NewzIntel.com

Category: Technology

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Six months into Congo’s war, cholera is killing more than four people every day

    Source: Oxfam –

    • Aid cuts and humanitarian deadlock are fuelling a full-blown public health disaster. 

    • In Sake and Minova, 500 people are sharing a single water tap.   

    Six months since the renewed war in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a full-blown public health emergency is accelerating, Oxfam warned today.  

    Since January, more than 35,000 suspected cholera cases and at least 852 related deaths have been reported – an average of more than four deaths every day and a 62 percent increase compared to 2024.  

    After M23 fighters seized Goma in January civilians were ordered to return to their villages within 72 hours. More than 3.16 million people have since returned back only to find their homes reduced to rubble, and aid system on the verge of collapse. 

    Water networks, including storage facilities have been obliterated, leaving families to drink from contaminated streams and stagnant lakes. Basic health services have crumbled, with hospitals out of medicine and sanitation systems in ruins. In some of the hardest-hit areas, like Sake and Minova, 500 people are now sharing a single water tap.  

    Dr. Manenji Mangundu, Oxfam’s Director in DRC said: 

    “This is a full-blown public health emergency. Families are returning to ruins—no shelters, no toilets, no clean water. In many areas, latrines have been flooded or stripped for firewood, forcing people to defecate in the open and contaminate the only water available. The air reeks of sewage. Hospitals are out of medicine, and we can’t reach cut-off communities with even the most basic aid.” 

    In South Kivu’s Uvira region, cholera is surging with 100 new cases being reported each day. Floodwaters from Lake Tanganyika routinely inundate homes and latrines overflow into the lake, even as families are forced to drink lake water.  

    The forced closure and destruction of more than 20 displacement sites in Goma alone has left 700,000 people without safe shelter, clean water or basic sanitation In Rusayo, Lushagal, and Bhimba —where Oxfam had been supporting over 100,000 people—entire sites have been razed or abandoned, including more than $700,000 worth of water and sanitation infrastructure, such as pipelines, latrines, and tanks. 

    “This is a full-blown public health emergency. Families are returning to ruins—no shelters, no toilets, no clean water. In many areas, latrines have been flooded or stripped for firewood, forcing people to defecate in the open and contaminate the only water available. The air reeks of sewage. Hospitals are out of medicine, and we can’t reach cut-off communities with even the most basic aid.” 

    Dr. Manenji Mangundu, Oxfam’s Director in DRC

    Oxfam

    Despite a US-brokered ceasefire, insecurity, roadblocks, and ongoing clashes have severed vital supply routes, cutting off communities from lifesaving food, clean water, and medicine. Aid agencies like Oxfam are now being forced to detour through Rwanda, severely hampering relief efforts. Cross-border access through Burundi has been entirely blocked, while illegal taxes and bureaucratic obstruction are further choking humanitarian deliveries.  

    Deep aid cuts since the start of 2025 have pushed the humanitarian response to the brink of failure. Only a fraction of the $2.54 billion needed this year as humanitarian aid in DRC has been received to date—forcing agencies like Oxfam to scale back or suspend life-saving operations. Even a UN investigation into possible war crimes has been frozen for lack of funding. 

    “People are suffering because we cannot reach them,” said Balume Loutre, Oxfam’s Public Health Engineering Team Leader in Eastern DRC. “They’re drinking from contaminated water sources, and we lack the resources to deliver even basic aid. In some villages, 15,000 families need help, but we can only support 500. We’re forced to make impossible choices, leaving thousands behind.”  

    The situation is particularly alarming for women and girls. Since the cuts to USAID funding, more than 8,200 people living with HIV have lost access to antiretroviral treatment. Emergency post-rape care kits are vanishing, even as a child is reported raped every half an hour in eastern DRC, according to UNICEF. 

    Despite the collapse of the aid system, Oxfam and its partners continue to deliver lifesaving assistance – constructing water systems, building latrines and distributing soap and hygiene kits, food and seed. But urgent funding is needed to reach 400,000 people in high-risk cholera zones.  

    “We need an immediate injection of funds, and all warring parties to commit to a permanent ceasefire and allow aid to flow freely. After six months of chaos, people need dignity and respite from relentless violence. The world cannot look away,” said Mangundu. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Plastic Greenpeace climbers abseil from Forth Bridge to block INEOS tanker in plastics protest An international team of Greenpeace activists has abseiled from Scotland’s Forth Road Bridge to block an INEOS tanker from delivering its cargo of fracked American gas to the Grangemouth petrochemical… by Graham Thompson July 25, 2025

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    An international team of Greenpeace activists has abseiled from Scotland’s Forth Road Bridge to block an INEOS tanker from delivering its cargo of fracked American gas to the Grangemouth petrochemical facility. 

    The Greenpeace protest is aimed at chemicals giant INEOS, owned by billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, which is opposing efforts by UN Member States to secure a Global Plastics Treaty to curb plastic pollution [1]. INEOS is the UK’s biggest plastics manufacturer, producing 30-35 billion nurdles (pellets) daily at its Grangemouth plant – enough to make 60 million plastic bottles.

    The action comes less than a fortnight before governments meet in Geneva, Switzerland, for the sixth and final round of negotiations on the Global Plastics Treaty (5-14 August). Greenpeace is calling for these talks to agree to a cut in global plastic production of at least 75% by 2040, and for the UN to exclude lobbyists from INEOS and other fossil fuels companies from the treaty negotiations. Plastics producers including INEOS have collectively sent hundreds of lobbyists to exert their influence at every stage of the talks so far. Lobbyists have used tactics such as intimidation and harassment, to block an agreement that includes caps on plastic production.

    The 10 climbers are confronting the giant INEOS tanker ‘INDEPENDENCE’. The vessel spent the last 10 days crossing the Atlantic carrying 27,500 cubic metres of ethane bound for Grangemouth where it will be used by INEOS in the production of virgin plastic.

    Amy Cameron, Programme Director at Greenpeace UK said:

    “Plastic pollution has reached a crisis point: it’s poisoning our land, seas, air, even our bodies. The Global Plastics Treaty offers us a once in a generation chance to tackle the problem for good, so it’s no surprise INEOS and its billionaire boss, Jim Ratcliffe, are doing everything they can to stop it.

    Ratcliffe tries to distract us with sports teams and sponsorships, but we’re not going to let him fill our planet with plastic, so he can fill his pockets with profit. Ratcliffe is trying to block a strong Global Plastics Treaty, so today we’re blocking him.”

    An international team of Greenpeace activists abseil from Scotland’s Forth Road Bridge to block an INEOS tanker from delivering its cargo of fracked American gas to the Grangemouth petrochemical facility. The Greenpeace protest is aimed at chemicals giant INEOS, owned by billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, which is opposing efforts by UN Member States to secure a Global Plastics Treaty to curb plastic pollution. INEOS is the UK’s biggest plastics manufacturer, producing (pellets) daily at its Grangemouth plant – enough to make 60 million plastic bottles.© Luca Marino / Greenpeace

    The highly-trained Greenpeace climbers [2] abseiled from beneath the bridge’s service walkway, unfurling six giant ‘Plastics Treaty Now’ banners. They will remain suspended 25 metres above the main shipping lane of the River Forth [3], preventing the tanker from reaching port with its hazardous cargo. They are supported by a rescue crew on the bridge and a boat team in the river below. 

    The Greenpeace protest comes during Donald Trump’s visit to Scotland. Over the past three years, INEOS Energy has made investments exceeding $3bn in the US oil and gas sector, and the US petrochemicals industry is investing heavily in new chemical and plastics production projects. Like INEOS, US Fossil Fuel giants are attempting to weaken the Global Plastics Treaty to avoid caps on virgin plastic production. 

    ENDS

    Contact: 

    Greenpeace UK press office: press.uk@greenpeace.org / 020 7865 8255

    Greenpeace press officer on the ground at Forth Road Bridge: Kai Tabacek – 07984 127025

    Greenpeace spokespeople are available for interviews on the ground in Scotland and in London

    Please find all photos and videos of the protest HERE. Additional pictures and footage will be added as they become available.

    Notes to editors

    1. Speaking at the EFRA Parliamentary Committee on 8th July, on the UK Government’s priorities for the final plastics treaty negotiations, INEOS’s Technology Director, Peter Williams firmly opposed production caps because of potential “unintended consequences.”
    2. The international team of Greenpeace activists include climbers from: UK, Argentina, Croatia, Germany, Hungary, Finland, France, Italy, Netherlands and Taiwan.
    3. The main span of the iconic Forth Road Bridge is a little over a kilometre long, around 50 metres above water level. The highly-trained Greenpeace climbers are spaced at intervals of around 20 metres in an attempt to block the INEOS tanker. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI: Nasdaq Announces Mid-Month Open Short Interest Positions in Nasdaq Stocks as of Settlement Date July 15, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At the end of the settlement date of July 15, 2025, short interest in 3,260 Nasdaq Global MarketSM securities totaled 13,792,841,090 shares compared with 14,138,758,851 shares in 3,257 Global Market issues reported for the prior settlement date of June 30, 2025. The mid-July short interest represents 2.37 days compared with 2.59 days for the prior reporting period.

    Short interest in 1,647 securities on The Nasdaq Capital MarketSM totaled 2,853,251,720 shares at the end of the settlement date of July 15, 2025, compared with 2,790,159,938 shares in 1,636 securities for the previous reporting period. This represents a 1.00 day average daily volume; the previous reporting period’s figure was 1.00.

    In summary, short interest in all 4,907 Nasdaq® securities totaled 16,646,092,810 shares at the July 15, 2025 settlement date, compared with 4,893 issues and 16,928,918,789 shares at the end of the previous reporting period. This is 1.84 days average daily volume, compared with an average of 1.72 days for the prior reporting period.

    The open short interest positions reported for each Nasdaq security reflect the total number of shares sold short by all broker/dealers regardless of their exchange affiliations. A short sale is generally understood to mean the sale of a security that the seller does not own or any sale that is consummated by the delivery of a security borrowed by or for the account of the seller.

    For more information on Nasdaq Short interest positions, including publication dates, visit
    http://www.nasdaq.com/quotes/short-interest.aspx
    or http://www.nasdaqtrader.com/asp/short_interest.asp.

    About Nasdaq:
    Nasdaq (Nasdaq: NDAQ) is a leading global technology company serving corporate clients, investment managers, banks, brokers, and exchange operators as they navigate and interact with the global capital markets and the broader financial system. We aspire to deliver world-leading platforms that improve the liquidity, transparency, and integrity of the global economy. Our diverse offering of data, analytics, software, exchange capabilities, and client-centric services enables clients to optimize and execute their business vision with confidence. To learn more about the company, technology solutions, and career opportunities, visit us on LinkedIn, on X @Nasdaq, or at www.nasdaq.com.     

    NDAQO

    Media Contact:
    Maximilian Leitenbeger
    Maximilian.leitenberger@nasdaq.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/191e07e7-3c36-44fc-a732-fcbe0fed5e44

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Allotment of Shares under DRIS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    25 July 2025

    HARGREAVE HALE AIM VCT PLC
    (the “Company”)

    Allotment of Shares under DRIS

    The Company has today allotted 1,474,949 Ordinary Shares pursuant to its dividend reinvestment Scheme (“DRIS”) to Shareholders of the Company who elected to receive Ordinary Shares instead of the interim dividend of 0.75 pence per Ordinary Share and the special dividend of 0.50 pence per Ordinary Share, both paid today.

    The price at which the 1,474,949 Ordinary Shares were allotted was 35.06 pence per Ordinary Share, which was calculated, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the DRIS, on the basis of the last reported ex-dividend net asset value per Ordinary Share in the Company as at the close of business on 11 July 2025, which was announced on 14 July 2025.

    Application for the new shares to be admitted to the Official List of the Financial Conduct Authority and to trading on London Stock Exchange plc’s main market for listed securities has been made and dealings are expected to commence on or around 1 August 2025.

    As a Person Discharging Managerial Responsibility (“PDMR”), the following director of the Company, and his Persons Closely Associated, (“PCA”) were allotted shares at a price of 35.06 pence:

    Name No. of Shares allotted Holding following Allotment Percentage of Issued Share Capital held
    Justin WARD (PDMR) 1,895 55,052  

    0.02%
    Elizabeth WARD (PCA) 739 21,466

    Further information regarding the DRIS offered in respect of the Dividends can be found in the DRIS Mandate (the “DRIS Mandate“) available on the Company’s website to view and/or download at https://www.hargreaveaimvcts.co.uk/document-library/. The DRIS Mandate is also available on the National Storage Mechanism website at https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism.

    As a result of the issue, the total number of Ordinary Shares in issue will be 372,633,288 with each Ordinary Share carrying one vote each. The Company does not hold any Ordinary Shares in Treasury. Therefore, the total voting rights in the Company will be 372,633,288. This figure may be used by shareholders in the Company as the denominator for the calculations by which they will determine if they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in, the share capital of the Company under the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.

    END

    For further information, please contact:

    Canaccord Genuity Asset Management Limited
    Abbe Martineau
    Oliver Bedford    		 aimvct@canaccord.com
    +44 207 523 4525  
    +44 207 523 4837

    LEI: 213800LRYA19A69SIT31        

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Centex Technologies Welcomes Former Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp as Strategic Advisor

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KILLEEN, Texas, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Centex Technologies is proud to announce that John Sharp, former Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System, has joined the company as a Strategic Advisor. In this role, Mr. Sharp will support the company’s strategic expansion across cybersecurity, digital forensics, artificial intelligence, and managed IT services.

    With nearly two decades of experience, Centex Technologies provides secure, scalable, and transformative IT solutions for clients across both public and private sectors. The company’s expertise includes cybersecurity, IT modernization, cloud infrastructure, application development, digital forensics, and managed services. With teams in five states, Centex Technologies maintains a strong nationwide presence and serves as a trusted partner to federal agencies, state and local governments, higher education institutions, and commercial enterprises.

    “We are honored to welcome John Sharp to the Centex Technologies team,” said Abdul Subhani, CEO of Centex Technologies. “His distinguished record of service, visionary leadership, and deep understanding of state and federal systems make him an ideal strategic partner as we continue to scale our impact and expand our advanced IT solutions nationwide.”

    Mr. Sharp brings a wealth of experience to Centex Technologies. As Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System from 2011 to 2025, he oversaw one of the nation’s largest university systems and championed major initiatives in education, research, and technology. His previous roles in Texas state government including Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, Railroad Commissioner, and member of both the Texas House and Senate further cement his reputation as a bold and effective leader.

    “After nearly 15 years leading the Texas A&M University System, I’m excited to begin this next chapter with Centex Technologies,” said Sharp. “Their reputation for innovation, national security work, and commitment to excellence – particularly in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and digital forensics reflects the kind of forward-thinking leadership our country needs. I look forward to helping Centex expand its reach and deepen its impact across both the public and private sectors”

    ABOUT CENTEX TECHNOLOGIES

    Founded in 2006, Centex Technologies is an IT consulting firm specializing in cybersecurity, digital forensics, AI integration, and managed IT solutions. The firm is ISO 9001:2015 certified, SBA 8(a) certified, and serves a wide range of clients across the federal government, state agencies, education systems, and commercial sectors through contract vehicles including GSA MAS, SeaPort NxG, TIPS, and Texas DIR and HUB programs.

    Inquiries about this press release can be sent to: Hailey Hunter, Media Coordinator – press@centextech.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0164283d-4bfe-4b0c-b5b3-79af8a39784d

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sign Up for Free Community College With SUNY Reconnect

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul visited Suffolk County Community College as part of her efforts to highlight the SUNY Reconnect program to provide free community college for adult learners, ages 25-55, who don’t already have a college degree and who are pursuing an associate degree in a high-demand field. The SUNY Reconnect program, which will begin in fall 2025, is part of Governor Hochul’s ongoing efforts to empower New Yorkers to pursue good jobs, and to ensure employers have access to a well-educated workforce to help the state’s economy thrive.

    “In every corner of our state, adult New Yorkers will have access to free community college so they will be able to realize their dreams of better jobs in high-demand industries,” Governor Hochul said. “Through SUNY Reconnect, community colleges like Suffolk County Community College will offer a world-class education to New Yorkers, for free, and will help empower these future leaders to turbo-charge our state economy and pursue paths to upward mobility.”

    Launched in mid-May following passage of the 2025-26 State Budget, SUNY Reconnect will make it possible for eligible adult students, ages 25-55, to pursue degrees in high-demand fields for free at SUNY community colleges throughout the state. To help prospective students learn more, SUNY community colleges are holding informational sessions and recruitment events. An updated listing can be found at: https://www.suny.edu/communitycollege/free-cc/sessions/.

    Governor Hochul was joined by SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. as they visited Suffolk County Community College where they highlighted the school’s Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC/R) program, which is an eligible associate degree program under the free community college initiative. To support adult learner success through SUNY Reconnect, Suffolk County Community College will utilize online and hybrid options for students that need to work while attending classes. Students will also have access to personal support specifically for adult learners, including on-campus childcare centers.

    SUNY Chancellor King said, “Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership, SUNY is on the move and our community colleges are stepping up to help New Yorkers around the state earn a degree in high-need fields. SUNY community colleges are pathways to upward mobility, and with the support of Governor Hochul and state leaders, Suffolk County Community College and all SUNY community colleges are ensuring that every eligible New Yorker interested in a degree in a high-need field will be able to unleash their full potential.”

    The SUNY Board of Trustees said, “SUNY has been New Yorkers’ engine of upward mobility and access to a world-class, affordable higher education for 77 years, and with the support of Governor Hochul SUNY Reconnect represents a bold new chapter in our history of service. By offering a community college education free of charge for adult learners seeking degrees in high-need fields, Governor Hochul and state leaders made a bold investment in the future of our state economy and workforce.”

    New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “Free community college for adult learners opens new doors for New Yorkers and ensures skilled and knowledgeable workers in sectors that communities statewide rely on, including education, healthcare, and technology. I thank Governor Hochul for advancing workforce development initiatives through SUNY programs that not only set up adult students for success but also help make the state an affordable place to live, work, and raise a family.”

    State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky said, “Everyone’s educational journey is different. Sometimes the path has hurdles and challenges. This initiative will enable students between the ages of 25 to 55 to complete their journey. It also expands workforce development in high demand fields. As a result, everyone benefits.”

    To support the launch of SUNY Reconnect, SUNY has:

    • Allocated $4 million to community colleges to support SUNY Reconnect programmatic implementation through advising, enrollment, outreach, award of credit for prior learning, and other student services, supports, and campus operations.
    • Provided an additional $1 million to cover equipment, materials, supplies, and other one-time needs to increase student enrollment capacity in high-demand programs that are part of SUNY Reconnect.
    • Announced $1.1 million in grant funding for the SUNY Adult Learner Leadership Initiative to help community colleges increase access and ensure degree completion for adult learners.

    SUNY Reconnect will fund degrees in high-demand fields including:

    • Advanced manufacturing
    • Artificial Intelligence
    • Cybersecurity
    • Engineering
    • Technology
    • Nursing and allied health fields
    • Green and renewable energy
    • Pathways to teaching in shortage areas

    In addition to SUNY Reconnect, the FY25-26 Enacted State Budget provides $8 million in increased operating aid to community colleges – the first back-to-back operating aid increases in decades for these institutions – and maintains the 100% community college funding floor, which protects community colleges from $75 million lost direct state tax support.

    The budget also provides significant funding toward New York’s longstanding Educational Opportunity Program, which has served more than 85,000 students, and increased support for ASAP|ACE, which will make these proven retention and completion programs permanent at SUNY and allow for a significant expansion.

    Assemblymember Tommy John Schiavoni said, “As an educator for 30 years, I know firsthand how transformative access to higher education can be for individuals and entire communities. Governor Hochul’s SUNY Reconnect initiative will open doors for thousands of adult learners across New York, giving them the opportunity to build careers in high-demand fields while strengthening our state’s workforce and economy. I am proud to support this bold investment in New Yorkers’ futures.”

    Suffolk County Community College President Dr. Edward Bonahue said, “Suffolk County Community College is dedicated to the value of lifelong learning, and SUNY Reconnect is a major step forward in helping us fulfill that mission. With this support from the state, we are proud to welcome adult learners preparing for careers in the high-demand fields critical to growing Long Island’s workforce.”

    New York State United Teachers President Melinda Person said, “From Niagara to Suffolk and every community in between, SUNY Reconnect is an historic step toward making higher education truly accessible. By removing financial barriers, it gives thousands of adult learners the chance to return to school, build new careers in high-demand fields, and strengthen their families. NYSUT is proud to stand with Gov. Hochul and Chancellor King to support a future where every New Yorker has the opportunity to thrive.”

    New York State Association of Counties Executive Director Stephen Acquario said, “Community colleges are at the heart of local communities across New York State, offering accessible and affordable education while also serving as critical engines of workforce development. By removing financial barriers for adults to return to college and pursue degrees in high-demand fields, this initiative will help employers fill job openings and enable more New Yorkers to build fulfilling careers right in their communities. We commend Governor Hochul for her leadership in expanding educational access and creating meaningful opportunities for working-age adults across the state.”

    New York Community College Association of Presidents and SUNY Orange President Dr. Kristine Young said, “Access and affordability have long been the hallmarks of New York’s community colleges. Governor Hochul’s support of SUNY Reconnect brings degrees in high-demand fields into reach for adult learners by further removing costs as a barrier. Students will gain access on our campuses to academic excellence and robust support systems, while being able to take advantage of the meaningful connections we’ve built with local and state employers in these critical sectors where skilled employees are needed. My colleagues at each of our 30 SUNY community colleges are more than ready to welcome new and returning adult learners throughout the state and to help them achieve their academic, career and personal goals.”

    About The State University of New York
    The State University of New York is the largest comprehensive system of higher education in the United States, and more than 95 percent of all New Yorkers live within 30 miles of any one of SUNY’s 64 colleges and universities. Across the system, SUNY has four academic health centers, five hospitals, four medical schools, two dental schools, a law school, the country’s oldest school of maritime, the state’s only college of optometry, and manages one US Department of Energy National Laboratory. In total, SUNY serves about 1.4 million students amongst its entire portfolio of credit- and non-credit-bearing courses and programs, continuing education, and community outreach programs. SUNY oversees nearly a quarter of academic research in New York. Research expenditures system-wide are nearly $1.16 billion in fiscal year 2024, including significant contributions from students and faculty. There are more than three million SUNY alumni worldwide, and one in three New Yorkers with a college degree is a SUNY alum. To learn more about how SUNY creates opportunities, visit www.suny.edu.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget’s GetAgent AI Trading Assistant Sees Explosive Adoption, Ignites Community Frenzy

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has witnessed explosive demand following the launch of GetAgent, the world’s first crypto-native AI trading assistant. In just a few days, GetAgent has taken the crypto world by storm driving record-breaking user engagement, viral social media buzz, and significant token burns.

    GetAgent is an AI trading assistant that combines real-time market intelligence with personalized trading strategies. Built on a large language model trained by Bitget, GetAgent allows users to interact with the market using natural language, asking questions like “What’s trending today?” or “Buy $1,000 USDT of ETH” and receive actionable insights and execution support. The assistant can generate tailored trading strategies based on user preferences, and even help execute trades on Bitget.

    The launch in early July sparked unprecedented demand, with Bitget projecting a token burn of $300,000 to $500,000 in the first 30 days. This burn reflects not only the overwhelming interest in AI-powered crypto trading, but also Bitget’s deep commitment to creating sustainable value for its community and ecosystem.

    Social media platforms have been flooded with positive sentiment, as users share screenshots of profitable trades made with GetAgent’s support. With over 30,000 mentions in the first 14 days of launch, 1.2 billion media impressions, and nearly 20,000 users still on the waitlist, access codes have quickly become one of the most sought-after commodities in the crypto community.

    User engagement metrics further underscore GetAgent’s momentum. Those with access are averaging 15+ daily interactions, with a 7-day retention rate exceeding 30%—a remarkable benchmark in any digital product category. Users are increasingly relying on GetAgent as an everyday trading companion.

    “GetAgent is more than just a tool—it’s the beginning of a new trading paradigm where AI empowers every crypto trader, regardless of experience level,” said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget. “The overwhelming response from our community reaffirms our vision to bring smart, accessible, and user-centric products to the market. We’re excited to see how GetAgent reshapes the future of trading.”

    Looking ahead, GetAgent is expected to be made available to all Bitget users in Q3. The product will also be upgraded to support contract trading, earn products, and trading bots, enabling users to complete a wide range of crypto investment activities through simple, conversational interactions.

    As the first product of its kind in the industry, GetAgent combines conversational AI with real market execution, making crypto trading smarter, faster, and more intuitive. Bitget will continue to roll out access to waitlisted users and enhance the product’s capabilities.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform.

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

    Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. In the world of motorsports, Bitget is the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange partner of MotoGP™, one of the world’s most thrilling championships.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b4eea7a8-0492-4f6f-83a3-0d36e3837d42

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sagtec Global (NASDAQ SAGT) Achieves Key Milestone in UAE Smart Hospitality Deal; On Track for 2025 Revenue Recognition

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sagtec Global Limited (NASDAQ: SAGT) (“Sagtec” or the “Company”), a provider of enterprise software solutions for high-growth verticals, today announced the successful delivery of the first phase of its previously disclosed US$10 million smart hospitality contract in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in partnership with SMD Tech – FZCO. The Company has received the first milestone payment, validating both project execution and commercial delivery.

    The deal, originally announced in July 2025, is structured with over 60% of total value as multi-year recurring revenue, covering software licensing, analytics, hosting, and long-term service. The project remains on schedule for full delivery in 2025, with corresponding revenue capture anticipated within the current fiscal year.

    “This milestone represents more than operational progress—it reinforces our ability to monetize large-scale SaaS contracts, generate recurring cash flow, and expand strategically in a high-growth international market,” said Kevin Ng, Chairman, Executive Director & CEO of Sagtec Global. “It reflects our disciplined execution and strong regional partnerships.”

    Momentum Across Vertical SaaS Offerings

    In addition to progress in the UAE, Sagtec confirms that its Speed+ Smart Ordering System, which supports a US$30 million pipeline across Southeast Asia, has now been successfully deployed to commercial end-users. Speed+ is a cloud-based solution tailored for the F&B and hospitality industries, designed to improve service efficiency and increase revenue per transaction.

    These dual deployments reinforce Sagtec’s strategy to scale vertically integrated SaaS platforms across multiple industries—hospitality, F&B, and smart infrastructure—with a strong focus on monetizable outcomes.

    “We are executing on multiple fronts with clear revenue visibility,” added Ng. “These wins strengthen our position ahead of our next earnings cycle and demonstrate the scalability of our recurring revenue model.”

    Well-Positioned in a US$30B+ Market

    With the UAE hospitality sector forecasted to reach US$37.7 billion by 2033 (IMARC Group), Sagtec’s expansion into the Middle East positions the Company at the center of a regional transformation toward smart tourism and digital-first guest experiences.

    Backed by a resilient balance sheet and growing recurring revenue base, Sagtec remains focused on margin-accretive growth, product innovation, and geographic expansion to drive long-term shareholder value.

    About Sagtec Global Limited

    Sagtec Global is a technology company delivering customizable software solutions to the hospitality, F&B, and enterprise sectors. The Company also operates digital infrastructure businesses, data hosting & analysis services through its Malaysian Subsidiary, CL Technologies.

    For more information on the Company, please log on to https://www.sagtec-global.com/.

    Contact Information:

    Sagtec Global Limited Contact:
    Ng Chen Lok
    Chairman, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer
    Telephone +6011-6217 3661  
    Email: info@sagtec-global.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Student with rare disorder graduates after nine years

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Theo Hanson on the day of his ARU graduation ceremony

    Theo Hanson, an Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) student who suffers from a rare genetic disorder, is celebrating his graduation after first beginning his degree in 2016.

    Theo, 28, has lived with hereditary sensory neuropathy (HSN) all his life, leaving him unable to feel pain or touch. This lack of feeling in his body puts him at risk of accidental injury or infections.

    Despite the risks associated with his condition, his parents encouraged him to try and live independently, and he joined ARU in 2016 through Clearing.

    Theo, who lives in Cambridge, initially found that living away from home threw up challenges he had not anticipated. In 2018, his tutors encouraged him to take a year out and he flourished on rejoining ARU.

    He became a course representative and even took on a “parental” role to students during the Covid pandemic, helping students who were struggling with the restrictions.

    There were further personal and health challenges to overcome. The death of someone who helped look after him when he was young impacted Theo’s studies, and he needed to have his toes amputated due to a severe bone infection.

    However, Theo has now finally crossed the stage to formally receive his BA (Hons) degree in Computer Games Design – and he did so on the very same day his younger brother graduated from his degree in History at ARU.

    “Most people with HSN don’t even get to enter higher education, let alone to complete it. The main reason for that is that, by my age, they are usually too injured or impaired. Luckily, my version of the condition has manifested itself in a way that my brain function and level of injury is not as impaired or as severe as some others that have the condition.

    “There are two ways of dealing with someone like me, you either coddle them completely or, as my parents did, treat me like the rest of my brothers and I was encouraged to live independently. University seemed a natural step.

    “Finally finishing my degree feels incredible – I didn’t think I would ever get here. I have seen friends go on to become lecturers and I have had other friends come back to do a Masters.

    “Socially I have learned a lot. I lived in student accommodation and so I met new people every year, and the course was amazing. The lecturers were really helpful and always on hand to provide advice, and all the support staff too who helped me with submissions were lovely.”

    ARU Computer Games Design graduate Theo Hanson

    Theo has already had some of his work highlighted in PC Gamer magazine and following graduation, he’s keen to pursue work to improve accessibility in gaming.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Communications Committee Recommends MS Malefane and Dr Skeepers for Appointment on the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) Board

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    The Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies has recommended Ms Moipone Malefane and Dr Natalie Skeepers for appointment on the Board of the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA).

    There are two vacancies on the MDDA Board currently, and the committee was tasked with recruiting suitably qualified individuals to be considered for appointment in terms of section 4 of the MDDA Act 14 of 2002.

    On 8 April this year, the committee, in line with the Act, published an advertisement inviting members of the public to submit nominations.

    A total of 159 nominations were received and screened, followed by a shortlisting of nine candidates. The shortlisted candidates were interviewed on 15 July 2025.

    On Friday (25 July) morning, the committee deliberated on the outcomes of the interviews and agreed to recommend Ms Malefane and Dr Skeepers.

    The committee Chairperson, Ms Khusela Sangoni Diko, thanked all the interviewed candidates. She said that the interviewed candidates collectively possessed a tapestry of knowledge, experience and skill set required on the MDDA Board.

    The committee report will be tabled in the National Assembly for adoption, and once adopted, it will be forwarded to the President for his appointment in terms of section 4(1)(b) of the MDDA Act.

    – on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Launch from Vostochny: Russian scientists receive a new tool for studying the ionosphere

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On July 25, at 08:54 Moscow time, the Soyuz-2.1b launch vehicle with the Fregat upper stage was launched from the Vostochny Cosmodrome, which delivered two heliogeophysical spacecraft Ionosfera-M No. 3 and No. 4, as well as a group of 18 small space satellites, to their calculated orbits.

    The launch of the Ionosfera-M series satellites completed the formation of a group of four devices of the Ionozond space complex, which will monitor the geophysical environment to conduct fundamental scientific research and solve applied problems.

    The complex was created in the interests of the Russian Academy of Sciences and the Federal Service of Russia for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring. The Ionosfera-M satellites are designed for a comprehensive study of the upper layers of the Earth’s atmosphere. They will observe various physical processes in the ionosphere, including natural and man-made impacts, changes in electromagnetic fields, atmospheric composition, and ozone distribution. The data obtained will be used by Roshydromet in combination with ground-based observations. The Russian Academy of Sciences plans to conduct ground-space experiments to study the ionosphere’s response to natural phenomena such as hurricanes and volcanic eruptions.

    Also, 18 small satellites have been launched into orbit. Nine of them were created by Geoscan and will be engaged in photographing the Earth, tracking the movement of ships and aircraft, exploring near space and much more. Some of the devices are intended for educational purposes.

    Ivan Bortnik, Advisor to the General Director of the Foundation for Assistance to Innovations, highly appreciated the significance of today’s launch: “This is a great achievement for Roscosmos – the completion of the formation of the Ionosfera-M satellite group for research by our scientists, representatives of fundamental science. Also in this launch are many devices from private satellite-building companies. One of the devices from the Geoscan company is included inSpace Pi project, this is important for the Innovation Promotion Fund and for the Polytechnic University as the founder and leader of the project. This is the first of a series of satellites with which schoolchildren will be able to hunt for supernovae. We, as the Innovation Promotion Fund, held a competition and determined the winners who will begin to manufacture such devices; I hope that they will fly next year.”

    According to Ivan Bortnik, the nanosatellite “239Alferov” of the Presidential Physics and Mathematics Lyceum No. 239 and the Lyceum “Physics and Technology School named after Zh. I. Alferov” will open a new direction of the Space Pi project – the launch of target devices. This is the first of a series of satellites equipped with X-ray sensors that will hunt for supernovae. This will be possible thanks to the network of ground stations created by the company “Geoscan”, covering almost the entire territory of Russia.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: OMS Energy Technologies Inc. Filed 2025 Annual Report on Form 20-F

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OMS Energy Technologies Inc. (“OMS” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: OMSE), a growth-oriented manufacturer of surface wellhead systems (“SWS”) and oil country tubular goods (“OCTG”) for the oil and gas industry, today announced that the Company has filed its annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025 with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on July 25, 2025.

    The annual report is available on the Company’s investor relations website at ir.omsos.com and on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Company will provide hard copies of the annual report, free of charge, to its shareholders upon written request. Requests should be directed to the Investor Relations Department, OMS Energy Technologies Inc., 10 Gul Circle, Singapore 629566.

    About OMS Energy Technologies Inc.

    OMS Energy Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: OMSE) is a growth-oriented manufacturer of surface wellhead systems (SWS) and oil country tubular goods (OCTG) for the oil and gas industry. Serving both onshore and offshore exploration and production operators, OMS is a trusted single-source supplier across six vital jurisdictions in the Asia Pacific, Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) regions. The Company’s 11 strategically located manufacturing facilities in key markets ensure rapid response times, customized technical solutions and seamless adaptation to evolving production and logistics needs. Beyond its core SWS and OCTG offerings, OMS also provides premium threading services to maximize operational efficiency for its customers.

    For more information, please visit ir.omsos.com.

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    OMS Energy Technologies Inc.
    Investor Relations
    Email: ir@omsos.com

    Piacente Financial Communications
    Brandi Piacente
    Tel: +1-212-481-2050
    Email: oms@thepiacentegroup.com

    Hui Fan
    Tel: +86-10-6508-0677
    Email: oms@thepiacentegroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Lakeland Financial Reports Record Second Quarter Performance; Net Income Grows by 20% to $27.0 Million, as Net Interest Income Expands by 14%

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WARSAW, Ind., July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lakeland Financial Corporation (Nasdaq Global Select/LKFN), parent company of Lake City Bank, today reported record second quarter net income of $27.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025, which represents an increase of $4.4 million, or 20%, compared with net income of $22.5 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024. Diluted earnings per share were $1.04 for the second quarter of 2025 and increased $0.17, or 20%, compared to $0.87 for the second quarter of 2024. On a linked quarter basis, net income increased $6.9 million, or 34%, from $20.1 million. Diluted earnings per share increased $0.26, or 33%, from $0.78 on a linked quarter basis.

    Pretax pre-provision earnings, which is a non-GAAP measure, were $35.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2025, an increase of $528,000, or 1%, compared to $35.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024. Adjusted core operational profitability, a non-GAAP measure that excludes the impact of certain non-routine operating events that occurred during 2024, improved by $7.8 million, or 41%, from $19.2 million to $27.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024 and 2025, respectively.

    The company further reported net income of $47.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025, versus $46.0 million for the comparable period of 2024, an increase of $1.1 million, or 2%. Diluted earnings per share also increased 2% to $1.82 for the six months ended June 30, 2025, versus $1.78 for the comparable period of 2024. Pretax pre-provision earnings were $67.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025, an increase of $2.2 million, or 3%, compared to $64.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024. Adjusted core operational profitability improved by $5.2 million, or 12%, from $41.8 million to $47.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2025, respectively.

    “We are pleased to report strong earnings momentum for the second quarter of 2025, which has benefited from double digit growth of net interest income and contributed to good overall performance in the first half of 2025,” observed David M. Findlay, Chairman and CEO. “Importantly, our Lake City Bank Team continues to generate healthy loan and deposit growth. It’s been a rewarding first six months of 2025 with this strong financial performance, healthy balance sheet growth and continued success on the business development front for all of our revenue producing teams.”

    Quarterly Financial Performance

    Second Quarter 2025 versus Second Quarter 2024 highlights:

    • Return on average equity of 15.52%, compared to 14.19%
    • Return on average assets of 1.57%, compared to 1.37%
    • Tangible book value per share grew by $2.14, or 8%, to $27.48
    • Average loans grew by $194.8 million, or 4%, to $5.23 billion
    • Core deposits grew by $423.9 million, or 8%, to $6.03 billion
    • Net interest margin improved 25 basis points to 3.42% versus 3.17%
    • Net interest income increased by $6.6 million, or 14%
    • Provision expense of $3.0 million, compared to $8.5 million
    • Watch list loans as a percentage of total loans improved to 3.67% from 5.31%
    • Nonaccrual loans declined 46% to $30.6 million compared to $57.1 million
    • Common equity tier 1 capital ratio improved to 14.73%, compared to 14.28%
    • Total risk-based capital ratio improved to 15.86%, compared to 15.53%
    • Tangible capital ratio improved to 10.15%, compared to 9.91%
    • Average equity increased by $58.0 million, or 9%

    Second Quarter 2025 versus First Quarter 2025 highlights:

    • Return on average equity of 15.52%, compared to 11.70%
    • Return on average assets of 1.57%, compared to 1.20%
    • Average loans grew by $43.7 million, or 1%, to $5.23 billion
    • Core deposits grew by $191.6 million, or 3%, to $6.03 billion
    • Net interest margin improved 2 basis points to 3.42% versus 3.40%
    • Net interest income increased by $2.0 million, or 4%
    • Pretax, pre-provision earnings increased $4.9 million, or 16%
    • Provision expense of $3.0 million, compared to $6.8 million
    • Nonaccrual loans declined 47% to $30.6 million compared to $57.4 million
    • Watch list loans as a percentage of total loans improved to 3.67% from 4.13%
    • Common equity tier 1 capital ratio of 14.73%, compared to 14.51%
    • Total risk-based capital ratio of 15.86%, compared to 15.77%
    • Tangible capital ratio of 10.15%, compared to 10.09%

    Capital Strength

    The company’s total capital as a percentage of risk-weighted assets improved to 15.86% at June 30, 2025, compared to 15.53% at June 30, 2024 and 15.77% at March 31, 2025. These capital levels significantly exceeded the 10.00% regulatory threshold required to be characterized as “well capitalized” and reflect the company’s robust capital base.

    The company’s tangible common equity to tangible assets ratio, which is a non-GAAP financial measure, improved to 10.15% at June 30, 2025, compared to 9.91% at June 30, 2024 and 10.09% at March 31, 2025. Unrealized losses from available-for-sale investment securities were $185.3 million at June 30, 2025, compared to $194.9 million at June 30, 2024 and $188.3 million at March 31, 2025. Excluding the impact of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on tangible common equity and tangible assets, the company’s ratio of adjusted tangible common equity to adjusted tangible assets, a non-GAAP financial measure, was 12.17% at June 30, 2025, compared to 12.18% at June 30, 2024, and 12.19% at March 31, 2025.

    As announced on July 8, 2025, the board of directors approved a cash dividend for the second quarter of $0.50 per share, payable on August 5, 2025, to shareholders of record as of July 25, 2025. The second quarter dividend per share represents a 4% increase from the $0.48 dividend per share paid for the second quarter of 2024.

    The company utilized its share repurchase program during the second quarter of 2025 and repurchased 30,300 shares of its common stock for $1.7 million at a weighted average price per share of $55.94. The company has $28.3 million of remaining availability under the board-approved share repurchase program.

    “Our capital position is strong and provides capacity for continued organic growth of our balance sheet as well as continued growth of our common stock dividend to shareholders,” stated Kristin L. Pruitt, President. “While we did utilize our share repurchase program during the second quarter, our priority for capital is to continue capital retention to support loan growth in our Indiana markets and provide for continued balance sheet growth opportunities.”

    Loan Portfolio

    Average total loans of $5.23 billion in the second quarter of 2025 increased $194.8 million, or 4%, from $5.03 billion for the second quarter of 2024 and increased $43.7 million, or 1%, from $5.19 billion for the first quarter of 2025. Average total loans for the six months ended June 30, 2025 were $5.21 billion, an increase of $205.0 million, or 4%, from $5.00 billion for the six months ended June 30, 2024.

    Total loans, excluding deferred fees and costs, increased by $173.8 million, or 3%, from $5.06 billion as of June 30, 2024, to $5.23 billion as of June 30, 2025. The increase in loans occurred across much of the portfolio, with our commercial real estate and multi-family residential loan portfolio growing by $177.0 million, or 7%, our consumer 1-4 family mortgage loan portfolio growing by $46.2 million, or 10%, and our other consumer loan portfolio growing by $6.0 million, or 6%. These increases were offset by contractions to our commercial and industrial loan portfolio of $32.5 million, or 2%, and our agri-business and agricultural loan portfolio of $21.6 million, or 6%. On a linked quarter basis, total loans, excluding deferred fees and costs, increased by $3.4 million, or less than 1%, from $5.23 billion at March 31, 2025. The linked quarter increase was primarily a result of growth in total commercial real estate and multi-family residential loans of $59.6 million, or 2%, and growth in total consumer loans of $17.5 million, or 3%. This growth was offset by contractions in total agri-business and agricultural loans of $44.3 million, or 12%, and total commercial and industrial loans of $29.8 million, or 2%.

    Commercial loan originations for the second quarter included approximately $390.0 million in loan originations, offset by approximately $404.0 million in commercial loan pay downs. Line of credit usage increased to 44% as of June 30, 2025, compared to 41% at June 30, 2024 and 43% as of March 31, 2025. Total available lines of credit contracted by $48.0 million, or 1%, as compared to a year ago, and line usage increased by $100.0 million, or 5%, over that period. The company has limited exposure to commercial office space borrowers, all of which are in the bank’s Indiana markets. Loans totaling $106.9 million for this sector represented 2% of total loans at June 30, 2025, an increase of $6.4 million, or 6%, from March 31, 2025. Commercial real estate loans secured by multi-family residential properties and secured by non-farm non-residential properties were approximately 221% of total risk-based capital at June 30, 2025.

    “We are pleased that commercial line utilization continues to improve with a utilization rate of 44% at the end of the second quarter 2025,” added Findlay. “This marks the highest line utilization rate since 2020, and we are encouraged that borrower demand for working lines of capital has increased. During the second quarter, construction loans migrated as planned to the CRE multi-family segment. In addition, loan payoffs received during the second quarter impacted the owner occupied CRE and Agriculture segments.”

    Diversified Deposit Base

    The bank’s diversified deposit base has grown on a year-over-year basis and on a linked quarter basis.

    (in thousands) June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   June 30, 2024
    Retail $ 1,755,750   28.4 %   $ 1,787,992   30.0 %   $ 1,724,777   29.9 %
    Commercial   2,256,620   36.6       2,336,910   39.2       2,150,127   37.3  
    Public funds   2,014,047   32.6       1,709,883   28.7       1,727,593   30.0  
    Core deposits   6,026,417   97.6       5,834,785   97.9       5,602,497   97.2  
    Brokered deposits   150,416   2.4       125,409   2.1       161,040   2.8  
    Total $ 6,176,833   100.0 %   $ 5,960,194   100.0 %   $ 5,763,537   100.0 %
     

    Total deposits increased $413.3 million, or 7%, from $5.76 billion as of June 30, 2024, to $6.18 billion as of June 30, 2025. The increase in total deposits was driven by an increase in core deposits (which excludes brokered deposits) of $423.9 million, or 8%. Total core deposits at June 30, 2025 were $6.03 billion and represented 98% of total deposits, as compared to $5.60 billion and 97% of total deposits at June 30, 2024.

    The increase in core deposits since June 30, 2024, reflects growth in all three core deposit segments. Public funds deposits grew annually by $286.5 million, or 17%, to $2.01 billion. Public funds deposits as a percentage of total deposits were 33%, up from 30% a year ago. Growth in public funds was positively impacted by the addition of new public funds customers in the Lake City Bank footprint, including their operating accounts. Commercial deposits grew annually by $106.5 million, or 5%, to $2.26 billion and remained at 37% as a percentage of total deposits. Retail deposits grew by $31.0 million, or 2%, to $1.76 billion. Retail deposits as a percentage of total deposits was 28% of total deposits, down from 30% a year ago.

    On a linked quarter basis, total deposits increased $216.6 million, or 4%, from $5.96 billion at March 31, 2025, to $6.18 billion at June 30, 2025. Core deposits increased by $191.6 million, or 3%, while brokered deposits increased by $25.0 million, or 20%. The linked quarter growth in core deposits, was positively impacted by the addition of new public funds customers. Offsetting this increase was a decrease in commercial deposits of $80.3 million, or 3%, and a decrease in retail deposits of $32.2 million, or 2%.

    Average total deposits were $6.10 billion for the second quarter of 2025, an increase of $276.5 million, or 5%, from $5.82 billion for the second quarter of 2024. Average interest-bearing deposits drove the increase in average total deposits and increased by $263.4 million, or 6%. Contributing to the overall growth of interest-bearing deposits was an increase to average interest-bearing checking accounts of $492.4 million, or 15%. Offsetting this increase was a reduction in average time deposits of $225.9 million, or 22%, and a decrease to average savings deposits of $3.2 million, or 1%. Average noninterest-bearing demand deposits increased by $13.2 million, or 1% to $1.2 billion.

    On a linked quarter basis, average total deposits increased by $221.8 million, or 4%, from $5.87 billion for the first quarter of 2025 to $6.10 billion for the second quarter of 2025. Average interest bearing deposits drove the increase to total average deposits, which increased by $236.1 million, or 5%. Average interest bearing checking accounts were responsible for the increase, growing by $281.5 million, or 8%. Offsetting this increase were decreases to total average time deposits of $47.4 million, or 6%, and average noninterest bearing demand deposits decreased by $14.3 million, or 1%.

    Checking account trends as of June 30, 2025 compared to June 30, 2024 include growth of $352.1 million, or 23%, in aggregate public fund checking account balances, growth of $93.4 million, or 5%, in aggregate commercial checking account balances, and growth of $52.2 million, or 6%, in aggregate retail checking account balances. The number of accounts has also grown for all three segments, with growth of 9% for public funds accounts, 2% for commercial accounts and 1% for retail accounts during the prior twelve months.

    “Deposit growth is strong in many measurable ways. All deposit segments have grown on a year over year basis, and the bank continues to add new public fund customers and their operating accounts,” commented Lisa M. O’Neill, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer.

    Deposits not covered by FDIC deposit insurance as a percentage of total deposits were 59% as of June 30, 2025, compared to 57% at March 31, 2025, and 58% at June 30, 2024, reflecting growth in public fund deposits over those periods. Deposits not covered by FDIC deposit insurance or the Indiana Public Deposit Insurance Fund, which insures public funds deposits in Indiana, were 27% of total deposits at June 30, 2025, compared to 29% at March 31, 2025, and 29% at June 30, 2024. At June 30, 2025, 98% of deposit accounts had deposit balances less than $250,000.

    Net Interest Margin

    Net interest margin was 3.42% for the second quarter of 2025, representing a 25 basis point increase from 3.17% for the second quarter of 2024. This improvement was driven by a reduction in the company’s funding costs, with interest expense as a percentage of average earning assets falling by 49 basis points from 2.90% for the second quarter of 2024 to 2.41% for the second quarter of 2025. Offsetting the decrease in funding costs was a decrease to earning asset yields of 24 basis points from 6.07% for the second quarter of 2024 to 5.83% for the second quarter of 2025. During the second quarter of 2025, the company recorded a prepayment fee of $541,000 from the early payment of a fixed rate commercial loan, which was recorded as part of interest income. The prepayment fee benefited net interest margin by 3 basis points for the second quarter. Excluding the impact of the prepayment penalty, net interest margin improved by 22 basis points. The easing of monetary policy by the Federal Reserve Bank, which began in September of 2024, drove the reduction in funding costs that provided for the net interest margin expansion through deposit repricing as compared to the prior year quarter.

    Net interest margin expanded by 2 basis points to 3.42% for the second quarter of 2025, compared to 3.40% for the linked first quarter of 2025. Average earning asset yields increased by 6 basis points from 5.77% to 5.83% on a linked quarter basis and interest expense as a percentage of average earning assets increased 4 basis points from 2.37% to 2.41%. Excluding the impact of the prepayment penalty, net interest margin contracted by 1 basis point compared to the linked first quarter.

    The cumulative loan beta for the current rate-easing cycle that began in September 2024 is 29% compared to the deposit beta of 50% and has resulted in net interest margin expansion which has benefited net interest income. Net interest income was $54.9 million for the second quarter of 2025, representing an increase of $6.6 million, or 14%, as compared to $48.3 million for the second quarter of 2024. On a linked quarter basis, net interest income increased $2.0 million, or 4%, from $52.9 million for the first quarter of 2025. Net interest income increased by $12.0 million, or 13%, from $95.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024, to $107.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025.

    O’Neill noted, “We are pleased to report healthy net interest margin expansion of 25 basis points as compared to a year ago. In this higher-for-longer interest rate environment, we continue to benefit from fixed rate loan repricing and new loan origination activity. In addition, we are pleased that our core deposits represent 98% of our total funding needs compared to 97% a year ago. Core deposit growth has outpaced our loan growth in 2025, which has strengthened our liquidity position. We have begun to reinvest some maturing investment securities into higher yielding investment securities with short duration, which is also benefiting net interest margin.”

    Asset Quality

    The company recorded a provision for credit losses of $3.0 million in the second quarter of 2025, a decrease of $5.5 million as compared to $8.5 million in the second quarter of 2024. On a linked quarter basis, the provision expense decreased by $3.8 million, from $6.8 million for the first quarter of 2025. Provision expense for the second quarter and for the six months ended June 30, 2025, was primarily driven by an increase in the specific allocation for a previously disclosed $43.3 million nonperforming credit for an industrial company in Northern Indiana as well as loan growth. During the second quarter of 2025, the non-performing borrower reached an agreement to sell and liquidate the business to two unrelated entities. The transactions are expected to close in the third quarter of 2025. As a result of the pending sale and liquidation, the company recognized a charge off of $28.6 million during the second quarter, which was fully allocated at the time of the charge off. The company expects to collect the remainder of the outstanding principal balance from sale and liquidation proceeds and proceeds from the personal guarantee from the borrower.

    The ratio of allowance for credit losses to total loans was 1.27% at June 30, 2025, down from 1.60% at June 30, 2024, and 1.77% at March 31, 2025. The decrease in the allowance coverage was due to a significant reduction of 46%, or $26.5 million, in nonaccrual loans, which were $30.6 million at June 30, 2025 versus $57.1 million at June 30, 2024. Net charge offs in the second quarter of 2025 were $28.9 million, compared to $949,000 in the second quarter of 2024 and $327,000 during the linked first quarter of 2025. Annualized net charge offs to average loans were 2.22% for the second quarter of 2025, compared to 0.08% for the second quarter of 2024 and 0.03% for the linked first quarter of 2025. Annualized net charge offs to average loans were 1.13% for the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to 0.05% for the six months ended June 30, 2024.

    Nonperforming assets decreased $26.5 million, or 46%, to $31.1 million as of June 30, 2025, versus $57.6 million as of June 30, 2024. On a linked quarter basis, nonperforming assets decreased $26.8 million, or 46%, compared to $57.9 million as of March 31, 2025. The ratio of nonperforming assets to total assets at June 30, 2025 decreased to 0.45% from 0.88% at June 30, 2024, and decreased from 0.84% at March 31, 2025.

    Total individually analyzed and watch list loans decreased by $76.6 million, or 29%, to $191.6 million as of June 30, 2025, versus $268.3 million as of June 30, 2024. On a linked quarter basis, total individually analyzed and watch list loans decreased by $23.9 million, or 11%, from $215.6 million at March 31, 2025. Watch list loans as a percentage of total loans were 3.67% at June 30, 2025, a decrease of 164 basis points compared to 5.31% at June 30, 2024, and 46 basis points from 4.13% at March 31, 2025.

    “We are pleased to have reached a resolution on the nonperforming loan that we have been working through for the past several quarters,” stated Findlay. “Importantly, our semi-annual loan portfolio reviews with all loan officers of the bank affirmed that asset quality is stable and that economic conditions in our footprint are contributing to new business development opportunities. We continue to monitor the impact of tariffs on our borrowers. It is too early to quantify the impact of U.S. trade policy on our borrowers’ businesses, although there appears to be less concern on the impact of tariffs that we heard from borrowing clients previously.”

    Investment Portfolio Overview

    Total investment securities were $1.13 billion at June 30, 2025, reflecting an increase of $5.5 million, or less than 1%, as compared to $1.12 billion at June 30, 2024. Investment securities represented 16% of total assets on June 30, 2025, as compared to 17% and June 30, 2024 and March 31, 2025. The company anticipates receiving principal and interest cash flows of approximately $54.5 million during the remainder of 2025 from the investment securities portfolio and plans to use that liquidity to fund loan growth as well as to fund reinvestments to the investment securities portfolio. Tax equivalent adjusted effective duration for the investment portfolio was 5.9 years at June 30, 2025, compared to 6.5 years at June 30, 2024 and unchanged from 5.9 years at March 31, 2025.

    Noninterest Income

    The company’s noninterest income decreased $9.0 million, or 44%, to $11.5 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $20.4 million for the second quarter of 2024. Noninterest income was elevated during the second quarter of 2024 as compared to the second quarter of 2025 as a result of the net gain on Visa shares of $9.0 million that was recorded in the second quarter of 2024. Adjusted core noninterest income, a non-GAAP financial measure that excludes the effect of the net gain on Visa shares and an insurance recovery, increased $58,000, or less than 1%, from $11.4 million during the second quarter of 2024. Bank owned life insurance income increased $150,000, or 17%, primarily as a result of increased general account bank owned life insurance income from the purchase of insurance policies during the second quarter of 2025. Mortgage banking income increased $101,000 due to growth in the company’s mortgage pipeline, which favorably impacted secondary market loan sale gains and mortgage rate lock income. Wealth advisory fees increased $70,000, or 3%, driven by continued growth in customers and assets under management. Investment brokerage fees increased $72,000, or 15%, due to increased volume and product mix. Offsetting these increases was a decrease to other income of $296,000, or 43%, primarily driven by reduced limited partnership investment income.

    Noninterest income for the second quarter of 2025 increased by $558,000, or 5%, on a linked quarter basis from $10.9 million during the first quarter of 2025. Bank owned life insurance income increased $718,000, or 223%, primarily as a result of improved market performance of the bank’s variable owned life insurance policies and increased general account bank owned life insurance income from the purchase of insurance policies during the second quarter of 2025. Loan and service fee income increased $122,000, or 4%, from increased interchange fee income. Mortgage banking income increased $175,000, as a result of income derived from secondary mortgage sales and pipeline growth. Investment brokerage fees income increased $98,000, or 22%. Offsetting these increases was a decrease to other income of $460,000, or 54%, primarily a result of reduced limited partnership investment income. Wealth advisory fees, which benefited in the linked first quarter of 2025 from significant estate settlement fee income decreased $200,000, or 7%.

    “The linked quarter improvement of noninterest income of 5% is encouraging as we continue to focus on growing our fee-based businesses,” noted Findlay. “We are particularly pleased with the continued growth of our Wealth Advisory Management area, which has recently added revenue generating employees in our footprint with a focus in Indianapolis. Assets under management in this area have reached nearly $3.0 billion at quarter end.”

    Noninterest income decreased by $10.6 million, or 32%, to $22.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025, compared to $33.1 million for the prior year six-month period. Noninterest income was elevated during the first six months of 2024 as compared to the comparable period of 2025 primarily because of the net gain on Visa shares of $9.0 million and a $1.0 million insurance recovery. Adjusted core noninterest income, a non-GAAP financial measure that excludes the impact of these non-routine events, declined $626,000, or 3%, from $23.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024. Other income decreased $1.6 million, or 56%, as other income during the first six months of 2024 benefited from the $1.0 million insurance recovery. Reduced limited partnership investment income further contributed to the decline between the periods. Bank owned life insurance income decreased $564,000, or 29%, primarily as a result of reduced market performance from the bank’s variable bank owned life insurance policies, which correlate to returns in the equities markets. Offsetting these decreases were increases to wealth advisory fees of $482,000, or 10%, and service charges on deposit accounts of $104,000, or 2%. The increase in wealth advisory fees was primarily driven by continued growth in customers and assets under management.

    Noninterest Expense

    Noninterest expense decreased $2.9 million, or 9%, to $30.4 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $33.3 million during the second quarter of 2024. Noninterest expense was elevated during the second quarter of 2024 as compared to 2025 due to a $4.5 million accrual that was recorded from the resolution of a legal matter. Adjusted core noninterest expense, which excludes the impact of the legal accrual, increased $1.6 million, or 6%, from $28.8 million for the second quarter of 2024. Salaries and benefits expense increased by $938,000, or 6%. The primary drivers for the increase to salaries and benefits expense were increased salaries expense of $756,000 and increased health insurance expense of $127,000. Additionally, data processing fees and supplies expense increased $340,000, or 9%, from continued investment in customer-facing and operational technology solutions. Offsetting these increases were decreases to other expense of $3.8 million, or 62%, professional fees of $417,000, or 20%, and corporate and business development expense of $105,000, or 8%. The decrease to other expense was driven by the legal accrual recorded during the second quarter of 2024. The decrease to professional fees was primarily driven by reduced technology implementation consulting fees and swap collateral fees. Corporate and business development expense decreased primarily as a result of lower advertising expense.

    On a linked quarter basis, noninterest expense decreased by $2.3 million, or 7%, from $32.8 million during the first quarter of 2025. The primary drivers for the decrease to noninterest expense was a decrease to salaries and employee benefits of $806,000, or 5%, due to a reduction in HSA contributions expense of $441,000, resulting from the timing of the annual employer contribution to employee accounts, and a reduction in performance-based compensation accruals. Professional fees decreased $674,000, or 28%, and were primarily driven by reduced technology implementation consulting fees and swap collateral interest expense. Other expense decreased $353,000, or 13%, as other expense was elevated in the linked first quarter of 2025 from the timing of semiannual director share awards. Corporate and business development expense decreased by $246,000, or 18%, due to reduced advertising expense, primarily driven by the timing of when advertisement television spots were purchased and utilized. Net occupancy expense decreased $233,000, or 12%, due to reductions in seasonal expenses. Data processing fees and supplies expense decreased $113,000, or 3%.

    Noninterest expense decreased by $843,000, or 1%, for the six months ended June 30, 2025 to $63.2 million compared to $64.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024. Adjusted core noninterest expense, which excludes the impact of the $4.5 million legal accrual, increased $3.7 million, or 6%, from $59.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024. Salaries and benefits expense increased by $2.0 million, or 6%. Data processing fees and supplies and expense increased $766,000, or 10%. Net occupancy expense increased $289,000, or 8%, as a result of increased occupancy expense from the continued expansion of the company’s branch network and improvements to existing facilities. Offsetting these increases were decreases to other expense of $3.4 million, or 41%, and professional fees of $500,000, or 11%.

    The company’s efficiency ratio was 45.9% for the second quarter of 2025, compared to 48.5% for the second quarter of 2024 and 51.4% for the linked first quarter of 2025. The company’s adjusted core efficiency ratio, a non-GAAP financial measure, was 48.2% for the second quarter of 2024.

    The company’s efficiency ratio was 48.6% for the six months ended June 30, 2025, compared to 49.7% for the comparable period in 2024. The company’s adjusted core efficiency ratio was 50.1% for the six months ended June 30, 2024.

    Findlay added, “We are pleased with the improvement in our efficiency ratio, which has benefited from strong core revenue growth of 10% on a year-over-year basis. Our growth in noninterest expense is focused on continued investments in human capital, technology solutions and organic expansion of our banking footprint, particularly in Indianapolis.”

    Information regarding Lakeland Financial Corporation may be accessed on the home page of its subsidiary, Lake City Bank, at lakecitybank.com. The company’s common stock is traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under “LKFN.” Lake City Bank, a $7.0 billion bank headquartered in Warsaw, Indiana, was founded in 1872 and serves Central and Northern Indiana communities with 54 branch offices and a robust digital banking platform. Lake City Bank’s community banking model prioritizes building in-market long-term customer relationships while delivering technology-forward solutions for retail and commercial clients.

    This document contains, and future oral and written statements of the company and its management may contain, forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 with respect to the financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business of the company. Forward-looking statements, which may be based upon beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the company’s management and on information currently available to management, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “continue,” “plan,” “intend,” “estimate,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “should” or other similar expressions. The company’s ability to predict results or the actual effect of future plans or strategies is inherently uncertain and, accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements made by the company. Additionally, all statements in this document, including forward-looking statements, speak only as of the date they are made, and the company undertakes no obligation to update any statement in light of new information or future events. Numerous factors could cause the company’s actual results to differ from those reflected in forward-looking statements, including the effects of economic, business and market conditions and changes, particularly in our Indiana market area, including prevailing interest rates and the rate of inflation; governmental trade, monetary and fiscal policies; the risks of changes in interest rates on the levels, composition and costs of deposits, loan demand and the values and liquidity of loan collateral, securities and other interest sensitive assets and liabilities; and changes in borrowers’ credit risks and payment behaviors, as well as those identified in the company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q.

     

    LAKELAND FINANCIAL CORPORATION
    SECOND QUARTER 2025 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
     
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Unaudited – Dollars in thousands, except per share data) June 30,   March 31,   June 30,   June 30,   June 30,
    END OF PERIOD BALANCES   2025       2025       2024       2025       2024  
    Assets $ 6,964,301     $ 6,851,178     $ 6,568,807     $ 6,964,301     $ 6,568,807  
    Investments   1,129,346       1,132,854       1,123,803       1,129,346       1,123,803  
    Loans   5,226,827       5,223,221       5,052,341       5,226,827       5,052,341  
    Allowance for Credit Losses   66,552       92,433       80,711       66,552       80,711  
    Deposits   6,176,833       5,960,194       5,763,537       6,176,833       5,763,537  
    Brokered Deposits   150,416       125,409       161,040       150,416       161,040  
    Core Deposits (1)   6,026,417       5,834,785       5,602,497       6,026,417       5,602,497  
    Total Equity   709,987       694,509       654,590       709,987       654,590  
    Goodwill Net of Deferred Tax Assets   3,803       3,803       3,803       3,803       3,803  
    Tangible Common Equity (2)   706,184       690,706       650,787       706,184       650,787  
    Adjusted Tangible Common
    Equity (2)    		   866,758       854,585       820,534       866,758       820,534  
    AVERAGE BALANCES                  
    Total Assets $ 6,904,681     $ 6,762,970     $ 6,642,954     $ 6,834,217     $ 6,598,711  
    Earning Assets   6,570,607       6,430,804       6,295,281       6,501,092       6,256,105  
    Investments   1,125,597       1,136,404       1,118,776       1,130,970       1,138,639  
    Loans   5,229,646       5,185,918       5,034,851       5,207,903       5,002,935  
    Total Deposits   6,096,504       5,874,725       5,819,962       5,986,227       5,725,196  
    Interest Bearing Deposits   4,852,446       4,616,381       4,589,059       4,735,066       4,472,693  
    Interest Bearing Liabilities   4,886,943       4,716,465       4,666,136       4,802,175       4,599,136  
    Total Equity   696,976       696,053       638,999       696,517       642,003  
    INCOME STATEMENT DATA                  
    Net Interest Income $ 54,876     $ 52,875     $ 48,296     $ 107,751     $ 95,712  
    Net Interest Income-Fully Tax Equivalent   55,986       53,983       49,493       109,970       98,176  
    Provision for Credit Losses   3,000       6,800       8,480       9,800       10,000  
    Noninterest Income   11,486       10,928       20,439       22,414       33,051  
    Noninterest Expense   30,432       32,763       33,333       63,195       64,038  
    Net Income   26,966       20,085       22,549       47,051       45,950  
    Pretax Pre-Provision Earnings (2)   35,930       31,040       35,402       66,970       64,725  
    PER SHARE DATA                  
    Basic Net Income Per Common Share $ 1.05     $ 0.78     $ 0.88     $ 1.83     $ 1.79  
    Diluted Net Income Per
    Common Share    		   1.04       0.78       0.87       1.82       1.78  
    Cash Dividends Declared Per Common Share   0.50       0.50       0.48       1.00       0.96  
    Dividend Payout   48.08 %     64.10 %     55.17 %     54.95 %     53.93 %
    Book Value Per Common Share (equity per share issued) $ 27.63     $ 26.99     $ 25.49     $ 27.63     $ 25.49  
    Tangible Book Value Per Common Share (2)   27.48       26.85       25.34       27.48       25.34  
    Market Value – High $ 62.39     $ 71.77     $ 66.62     $ 71.77     $ 73.22  
    Market Value – Low   50.00       58.24       57.59       50.00       57.59  
                       
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Unaudited – Dollars in thousands, except per share data) June 30,   March 31,   June 30,   June 30,   June 30,
    KEY RATIOS   2025       2025       2024       2025       2024  
    Basic Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding   25,707,233       25,714,818       25,678,231       25,711,004       25,667,647  
    Diluted Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding   25,776,205       25,802,865       25,742,871       25,782,817       25,746,773  
    Return on Average Assets   1.57 %     1.20 %     1.37 %     1.39 %     1.40 %
    Return on Average Total Equity   15.52       11.70       14.19       13.62       14.39  
    Average Equity to Average Assets   10.09       10.29       9.62       10.19       9.73  
    Net Interest Margin   3.42       3.40       3.17       3.41       3.16  
    Efficiency (Noninterest Expense/Net Interest Income
    plus Noninterest Income)    		   45.86       51.35       48.49       48.55       49.73  
    Loans to Deposits   84.62       87.64       87.66       84.62       87.66  
    Investment Securities to Total Assets   16.22       16.54       17.11       16.22       17.11  
    Tier 1 Leverage (3)   12.21       12.30       11.98       12.21       11.98  
    Tier 1 Risk-Based Capital (3)   14.73       14.51       14.28       14.73       14.28  
    Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) (3)   14.73       14.51       14.28       14.73       14.28  
    Total Capital (3)   15.86       15.77       15.53       15.86       15.53  
    Tangible Capital (2)   10.15       10.09       9.91       10.15       9.91  
    Adjusted Tangible Capital (2)   12.17       12.19       12.18       12.17       12.18  
    ASSET QUALITY                  
    Loans Past Due 30 – 89 Days $ 1,648     $ 4,288     $ 1,615     $ 1,648     $ 1,615  
    Loans Past Due 90 Days or More   7       7       26       7       26  
    Nonaccrual Loans   30,627       57,392       57,124       30,627       57,124  
    Nonperforming Loans   30,634       57,399       57,150       30,634       57,150  
    Other Real Estate Owned   284       284       384       284       384  
    Other Nonperforming Assets   183       193       90       183       90  
    Total Nonperforming Assets   31,101       57,876       57,624       31,101       57,624  
    Individually Analyzed Loans   52,069       81,346       78,533       52,069       78,533  
    Non-Individually Analyzed Watch List Loans   139,548       134,218       189,726       139,548       189,726  
    Total Individually Analyzed and Watch List Loans   191,617       215,564       268,259       191,617       268,259  
    Gross Charge Offs   29,111       508       1,076       29,619       1,580  
    Recoveries   230       181       127       411       319  
    Net Charge Offs/(Recoveries)   28,881       327       949       29,208       1,261  
    Net Charge Offs/(Recoveries) to Average Loans   2.22 %     0.03 %     0.08 %     1.13 %     0.05 %
    Credit Loss Reserve to Loans   1.27       1.77       1.60       1.27       1.60  
    Credit Loss Reserve to Nonperforming Loans   217.25       161.04       141.23       217.25       141.23  
    Nonperforming Loans to Loans   0.59       1.10       1.13       0.59       1.13  
    Nonperforming Assets to Assets   0.45       0.84       0.88       0.45       0.88  
    Total Individually Analyzed and Watch List Loans to Total Loans   3.67 %     4.13 %     5.31 %     3.67 %     5.31 %
                       
                       
      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Unaudited – Dollars in thousands, except per share data) June 30,   March 31,   June 30,   June 30,   June 30
    KEY RATIOS   2025       2025       2024       2025       2024,  
    OTHER DATA                  
    Full Time Equivalent Employees   675       647       653       675       653  
    Offices   54       54       53       54       53  
    (1 ) Core deposits equals deposits less brokered deposits.
    (2 ) Non-GAAP financial measure – see “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures”.
    (3 ) Capital ratios for June 30, 2025 are preliminary until the Call Report is filed.
       
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (in thousands, except share data)      
    ​ June 30,
    2025    		   December 31,
    2024
    ​ (Unaudited)   ​
    ASSETS      
    Cash and due from banks $ 97,413     $ 71,733  
    Short-term investments   212,767       96,472  
    Total cash and cash equivalents   310,180       168,205  
    Securities available-for-sale, at fair value   996,957       991,426  
    Securities held-to-maturity, at amortized cost (fair value of $107,979 and $113,107, respectively)   132,389       131,568  
    Real estate mortgage loans held-for-sale   1,637       1,700  
    Loans, net of allowance for credit losses of $66,552 and $85,960   5,160,275       5,031,988  
    Land, premises and equipment, net   61,449       60,489  
    Bank owned life insurance   127,399       113,320  
    Federal Reserve and Federal Home Loan Bank stock   21,420       21,420  
    Accrued interest receivable   29,109       28,446  
    Goodwill   4,970       4,970  
    Other assets   118,516       124,842  
    Total assets $ 6,964,301     $ 6,678,374  
    ​      
    LIABILITIES      
    Noninterest bearing deposits $ 1,261,740     $ 1,297,456  
    Interest bearing deposits   4,915,093       4,603,510  
    Total deposits   6,176,833       5,900,966  
           
    Borrowings      
    Federal Home Loan Bank advance   1,200       0  
    Other borrowings   5,000     0  
    Total borrowings   6,200       0  
           
    Accrued interest payable   9,996       15,117  
    Other liabilities   61,285       78,380  
    Total liabilities   6,254,314       5,994,463  
    ​      
    STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY      
    Common stock: 90,000,000 shares authorized, no par value      
    26,016,494 shares issued and 25,525,105 outstanding as of June 30, 2025      
    25,978,831 shares issued and 25,509,592 outstanding as of December 31, 2024   130,664       129,664  
    Retained earnings   757,739       736,412  
    Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)   (161,121 )     (166,500 )
    Treasury stock, at cost (491,389 shares and 469,239 shares as of June 30, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively)   (17,384 )     (15,754 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   709,898       683,822  
    Noncontrolling interest   89       89  
    Total equity   709,987       683,911  
    Total liabilities and equity $ 6,964,301     $ 6,678,374  
     
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (unaudited – in thousands, except share and per share data)
    ​ Three Months Ended June 30,   Six Months Ended June 30,  
    ​   2025     2024     2025     2024    
    NET INTEREST INCOME                
    Interest and fees on loans                
    Taxable $ 84,418   $ 84,226   $ 166,158   $ 166,268    
    Tax exempt   291     632     583     1,532    
    Interest and dividends on securities                
    Taxable   3,457     3,104     6,846     6,143    
    Tax exempt   3,917     3,932     7,827     7,879    
    Other interest income   2,302     1,842     3,426     2,948    
    Total interest income   94,385     93,736     184,840     184,770    
    ​ ​   ​   ​   ​  
    Interest on deposits   39,111     44,363     75,569     85,527    
    Interest on short-term borrowings   398     1,077     1,520     3,531    
    Total interest expense   39,509     45,440     77,089     89,058    
    ​ ​   ​   ​   ​  
    NET INTEREST INCOME   54,876     48,296     107,751     95,712    
    ​ ​   ​   ​   ​  
    Provision for credit losses   3,000     8,480     9,800     10,000    
    ​ ​   ​   ​   ​  
    NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION FOR CREDIT LOSSES   51,876     39,816     97,951     85,712    
    ​ ​   ​   ​   ​  
    NONINTEREST INCOME                
    Wealth advisory fees   2,667     2,597     5,534     5,052    
    Investment brokerage fees   550     478     1,002     1,000    
    Service charges on deposit accounts   2,827     2,806     5,601     5,497    
    Loan and service fees   3,006     3,048     5,890     5,900    
    Merchant and interchange fee income   854     892     1,676     1,755    
    Bank owned life insurance income   1,040     890     1,362     1,926    
    Interest rate swap fee income   20     0     20     0    
    Mortgage banking income (loss)   124     23     73     75    
    Net securities gains (losses)   0     0     0     (46 )  
    Net gain on Visa shares   0     9,011     0     9,011    
    Other income   398     694     1,256     2,881    
    Total noninterest income   11,486     20,439     22,414     33,051    
    ​ ​   ​   ​   ​  
    NONINTEREST EXPENSE                
    Salaries and employee benefits   17,096     16,158     34,998     32,991    
    Net occupancy expense   1,747     1,698     3,727     3,438    
    Equipment costs   1,437     1,343     2,819     2,755    
    Data processing fees and supplies   4,152     3,812     8,417     7,651    
    Corporate and business development   1,160     1,265     2,566     2,646    
    FDIC insurance and other regulatory fees   839     816     1,639     1,605    
    Professional fees   1,706     2,123     4,086     4,586    
    Other expense   2,295     6,118     4,943     8,366    
    Total noninterest expense   30,432     33,333     63,195     64,038    
    ​ ​   ​   ​   ​  
    INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAX EXPENSE   32,930     26,922     57,170     54,725    
    Income tax expense   5,964     4,373     10,119     8,775    
    NET INCOME $ 26,966   $ 22,549   $ 47,051   $ 45,950    
    ​ ​   ​   ​   ​  
    BASIC WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES   25,707,233     25,678,231     25,711,004     25,667,647    
    ​ ​   ​   ​   ​  
    BASIC EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE $ 1.05   $ 0.88   $ 1.83   $ 1.79    
    ​                
    DILUTED WEIGHTED AVERAGE COMMON SHARES   25,776,205     25,742,871     25,782,817     25,746,773    
    ​                
    DILUTED EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE $ 1.04   $ 0.87   $ 1.82   $ 1.78    
     

     

    LAKELAND FINANCIAL CORPORATION
    LOAN DETAIL
    (unaudited, in thousands)
     
      June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024
    Commercial and industrial loans:                      
    Working capital lines of credit loans $ 717,484     13.7 %   $ 716,522     13.7 %   $ 697,754     13.8 %
    Non-working capital loans   776,278     14.9       807,048     15.5       828,523     16.4  
    Total commercial and industrial loans   1,493,762     28.6       1,523,570     29.2       1,526,277     30.2  
              ​            
    Commercial real estate and multi-family residential loans:                      
    Construction and land development loans   552,998     10.6       623,905     12.0       658,345     13.0  
    Owner occupied loans   780,285     14.9       804,933     15.4       830,018     16.4  
    Nonowner occupied loans   869,196     16.6       852,033     16.3       762,365     15.1  
    Multifamily loans   477,910     9.1       339,946     6.5       252,652     5.0  
    Total commercial real estate and multi-family residential loans   2,680,389     51.2       2,620,817     50.2       2,503,380     49.5  
              ​            
    Agri-business and agricultural loans:                      
    Loans secured by farmland   150,934     2.9       156,112     3.0       161,410     3.2  
    Loans for agricultural production   188,501     3.6       227,659     4.3       199,654     4.0  
    Total agri-business and agricultural loans   339,435     6.5       383,771     7.3       361,064     7.2  
              ​            
    Other commercial loans   95,442     1.8       94,927     1.8       96,703     1.9  
    Total commercial loans   4,609,028     88.1       4,623,085     88.5       4,487,424     88.8  
              ​            
    Consumer 1-4 family mortgage loans:                      
    Closed end first mortgage loans   273,287     5.2       265,855     5.1       259,094     5.1  
    Open end and junior lien loans   226,114     4.4       217,981     4.2       197,861     3.9  
    Residential construction and land development loans   16,667     0.3       16,359     0.3       12,952     0.3  
    Total consumer 1-4 family mortgage loans   516,068     9.9       500,195     9.6       469,907     9.3  
      ​       ​            
    Other consumer loans   103,880     2.0       102,254     1.9       97,895     1.9  
    Total consumer loans   619,948     11.9       602,449     11.5       567,802     11.2  
    Subtotal   5,228,976     100.0 %     5,225,534     100.0 %     5,055,226     100.0 %
    Less:  Allowance for credit losses   (66,552 )         (92,433 )   ​     (80,711 )   ​
    Net deferred loan fees   (2,149 )         (2,313 )   ​     (2,885 )   ​
    Loans, net $ 5,160,275         $ 5,130,788     ​   $ 4,971,630     ​
     

     

    LAKELAND FINANCIAL CORPORATION
    DEPOSITS AND BORROWINGS
    (unaudited, in thousands)
     
      June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   June 30,
    2024
    Noninterest bearing demand deposits $ 1,261,740   $ 1,296,907   $ 1,212,989
    Savings and transaction accounts:          
    Savings deposits   283,976     293,768     283,809
    Interest bearing demand deposits   3,841,703     3,554,310     3,274,179
    Time deposits:          
    Deposits of $100,000 or more   584,165     602,577     776,314
    Other time deposits   205,249     212,632     216,246
    Total deposits $ 6,176,833   $ 5,960,194   $ 5,763,537
    FHLB advances and other borrowings   6,200     108,200     55,000
    Total funding sources $ 6,183,033   $ 6,068,394   $ 5,818,537
     

     

    LAKELAND FINANCIAL CORPORATION
    AVERAGE BALANCE SHEET AND NET INTEREST ANALYSIS
    (UNAUDITED)
     
        Three Months Ended June 30, 2025   Three Months Ended March 31, 2025   Three Months Ended June 30, 2024
    (fully tax equivalent basis, dollars in thousands)   Average Balance   Interest Income   Yield (1)/
    Rate    		   Average Balance   Interest Income   Yield (1)/
    Rate    		   Average Balance   Interest Income   Yield (1)/
    Rate
    Earning Assets                                    
    Loans:                                    
    Taxable (2)(3)   $ 5,204,006     $ 84,418   6.51 %   $ 5,160,031     $ 81,740   6.42 %   $ 4,993,270     $ 84,226   6.78 %
    Tax exempt (1)     25,640       359   5.62       25,887       361   5.66       41,581       783   7.57  
    Investments: (1)                                    
    Securities     1,125,597       8,416   3.00       1,136,404       8,338   2.98       1,118,776       8,082   2.91  
    Short-term investments     2,832       28   3.97       2,964       28   3.83       2,836       35   4.96  
    Interest bearing deposits     212,532       2,274   4.29       105,518       1,096   4.21       138,818       1,807   5.24  
    Total earning assets   $ 6,570,607     $ 95,495   5.83 %   $ 6,430,804     $ 91,563   5.77 %   $ 6,295,281     $ 94,933   6.07 %
    Less:  Allowance for credit losses     (93,644 )             (87,477 )             (74,166 )        
    Nonearning Assets                                    
    Cash and due from banks     66,713               71,004               64,518          
    Premises and equipment     61,280               60,523               58,702          
    Other nonearning assets     299,725               288,116               298,619          
    Total assets   $ 6,904,681             $ 6,762,970             $ 6,642,954          
                                         
    Interest Bearing Liabilities                                    
    Savings deposits   $ 285,944     $ 43   0.06 %   $ 283,888     $ 42   0.06 %   $ 289,107     $ 48   0.07 %
    Interest bearing checking accounts     3,767,903       31,499   3.35       3,486,447       28,075   3.27       3,275,502       33,323   4.09  
    Time deposits:                                    
    In denominations under $100,000     208,770       1,745   3.35       212,934       1,832   3.49       217,146       1,871   3.47  
    In denominations over $100,000     589,829       5,824   3.96       633,112       6,509   4.17       807,304       9,121   4.54  
    Other short-term borrowings     33,297       398   4.79       99,830       1,122   4.56       77,077       1,077   5.62  
    Long-term borrowings     1,200       0   0.00       254       0   0.00       0       0   0.00  
    Total interest bearing liabilities   $ 4,886,943     $ 39,509   3.24 %   $ 4,716,465     $ 37,580   3.23 %   $ 4,666,136     $ 45,440   3.92 %
    Noninterest Bearing Liabilities                                    
    Demand deposits     1,244,058               1,258,344               1,230,903          
    Other liabilities     76,704               92,108               106,916          
    Stockholders’ Equity     696,976               696,053               638,999          
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 6,904,681             $ 6,762,970             $ 6,642,954          
    Interest Margin Recap                                    
    Interest income/average earning assets         95,495   5.83 %         91,563   5.77 %         94,933   6.07 %
    Interest expense/average earning assets         39,509   2.41           37,580   2.37           45,440   2.90  
    Net interest income and margin       $ 55,986   3.42 %       $ 53,983   3.40 %       $ 49,493   3.17 %
    (1 ) Tax exempt income was converted to a fully taxable equivalent basis at a 21 percent tax rate. The tax equivalent rate for tax exempt loans and tax-exempt securities acquired after January 1, 1983, included the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982 (“TEFRA”) adjustment applicable to nondeductible interest expenses. Taxable equivalent basis adjustments were $1.11 million, $1.11 million and $1.20 million in the three-month periods ended June 30, 2025, March 31, 2025, and June 30, 2024, respectively.
    (2 ) Loan fees, which are immaterial in relation to total taxable loan interest income for the three-month periods ended June 30, 2025, March 31, 2025, and June 30, 2024, are included as taxable loan interest income.
    (3 ) Nonaccrual loans are included in the average balance of taxable loans.
       

    Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

    Tangible common equity, adjusted tangible common equity, tangible assets, adjusted tangible assets, tangible book value per common share, tangible common equity to tangible assets, adjusted tangible common equity to adjusted tangible assets, and pretax pre-provision earnings are non-GAAP financial measures calculated based on GAAP amounts. Tangible common equity is calculated by excluding the balance of goodwill and other intangible assets from the calculation of equity, net of deferred tax. Tangible assets are calculated by excluding the balance of goodwill and other intangible assets from the calculation of total assets, net of deferred tax. Adjusted tangible assets and adjusted tangible common equity remove the fair market value adjustment impact of the available-for-sale investment securities portfolio in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”). Tangible book value per common share is calculated by dividing tangible common equity by the number of shares outstanding less true treasury stock. Pretax pre-provision earnings is calculated by adding net interest income to noninterest income and subtracting noninterest expense. Because not all companies use the same calculation of tangible common equity and tangible assets, this presentation may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures calculated by other companies. However, management considers these measures of the company’s value meaningful to understanding of the company’s financial information and performance.

    A reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures is provided below (dollars in thousands, except per share data).

      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
      Jun. 30, 2025   Mar. 31, 2025   Jun. 30, 2024   Jun. 30, 2025   Jun. 30, 2024
    Total Equity $ 709,987     $ 694,509     $ 654,590     $ 709,987     $ 654,590  
    Less: Goodwill   (4,970 )     (4,970 )     (4,970 )     (4,970 )     (4,970 )
    Plus: DTA Related to Goodwill   1,167       1,167       1,167       1,167       1,167  
    Tangible Common Equity   706,184       690,706       650,787       706,184       650,787  
    Market Value Adjustment in AOCI   160,574       163,879       169,747       160,574       169,747  
    Adjusted Tangible Common Equity   866,758       854,585       820,534       866,758       820,534  
                       
    Assets $ 6,964,301     $ 6,851,178     $ 6,568,807     $ 6,964,301     $ 6,568,807  
    Less: Goodwill   (4,970 )     (4,970 )     (4,970 )     (4,970 )     (4,970 )
    Plus: DTA Related to Goodwill   1,167       1,167       1,167       1,167       1,167  
    Tangible Assets   6,960,498       6,847,375       6,565,004       6,960,498       6,565,004  
    Market Value Adjustment in AOCI   160,574       163,879       169,747       160,574       169,747  
    Adjusted Tangible Assets   7,121,072       7,011,254       6,734,751       7,121,072       6,734,751  
                       
    Ending Common Shares Issued   25,697,093       25,727,393       25,679,066       25,697,093       25,679,066  
                       
    Tangible Book Value Per Common Share $ 27.48     $ 26.85     $ 25.34     $ 27.48     $ 25.34  
                       
    Tangible Common Equity/Tangible Assets   10.15 %     10.09 %     9.91 %     10.15 %     9.91 %
    Adjusted Tangible Common Equity/Adjusted Tangible Assets   12.17 %     12.19 %     12.18 %     12.17 %     12.18 %
                       
    Net Interest Income $ 54,876     $ 52,875     $ 48,296     $ 107,751     $ 95,712  
    Plus:  Noninterest Income   11,486       10,928       20,439       22,414       33,051  
    Minus:  Noninterest Expense   (30,432 )     (32,763 )     (33,333 )     (63,195 )     (64,038 )
    Pretax Pre-Provision Earnings $ 35,930     $ 31,040     $ 35,402     $ 66,970     $ 64,725  
     

    Adjusted core noninterest income, adjusted core noninterest expense, adjusted earnings before income taxes, core operational profitability, core operational diluted earnings per common share and adjusted core efficiency ratio are non-GAAP financial measures calculated based on GAAP amounts. These adjusted amounts are calculated by excluding the impact of the net gain on Visa shares, legal accrual and 2023 wire fraud loss insurance recoveries for the periods presented below. Management considers these measures of financial performance to be meaningful to understanding the company’s core business performance for these periods.

    A reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures is provided below (dollars in thousands, except per share data).

      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
      Jun. 30, 2025   Mar. 31, 2025   Jun. 30, 2024   Jun. 30, 2025   Jun. 30, 2024
    Noninterest Income $ 11,486     $ 10,928     $ 20,439     $ 22,414     $ 33,051  
    Less: Net Gain on Visa Shares   0       0       (9,011 )     0       (9,011 )
    Less: Insurance Recovery   0       0       0       0       (1,000 )
    Adjusted Core Noninterest Income $ 11,486     $ 10,928     $ 11,428     $ 22,414     $ 23,040  
                       
    Noninterest Expense $ 30,432     $ 32,763     $ 33,333     $ 63,195     $ 64,038  
    Less: Legal Accrual   0       0       (4,537 )     0       (4,537 )
    Adjusted Core Noninterest Expense $ 30,432     $ 32,763     $ 28,796     $ 63,195     $ 59,501  
                       
    Earnings Before Income Taxes $ 32,930     $ 24,240     $ 26,922     $ 57,170     $ 54,725  
    Adjusted Core Impact:                  
    Noninterest Income   0       0       (9,011 )     0       (10,011 )
    Noninterest Expense   0       0       4,537       0       4,537  
    Total Adjusted Core Impact   0       0       (4,474 )     0       (5,474 )
    Adjusted Earnings Before Income Taxes   32,930       24,240       22,448       57,170       49,251  
    Tax Effect   (5,964 )     (4,155 )     (3,261 )     (10,119 )     (7,414 )
    Core Operational Profitability (1) $ 26,966     $ 20,085     $ 19,187     $ 47,051     $ 41,837  
                       
    Diluted Earnings Per Common Share $ 1.04     $ 0.78     $ 0.87     $ 1.82     $ 1.78  
    Impact of Adjusted Core Items   0.00       0.00       (0.13 )     0.00       (0.16 )
    Core Operational Diluted Earnings Per Common Share $ 1.04     $ 0.78     $ 0.74     $ 1.82     $ 1.62  
                       
    Adjusted Core Efficiency Ratio   45.86 %     51.35 %     48.22 %     48.55 %     50.11 %
    (1 ) Core operational profitability was $3.4 million lower than reported net income for the three months ended June 30, 2024 and $4.1 million lower for the six months ended June 30, 2024.
       


    Contact     Lisa M. O’Neill
    Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
    (574) 267-9125
    lisa.oneill@lakecitybank.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Italy: EIB and Banca Ifis provide €200 million in financing to back Italian pharmacies, with a focus on female entrepreneurs and cohesion

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • The EIB has approved a new €100 million credit line to Banca Ifis to make it easier for Italian pharmacies to access finance.
    • Banca Ifis will match the EIB’s contribution with its own resources, bringing the total funding for businesses to €200 million.
    • At least €60 million will go to pharmacies managed by women. This operation brings the total investments supported by the EIB and Banca Ifis to €800 million since 2019.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) and Banca Ifis have signed a €200 million agreement to back the development of pharmacies in Italy, with a particular focus on female entrepreneurs and cohesion. The signature was announced today by EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti and Banca Ifis Vice-President Rosalba Benedetto.

    “This agreement marks a further step towards a more inclusive, dynamic and sustainable economy. Backing small and medium companies strengthens a country’s business environment and becomes even more of a strategic imperative when access to finance means new opportunities for female entrepreneurs, promoting growth, innovation and social cohesion,” said EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti.

    “This agreement confirms our support for Italian small and medium companies and our commitment to backing gender equality and female entrepreneurship. The pharmacies we are backing with sector specialist Banca Credifarma provide access to local primary care services and are a vital focal point for local communities. This agreement reinforces our years-long journey with an institution at the highest echelons of the European Union – the EIB – which has always put environmental, social and governance issues at the heart of its initiatives with the aim of accelerating the sustainable transition of our economy,” said Banca Ifis Vice-President Rosalba Benedetto.

    In concrete terms, the agreement states that EIB will provide Banca Ifis with €100 million by signing two contracts of €50 million each, opening a credit line with favourable interest rates. Banca Ifis will match the amount provided by the EIB, bringing the total funding offered to Italian pharmacies to €200 million. The loan will be granted by Banca Credifarma, a Banca Ifis-controlled financial institution specialised in supporting the needs of pharmacies.

    Of the €200 million total, at least 30% (over €60 million) will back female entrepreneurs in pharmacies meeting the following criteria: i) at least 51% owned by women; ii) managed by a woman; iii) implementing inclusive policies promoting female employment, exceeding the national sector average. A particular focus will be placed on pharmacies located in cohesion regions.

    The agreement signed today is the sixth between the EIB and Banca Ifis, with the two organisations providing over €800 million to Italian small and medium companies since 2019. This is also the EIB’s first credit line to focus solely on the Italian pharmacy sector.

    EIB

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives. EIB projects bolster competitiveness, drive innovation, promote sustainable development, enhance social and territorial cohesion, and support a just and swift transition to climate neutrality. In the last five years, the EIB Group has provided more than €58 billion in financing for projects in Italy. All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement. The EIB Group does not fund investments in fossil fuels. We are on track to deliver on our commitment to support €1 trillion in climate and environmental sustainability investment in the decade to 2030 as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Over half of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation and adaptation, and a healthier environment. Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower.

    Banca Ifis

    Banca Ifis is an Italian challenger bank providing specialty finance services for the real economy. Founded in 1983, it is listed on the Milan Stock Exchange and has around 2 000 employees. Banca Ifis’ business model mainly focuses on three pillars: commercial and corporate banking services; acquisition and management of non-performing loan portfolios in the small tickets unsecured segment; and retail savings solutions with the Rendimax 20-year deposit account. Its 40-year presence on the market means that Banca Ifis can anticipate businesses’ needs, supporting them on a day-to-day basis with tailored financial solutions. Technological innovation research and ongoing digital transformation are enabling the bank to expand its range of products and services and to improve the quality and speed of service to businesses. It implements its sustainable business approach by seeking solutions promoting the environmental transition and inclusion.

    To this end, Banca Ifis created the Kaleidos social impact lab to help spread of a more equitable, inclusive and supportive culture. Created under the auspices of Chairman Ernesto Fürstenberg Fassio, the initiative is backed by a proprietary social impact measurement model enabling Banca Ifis to measure positive impact inside and outside the company. In 2025, the bank successfully acquired illimity Bank in a public takeover and exchange offer that launched a new development phase in which Banca Ifis aims to consolidate its leadership in the Italian specialty finance market.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB supports Greek foodtech innovator STIQ with €20 million under InvestEU to scale up AI-powered cloud kitchen platform

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • The European Investment Bank is investing €20 million in Greek foodtech company STIQ to support innovation, artificial intelligence, and sustainable food delivery solutions.
    • The financing, backed by the InvestEU programme, will help STIQ scale up its technology platform, reduce food waste, and expand into new European markets.
    • The project promotes digital transformation and economic cohesion, by supporting a Greece-based start-up bringing cutting-edge innovation to the traditional food services sector.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is investing €20 million in STIQ, a fast-growing Greek foodtech company pioneering AI-powered cloud kitchen technology. The financing, backed by the InvestEU programme, will support the company’s R&D, digital innovation and international expansion, helping transform the future of food delivery in Europe through smarter, more sustainable and scalable operations.

    The investment is part of the EIB’s strategic focus on digital transformation, innovation and cohesion, and reflects its continued support for high-potential technology ventures in Southern and Eastern Europe. Structured as venture debt with quasi-equity features, the financing will enable STIQ to accelerate the development of its proprietary platform, deploy advanced AI features, and expand its operational footprint beyond Greece into new EU markets.

    EIB Vice-President Yiannis Tsakiris, said: “This investment reflects the EIB’s firm commitment to supporting innovation, digital transformation and entrepreneurship across Europe. STIQ is reshaping the food delivery model through technology, and we are proud to support a Greek company that is building scalable, sustainable solutions with European reach.”

    Strategic impact and EU policy alignment

    The EIB financing is backed by the InvestEU programme under the “Future Technologies” window and addresses key market gaps in access to growth capital for early-stage European tech companies. It reflects the EU’s broader commitment to:

    • Accelerating the deployment of artificial intelligence and advanced digital services
    • Enhancing food system resilience through innovation and data
    • Reducing environmental impact in urban logistics and delivery networks

    ·        Supporting economic cohesion by investing in regions with high growth potential but limited access to venture financing.

    Scaling foodtech innovation from Greece to Europe

    Founded in Athens in 2022, STIQ has quickly emerged as a trailblazer in the virtual restaurant (cloud kitchen) space. Its model integrates software, logistics and food operations into a single platform that allows multiple digital restaurant brands to be prepared and delivered efficiently from a network of culinary hubs.

    Key features of the platform include:

    • AI-powered demand forecasting, dynamic menu engineering and inventory optimisation
    • Smart routing and grouped order delivery, reducing CO₂ emissions and delivery time
    • Data-driven operations that enhance consistency, food safety, and customer satisfaction.

    With five live kitchen hubs in Athens, serving over 20 brands to a potential market of 3 million residents, STIQ currently employs 200 staff and plans to reach 30 hubs across Europe by 2029. The company is scaling rapidly while maintaining a strong focus on food quality, operational efficiency and environmental responsibility, including zero-waste targets and the adoption of electric delivery fleets.

    Konstantinos Davaris, Founder & CEO of STIQ said: “We are thrilled to welcome the European Investment Bank as a strategic partner in our mission to redefine fast-casual dining. At StiQ, we’re leading a new era of healthy eating by blending cutting-edge technology and AI with culinary excellence. Through our diverse portfolio of brands, including Protein Garden, Dinas, Healthy Concept, and more, we deliver

    delicious, nutritious, and affordable meals that make healthy dining accessible to everyone. With EIB’s support, we’re ready to scale our vision, fostering a more sustainable, health-conscious future for communities worldwide.”

    Background information

    EIB  

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union, and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world. 

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.   

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.   

    Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers.Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average. 

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

    About InvestEU

    The InvestEU programme brings together EU financial tools to support investment, innovation and job creation. Through an EU budget guarantee and cooperation with partners such as the EIB, it aims to mobilise more than €372 billion in investment during 2021–2027 across strategic sectors and regions.

    About STIQ

    STIQ is an AI-driven foodtech company operating a digital platform of cloud kitchens and virtual restaurant brands. Headquartered in Cyprus and founded in Athens, it combines technology, culinary expertise and logistics to deliver smarter, faster and more sustainable food services. The company has raised over €10 million to date and is now entering its European growth phase.

    EIB supports Greek foodtech innovator STIQ with €20 million under InvestEU to scale up AI-powered cloud kitchen platform
    EIB supports Greek foodtech innovator STIQ with €20 million under InvestEU to scale up AI-powered cloud kitchen platform
    ©EIB
    Download original
    EIB supports Greek foodtech innovator STIQ with €20 million under InvestEU to scale up AI-powered cloud kitchen platform
    EIB supports Greek foodtech innovator STIQ with €20 million under InvestEU to scale up AI-powered cloud kitchen platform
    ©EIB
    Download original

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB supports Greek foodtech innovator STIQ with €20 million under InvestEU to scale up AI-powered cloud kitchen platform

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • The European Investment Bank is investing €20 million in Greek foodtech company STIQ to support innovation, artificial intelligence, and sustainable food delivery solutions.
    • The financing, backed by the InvestEU programme, will help STIQ scale up its technology platform, reduce food waste, and expand into new European markets.
    • The project promotes digital transformation and economic cohesion, by supporting a Greece-based start-up bringing cutting-edge innovation to the traditional food services sector.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is investing €20 million in STIQ, a fast-growing Greek foodtech company pioneering AI-powered cloud kitchen technology. The financing, backed by the InvestEU programme, will support the company’s R&D, digital innovation and international expansion, helping transform the future of food delivery in Europe through smarter, more sustainable and scalable operations.

    The investment is part of the EIB’s strategic focus on digital transformation, innovation and cohesion, and reflects its continued support for high-potential technology ventures in Southern and Eastern Europe. Structured as venture debt with quasi-equity features, the financing will enable STIQ to accelerate the development of its proprietary platform, deploy advanced AI features, and expand its operational footprint beyond Greece into new EU markets.

    EIB Vice-President Yiannis Tsakiris, said: “This investment reflects the EIB’s firm commitment to supporting innovation, digital transformation and entrepreneurship across Europe. STIQ is reshaping the food delivery model through technology, and we are proud to support a Greek company that is building scalable, sustainable solutions with European reach.”

    Strategic impact and EU policy alignment

    The EIB financing is backed by the InvestEU programme under the “Future Technologies” window and addresses key market gaps in access to growth capital for early-stage European tech companies. It reflects the EU’s broader commitment to:

    • Accelerating the deployment of artificial intelligence and advanced digital services
    • Enhancing food system resilience through innovation and data
    • Reducing environmental impact in urban logistics and delivery networks

    ·        Supporting economic cohesion by investing in regions with high growth potential but limited access to venture financing.

    Scaling foodtech innovation from Greece to Europe

    Founded in Athens in 2022, STIQ has quickly emerged as a trailblazer in the virtual restaurant (cloud kitchen) space. Its model integrates software, logistics and food operations into a single platform that allows multiple digital restaurant brands to be prepared and delivered efficiently from a network of culinary hubs.

    Key features of the platform include:

    • AI-powered demand forecasting, dynamic menu engineering and inventory optimisation
    • Smart routing and grouped order delivery, reducing CO₂ emissions and delivery time
    • Data-driven operations that enhance consistency, food safety, and customer satisfaction.

    With five live kitchen hubs in Athens, serving over 20 brands to a potential market of 3 million residents, STIQ currently employs 200 staff and plans to reach 30 hubs across Europe by 2029. The company is scaling rapidly while maintaining a strong focus on food quality, operational efficiency and environmental responsibility, including zero-waste targets and the adoption of electric delivery fleets.

    Konstantinos Davaris, Founder & CEO of STIQ said: “We are thrilled to welcome the European Investment Bank as a strategic partner in our mission to redefine fast-casual dining. At StiQ, we’re leading a new era of healthy eating by blending cutting-edge technology and AI with culinary excellence. Through our diverse portfolio of brands, including Protein Garden, Dinas, Healthy Concept, and more, we deliver

    delicious, nutritious, and affordable meals that make healthy dining accessible to everyone. With EIB’s support, we’re ready to scale our vision, fostering a more sustainable, health-conscious future for communities worldwide.”

    Background information

    EIB  

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union, and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world. 

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.   

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.   

    Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers.Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average. 

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

    About InvestEU

    The InvestEU programme brings together EU financial tools to support investment, innovation and job creation. Through an EU budget guarantee and cooperation with partners such as the EIB, it aims to mobilise more than €372 billion in investment during 2021–2027 across strategic sectors and regions.

    About STIQ

    STIQ is an AI-driven foodtech company operating a digital platform of cloud kitchens and virtual restaurant brands. Headquartered in Cyprus and founded in Athens, it combines technology, culinary expertise and logistics to deliver smarter, faster and more sustainable food services. The company has raised over €10 million to date and is now entering its European growth phase.

    EIB supports Greek foodtech innovator STIQ with €20 million under InvestEU to scale up AI-powered cloud kitchen platform
    EIB supports Greek foodtech innovator STIQ with €20 million under InvestEU to scale up AI-powered cloud kitchen platform
    ©EIB
    Download original
    EIB supports Greek foodtech innovator STIQ with €20 million under InvestEU to scale up AI-powered cloud kitchen platform
    EIB supports Greek foodtech innovator STIQ with €20 million under InvestEU to scale up AI-powered cloud kitchen platform
    ©EIB
    Download original

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Space Commander speech on defence in the space domain

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    UK Space Commander speech on defence in the space domain

    Transcript of the UK Space Commander’s address on defence in the space domain at the Royal United Services Institute.

    My thanks to RUSI and particularly Matt Savill for arranging today’s event.

    I am often told that the UK suffers a little ‘space blindness’ and that the understanding of the importance of space to our economy, prosperity, national security and defence is not well understood.

    Therefore, I am delighted, that on the back of a clear articulation of the importance of space, and associated risks and threats in recently published UK strategies, we have an opportunity today to delve deeper.    

    From geopolitics to technology and the evolving nature of warfare, the world is changing more rapidly than at any time for decades.

    Ladies and gentlemen, as we stand on the brink of a new space age, the importance of outer space in global affairs has never been more evident. No longer just a frontier for scientific exploration, space is now a domain of strategic, economic, and political competition. 

    The global space economy is on track to surpass $1 trillion by 2035.

    18%, or £450 billion – that’s about a fifth – of the UK’s economy is underpinned by space-based services. 

    The UK employs fifty thousand space professionals and generates about £19 billion in growth. 

    Conversely, loss of GPS would cost the economy about £7 billion a week.

    Given these facts the UK has designated space a Critical National Infrastructure sector. 

    Closer to home in Defence, we can no longer assume superiority in space. The increasing counterspace threat now means that gaining control of the Space Domain, at a time and place of our choosing, is a necessary first step to protecting the force from adversary space and delivering vital space effects, such as positioning, navigation and timing (PNT), satellite communications (SATCOM), and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) to our own forces. 

    Put simply, the integrated force can’t understand, move, communicate, or fight without assured space delivered effects.

    Space literally fuels our way of life and underpins our way of war. 

    This national dependency on space is increasingly being held at risk by space risks and threats.

    Risks include space weather and, of course, congestion:

    The dramatic reduction in launch costs have seen the democratisation of space. There are now over 80 space faring nations. 

    To bring the challenge to life for you: UK Space Command tracks about 45,000 objects in orbit, including about 9000 satellites. We have seen about 150 launches so far this year and 3 satellite or rocket bodies deorbit and re-enter the earth’s atmosphere daily.  

    The threat is also growing — in scale, in sophistication, and in speed.

    Over the past year, China has conducted close-proximity operations, deployed dual-use inspector satellites, and integrated kinetic, directed-energy, AI, and cyber tools into a formidable counterspace arsenal.

    There are now 20 counterspace systems in geostationary equatorial orbit (GEO), and over 200 in low earth orbit (LEO) — ready, rehearsed, and operational.

    This is not an emerging threat — it is here, now, and active.

    So what must be done?

    Well, I’d posit that the UK must now be more assertive in defending our national interests and our freedom of action in space.

    Access is no longer enough. We must be able to control space, defend our assets, and — if required — deny its use to hostile actors.

    Passive resilience is insufficient. We require persistent domain awareness and credible counterspace capabilities if we are to deter, endure a first strike, and, if necessary, fight through and win.

    No one wants a war in space, and it is certainly not inevitable.

    But we must be clear eyed about these challenges to our vital national interests.

    Equally though, we must be optimistic and excited by the strategic opportunity that space affords the UK.

    I’m pleased to say we are making progress…

    We have been working across Government as ‘One Space’ to align on priorities and re-establish effective governance.  The Cabinet Office has led efforts to cohere a One Space enterprise, set national objectives and prioritise capability investment choices to maximise finite resources, and, dare I say it, prevent sideways energy.

    Over the last year, UK Space Command has launched the UK’s first military satellite in 13 years, we’ve opened a state-of-the-art National Space Operations Centre, we’ve invested over £300 million in satellites and software and accelerated operational integration – we have seen a 300% rise in space outputs from all our units.   

    Moreover, the recently published Strategic Defence Review, National Space Strategy and Industrial Strategy have elevated space to the heart of national strategy. 

    They collectively recognise that we urgently need to build a modern, agile, and resilient infrastructure for both the defence and civil space enterprise. One capable of meeting the threats, mitigating the risks, preparing for the challenges and seizing the opportunities.

    Chapter 7.5 of the Strategic Defence Review marks a turning point. It elevates space to parity with the traditional domains — recognising it as the keystone of modern, multi-domain operations.

    It issues a clear strategic imperative: to build a resilient, hybrid, and integrated UK space enterprise — one able to deter threats, assure critical services, and deliver strategic advantage in an increasingly hostile domain.

    It sets out three priorities:

    Firstly, space control:

    We will invest in Space Domain Awareness capabilities, Command and Control at levels of classification and counterspace systems, both on-orbit and on Earth.

    Secondly, Decision Advantage.

    SATCOM and data relays are fundamental to understanding the battlespace and communicating decisions effectively.

    Finally, Sense to enable ‘Understand’ and ‘Strike’ functions. Space-based ISR to globally see and target with precision.

    And as has been trailed, all of this will be enabled by a Digital Targeting Web.

    We are not going to do this alone. Space is the ultimate team sport. So, being clear on what needs to be nationally separable capabilities – to assure effects and provide us strategic autonomy – and what we can collaborate on with allies, and access through commercial, is seminal to our force design.  

    We recognise that to keep pace with the threats and technology we need to move much faster and exploit commercial industry.

    To achieve the right hybrid architecture, the Strategic Defence Review also recommends that the National Armaments Director prioritises a Space Portfolio to help us:    

    • Innovate at scale;
    • Better embrace commercial practices;
    • Learn from models like Taskforce Kindred;
    • Pick winners – spreading bets is for those that haven’t done the work to prioritise.
    • And focus on volume and velocity, not process.

    UK investment in space will not only provide the military with the capability we need to support the integrated force, become a space leader in NATO and support our allies, but it will also enable us to protect and defend our vital national interests, and, critically, it will drive growth into our economy. 

    So let me try and bring all that together.

    As our dependency increases and space becomes increasingly contested and congested, and as we deepen our understanding of the myriad hazards on orbit, the UK remains committed to ensuring we retain the freedom to operate in, through and from space.

    This is critical to our economy and prosperity, and our ability, as individuals as much as a nation, to understand, communicate, navigate, and, in Defence’s case, fight. 

    Defence is contributing to a wholesale transformation of Britain’s space approach.

    And events like today will be critical to success, to improve national space IQ and bring to life the risks, threats and to seize the opportunities.  

    We must treat the UK’s space blindness.

    Defence must be more assertive in defending our national interests and our freedom of action in space.

    Access is no longer enough. We must be able to control space, defend our assets and — if required — deny its use to hostile actors.

    Passive resilience is insufficient. We require persistent domain awareness and credible counterspace capabilities if we are to deter, endure a first mover strike, and, only if necessary, fight through and win.

    The Strategic Defence Review, the National Security Strategy, and the Industrial Strategy provide the ends of UK space ambition.

    Now we must define — and deliver — the ways and means.

    We know what the right-hand side of the slide looks like, we now need to chart a coherent and resourced course from where we are to where we want to be by 2035.  

    As one space enterprise, across civil, military, and commercial domains.

    The direction is clear. The time is now. The cost of inaction is rising.

    To secure the UK’s future as a competitive space power by 2035 – our ambition must be matched by boldness, urgency, investment, and, above all else, leadership.     

    Thank you.

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK strengthens cyber defence cooperation across Asia-Pacific region

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    UK strengthens cyber defence cooperation across Asia-Pacific region

    Senior defence officials gathered in Singapore on cyber security and emerging technologies.

    Lieutenant General Sir Tom Copinger-Symes addressing the symposium. MOD Crown Copyright

    Cyber-attacks know no borders, and with the transnational nature of digital threats evolving we must work with allies to keep Britain safe.

    The ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) Cybersecurity and Information Centre of Excellence (ACICE) hosted the third Digital Defence Symposium (DDS) in Singapore, bringing together more than 300 senior defence officials, academics, industry experts and international partners from across 35 countries and organisations, to discuss the latest developments in the cybersecurity and information domains, amid challenges presented by emerging technologies and rising geopolitical tensions.

    ACICE was established in June 2021, aiming to connect ASEAN countries and other international partners to enhance multilateral cooperation in defence against cyberattacks, disinformation and misinformation. This is achieved through information sharing, and raising awareness and knowledge of potential threats, trends and developments in the cybersecurity and information domains.

    Lieutenant General Sir Tom Copinger-Symes and Major General Yi-Jin Lee, Chief Digital and Intelligence Service. MOD Crown Copyright

    At the symposium, the ‘Building Effective Digital Military Forces’ panel saw representatives from the UK, Singapore and Japan – including our Deputy Commander, Lieutenant General Sir Tom Copinger-Symes – discuss how investment, such as training, doctrine, structure, or equipment, can build a capable force that is ready to respond to digital threats.

    As collaboration becomes increasingly paramount to defend against modern threats, leaders shared insight into how militaries can use multinational operations and alliances to enhance interoperability and counter digital threats. They also covered how artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous systems, and cyber capabilities can ethically be integrated with human judgement and resilience to create a strong, warfighting ready force.

    The Strategic Defence Review outlined a need to align capabilities and defence priorities. As the Command responsible for defending the UK in cyberspace and leading on integrating cyber effects into operational planning, we must work in partnership with our allies and partners to achieve this and continue to put NATO first. However, as this conference has demonstrated, prioritising NATO does not mean focusing solely on it – it also involves strengthening our regional partnerships around the globe.

    This symposium offered a platform to do so, ensuring our strong international partnerships within the region, as an ASEAN Dialogue Partner, and wider keep us ahead of our adversaries in an ever-contested digital landscape.

    Attorney Odessa Rossilyz L. Magisa, Officer-in-Charge of the Office for Department for National Defence Information Security and Lieutenant General Sir Tom Copinger-Symes. MOD Crown Copyright

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ABAC Issued Declaration on Sustainable AI Infrastructure and Investment Hai Phong, Viet Nam | 25 July 2025 APEC Business Advisory Council

    Source: APEC Secretariat

    The APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) released its Declaration on Sustainable Artificial Intelligence (AI) Infrastructure and Investment, underscoring the business community’s commitment to a sustainable AI future.

    AI is rapidly transforming economies and societies across the region. It holds immense potential to unlock innovation, drive productivity, and promote inclusive growth. However, none of this works without infrastructure—underpinned by data centers and the electricity grids that support them. The full benefits of AI cannot be realized without resilient, efficient, and sustainable infrastructure to support its development and deployment.

    “Energy gaps are deepening inequality and limiting participation in the digital economy. The digital divide isn’t just about tech anymore—it’s about capital access, grid resilience and human capacity. Our declaration reaffirms our commitment to APEC’s 2025 vision of ‘Building a Sustainable Tomorrow’,” said Jan De Silva, Chair of ABAC’s AI and Digital Innovation Working Group.

    This meeting took place in advance of APEC’s first Digital and AI Ministerial meeting taking place August 4-6 in Incheon, Korea. ABAC has committed to four priority actions:

    • Accelerating Investment in Sustainable AI Infrastructure
    • Embedding Sustainability into the AI Lifecycle
    • Fostering Cross-Economy Collaboration and Investment
    • Advocating for Enabling Policies and Standards

    “ABAC reaffirms its commitment to shaping an AI-powered future that is not only innovative and inclusive but also sustainable and resilient. We invite governments, industry, academia, and civil society to join us in this shared effort to build responsible AI across the APEC region,” said ABAC Chair, HS Cho.

    The full declaration can be found here.

    For further information, please contact:

    Amanda Doyle (Ms), AIDIWG Lead Staffer at +1-905-467-0019 and [email protected]
    Antonio Basilio (Mr), Director of the ABAC Secretariat at +63 917 849 3351 and [email protected]

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The third issue of the video digest “Polytech in Priority” has been released

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The third episode of the video digest “Polytech in Priority” is dedicated to the key scientific and technological direction “Artificial Intelligence for Solving Cross-Industry Problems”. Its host was the chief designer of KNTN-3, Vice-Rector for Research at SPbPU Yuri Fomin.

    In the episode, Yuri Fomin talked about what tasks are solved with the help of AI and in what areas the Polytechnic teams work. Yuri Fomin presented the latest data on the progress of five projects included in the KNTN-3 and shared plans for the future. The projects cover various areas of activity: the transport sector, pharmacology, enterprise management and other areas.

    The video digest series was created by the Office of Technology Leadership of the St. Petersburg Polytechnic University to provide information on key scientific and technical areas (KNTA) and projects supported by the Priority 2030 program. Thanks to this, employees and interested people receive comprehensive information on the program areas, funded projects and their implementation.

    The hosts are the project managers and chief developers. The first episode was hosted by Head of the Office of Technological Leadership Oleg Rozhdestvensky, second – Head of the Project and Research School “Digital Engineering” SPbPU Alexey Borovkov.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Eighth Joint Conference on Advancing Hong Kong’s Full Participation in and Contribution to Belt and Road Initiative held in Beijing (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) and relevant central ministries held the eighth Joint Conference on Advancing Hong Kong’s Full Participation in and Contribution to the Belt and Road Initiative (B&RI) in Beijing today (July 25).
     
         Vice Chairman of the NDRC Mr Zhou Haibing attended the conference with Mainland officials led by him, including representatives from the NDRC, the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, the Supreme People’s Court, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Transport, the People’s Bank of China, the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council, the National Financial Regulatory Administration, and the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR.
     
         The Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, in his capacity as chairperson of the Working Group on Belt and Road (B&R) Development under the Steering Group on Integration into National Development, led HKSAR Government officials to attend the conference. They included the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, who was also the Hong Kong-side Convenor of the Joint Conference, and representatives from the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau (CEDB), the Department of Justice, the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau, the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau, the Development Bureau, the Environment and Ecology Bureau, the Belt and Road Office of the CEDB, and the Office of the Government of the HKSAR in Beijing. The Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Professor Frederick Ma, and a representative from the Airport Authority Hong Kong also attended the meeting.
     
         Mr Lam said that the HKSAR Government has been taking forward B&R co-operation to go deeper and deliver outcomes, thereby fully participating in and contributing to the B&RI under the continued guidance of the eight major steps the country has been taking to support high-quality B&R co-operation, with a view to facilitating Hong Kong’s active integration into overall national development. With the country’s support, Hong Kong will continue to deepen international exchanges and co-operation and will actively utilise its own advantages to exert a greater role in the country’s high-level opening up to the world.
     
         He pointed out that over the past year, the HKSAR Government has actively served as a proponent for institutional openness through Hong Kong’s strengths as a platform for two-way opening up; a pioneer for co-operation in new fields through strengths in education, science and technology and talent; and a facilitator for people-to-people bonds through strengths as a melting pot of diversified cultures. The HKSAR Government has been exploring emerging markets such as the Middle East, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and other B&R countries, while making full use of Hong Kong’s professional services aligned with international standards, thereby building Hong Kong as the gateway between the country and the world and highlighting Hong Kong’s role as the premier B&R functional platform. He expressed gratitude to the Central Government for the staunch support of hosting the International Organization for Mediation headquarters in Hong Kong, which will help strengthen Hong Kong’s roles as an international dispute resolution services centre and a capital for international mediation.
     
         Mr Yau stated in the meeting that the HKSAR Government will fully capitalise on the 10th Belt and Road Summit to showcase Hong Kong’s important roles as an active participant and the premier B&R functional platform to the Mainland and overseas. He reported on Hong Kong’s progress in carrying out B&R work, including the CEDB’s ongoing pursuit of the early accession of Hong Kong to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, the pursuit of early conclusion of ongoing negotiations for free trade and investment agreements, and actively following up on the plan to establish Economic and Trade Offices in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to fully take forward the economic and trade relations between Hong Kong and B&R countries.
     
         The meeting also focused its discussion on the seven work proposals on further promoting the B&RI that the HKSAR Government put forward for consideration by central ministries, covering capacity building, deepening exchanges and co-operations with B&R countries, legal and dispute resolution services, cross-boundary financing, and the expansion of international co-operation and ties in innovation and technology. Representatives of relevant Joint Conference Mainland ministries introduced their respective work in supporting Hong Kong’s participation in and contribution to the B&RI and provided feedback on the HKSAR Government’s work proposals. The HKSAR Government is grateful for the support expressed by relevant central ministries at the meeting on various work proposals and will actively follow up with them.
     
         In addition, the meeting noted the HKSAR Government’s key areas and major work in its future participation and contribution to the B&RI, including leveraging Hong Kong’s role as a B&R functional platform to explore business opportunities and facilitating business matching and participation in B&R projects. The HKSAR Government will continue to consolidate Hong Kong’s unique advantage of connecting with the Mainland and the rest of the world under “one country, two systems”, seize the enormous opportunities brought about by national development, strengthen and deepen exchanges and co-operations with B&R countries, and give full play to its role as a “super connector” and “super value-adder”.
     
         The Arrangement between the NDRC and the HKSAR Government for Advancing Hong Kong’s Full Participation in and Contribution to the B&RI, signed between the HKSAR Government and the NDRC in 2017, provides the direction and a blueprint for Hong Kong’s full participation in and contribution to the B&RI, as well as sets up the Joint Conference mechanism to discuss relevant matters, with meetings convened at least once a year.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: HTX Hot Listings Weekly Recap (July 15 – 21): Ethereum Leads the Rally as Market Trends Ignite Wealth Effect

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HTX Hot Listings Weekly Recap

    PANAMA CITY, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HTX, a leading global crypto exchange, recorded robust performance from its newly listed and featured assets during the third week of July. The period was characterized by an intensified rotation of trending narratives across the crypto market, with capital increasingly shifting from established mainstream assets to promising emerging tokens and high-potential sectors.

    Ethereum ($ETH) once again stood out as the “hottest mainstream asset”, gaining an impressive 23% and reinforcing its appeal as a core market anchor. This consistent performance positions ETH as a primary allocation target for capital seeking both safety and stable growth. The escalating ETH 2.0 staking yields, the flourishing Layer 2 ecosystem, and sustained institutional accumulation continue to solidify ETH’s status as a core asset for substantial investments.

    Crucially, HTX’s strategic selection of key new listings proved highly effective, with several tokens across categories such as Meme, NFT, DeFi, Social, and Infrastructure more than doubling in value within a single week. Below is a highlight of the week’s top performers:

    Emerging Assets Fuel Gains, Boosting the Wealth Effect

    • Ani Grok Companion ($ANI): Crowned the week’s top gainer with a staggering 137% increase in just seven days. This AI+Meme project blends the “gooning” meme with xAI and Elon Musk’s Grok image, combining AI trends with community-driven content creation. Driven by organic community buzz, innovative gameplay, and short-term trading opportunities, ANI was one of the platform’s fastest-growing tokens by trading volume.
    • Elixir ($ELX): Signaled a strong resurgence of DeFi narratives, posting an impressive 115% weekly gain. Elixir is a blockchain project dedicated to advancing DeFi and liquidity solutions. With a TVL exceeding $300 million, Elixir has also introduced deUSD, a synthetic USD stablecoin that maintains stability via a “Delta Neutral Strategy” and generates returns through funding rates.
    • Decentralized Information Asset ($DIA): This on-chain infrastructure token also saw a 115% gain over the week. $DIA is a decentralized oracle platform that delivers reliable data feeds for DeFi and other blockchain applications. Its primary function is to provide on-chain and off-chain market data, price feeds, and oracle services. DIA’s positive price momentum was supported by increased Web3 development activity and rising expectations of application-layer adoption.
    • Pudgy Penguins ($PENGU): Following last week’s surge in NFT concept assets, PENGU maintained robust performance this week with a 111% gain. The Pudgy Penguins NFT collection features 8,888 unique penguin avatars known for their strong IP attributes and deeply engaged community. PENGU’s rise reflects renewed enthusiasm and potential in the NFT sector during the current cycle.

    Infrastructure and Public Chain Sectors Rotate Actively with Layer 1 Market Heating Up

    A notable structural rotation took place this week in the Layer 1 sector, with several key tokens experiencing sharp upward moves.

    • Conflux ($CFX): Rose 104% over the week. Conflux operates as a public Layer 1 blockchain, designed to power dApps, e-commerce, and Web 3.0 infrastructure by offering superior scalability, decentralization, and security compared to existing protocols. $CFX performed exceptionally well, driven by increased on-chain activity in Asia and the rollout of ecosystem support programs.
    • Tezos ($XTZ): Gained 62% this week. As a veteran Layer1 project, Tezos identified governance deficiencies in blockchain networks as early as 2014 and pioneered on-chain governance solutions. Tezos empowers token holders to determine the network’s upgrade roadmap and priorities, effectively resolving disputes and bypassing the need for disruptive network hard forks. Recent upgrades have further propelled its ecosystem expansion, and it has also garnered pilot adoption by several institutional entities.
    • Litecoin ($LTC): Increased 22% weekly. Litecoin’s adoption as a payment method has grown over the years, widely accepted by various merchants and organizations, including the American Red Cross, Newegg, and Twitch. Beyond its consistent price stability, its growing integration with traditional financial concepts has attracted considerable market attention. Recently, LTC was designated as one of the initial assets linked to a “crypto stock fund” launched by a major U.S. brokerage, endowing it with new “crypto ETF-like” attributes.

    HTX Hot Token Listing Winners

    About HTX

    Founded in 2013, HTX has evolved from a virtual asset exchange into a comprehensive ecosystem of blockchain businesses that span digital asset trading, financial derivatives, research, investments, incubation, and other businesses.

    As a world-leading gateway to Web3, HTX harbors global capabilities that enable it to provide users with safe and reliable services. Adhering to the growth strategy of “Global Expansion, Thriving Ecosystem, Wealth Effect, Security & Compliance,” HTX is dedicated to providing quality services and values to virtual asset enthusiasts worldwide.

    To learn more about HTX, please visit https://www.htx.com/ or HTX Square , and follow HTX on X, Telegram, and Discord. For further inquiries, please contact glo-media@htx-inc.com.

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bffad256-800a-488c-afb6-f8158fc13554

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5696437e-b9f3-4a34-907f-0e05c36de15e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: HTX Hot Listings Weekly Recap (July 15 – 21): Ethereum Leads the Rally as Market Trends Ignite Wealth Effect

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HTX Hot Listings Weekly Recap

    PANAMA CITY, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HTX, a leading global crypto exchange, recorded robust performance from its newly listed and featured assets during the third week of July. The period was characterized by an intensified rotation of trending narratives across the crypto market, with capital increasingly shifting from established mainstream assets to promising emerging tokens and high-potential sectors.

    Ethereum ($ETH) once again stood out as the “hottest mainstream asset”, gaining an impressive 23% and reinforcing its appeal as a core market anchor. This consistent performance positions ETH as a primary allocation target for capital seeking both safety and stable growth. The escalating ETH 2.0 staking yields, the flourishing Layer 2 ecosystem, and sustained institutional accumulation continue to solidify ETH’s status as a core asset for substantial investments.

    Crucially, HTX’s strategic selection of key new listings proved highly effective, with several tokens across categories such as Meme, NFT, DeFi, Social, and Infrastructure more than doubling in value within a single week. Below is a highlight of the week’s top performers:

    Emerging Assets Fuel Gains, Boosting the Wealth Effect

    • Ani Grok Companion ($ANI): Crowned the week’s top gainer with a staggering 137% increase in just seven days. This AI+Meme project blends the “gooning” meme with xAI and Elon Musk’s Grok image, combining AI trends with community-driven content creation. Driven by organic community buzz, innovative gameplay, and short-term trading opportunities, ANI was one of the platform’s fastest-growing tokens by trading volume.
    • Elixir ($ELX): Signaled a strong resurgence of DeFi narratives, posting an impressive 115% weekly gain. Elixir is a blockchain project dedicated to advancing DeFi and liquidity solutions. With a TVL exceeding $300 million, Elixir has also introduced deUSD, a synthetic USD stablecoin that maintains stability via a “Delta Neutral Strategy” and generates returns through funding rates.
    • Decentralized Information Asset ($DIA): This on-chain infrastructure token also saw a 115% gain over the week. $DIA is a decentralized oracle platform that delivers reliable data feeds for DeFi and other blockchain applications. Its primary function is to provide on-chain and off-chain market data, price feeds, and oracle services. DIA’s positive price momentum was supported by increased Web3 development activity and rising expectations of application-layer adoption.
    • Pudgy Penguins ($PENGU): Following last week’s surge in NFT concept assets, PENGU maintained robust performance this week with a 111% gain. The Pudgy Penguins NFT collection features 8,888 unique penguin avatars known for their strong IP attributes and deeply engaged community. PENGU’s rise reflects renewed enthusiasm and potential in the NFT sector during the current cycle.

    Infrastructure and Public Chain Sectors Rotate Actively with Layer 1 Market Heating Up

    A notable structural rotation took place this week in the Layer 1 sector, with several key tokens experiencing sharp upward moves.

    • Conflux ($CFX): Rose 104% over the week. Conflux operates as a public Layer 1 blockchain, designed to power dApps, e-commerce, and Web 3.0 infrastructure by offering superior scalability, decentralization, and security compared to existing protocols. $CFX performed exceptionally well, driven by increased on-chain activity in Asia and the rollout of ecosystem support programs.
    • Tezos ($XTZ): Gained 62% this week. As a veteran Layer1 project, Tezos identified governance deficiencies in blockchain networks as early as 2014 and pioneered on-chain governance solutions. Tezos empowers token holders to determine the network’s upgrade roadmap and priorities, effectively resolving disputes and bypassing the need for disruptive network hard forks. Recent upgrades have further propelled its ecosystem expansion, and it has also garnered pilot adoption by several institutional entities.
    • Litecoin ($LTC): Increased 22% weekly. Litecoin’s adoption as a payment method has grown over the years, widely accepted by various merchants and organizations, including the American Red Cross, Newegg, and Twitch. Beyond its consistent price stability, its growing integration with traditional financial concepts has attracted considerable market attention. Recently, LTC was designated as one of the initial assets linked to a “crypto stock fund” launched by a major U.S. brokerage, endowing it with new “crypto ETF-like” attributes.

    HTX Hot Token Listing Winners

    About HTX

    Founded in 2013, HTX has evolved from a virtual asset exchange into a comprehensive ecosystem of blockchain businesses that span digital asset trading, financial derivatives, research, investments, incubation, and other businesses.

    As a world-leading gateway to Web3, HTX harbors global capabilities that enable it to provide users with safe and reliable services. Adhering to the growth strategy of “Global Expansion, Thriving Ecosystem, Wealth Effect, Security & Compliance,” HTX is dedicated to providing quality services and values to virtual asset enthusiasts worldwide.

    To learn more about HTX, please visit https://www.htx.com/ or HTX Square , and follow HTX on X, Telegram, and Discord. For further inquiries, please contact glo-media@htx-inc.com.

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bffad256-800a-488c-afb6-f8158fc13554

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5696437e-b9f3-4a34-907f-0e05c36de15e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ambow Launches HybriU Global Learning Network, Connecting U.S. Universities with Students Worldwide

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New Phygital Infrastructure Empowers U.S. Universities to Expand Globally Through AI-powered Hybrid Classrooms     

    CUPERTINO, Calif., July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ambow Education Holding Ltd. (NYSE American: AMBO), a U.S.-based innovator of AI-powered phygital (physical + digital) solutions for education, corporate collaboration and live events, today announced the launch of its HybriU Global Learning Network (HGLN), a two-pronged initiative designed to help U.S. universities scale international enrollment and deliver immersive, borderless education.

    Ambow’s HGLN initiative integrates two core components: the HybriU University Alliance and a network of HybriU Global Learning Centers. Together, these form a comprehensive system that allows U.S. institutions to extend in-person classroom experiences to international students while providing localized academic and enrollment support to preserve the quality and rigor of individual institutions’ on-campus instruction.

    Through the HybriU University Alliance, U.S. universities can enroll international students who can begin earning credit immediately, without requiring travel or visas, by using Ambow’s HybriU phygital (physical + digital) learning platform. This next-generation system delivers an immersive remote classroom experience that bridges the gap between in-person and online instruction. Students engage in real-time with U.S. faculty through AI-powered digital classrooms featuring live instruction, adaptive learning tools, immersive 3D environments, and automatic real-time translation.     

    HybriU Global Learning Centers support the University Alliance with tech-enabled international hubs. On-site teams staff each center, providing hybrid learning support, academic services, and regional enrollment infrastructure. These centers help universities maintain visibility and continuity across borders while extending their global reach.

    “The future of education is one without boundaries—no boundaries between online and on-site, no boundaries between languages and regions, no boundaries between academia and industry,” said Dr. Jin Huang, CEO of Ambow Education. “Why should students keep chasing campuses when campuses can reach students anywhere? Why let visas, geography or cost block access to world-class education? HybriU and our HGLN initiative are changing the face of global education. We’re redefining what international learning looks like––it’s flexible, inclusive and built to scale. We envision a world where every university has a teaching presence wherever its students are. HGLN offers a future-ready model for global enrollment that institutions need to lead in the next era of education.”

    As part of Ambow’s long-term vision, HGLN aims to create a truly global learning ecosystem—seamlessly linking students, universities and regional hubs through the HybriU platform to unlock worldwide access to higher education. By removing physical and bureaucratic barriers to international learning, HGLN enables universities to preserve growth momentum, deepen global collaboration and reach students in new and accessible ways.

    The HGLN’s partner-driven model enables universities to scale globally without building new infrastructure. Institutions can license the HybriU platform or enter revenue-sharing partnerships, while Ambow’s regional operators handle implementation and on-ground support. Initial HybriU Global Learning Centers are being established in Singapore and China, key strategic regions for U.S. higher education growth.

    Ambow invites accredited U.S. universities to join its HybriU University Alliance and establish a presence through its Global Learning Center network. HGLN is built to scale, with local support teams, shared infrastructure and a growing footprint across Asia and beyond.

    If your institution is interested in joining the HybriU University Alliance to expand international enrollment and global reach, we invite you to contact us at UPartner@HybriU.com .

    For global organizations exploring partnership opportunities to establish a HybriU Global Learning Center, we welcome your inquiries at GLC@HybriU.com.

    To learn more about HybriU, please visit www.HybriU.com.

    About Ambow

    Ambow Education Holding Ltd. is a U.S.-based, AI-driven technology company offering phygital (physical + digital) solutions for education, corporate conferencing and live events. Through its flagship platform, HybriU, Ambow is shaping the future of learning, collaboration and communication—delivering immersive, intelligent, real-time experiences across industries. For more information, visit Ambow’s corporate website at https://www.ambow.com/.

    Follow us on X: @Ambow_Education
    Follow us on LinkedIn: Ambow-education-group

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains statements of a forward-looking nature. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these forward-looking statements by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “estimates” and similar statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections about Ambow and the industry. All information provided in this press release is as of the date hereof, and Ambow undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although Ambow believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that its expectations will turn out to be correct, and investors are cautioned that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results.

    For more information, please contact:

    Ambow Education Holding Ltd.
    E-mail: ir@ambow.com
    or
    Piacente Financial Communications
    Tel: +1 212 481 2050
    E-mail: ambow@tpg-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Ambow Launches HybriU Global Learning Network, Connecting U.S. Universities with Students Worldwide

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New Phygital Infrastructure Empowers U.S. Universities to Expand Globally Through AI-powered Hybrid Classrooms     

    CUPERTINO, Calif., July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ambow Education Holding Ltd. (NYSE American: AMBO), a U.S.-based innovator of AI-powered phygital (physical + digital) solutions for education, corporate collaboration and live events, today announced the launch of its HybriU Global Learning Network (HGLN), a two-pronged initiative designed to help U.S. universities scale international enrollment and deliver immersive, borderless education.

    Ambow’s HGLN initiative integrates two core components: the HybriU University Alliance and a network of HybriU Global Learning Centers. Together, these form a comprehensive system that allows U.S. institutions to extend in-person classroom experiences to international students while providing localized academic and enrollment support to preserve the quality and rigor of individual institutions’ on-campus instruction.

    Through the HybriU University Alliance, U.S. universities can enroll international students who can begin earning credit immediately, without requiring travel or visas, by using Ambow’s HybriU phygital (physical + digital) learning platform. This next-generation system delivers an immersive remote classroom experience that bridges the gap between in-person and online instruction. Students engage in real-time with U.S. faculty through AI-powered digital classrooms featuring live instruction, adaptive learning tools, immersive 3D environments, and automatic real-time translation.     

    HybriU Global Learning Centers support the University Alliance with tech-enabled international hubs. On-site teams staff each center, providing hybrid learning support, academic services, and regional enrollment infrastructure. These centers help universities maintain visibility and continuity across borders while extending their global reach.

    “The future of education is one without boundaries—no boundaries between online and on-site, no boundaries between languages and regions, no boundaries between academia and industry,” said Dr. Jin Huang, CEO of Ambow Education. “Why should students keep chasing campuses when campuses can reach students anywhere? Why let visas, geography or cost block access to world-class education? HybriU and our HGLN initiative are changing the face of global education. We’re redefining what international learning looks like––it’s flexible, inclusive and built to scale. We envision a world where every university has a teaching presence wherever its students are. HGLN offers a future-ready model for global enrollment that institutions need to lead in the next era of education.”

    As part of Ambow’s long-term vision, HGLN aims to create a truly global learning ecosystem—seamlessly linking students, universities and regional hubs through the HybriU platform to unlock worldwide access to higher education. By removing physical and bureaucratic barriers to international learning, HGLN enables universities to preserve growth momentum, deepen global collaboration and reach students in new and accessible ways.

    The HGLN’s partner-driven model enables universities to scale globally without building new infrastructure. Institutions can license the HybriU platform or enter revenue-sharing partnerships, while Ambow’s regional operators handle implementation and on-ground support. Initial HybriU Global Learning Centers are being established in Singapore and China, key strategic regions for U.S. higher education growth.

    Ambow invites accredited U.S. universities to join its HybriU University Alliance and establish a presence through its Global Learning Center network. HGLN is built to scale, with local support teams, shared infrastructure and a growing footprint across Asia and beyond.

    If your institution is interested in joining the HybriU University Alliance to expand international enrollment and global reach, we invite you to contact us at UPartner@HybriU.com .

    For global organizations exploring partnership opportunities to establish a HybriU Global Learning Center, we welcome your inquiries at GLC@HybriU.com.

    To learn more about HybriU, please visit www.HybriU.com.

    About Ambow

    Ambow Education Holding Ltd. is a U.S.-based, AI-driven technology company offering phygital (physical + digital) solutions for education, corporate conferencing and live events. Through its flagship platform, HybriU, Ambow is shaping the future of learning, collaboration and communication—delivering immersive, intelligent, real-time experiences across industries. For more information, visit Ambow’s corporate website at https://www.ambow.com/.

    Follow us on X: @Ambow_Education
    Follow us on LinkedIn: Ambow-education-group

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This press release contains statements of a forward-looking nature. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these forward-looking statements by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “estimates” and similar statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations, assumptions, estimates and projections about Ambow and the industry. All information provided in this press release is as of the date hereof, and Ambow undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although Ambow believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that its expectations will turn out to be correct, and investors are cautioned that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results.

    For more information, please contact:

    Ambow Education Holding Ltd.
    E-mail: ir@ambow.com
    or
    Piacente Financial Communications
    Tel: +1 212 481 2050
    E-mail: ambow@tpg-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Defiance Launches AIPO: The First ETF Focused on AI Power Infrastructure

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Defiance ETFs, a leader in thematic and leveraged exchange-traded funds, today announced the launch of the Defiance AI & Power Infrastructure ETF (Nasdaq: AIPO). This innovative ETF provides investors with targeted exposure to U.S.-listed companies at the forefront of artificial intelligence (AI) and critical power infrastructure, addressing the surging energy demands of AI technologies through decentralized energy solutions, electrical grids, data centers, and AI hardware.

    AIPO seeks to track the MarketVector™ US Listed AI and Power Infrastructure Index, offering a passive approach to high-growth themes without the need for margin accounts. AIPO empowers retail investors to capitalize on the intersection of AI innovation and power infrastructure, including sub-themes like nuclear energy generation, data center operations, and AI-enabling semiconductor hardware.

    Why AI & Power Infrastructure? The explosive growth of AI is straining global energy resources, creating unprecedented opportunities in power generation and infrastructure. Companies in decentralized energy technologies, electric utilities, construction, and AI hardware are poised for expansion as data centers and computing demands escalate. AIPO targets firms deriving at least 50% of revenue from these areas, providing amplified exposure to themes like nuclear power, energy storage, and AI-specific components. This first-mover ETF positions investors to potentially benefit from the high-growth convergence of AI and sustainable power solutions.

    “Defiance continues to drive innovation in thematic ETFs, and AIPO represents a timely opportunity for investors to access the critical link between AI advancements and power infrastructure,” said Sylvia Jablonski, CEO of Defiance ETFs. “As AI technologies require massive energy inputs, companies building the next generation of grids, data centers, and hardware are essential. AIPO offers precise, forward-looking exposure to this dynamic sector, empowering active investors to pursue high-growth potential.”

    About Defiance Founded in 2018, Defiance is at the forefront of ETF innovation. Defiance is a leading ETF issuer specializing in thematic, income, and leveraged ETFs. Our first-mover leveraged single-stock ETFs empower investors to take amplified positions in high-growth companies, providing precise leverage exposure without the need to open a margin account.

    IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

    The Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses must be considered carefully before investing. The prospectus and summary prospectus contain this and other important information about the investment company. Please read carefully before investing. A hard copy of the prospectuses can be requested by calling 833.333.9383.

    Defiance ETFs LLC is the ETF sponsor. The Fund’s investment adviser is Tidal Investments, LLC (“Tidal” or the “Adviser”).

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible. As an ETF, the funds may trade at a premium or discount to NAV. Shares of any ETF are bought and sold at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the Fund. A portfolio concentrated in a single industry or country, may be subject to a higher degree of risk.

    Market Risk: The Fund’s investments may decline in value due to general market conditions, economic events, or factors affecting specific industries or issuers.

    Index Tracking Risk: The Fund may not perfectly replicate the performance of the Index due to fees, expenses, and other operational factors.

    Sector Concentration Risk: Because the Fund may invest heavily in technology, utilities, and energy sectors, it is more vulnerable to adverse developments in these areas.

    AI and Technology Risk: Companies involved in AI hardware and data centers are subject to rapid innovation cycles, competitive pressures, and regulatory challenges.

    Energy and Infrastructure Risk: Power generation and utility companies can be impacted by commodity price volatility, regulatory changes, and environmental factors.

    New Fund Risk: As a newly organized fund, it has no operating history, making it difficult for investors to assess performance or management effectiveness.

    Passive Investment Risk: The Fund does not actively manage its portfolio and will not take defensive positions if the Index declines.

    Liquidity Risk: Shares may trade at prices other than NAV, and certain underlying holdings may have limited liquidity.

    Underlying Index Risk: Errors, changes, or delays in the Index calculation could impact Fund performance.

    Third-Party Data Risk: The Fund relies on external data providers for Index construction, and inaccuracies or delays may affect tracking.

    Operational Risk: Failures or errors by service providers, counterparties, or systems could disrupt Fund operations.

    The MarketVector™ US Listed AI and Power Index (MVAIPO) is a thematic index tracking the performance of companies contributing to critical electrical grid and artificial intelligence infrastructure through nuclear and other decentralized energy technologies, electric equipment and related engineering and construction services, electrical utilities, data center operations, and AI related computing hardware.

    Note: The Fund is not suitable for all investors and is designed for those who understand thematic sector exposures and are willing to monitor their portfolios.

    Distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC.

    Contact: David Hanono, info@defianceetfs.com, 833.333.9383

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4c82c07c-54f0-426d-9cc3-92e69df8e8bf

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: No Credit Check Loans “Guaranteed Approval” Searches Surge: RadCred Launches Bad‑Credit Loan Soft‑Pull for Borrowers with Poor Credit Scores

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Glendale, California, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RadCred, an online loan marketplace (not a lender), today announced an expanded soft‑pull pre‑qualification flow for Americans aggressively searching “no credit check loans guaranteed approval.” The upgraded experience connects applicants only to state‑ or tribal‑licensed direct lenders, shows APR, fees, total repayment, and estimated funding speed up front, and can enable same‑day loans when verification and bank cut‑offs permit. Final approval, APRs, loan amounts, and timing vary by lender, income, and state law.

    Google Trends indicates sustained growth in intent phrases including no credit check loans, online loans no credit check, payday loan online no credit check, 1 hour payday loans no credit check, and online payday loans for bad credit all signals that borrowers with poor or sub‑580 credit scores are seeking faster, softer‑impact paths to funding. RadCred’s marketplace reframes those risky search terms into licensed, transparent, soft‑pull comparisons that reduce confusion and help consumers avoid unlicensed or predatory operators.

    Why No Credit Check Loans” Searches are Spiking

    Rising living costs, volatile gig‑economy income, and tighter bank underwriting have squeezed household budgets. The Federal Reserve’s most recent Survey of Household Economics and Decisionmaking (SHED) again shows many adults would struggle to cover a $400 emergency without borrowing, selling assets, or leaning on credit cards. In that gap, searches for payday loans online, online loans for bad credit, payday loans online same day, same‑day payday loans, $255 payday loans online same day, and small payday loans online no credit check continue to climb.

    Unfortunately, many of the pages ranking for those phrases over‑promise with “instant” or “guaranteed” language that licensed lenders simply cannot make.

    Why $500 Loans Dominate Financial Searches in 2025

    In 2025, $500 loans sit at the sweet spot between urgent need and realistic repayment. Inflation has pushed routine surprises car repairs, utility reconnections, insurance deductibles, last‑minute travel squarely into the $300–$700 band, and many households still report they’d struggle to cover even a $400 bill without borrowing. Add gig‑economy income volatility, tighter bank underwriting, and thin or sub‑580 credit files, and it’s clear why consumers are typing queries like “no credit check loans,” “payday loans online same day,” and “$255 payday loans online same day.”

    A $500 principal is small enough to be approved quickly (often via a soft‑pull pre‑qualification) yet large enough to bridge the month without stacking multiple advances. Marketplaces like RadCred translate those high‑intent searches into licensed, transparent offers whether a short‑term payday advance or a multi‑payment installment plan so borrowers can compare APR, total repay, and funding speed before committing, rather than accepting opaque, rollover‑heavy terms at a storefront.

    What is No Credit Check Loans and What  does it really Means 

    In everyday advertising, “no credit check loans” (often phrased as “online loans no credit check” or “payday loans online no credit check guaranteed approval”) suggests you can borrow money without anyone looking at your credit  and that approval is automatic. In regulated lending, that’s not accurate.

    Here’s what it actually means when you see the term used responsibly:

    • Soft credit inquiry first. Legitimate marketplaces like RadCred let you pre‑qualify with a soft pull, so you can view potential rates and terms without an immediate impact on your FICO score.
    • Verification still happens. Before funding, licensed direct lenders typically run a hard inquiry, verify your identity, review income/bank deposits, and assess ability to repay.
    • No true “guaranteed approval.” At best, it indicates a high preliminary match rate for eligible applicants, not a universal yes.
    • State law controls what’s offered. Some states cap APRs or restrict payday‑style products; compliant platforms filter out unlicensed or prohibited offers automatically.

    How RadCred’s No Credit Check Loans Marketplace Works

    RadCred is an online loan marketplace not a lender. It turns that no credit check loans into a compliant, transparent process that starts with a soft credit inquiry (so viewing offers won’t immediately affect your score) and ends with licensed, clearly priced options from direct lenders only. Here’s the flow:

    1. Soft‑pull pre‑qualification
      You complete a short, mobile‑friendly form. RadCred runs a soft inquiry to let you preview rates, terms, and amounts (e.g., small emergency loans such as $255) without an immediate FICO impact.
    2. ZIP‑code licensing filter
      The platform automatically filters out unlicensed or prohibited products, showing only state‑ or tribal‑licensed lenders that can legally serve your location.
    3. Income‑first matching
      Lenders assess real cash flow (pay stubs, benefits, bank deposits) and alternative datahelpful for online loans for bad credit or thin credit files.
    4. Transparent offer cards
      Each matched offer discloses APR, fees, total repayment, term length, and estimated funding speed including same day funding when verification and bank cut‑offs allow.
    5. E‑sign, verify, and fund
      If you accept an offer, the lender may conduct a hard credit pull and request documents before issuing funds via ACH.
    6. Secure handling & compliance
      RadCred employs encryption and vetting standards, while lenders set all final approval, APR, amount, and timing in line with federal, state, or tribal law.

    Step‑by‑step Guide to Apply for Bad credit loans Instant Approval without Hurting Credit Score

    1. Check your credit reports for errors before applying—especially if you’re considering payday loans online, online loans for bad credit, or small payday loans online no credit check.
    2. Pre‑qualify on RadCred with a soft credit check (often marketed as online loans no credit check) to preview direct lenders only offers for same day loans, online payday loans for bad credit, or installment options without an immediate FICO impact.
    3. Compare APRs, fees, and total repay—not just the monthly payment across payday loans online same day, bad credit payday loan options, and multi‑payment installment plans.
    4. Upload verification documents (pay stubs, bank‑deposit screenshots) if you accept an offer most licensed lenders require this before funding, even when ads say “1 hour payday loans no credit check.”
    5. E‑sign all disclosures (Truth‑in‑Lending, state notices) so you fully understand costs, terms, and any state limits tied to no credit check loans search results.
    6. Receive funds—often the same day when verification clears early and bank cut‑offs permit; popular amounts include $255 payday loans online same day and other small online loans.
    7. Repay on schedule (many lenders allow early payoff with no penalty), which can help you avoid rollovers and, when reported, may support rebuilding credit after using payday loans or other emergency products.

    What U.S. Borrowers Are Really Using Quick Loans For in 2025 — RadCred Research

    RadCred’s 2025 research shows most quick‑loan requests are small, urgent stopgaps not long‑term financing.

    • Rent or mortgage gaps
    • Utility shut‑off notices
    • Car repairs to stay working
    • Medical/dental bills & prescriptions
    • Covering bank overdrafts/fees
    • Emergency travel for family needs
    • Childcare or school expenses
    • Insurance deductibles after accidents

    What U.S. Borrowers Want Before Applying for “No Credit Check” Loans—and How RadCred Solves It

    What people want

    • No hit to their credit score just to see offers (soft check first, not a hard pull)
    • Clear costs up front — APR, fees, total they’ll pay back, and due dates
    • Real speed — honest timelines for same‑day funding (no empty “instant” promises)
    • Licensed, legit lenders only (legal in their state)
    • Small, emergency amounts (often $255–$500) and longer installment options when needed
    • Easy, secure online process with strong data protection
    •  Straight talk on what “no credit check” and “guaranteed approval” really mean

    How RadCred solves it

    • Uses a soft credit check so you can compare offers without hurting your score
    • Shows only state‑ or tribal‑licensed direct lenders that can legally lend to you
    • Puts APR, fees, total repayment, term, and funding speed on every offer car
    • Matches based on income and bank deposits, helping people with bad credit or thin files
    • Can fund the same day when verification clears and bank cut‑offs allow
    • Protects your info with bank‑grade encryption and vetted partners
    • Explains that a hard pull may happen only if you accept an offer—no “guaranteed approval” hype
    •  Points to safer alternatives (credit‑union PALs, credit‑builder loans) when they make more sense

    How Does Instant No Credit Check Loans Process Works

    It starts with a quick, mobile‑first application. You enter basic details income source, active checking account, employment or benefits status, and contact info on the RadCred marketplace. Instead of triggering a hard inquiry, RadCred begins with a no credit check loan, which is what most people mean when they search “no credit check loans” or “payday loans online same day.”

    After you submit, RadCred’s engine instantly routes your request only to state‑ or tribal‑licensed direct lenders that operate legally in your ZIP code. Within minutes, you may see multiple online loans for bad credit offers including small payday loans online no credit check amounts such as $255 payday loans online same day presented side by side with APR, fees, total repay, term length, and estimated funding speed.

    If you choose an offer, you finish directly with the lender. At that point, the lender may run a hard inquiry and request verification documents (pay stubs, bank‑deposit screenshots, ID). Approved loans can fund the same day (or next business day) via ACH, depending on verification speed and bank cut‑offs often as fast as ads promising “1 hour payday loans no credit check.”

    Crucially, RadCred is not a lender; it’s a compliant connector that converts risky search terms into transparent, licensed choices. Approval, APR, loan amount, and timing always vary by lender, income, and state law so you can compare first, then decide what’s affordable.

    FAQ

    Will applying through RadCred hurt my credit?
    Pre‑qualification uses a soft credit inquiry, which does not affect your score. A hard pull may follow if you accept and finalize an offer.

    How fast can I receive funds?
    Some lenders can fund the same day once verification clears and bank cut‑offs allow; later submissions often fund next business day.

    Are “no credit check loans” legal in every state?
     No. Some states cap APRs, restrict payday‑style products, or prohibit them. RadCred’s licensing filter hides offers not permitted in your ZIP code.

    What APRs should I expect with a sub‑580 score?
    APRs vary widely by state, lender, and risk. Sub‑prime loans typically carry higher rates compare total repay before committing.

    Can on‑time payments help my credit?
     Potentially. Some lenders report repayment to credit bureaus, which can help improve a thin or damaged file when payments are made on time.

    Conclusion

    As searches for “no credit check loans guaranteed approval” surge, RadCred offers a compliant alternative: soft‑pull pre‑qualification, licensed direct lenders only, transparent APR and fee disclosures, and same day payday loan funding potential all designed to give borrowers with poor credit scores (580 or below) a clearer, safer way to access emergency cash.

    About RadCred

    RadCred is an online loan marketplace for no credit check guaranteed approval , not a lender. The platform connects U.S. consumers to a vetted network of state‑licensed and tribal direct lenders offering payday, installment, and emergency personal loans typically from $255 to $5,000. RadCred emphasizes income‑first underwriting, soft‑pull access, encrypted processing, and clear cost disclosures to expand responsible access to small‑dollar credit for underserved borrowers.

    Disclaimer

    RadCred is not a lender and does not make credit decisions. Loan approval, APR, fees, loan amounts, and funding speed are determined solely by participating lenders and governed by applicable federal, state, or tribal law. Offers begin with a soft inquiry; a hard credit pull may occur before funding. Not all applicants will qualify. Borrow responsibly—only what you can comfortably repay.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: No Credit Check Loans “Guaranteed Approval” Searches Surge: RadCred Launches Bad‑Credit Loan Soft‑Pull for Borrowers with Poor Credit Scores

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Glendale, California, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RadCred, an online loan marketplace (not a lender), today announced an expanded soft‑pull pre‑qualification flow for Americans aggressively searching “no credit check loans guaranteed approval.” The upgraded experience connects applicants only to state‑ or tribal‑licensed direct lenders, shows APR, fees, total repayment, and estimated funding speed up front, and can enable same‑day loans when verification and bank cut‑offs permit. Final approval, APRs, loan amounts, and timing vary by lender, income, and state law.

    Google Trends indicates sustained growth in intent phrases including no credit check loans, online loans no credit check, payday loan online no credit check, 1 hour payday loans no credit check, and online payday loans for bad credit all signals that borrowers with poor or sub‑580 credit scores are seeking faster, softer‑impact paths to funding. RadCred’s marketplace reframes those risky search terms into licensed, transparent, soft‑pull comparisons that reduce confusion and help consumers avoid unlicensed or predatory operators.

    Why No Credit Check Loans” Searches are Spiking

    Rising living costs, volatile gig‑economy income, and tighter bank underwriting have squeezed household budgets. The Federal Reserve’s most recent Survey of Household Economics and Decisionmaking (SHED) again shows many adults would struggle to cover a $400 emergency without borrowing, selling assets, or leaning on credit cards. In that gap, searches for payday loans online, online loans for bad credit, payday loans online same day, same‑day payday loans, $255 payday loans online same day, and small payday loans online no credit check continue to climb.

    Unfortunately, many of the pages ranking for those phrases over‑promise with “instant” or “guaranteed” language that licensed lenders simply cannot make.

    Why $500 Loans Dominate Financial Searches in 2025

    In 2025, $500 loans sit at the sweet spot between urgent need and realistic repayment. Inflation has pushed routine surprises car repairs, utility reconnections, insurance deductibles, last‑minute travel squarely into the $300–$700 band, and many households still report they’d struggle to cover even a $400 bill without borrowing. Add gig‑economy income volatility, tighter bank underwriting, and thin or sub‑580 credit files, and it’s clear why consumers are typing queries like “no credit check loans,” “payday loans online same day,” and “$255 payday loans online same day.”

    A $500 principal is small enough to be approved quickly (often via a soft‑pull pre‑qualification) yet large enough to bridge the month without stacking multiple advances. Marketplaces like RadCred translate those high‑intent searches into licensed, transparent offers whether a short‑term payday advance or a multi‑payment installment plan so borrowers can compare APR, total repay, and funding speed before committing, rather than accepting opaque, rollover‑heavy terms at a storefront.

    What is No Credit Check Loans and What  does it really Means 

    In everyday advertising, “no credit check loans” (often phrased as “online loans no credit check” or “payday loans online no credit check guaranteed approval”) suggests you can borrow money without anyone looking at your credit  and that approval is automatic. In regulated lending, that’s not accurate.

    Here’s what it actually means when you see the term used responsibly:

    • Soft credit inquiry first. Legitimate marketplaces like RadCred let you pre‑qualify with a soft pull, so you can view potential rates and terms without an immediate impact on your FICO score.
    • Verification still happens. Before funding, licensed direct lenders typically run a hard inquiry, verify your identity, review income/bank deposits, and assess ability to repay.
    • No true “guaranteed approval.” At best, it indicates a high preliminary match rate for eligible applicants, not a universal yes.
    • State law controls what’s offered. Some states cap APRs or restrict payday‑style products; compliant platforms filter out unlicensed or prohibited offers automatically.

    How RadCred’s No Credit Check Loans Marketplace Works

    RadCred is an online loan marketplace not a lender. It turns that no credit check loans into a compliant, transparent process that starts with a soft credit inquiry (so viewing offers won’t immediately affect your score) and ends with licensed, clearly priced options from direct lenders only. Here’s the flow:

    1. Soft‑pull pre‑qualification
      You complete a short, mobile‑friendly form. RadCred runs a soft inquiry to let you preview rates, terms, and amounts (e.g., small emergency loans such as $255) without an immediate FICO impact.
    2. ZIP‑code licensing filter
      The platform automatically filters out unlicensed or prohibited products, showing only state‑ or tribal‑licensed lenders that can legally serve your location.
    3. Income‑first matching
      Lenders assess real cash flow (pay stubs, benefits, bank deposits) and alternative datahelpful for online loans for bad credit or thin credit files.
    4. Transparent offer cards
      Each matched offer discloses APR, fees, total repayment, term length, and estimated funding speed including same day funding when verification and bank cut‑offs allow.
    5. E‑sign, verify, and fund
      If you accept an offer, the lender may conduct a hard credit pull and request documents before issuing funds via ACH.
    6. Secure handling & compliance
      RadCred employs encryption and vetting standards, while lenders set all final approval, APR, amount, and timing in line with federal, state, or tribal law.

    Step‑by‑step Guide to Apply for Bad credit loans Instant Approval without Hurting Credit Score

    1. Check your credit reports for errors before applying—especially if you’re considering payday loans online, online loans for bad credit, or small payday loans online no credit check.
    2. Pre‑qualify on RadCred with a soft credit check (often marketed as online loans no credit check) to preview direct lenders only offers for same day loans, online payday loans for bad credit, or installment options without an immediate FICO impact.
    3. Compare APRs, fees, and total repay—not just the monthly payment across payday loans online same day, bad credit payday loan options, and multi‑payment installment plans.
    4. Upload verification documents (pay stubs, bank‑deposit screenshots) if you accept an offer most licensed lenders require this before funding, even when ads say “1 hour payday loans no credit check.”
    5. E‑sign all disclosures (Truth‑in‑Lending, state notices) so you fully understand costs, terms, and any state limits tied to no credit check loans search results.
    6. Receive funds—often the same day when verification clears early and bank cut‑offs permit; popular amounts include $255 payday loans online same day and other small online loans.
    7. Repay on schedule (many lenders allow early payoff with no penalty), which can help you avoid rollovers and, when reported, may support rebuilding credit after using payday loans or other emergency products.

    What U.S. Borrowers Are Really Using Quick Loans For in 2025 — RadCred Research

    RadCred’s 2025 research shows most quick‑loan requests are small, urgent stopgaps not long‑term financing.

    • Rent or mortgage gaps
    • Utility shut‑off notices
    • Car repairs to stay working
    • Medical/dental bills & prescriptions
    • Covering bank overdrafts/fees
    • Emergency travel for family needs
    • Childcare or school expenses
    • Insurance deductibles after accidents

    What U.S. Borrowers Want Before Applying for “No Credit Check” Loans—and How RadCred Solves It

    What people want

    • No hit to their credit score just to see offers (soft check first, not a hard pull)
    • Clear costs up front — APR, fees, total they’ll pay back, and due dates
    • Real speed — honest timelines for same‑day funding (no empty “instant” promises)
    • Licensed, legit lenders only (legal in their state)
    • Small, emergency amounts (often $255–$500) and longer installment options when needed
    • Easy, secure online process with strong data protection
    •  Straight talk on what “no credit check” and “guaranteed approval” really mean

    How RadCred solves it

    • Uses a soft credit check so you can compare offers without hurting your score
    • Shows only state‑ or tribal‑licensed direct lenders that can legally lend to you
    • Puts APR, fees, total repayment, term, and funding speed on every offer car
    • Matches based on income and bank deposits, helping people with bad credit or thin files
    • Can fund the same day when verification clears and bank cut‑offs allow
    • Protects your info with bank‑grade encryption and vetted partners
    • Explains that a hard pull may happen only if you accept an offer—no “guaranteed approval” hype
    •  Points to safer alternatives (credit‑union PALs, credit‑builder loans) when they make more sense

    How Does Instant No Credit Check Loans Process Works

    It starts with a quick, mobile‑first application. You enter basic details income source, active checking account, employment or benefits status, and contact info on the RadCred marketplace. Instead of triggering a hard inquiry, RadCred begins with a no credit check loan, which is what most people mean when they search “no credit check loans” or “payday loans online same day.”

    After you submit, RadCred’s engine instantly routes your request only to state‑ or tribal‑licensed direct lenders that operate legally in your ZIP code. Within minutes, you may see multiple online loans for bad credit offers including small payday loans online no credit check amounts such as $255 payday loans online same day presented side by side with APR, fees, total repay, term length, and estimated funding speed.

    If you choose an offer, you finish directly with the lender. At that point, the lender may run a hard inquiry and request verification documents (pay stubs, bank‑deposit screenshots, ID). Approved loans can fund the same day (or next business day) via ACH, depending on verification speed and bank cut‑offs often as fast as ads promising “1 hour payday loans no credit check.”

    Crucially, RadCred is not a lender; it’s a compliant connector that converts risky search terms into transparent, licensed choices. Approval, APR, loan amount, and timing always vary by lender, income, and state law so you can compare first, then decide what’s affordable.

    FAQ

    Will applying through RadCred hurt my credit?
    Pre‑qualification uses a soft credit inquiry, which does not affect your score. A hard pull may follow if you accept and finalize an offer.

    How fast can I receive funds?
    Some lenders can fund the same day once verification clears and bank cut‑offs allow; later submissions often fund next business day.

    Are “no credit check loans” legal in every state?
     No. Some states cap APRs, restrict payday‑style products, or prohibit them. RadCred’s licensing filter hides offers not permitted in your ZIP code.

    What APRs should I expect with a sub‑580 score?
    APRs vary widely by state, lender, and risk. Sub‑prime loans typically carry higher rates compare total repay before committing.

    Can on‑time payments help my credit?
     Potentially. Some lenders report repayment to credit bureaus, which can help improve a thin or damaged file when payments are made on time.

    Conclusion

    As searches for “no credit check loans guaranteed approval” surge, RadCred offers a compliant alternative: soft‑pull pre‑qualification, licensed direct lenders only, transparent APR and fee disclosures, and same day payday loan funding potential all designed to give borrowers with poor credit scores (580 or below) a clearer, safer way to access emergency cash.

    About RadCred

    RadCred is an online loan marketplace for no credit check guaranteed approval , not a lender. The platform connects U.S. consumers to a vetted network of state‑licensed and tribal direct lenders offering payday, installment, and emergency personal loans typically from $255 to $5,000. RadCred emphasizes income‑first underwriting, soft‑pull access, encrypted processing, and clear cost disclosures to expand responsible access to small‑dollar credit for underserved borrowers.

    Disclaimer

    RadCred is not a lender and does not make credit decisions. Loan approval, APR, fees, loan amounts, and funding speed are determined solely by participating lenders and governed by applicable federal, state, or tribal law. Offers begin with a soft inquiry; a hard credit pull may occur before funding. Not all applicants will qualify. Borrow responsibly—only what you can comfortably repay.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Inception Growth Acquisition Limited Announces Adjournment of the Special Meeting to August 8, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Inception Growth Acquisition Limited (the “Company”), a blank check company, today announced that it convened its special meeting (“Special Meeting”) and immediately adjourned the Special Meeting, without conducting any business, to August 8, 2025. The Special Meeting was adjourned as to all of the proposals contained in the Company’s definitive proxy statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on May 27, 2025, as supplemented by the supplement to the definitive proxy statement on June 26, 2025 (the “Proxy Statement”), including the proposal to approve the proposed business combination with AgileAlgo Holdings Ltd.

    As a result of the adjournment, the Special Meeting will now be held at 10:00 AM Hong Kong Time on August 8, 2025, and virtually via teleconference using the following dial-in information: 

    US Toll Free   +1 866 213 0992
    Hong Kong Toll   +852 2112 1888
    Participant Passcode   2910077#

    The record date for determining the Company stockholders entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the Special Meeting remains the close of business on May 27, 2025 (the “Record Date”). Stockholders as of the Record Date are eligible to vote, even if they have subsequently sold their shares.

    The Company’s stockholders who have questions regarding the adjournment, or the Special Meeting, or would like to request documents may contact the Company’s proxy solicitor, Advantage Proxy, Inc., at (877) 870-8565, or banks and brokers can call (206) 870-8565, or by email at ksmith@advantageproxy.com.

    If you have already voted, you do not need to vote again unless you would like to change or revoke your prior vote on any proposal. In addition, stockholders who have already submitted a redemption request with respect to the shares held by them may withdraw such request by contacting our transfer agent. If you would like to change or revoke your prior vote on any proposal, or reverse a redemption request, please refer to the Proxy Statement for additional information on how to do so.
      
    If you have already submitted a proxy and do not wish to change your vote, you need not take any further action. If you have submitted a proxy and wish to change your vote, you may revoke your proxy at any time before it is exercised at the Special Meeting as provided in the Original Proxy Statement. Please note, however, that if your shares are held in street name by a broker or other nominee and you wish to revoke a proxy, you must contact the broker or nominee to revoke any prior voting instructions.

    About Inception Growth Acquisition Limited

    Inception Growth Acquisition Limited is a blank check company incorporated under the laws of Delaware whose business purpose is to effect a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. Such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to the date of the Special Meeting, are subject to risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements. The Company expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations with respect thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.

    Additional Information and Where to Find It

    On May 27, 2025, the Company filed a definitive proxy statement, and on June 26, 2025, the Company filed a supplement to the definitive proxy statement with the SEC in connection with its solicitation of proxies for the Special Meeting. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF THE COMPANY ARE URGED TO READ THE SUPPLEMENT, THE PROXY STATEMENT (INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) AND OTHER DOCUMENTS THE COMPANY FILES WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE AS THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain free copies of the definitive proxy statement (including any amendments or supplements thereto) and other documents filed with the SEC through the web site maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov or by contacting the Company’s proxy solicitor.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    The Company and its respective directors and officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from shareholders in connection with the Special Meeting. Additional information regarding the identity of these potential participants and their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, is set forth in the definitive proxy statement. You may obtain free copies of these documents using the sources indicated above.

    Contact

    Inception Growth Acquisition Limited
    Investor Relationship Department
    (315) 636-6638

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Inception Growth Acquisition Limited Announces Adjournment of the Special Meeting to August 8, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, July 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Inception Growth Acquisition Limited (the “Company”), a blank check company, today announced that it convened its special meeting (“Special Meeting”) and immediately adjourned the Special Meeting, without conducting any business, to August 8, 2025. The Special Meeting was adjourned as to all of the proposals contained in the Company’s definitive proxy statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on May 27, 2025, as supplemented by the supplement to the definitive proxy statement on June 26, 2025 (the “Proxy Statement”), including the proposal to approve the proposed business combination with AgileAlgo Holdings Ltd.

    As a result of the adjournment, the Special Meeting will now be held at 10:00 AM Hong Kong Time on August 8, 2025, and virtually via teleconference using the following dial-in information: 

    US Toll Free   +1 866 213 0992
    Hong Kong Toll   +852 2112 1888
    Participant Passcode   2910077#

    The record date for determining the Company stockholders entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the Special Meeting remains the close of business on May 27, 2025 (the “Record Date”). Stockholders as of the Record Date are eligible to vote, even if they have subsequently sold their shares.

    The Company’s stockholders who have questions regarding the adjournment, or the Special Meeting, or would like to request documents may contact the Company’s proxy solicitor, Advantage Proxy, Inc., at (877) 870-8565, or banks and brokers can call (206) 870-8565, or by email at ksmith@advantageproxy.com.

    If you have already voted, you do not need to vote again unless you would like to change or revoke your prior vote on any proposal. In addition, stockholders who have already submitted a redemption request with respect to the shares held by them may withdraw such request by contacting our transfer agent. If you would like to change or revoke your prior vote on any proposal, or reverse a redemption request, please refer to the Proxy Statement for additional information on how to do so.
      
    If you have already submitted a proxy and do not wish to change your vote, you need not take any further action. If you have submitted a proxy and wish to change your vote, you may revoke your proxy at any time before it is exercised at the Special Meeting as provided in the Original Proxy Statement. Please note, however, that if your shares are held in street name by a broker or other nominee and you wish to revoke a proxy, you must contact the broker or nominee to revoke any prior voting instructions.

    About Inception Growth Acquisition Limited

    Inception Growth Acquisition Limited is a blank check company incorporated under the laws of Delaware whose business purpose is to effect a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities.

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. Such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to the date of the Special Meeting, are subject to risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements. The Company expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations with respect thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.

    Additional Information and Where to Find It

    On May 27, 2025, the Company filed a definitive proxy statement, and on June 26, 2025, the Company filed a supplement to the definitive proxy statement with the SEC in connection with its solicitation of proxies for the Special Meeting. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF THE COMPANY ARE URGED TO READ THE SUPPLEMENT, THE PROXY STATEMENT (INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) AND OTHER DOCUMENTS THE COMPANY FILES WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE AS THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain free copies of the definitive proxy statement (including any amendments or supplements thereto) and other documents filed with the SEC through the web site maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov or by contacting the Company’s proxy solicitor.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    The Company and its respective directors and officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from shareholders in connection with the Special Meeting. Additional information regarding the identity of these potential participants and their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, is set forth in the definitive proxy statement. You may obtain free copies of these documents using the sources indicated above.

    Contact

    Inception Growth Acquisition Limited
    Investor Relationship Department
    (315) 636-6638

    The MIL Network –