of 2024 was primarily attributable to downgrades of a construction loan and 1-4 family residential loan from one relationship totaling $12.7 million and a $13.9 million of nonaccrual PCD loans acquired in the merger. This increase was net of total charge-offs of $1.2 million, which included a partial charge-off of $967 thousand for a substandard nonaccrual construction loan collateralized by a stalled construction project in Los Angeles, California. Based on the Company’s internal analysis, which included a review of an updated appraisal, the estimated net collateral value was $9.7 million, which was $967 thousand lower than the subject loan’s net carrying value resulting in a partial charge-off in the third quarter of 2024. The Company expects to pursue the resolution of this matter. Non-performing assets in the third quarter of 2024 included OREO, net of valuation allowance, of $4.1 million related to a multifamily nonaccrual loan of $4.7 million that was transferred to OREO and the Company recorded a $614 thousand valuation allowance on OREO due to a decline in the fair value of the underlying property in the third quarter of 2024.

    Total non-performing loans increased to $25.7 million, or 0.80% of total loans held for investment at September 30, 2024, compared with $4.7 million, or 0.25% of total loans at June 30, 2024. The increase from June 30, 2024 was due primarily to the aforementioned downgrades of a construction loan and 1-4 family residential loan from one relationship, nonaccrual PCD loans acquired in the merger and partial charge-offs of loans in the amount of $1.2 million in the third quarter of 2024.

    Special mention loans increased by $65.6 million, including $41.0 million non-PCD loans and $10.1 million PCD loans, during the third quarter of 2024 to $93.4 million at September 30, 2024. The $14.5 million increase in the legacy special mention loans was due mostly to a $2.2 million increase in special mention commercial real estate loans and a $12.3 million increase in special mention commercial and industrial loans. Substandard loans increased by $81.2 million, including $2.3 million non-PCD loans, $71.3 million PCD loans, and $13.5 million nonaccrual PCD loans, during the third quarter of 2024 to $104.3 million at September 30, 2024. The $5.8 million decrease in the legacy substandard loans was due primarily to the transfer of a multifamily nonaccrual loan of $4.7 million to OREO and the partial charge-off of $967 thousand for the nonaccrual construction loan, partially offset by a downgrade to substandard of a commercial and industrial loan of $118 thousand during the third quarter of 2024.

    The Company had $37 thousand in consumer solar loans that were over 90 days past due that were accruing interest at September 30, 2024, and no delinquencies at June 30, 2024.

    There were $19.1 million in loan delinquencies (30-89 days past due, excluding nonaccrual loans) at September 30, 2024 and no delinquencies at June 30, 2024.

    The allowance for credit losses, which is comprised of the allowance for loan losses (“ALL”) and reserve for unfunded loan commitments, totaled $57.6 million at September 30, 2024, compared to $24.6 million at June 30, 2024. The $33.0 million increase in the allowance included a $19.7 million provision for credit losses for the loan portfolio, of which $11.2 million related to the initial allowance for credit losses on acquired PCD loans, $21.3 million related to the initial provision for credit losses on acquired non-PCD loans and unfunded loan commitments, partially offset by total charge-offs of $1.2 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2024.

    The ALL was $53.6 million, or 1.67% of total loans held for investment at September 30, 2024, compared with $23.8 million, or 1.27% at June 30, 2024.

    Capital

    Tangible book value (non-GAAP1) per common share at September 30, 2024, was $11.28, compared with $13.71 at June 30, 2024. In the third quarter of 2024, tangible book value was primarily impacted by the net loss for the third quarter, the impact of equity issued in connection with the merger, stock-based compensation expense, and a decrease in net of unrealized tax losses on available-for-sale debt securities. Other comprehensive losses related to unrealized losses, net of taxes, on available-for-sale debt securities decreased by $3.6 million to $2.9 million at September 30, 2024, from $6.5 million at June 30, 2024. The decrease in the unrealized losses, net of taxes, on available-for-sale debt securities was primarily attributable to factors other than credit related, including decreases in market interest rates driven by the Federal Reserve’s 50 basis point rate cut in September 2024. Tangible common equity (non-GAAP1) as a percentage of total tangible assets (non-GAAP1) at September 30, 2024, decreased to 8.58% from 11.28% in the prior quarter, and unrealized losses, net of taxes, on available-for-sale debt securities as a percentage of tangible common equity (non-GAAP1) at September 30, 2024 decreased to 0.8% from 2.6% in the prior quarter.

    The Company’s preliminary capital exceeds minimums required to be “well-capitalized” at September 30, 2024.

    ABOUT CALIFORNIA BANCORP

    California BanCorp (NASDAQ: BCAL) is a registered bank holding company headquartered in San Diego, California. California Bank of Commerce, N.A., a national banking association chartered under the laws of the United States (the “Bank”) and regulated by the Office of Comptroller of the Currency, is a wholly owned subsidiary of California BanCorp. Established in 2001 and headquartered in San Diego, California, the Bank offers a range of financial products and services to individuals, professionals, and small to medium-sized businesses through its 14 branch offices and four loan production offices serving Northern and Southern California. The Bank’s solutions-driven, relationship-based approach to banking provides accessibility to decision makers and enhances value through strong partnerships with its clients. Additional information is available at www.bankcbc.com.

    CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

    In addition to historical information, this release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements relate to expectations, beliefs, projections, future plans and strategies, anticipated events or trends and other matters that are not historical facts. Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements regarding expectations, plans or objectives for future operations, products or services, loan recoveries, projections, expectations regarding the adequacy of reserves for credit losses and statements about the benefits of the Company’s merger with CALB (the “Merger”), as well as forecasts relating to financial and operating results or other measures of economic performance. Forward-looking statements reflect management’s current view about future events and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ from those expressed in the forward-looking statement or historical results. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts and often include the words or phrases such as “aim,” “can,” “may,” “could,” “predict,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” “hope,” “intend,” “plan,” “potential,” “project,” “will likely result,” “continue,” “seek,” “shall,” “possible,” “projection,” “optimistic,” and “outlook,” and variations of these words and similar expressions.

    Factors that could cause or contribute to results differing from those in or implied in the forward-looking statements include but are not limited to risk related to the Merger, including the risks that costs may be greater than anticipated, cost savings may be less than anticipated, and difficulties in retaining senior management, employees or customers, the impact of bank failures or other adverse developments at other banks on general investor sentiment regarding the stability and liquidity of banks, changes in real estate markets and valuations; the impact on financial markets from geopolitical conflicts; inflation, interest rate, market and monetary fluctuations and general economic conditions, either nationally or locally in the areas in which the Company conducts business; increases in competitive pressures among financial institutions and businesses offering similar products and services; general credit risks related to lending, including changes in the value of real estate or other collateral, the financial condition of borrowers, the effectiveness of our underwriting practices and the risk of fraud; higher than anticipated defaults in the Company’s loan portfolio; changes in management’s estimate of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses or the factors the Company uses to determine the allowance for credit losses; changes in demand for loans and other products and services offered by the Company; the costs and outcomes of litigation; legislative or regulatory changes or changes in accounting principles, policies or guidelines and other risk factors discussed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and other documents the Company may file with the SEC from time to time.

    Additional information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties to which our business and future financial performance are subject is contained in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and other documents the Company files with the SEC from time to time.

    Any forward-looking statement made in this release is based only on information currently available to management and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. The Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to update any forward-looking statements to reflect occurrences or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements or to conform such forward-looking statements to actual results or to changes in its opinions or expectations, except as required by law.

    California BanCorp and Subsidiary
    Financial Highlights (Unaudited)

        At or for the
    Three Months Ended
        At or for the
    Nine Months Ended
     
        September 30,
    2024
        June 30,
    2024
        September 30,
    2023
        September 30,
    2024
        September 30,
    2023
     
    EARNINGS   ($ in thousands except share and per share data)  
    Net interest income   $ 36,942     $ 21,007     $ 23,261     $ 78,443     $ 71,579  
    Provision for (reversal of) credit losses   $ 22,963     $ 2,893     $ (96 )   $ 25,525     $ 91  
    Noninterest income   $ 1,174     $ 1,169     $ 815     $ 3,756     $ 3,481  
    Noninterest expense   $ 37,680     $ 19,005     $ 14,781     $ 71,666     $ 44,407  
    Income tax (benefit) expense   $ (6,063 )   $ 88     $ 2,835     $ (3,653 )   $ 9,064  
    Net (loss) income   $ (16,464 )   $ 190     $ 6,556     $ (11,339 )   $ 21,498  
    Pre-tax pre-provision income (1)   $ 436     $ 3,171     $ 9,295     $ 10,533     $ 30,653  
    Adjusted pre-tax pre-provision income (1)   $ 15,041     $ 3,662     $ 9,295     $ 26,178     $ 30,653  
    Diluted (loss) earnings per share   $ (0.59 )   $ 0.01     $ 0.35     $ (0.53 )   $ 1.15  
    Shares outstanding at period end     32,142,427       18,547,352       18,309,282       32,142,427       18,309,282  
                                             
    PERFORMANCE RATIOS                                        
    Return on average assets     (1.82 )%     0.03 %     1.12 %     (0.55 )%     1.25 %
    Adjusted return on average assets (1)     1.01 %     0.11 %     1.12 %     0.74 %     1.25 %
    Return on average common equity     (15.28 )%     0.26 %     9.38 %     (4.48 )%     10.63 %
    Adjusted return on average common equity (1)     8.44 %     0.82 %     9.38 %     6.00 %     10.63 %
    Yield on total loans     6.79 %     6.21 %     5.97 %     6.40 %     5.89 %
    Yield on interest earning assets     6.49 %     5.97 %     5.72 %     6.15 %     5.63 %
    Cost of deposits     2.09 %     2.12 %     1.56 %     2.09 %     1.22 %
    Cost of funds     2.19 %     2.21 %     1.62 %     2.19 %     1.30 %
    Net interest margin     4.43 %     3.94 %     4.23 %     4.12 %     4.43 %
    Efficiency ratio (1)     98.86 %     85.70 %     61.39 %     87.19 %     59.16 %
    Adjusted efficiency ratio (1)     60.54 %     83.49 %     61.39 %     68.15 %     59.16 %
        As of  
        September 30,
    2024
        June 30,
    2024
        December 31,
    2023
     
    CAPITAL   ($ in thousands except share and per share data)  
    Tangible equity to tangible assets (1)     8.58 %     11.28 %     10.73 %
    Book value (BV) per common share   $ 15.50     $ 15.81     $ 15.69  
    Tangible BV per common share (1)   $ 11.28     $ 13.71     $ 13.56  
                             
    ASSET QUALITY                        
    Allowance for loan losses (ALL)   $ 53,552     $ 23,788     $ 22,569  
    Reserve for unfunded loan commitments   $ 4,071     $ 819     $ 933  
    Allowance for credit losses (ACL)   $ 57,623     $ 24,607     $ 23,502  
    Allowance for loan losses to nonperforming loans     2.09 x     5.07 x     1.74 x
    ALL to total loans held for investment     1.67 %     1.27 %     1.15 %
    ACL to total loans held for investment     1.80 %     1.31 %     1.20 %
    30-89 days past due, excluding nonaccrual loans   $ 19,110     $ —     $ 19  
    Over 90 days past due, excluding nonaccrual loans   $ 37     $ —     $ —  
    Special mention loans   $ 93,448     $ 27,861     $ 2,996  
    Special mention loans to total loans held for investment     2.92 %     1.48 %     0.15 %
    Substandard loans   $ 104,298     $ 23,080     $ 19,502  
    Substandard loans to total loans held for investment     3.26 %     1.23 %     1.00 %
    Nonperforming loans   $ 25,698     $ 4,696     $ 13,004  
    Nonperforming loans total loans held for investment     0.80 %     0.25 %     0.66 %
    Other real estate owned, net   $ 4,083     $ —     $ —  
    Nonperforming assets   $ 29,781     $ 4,696     $ 13,004  
    Nonperforming assets to total assets     0.68 %     0.20 %     0.55 %
                             
    END OF PERIOD BALANCES                        
    Total loans, including loans held for sale   $ 3,233,418     $ 1,884,599     $ 1,964,791  
    Total assets   $ 4,362,767     $ 2,293,693     $ 2,360,252  
    Deposits   $ 3,740,915     $ 1,935,862     $ 1,943,556  
    Loans to deposits     86.4 %     97.4 %     101.1 %
    Shareholders’ equity   $ 498,064     $ 293,219     $ 288,152  

    (1) Non-GAAP measure. See – GAAP to Non-GAAP reconciliation.

        At or for the
    Three Months Ended
        At or for the
    Nine Months Ended
     
    ALLOWANCE for CREDIT LOSSES   September 30,
    2024
        June 30,
    2024
        September 30,
    2023
        September 30,
    2024
        September 30,
    2023
     
        ($ in thousands)  
    Allowance for loan losses                                        
    Balance at beginning of period   $ 23,788     $ 22,254     $ 22,502     $ 22,569     $ 17,099  
    Adoption of ASU 2016-13 (1)     —       —       —       —       5,027  
    Initial Allowance for PCD loans     11,216       —       —       11,216       —  
    Provision for credit losses (2)     19,711       2,990       202       22,387       600  
    Charge-offs     (1,163 )     (1,456 )     —       (2,620 )     (36 )
    Recoveries     —       —       1       —       15  
    Net (charge-offs) recoveries     (1,163 )     (1,456 )     1       (2,620 )     (21 )
    Balance, end of period   $ 53,552     $ 23,788     $ 22,705     $ 53,552     $ 22,705  
    Reserve for unfunded loan commitments (3)                                        
    Balance, beginning of period   $ 819     $ 916     $ 1,538     $ 933     $ 1,310  
    Adoption of ASU 2016-13 (1)     —       —       —       —       439  
    Provision for (reversal of) credit losses (4)     3,252       (97 )     (298 )     3,138       (509 )
    Balance, end of period     4,071       819       1,240       4,071       1,240  
    Allowance for credit losses   $ 57,623     $ 24,607     $ 23,945     $ 57,623     $ 23,945  
                                             
    ALL to total loans held for investment     1.67 %     1.27 %     1.18 %     1.67 %     1.18 %
    ACL to total loans held for investment     1.80 %     1.31 %     1.24 %     1.80 %     1.24 %
    Net (charge-offs) recoveries to average total loans     (0.17 )%     (0.31 )%     0.00 %     (0.16 )%     0.00 %
    (1 ) Represents the impact of adopting ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses on January 1, 2023. As a result of adopting ASU 2016-13, our methodology to compute our allowance for credit losses is based on a current expected credit loss methodology, rather than the previously applied incurred loss methodology.
    (2 ) Includes $18.5 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 related to the initial provision for credit losses for non-PCD loans acquired in the merger with CALB.
    (3 ) Included in “Accrued interest and other liabilities” on the consolidated balance sheet.
    (4 ) Includes $2.7 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 related to the initial provision for credit losses on unfunded commitments acquired in the merger with CALB.

    California BanCorp and Subsidiary

    Balance Sheets (Unaudited)

        September 30,
    2024
        June 30,
    2024
        December 31,
    2023
     
    ASSETS   ($ in thousands)  
    Cash and due from banks   $ 115,165     $ 29,153     $ 33,008  
    Federal funds sold & interest-bearing balances     499,258       75,580       53,785  
    Total cash and cash equivalents     614,423       104,733       86,793  
                             
    Debt securities available-for-sale, at fair value (amortized cost of $163,384, $132,862 and $136,366 at September 30, 2024, June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023)     159,330       123,653       130,035  
    Debt securities held-to-maturity, at cost (fair value of $49,487, $48,476 and $50,432 at September 30, 2024, June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023)     53,364       53,449       53,616  
    Loans held for sale     33,704       6,982       7,349  
    Loans held for investment:                        
    Construction & land development     247,934       205,072       243,521  
    1-4 family residential     152,540       157,323       143,903  
    Multifamily     252,134       187,960       221,247  
    Other commercial real estate     1,755,908       1,043,662       1,024,243  
    Commercial & industrial     765,472       283,203       320,142  
    Other consumer     25,726       397       4,386  
    Total loans held for investment     3,199,714       1,877,617       1,957,442  
    Allowance for credit losses – loans     (53,552 )     (23,788 )     (22,569 )
    Total loans held for investment, net     3,146,162       1,853,829       1,934,873  
                             
    Restricted stock at cost     27,394       16,898       16,055  
    Premises and equipment     13,996       12,741       13,270  
    Right of use asset     15,310       8,298       9,291  
    Other real estate owned, net     4,083       —       —  
    Goodwill     112,515       37,803       37,803  
    Core deposit intangible     23,031       1,065       1,195  
    Bank owned life insurance     66,180       39,445       38,918  
    Deferred taxes, net     45,644       11,080       11,137  
    Accrued interest and other assets     47,631       23,717       19,917  
    Total assets   $ 4,362,767     $ 2,293,693     $ 2,360,252  
                             
    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY                        
    Deposits:                        
    Noninterest-bearing demand   $ 1,368,303     $ 666,606     $ 675,098  
    Interest-bearing NOW accounts     781,125       355,994       381,943  
    Money market and savings accounts     1,149,268       660,808       636,685  
    Time deposits     442,219       252,454       249,830  
    Total deposits     3,740,915       1,935,862       1,943,556  
                             
    Borrowings     69,142       42,913       102,865  
    Operating lease liability     19,211       10,931       12,117  
    Accrued interest and other liabilities     35,435       10,768       13,562  
    Total liabilities     3,864,703       2,000,474       2,072,100  
                             
    Shareholders’ Equity:                        
    Common stock – 50,000,000 shares authorized, no par value; issued and outstanding 32,142,427, 18,547,352 and 18,369,115 at September 30, 2024, June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023)     441,684       224,006       222,036  
    Retained earnings     59,236       75,700       70,575  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss – net of taxes     (2,856 )     (6,487 )     (4,459 )
    Total shareholders’ equity     498,064       293,219       288,152  
    Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity   $ 4,362,767     $ 2,293,693     $ 2,360,252  

    California BanCorp and Subsidiary

    Income Statements – Quarterly and Year-to-Date (Unaudited)

        Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
        September 30,
    2024
        June 30,
    2024
        September 30,
    2023
        September 30,
    2024
        September 30,
    2023
     
        ($ in thousands except share and per share data)  
    INTEREST AND DIVIDEND INCOME                                        
    Interest and fees on loans   $ 47,528     $ 29,057     $ 28,977     $ 105,169     $ 83,983  
    Interest on debt securities     1,687       1,229       942       4,129       2,506  
    Interest on tax-exempted debt securities     306       306       359       918       1,302  
    Interest and dividends from other institutions     4,606       1,257       1,206       7,024       3,162  
    Total interest and dividend income     54,127       31,849       31,484       117,240       90,953  
                                             
    INTEREST EXPENSE                                        
    Interest on NOW, savings, and money market accounts     11,073       7,039       5,922       24,882       13,555  
    Interest on time deposits     5,087       3,145       1,867       11,253       4,373  
    Interest on borrowings     1,025       658       434       2,662       1,446  
    Total interest expense     17,185       10,842       8,223       38,797       19,374  
    Net interest income     36,942       21,007       23,261       78,443       71,579  
                                             
    Provision for (reversal of ) credit losses (1)     22,963       2,893       (96 )     25,525       91  
    Net interest income after provision for (reversal of) credit losses     13,979       18,114       23,357       52,918       71,488  
                                             
    NONINTEREST INCOME                                        
    Service charges and fees on deposit accounts     1,136       568       470       2,229       1,439  
    Gain on sale of loans     8       —       (54 )     423       831  
    Bank owned life insurance income     398       266       238       925       693  
    Servicing and related income (expense) on loans     82       (5 )     61       150       223  
    Loss on sale of debt securities     —       —       —       —       34  
    Loss on sale of building and related fixed assets     —       (19 )     —       (19 )     —  
    Other charges and fees     (450 )     359       100       48       261  
    Total noninterest income     1,174       1,169       815       3,756       3,481  
                                             
    NONINTEREST EXPENSE                                        
    Salaries and employee benefits     15,385       8,776       9,736       33,771       29,651  
    Occupancy and equipment expenses     2,031       1,445       1,579       4,928       4,553  
    Data processing     1,536       1,186       1,144       3,872       3,376  
    Legal, audit and professional     669       557       598       1,742       2,050  
    Regulatory assessments     544       347       369       1,278       1,188  
    Director and shareholder expenses     520       229       215       952       642  
    Merger and related expenses     14,605       491       —       15,645       —  
    Core deposit intangible amortization     687       65       128       817       309  
    Other real estate owned expense     3       4,935       —       5,026       —  
    Other expense     1,700       974       1,012       3,635       2,638  
    Total noninterest expense     37,680       19,005       14,781       71,666       44,407  
    (Loss) income before income taxes     (22,527 )     278       9,391       (14,992 )     30,562  
    Income tax (benefit) expense     (6,063 )     88       2,835       (3,653 )     9,064  
    Net (loss) income   $ (16,464 )   $ 190     $ 6,556     $ (11,339 )   $ 21,498  
                                             
    Net (loss) income per share – basic   $ (0.59 )   $ 0.01     $ 0.36     $ (0.53 )   $ 1.18  
    Net (loss) income per share – diluted   $ (0.59 )   $ 0.01     $ 0.35     $ (0.53 )   $ 1.15  
    Weighted average common shares-diluted     27,705,844       18,799,513       18,672,132       21,579,175       18,632,890  
    Pre-tax, pre-provision income (2)   $ 436     $ 3,171     $ 9,295     $ 10,533     $ 30,653  

    (1) Included provision for (reversal of) unfunded loan commitments of $3.3 million, $(97) thousand and $(298) thousand for the three months ended September 30, 2024, June 30, 2024 and September 30, 2023, respectively, and $3.1 million and $(509) thousand for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, respectively
    (2) Non-GAAP measure. See – GAAP to Non-GAAP reconciliation.

    California BanCorp and Subsidiary
    Average Balance Sheets and Yield Analysis
    (Unaudited)

        Three Months Ended  
        September 30, 2024     June 30, 2024     September 30, 2023  
        Average Balance     Income/
    Expense
        Yield/
    Cost
        Average Balance     Income/
    Expense
        Yield/
    Cost
        Average Balance     Income/
    Expense
        Yield/
    Cost
     
    Assets   ($ in thousands)  
    Interest-earning assets:                                                                        
    Total loans   $ 2,783,581     $ 47,528       6.79 %   $ 1,882,845     $ 29,057       6.21 %   $ 1,924,384     $ 28,977       5.97 %
    Taxable debt securities     149,080       1,687       4.50 %     123,906       1,229       3.99 %     111,254       942       3.36 %
    Tax-exempt debt securities (1)     53,682       306       2.87 %     53,754       306       2.90 %     59,630       359       3.02 %
    Deposits in other financial institutions     161,616       2,215       5.45 %     47,417       638       5.41 %     50,367       681       5.36 %
    Fed funds sold/resale agreements     143,140       1,886       5.24 %     19,062       261       5.51 %     20,653       283       5.44 %
    Restricted stock investments and other bank stock     24,587       505       8.17 %     17,091       358       8.42 %     16,365       242       5.87 %
    Total interest-earning assets     3,315,686       54,127       6.49 %     2,144,075       31,849       5.97 %     2,182,653       31,484       5.72 %
    Total noninterest-earning assets     277,471                       150,603                       131,288                  
    Total assets   $ 3,593,157                     $ 2,294,678                     $ 2,313,941                  
                                                                             
    Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity                                                                        
    Interest-bearing liabilities:                                                                        
    Interest-bearing NOW accounts   $ 617,373     $ 2,681       1.73 %   $ 361,244     $ 2,134       2.38 %   $ 353,714     $ 1,706       1.91 %
    Money market and savings accounts     999,322       8,392       3.34 %     653,244       4,905       3.02 %     675,609       4,216       2.48 %
    Time deposits     421,241       5,087       4.80 %     259,722       3,145       4.87 %     183,745       1,867       4.03 %
    Total interest-bearing deposits     2,037,936       16,160       3.15 %     1,274,210       10,184       3.21 %     1,213,068       7,789       2.55 %
    Borrowings:                                                                        
    FHLB advances     611       9       5.86 %     27,391       387       5.68 %     11,731       163       5.51 %
    Subordinated debt     52,246       1,016       7.74 %     17,901       271       6.09 %     17,830       271       6.03 %
    Total borrowings     52,857       1,025       7.71 %     45,292       658       5.84 %     29,561       434       5.82 %
    Total interest-bearing liabilities     2,090,793       17,185       3.27 %     1,319,502       10,842       3.30 %     1,242,629       8,223       2.63 %
                                                                             
    Noninterest-bearing liabilities:                                                                        
    Noninterest-bearing deposits (2)     1,031,844                       658,001                       768,148                  
    Other liabilities     41,962                       23,054                       25,722                  
    Shareholders’ equity     428,558                       294,121                       277,442                  
    Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity   $ 3,593,157                     $ 2,294,678                     $ 2,313,941                  
                                                                             
    Net interest spread                     3.22 %                     2.67 %                     3.09 %
    Net interest income and margin           $ 36,942       4.43 %           $ 21,007       3.94 %           $ 23,261       4.23 %
    Cost of deposits   $ 3,069,780     $ 16,160       2.09 %   $ 1,932,211     $ 10,184       2.12 %   $ 1,981,216     $ 7,789       1.56 %
    Cost of funds   $ 3,122,637     $ 17,185       2.19 %   $ 1,977,503     $ 10,842       2.21 %   $ 2,010,777     $ 8,223       1.62 %

    (1) Tax-exempt debt securities yields are presented on a tax equivalent basis using a 21% tax rate.
    (2) Average noninterest-bearing deposits represent 33.61%, 34.05% and 38.77% of average total deposits for the three months ended September 30, 2024, June 30, 2024 and September 30, 2023, respectively.

    California BanCorp and Subsidiary
    Average Balance Sheets and Yield Analysis
    (Unaudited)

        Nine Months Ended  
        September 30, 2024     September 30, 2023  
        Average Balance     Income/
    Expense
        Yield/
    Cost
        Average Balance     Income/
    Expense
        Yield/
    Cost
     
    Assets   ($ in thousands)  
    Interest-earning assets:                                                
    Total loans   $ 2,194,059     $ 105,169       6.40 %   $ 1,906,327     $ 83,983       5.89 %
    Taxable debt securities     133,321       4,129       4.14 %     104,881       2,506       3.19 %
    Tax-exempt debt securities (1)     53,759       918       2.89 %     68,043       1,302       3.24 %
    Deposits in other financial institutions     87,966       3,569       5.42 %     43,629       1,675       5.13 %
    Fed funds sold/resale agreements     57,634       2,281       5.29 %     21,182       798       5.04 %
    Restricted stock investments and other bank stock     19,383       1,174       8.09 %     15,774       689       5.84 %
    Total interest-earning assets     2,546,122       117,240       6.15 %     2,159,836       90,953       5.63 %
    Total noninterest-earning assets     189,573                       133,224                  
    Total assets   $ 2,735,695                     $ 2,293,060                  
                                                     
    Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity                                                
    Interest-bearing liabilities:                                                
    Interest-bearing NOW accounts   $ 446,759     $ 6,860       2.05 %   $ 290,326     $ 3,301       1.52 %
    Money market and savings accounts     767,916       18,022       3.13 %     674,452       10,254       2.03 %
    Time deposits     312,544       11,253       4.81 %     170,620       4,373       3.43 %
    Total interest-bearing deposits     1,527,219       36,135       3.16 %     1,135,398       17,928       2.11 %
    Borrowings:                                                
    FHLB advances     26,105       1,103       5.64 %     16,282       632       5.19 %
    Subordinated debt     29,425       1,559       7.08 %     17,807       814       6.11 %
    Total borrowings     55,530       2,662       6.40 %     34,089       1,446       5.67 %
    Total interest-bearing liabilities     1,582,749       38,797       3.27 %     1,169,487       19,374       2.21 %
                                                     
    Noninterest-bearing liabilities:                                                
    Noninterest-bearing deposits (2)     784,609                       829,082                  
    Other liabilities     30,524                       24,086                  
    Shareholders’ equity     337,813                       270,405                  
                                                     
    Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity   $ 2,735,695                     $ 2,293,060                  
                                                     
    Net interest spread                     2.88 %                     3.42 %
    Net interest income and margin           $ 78,443       4.12 %           $ 71,579       4.43 %
    Cost of deposits   $ 2,311,828     $ 36,135       2.09 %   $ 1,964,480     $ 17,928       1.22 %
    Cost of funds   $ 2,367,358     $ 38,797       2.19 %   $ 1,998,569     $ 19,374       1.30 %

    (1) Tax-exempt debt securities yields are presented on a tax equivalent basis using a 21% tax rate.
    (2) Average noninterest-bearing deposits represent 33.94%, and 42.20% of average total deposits for the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and September 30, 2023, respectively.

    California BanCorp and Subsidiary
    GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation
    (Unaudited)

    The following tables present a reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to GAAP measures for: (1) adjusted net (loss) income, (2) efficiency ratio, (3) adjusted efficiency ratio, (4) pre-tax pre-provision income, (5) adjusted pre-tax pre-provision income, (6) average tangible common equity, (7) adjusted return on average assets, (8) adjusted return on average equity, (9) return on average tangible common equity, (10) adjusted return on average tangible common equity, (11) tangible common equity, (12) tangible assets, (13) tangible common equity to tangible asset ratio, and (14) tangible book value per share. We believe the presentation of certain non-GAAP financial measures provides useful information to assess our consolidated financial condition and consolidated results of operations and to assist investors in evaluating our financial results relative to our peers. These non-GAAP financial measures complement our GAAP reporting and are presented below to provide investors and others with information that we use to manage the business each period. Because not all companies use identical calculations, the presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures used by other companies. These non-GAAP measures should be taken together with the corresponding GAAP measures and should not be considered a substitute of the GAAP measures.

        Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
        September 30,
    2024
        June 30,
    2024
        September 30,
    2023
        September 30,
    2024
        September 30,
    2023
     
        ($ in thousands)  
    Adjusted net income                                        
    Net (loss) income   $ (16,464 )   $ 190     $ 6,556     $ (11,339 )   $ 21,498  
    Add: After-tax Day1 provision for non PCD loans and unfunded loan commitments (1)     14,978       —       —       14,978       —  
    Add: After-tax merger and related expenses (1)     10,576       412       —       11,535       —  
    Adjusted net (loss) income (non-GAAP)   $ 9,090     $ 602     $ 6,556     $ 15,174     $ 21,498  
                                             
    Efficiency Ratio                                        
    Noninterest expense   $ 37,680     $ 19,005     $ 14,781     $ 71,666     $ 44,407  
    Deduct: Merger and related expenses     14,605       491       —       15,645       —  
    Adjusted noninterest expense     23,075       18,514       14,781       56,021       44,407  
                                             
    Net interest income     36,942       21,007       23,261       78,443       71,579  
    Noninterest income     1,174       1,169       815       3,756       3,481  
    Total net interest income and noninterest income   $ 38,116     $ 22,176     $ 24,076     $ 82,199     $ 75,060  
    Efficiency ratio (non-GAAP)     98.9 %     85.7 %     61.4 %     87.2 %     59.2 %
    Adjusted efficiency ratio (non-GAAP)     60.5 %     83.5 %     61.4 %     68.2 %     59.2 %
                                             
    Pre-tax pre-provision income                                        
    Net interest income   $ 36,942     $ 21,007     $ 23,261     $ 78,443     $ 71,579  
    Noninterest income     1,174       1,169       815       3,756       3,481  
    Total net interest income and noninterest income     38,116       22,176       24,076       82,199       75,060  
    Less: Noninterest expense     37,680       19,005       14,781       71,666       44,407  
    Pre-tax pre-provision income (non-GAAP)     436       3,171       9,295       10,533       30,653  
    Add: Merger and related expenses     14,605       491       —       15,645       —  
    Adjusted pre-tax pre-provision income (non-GAAP)   $ 15,041     $ 3,662     $ 9,295     $ 26,178     $ 30,653  

    (1) After-tax merger and related expenses are presented using a 29.56% tax rate.

    Return on Average Assets, Equity, and Tangible Equity                                        
    Net (loss) income   $ (16,464 )   $ 190     $ 6,556     $ (11,339 )   $ 21,498  
    Adjusted net (loss) income (non-GAAP)   $ 9,090     $ 602     $ 6,556     $ 15,174     $ 21,498  
                                             
    Average assets   $ 3,593,157     $ 2,294,678     $ 2,313,941     $ 2,735,695     $ 2,293,060  
    Average shareholders’ equity     428,558       294,121       277,442       337,813       270,405  
    Less: Average intangible assets     104,409       38,900       39,158       60,917       39,249  
    Average tangible common equity (non-GAAP)   $ 324,149     $ 255,221     $ 238,284     $ 276,896     $ 231,156  
                                             
    Return on average assets     (1.82 %)     0.03 %     1.12 %     (0.55 %)     1.25 %
    Adjusted return on average assets (non-GAAP)     1.01 %     0.11 %     1.12 %     0.74 %     1.25 %
    Return on average equity     (15.28 %)     0.26 %     9.38 %     (4.48 %)     10.63 %
    Adjusted return on average equity (non-GAAP)     8.44 %     0.82 %     9.38 %     6.00 %     10.63 %
    Return on average tangible common equity (non-GAAP)     (20.21 %)     0.30 %     10.92 %     (5.47 %)     12.43 %
    Adjusted return on average tangible common equity (non-GAAP)     11.16 %     0.95 %     10.92 %     7.32 %     12.43 %
        September 30,
    2024
        December 31,
    2023
     
        ($ in thousands except share and per share data)  
    Tangible Common Equity Ratio/Tangible Book Value Per Share                
    Shareholders’ equity   $ 498,064     $ 288,152  
    Less: Intangible assets     135,546       38,998  
    Tangible common equity (non-GAAP)   $ 362,518     $ 249,154  
                     
    Total assets   $ 4,362,767     $ 2,360,252  
    Less: Intangible assets     135,546       38,998  
    Tangible assets (non-GAAP)   $ 4,227,221     $ 2,321,254  
                     
    Equity to asset ratio     11.42 %     12.21 %
    Tangible common equity to tangible asset ratio (non-GAAP)     8.58 %     10.73 %
    Book value per share   $ 15.50     $ 15.69  
    Tangible book value per share (non-GAAP)   $ 11.28     $ 13.56  
    Shares outstanding     32,142,427       18,369,115  

    INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT
    Kevin Mc Cabe
    California Bank of Commerce, N.A.
    kmccabe@bankcbc.com
    818.637.7065

    The MIL Network –

    January 25, 2025
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