NewzIntel.com

Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI Security: ICE Arrests Worst of Worst Criminal Illegal Aliens

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    70% of ICE’s arrests have been of illegal aliens convicted or charged with crimes

    WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) highlighted U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers’ arrests of the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens from across the United States.  

    “President Trump and Secretary Noem have unleashed ICE to target the worst of the worst. Our brave law enforcement is facing an 830% increase in assaults against them and yet they continue to arrest violent criminals and drug traffickers every single day,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. We will not allow sanctuary politicians, activist hacks, or rioters stand in our way of protecting the American people. Our message is clear: criminal illegal aliens are not welcome in the United States.”  

    • ICE Baltimore arrested Olinda Micaela Gonzalez-Ortiz, a 21-year-old illegal alien from Guatemala. Her criminal history includes a conviction for hit and run in Salisbury, MD. 
    • ICE Denver arrested Federico Fong-Nunez, a 53-year-old illegal alien from Mexico. He has 21 criminal convictions including burglary, aggravated assault, and felony menacing, in Boulder, CO
    • ICE Los Angeles arrested Luis Alberto Leonardo Cortes-Rivera, a 34-year-old illegal alien from Mexico. He has nine criminal convictions including grand theft, burglary, and tampering with a vehicle, in Los Angeles, CA. 
    • ICE Dallas arrested Rureiro Falkao, a 46-year-old illegal alien from Honduras. His criminal history includes conviction for possession of methamphetamine, in Oklahoma City, OK. 
    • ICE Houston arrested Jhon Jervis Chavez-De La Rosa, a 21-year-old illegal alien from Venezuela. His criminal history includes a conviction of assault causing bodily injury, in Houston, TX. 

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: There is no known cure for ALS, but medical tourism exploits desperation for profit

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Judy Illes, Professor, Neurology, University of British Columbia

    Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating neurological disorder of unknown cause, in which motor nerve cells of the brain and spinal cord that transmit signals to muscles progressively degenerate. This weakens limbs and affects speech, swallowing and ultimately the ability to breathe, resulting in death, typically within just a few years.

    Each year in Canada, approximately two people per 100,000 are diagnosed with ALS, amounting to about 1,000 cases based on the current population. In British Columbia, where we are located, the rate is estimated at just over three per 100,000 or roughly 190 new cases per year.

    This equates to approximately 4,000 Canadians — and 400 British Columbians — living with ALS at any given time.

    Rigorous ALS research is underway locally, nationally and internationally to slow — and ideally reverse — the relentless progression of this disease. Significant advances in understanding the genetic and environmental drivers of ALS are providing genuine hope that motor neuron diseases will one day be defeated.

    As experts in neurology and ethics, we are committed to delivering the best available health care and information throughout B.C. and across Canada. Trust in science and informed hope are essential to achieving the best possible outcomes and the longest possible trajectories in enjoying life when facing the overwhelming odds of ALS.

    A disturbing case

    In June, CBC’s The National reported on the case of Geoff Sando, a person living with ALS who pursued an unproven intervention for his condition. Sando travelled to Moose Jaw, Sask., to seek treatment at a clinic that claims to provide a cure for ALS.

    CBC’s The National reports on a Saskatchewan clinic claiming to offer ALS treatments.

    The ALS Society of Saskatchewan and the provincial New Democrat Party allege the clinic attended by Sando and several other patients is a form of medical tourism — travelling elsewhere to seek treatment — that can prey on the most vulnerable in society: those whose quality of life is deteriorating, and whose futures are tragically cut short.

    Medical tourism for a wide variety of other health-related conditions is not new. For example, treatments for cancer, strokes and orthopedic conditions have been available abroad for decades.

    In the United States and Mexico, unfounded stem cell interventions for ALS have been advertised for years. But until recently, it had been unusual to find such offerings in Canada. Their emergence speaks to the need for Health Canada to revisit its guidance on both regulated health and unregulated wellness products, including all forms of treatments, medications and device-based approaches.



    Read more:
    Giving patients the ‘right to try’ experimental drugs is a political maneuver, not a lifesaver

    We understand the urgency and desire to pursue any thread of hope in the face of desperation, but claims of dramatic improvement or cures from ALS by unregulated clinics that seem too good to be true are likely just that.

    Before investing in alternative treatments, we recommend that patients conduct their due diligence by consulting with their health-care team and their provincial ALS society for guidance. Ineffective interventions can jeopardize not only recipients, but also caregivers, especially when financial resources are drained.

    Trusted sources

    Developing approved therapies for ALS has been painfully slow, as evidenced by the failure of more than 95 per cent of ALS clinical trials in the past 28 years. Only three drugs — riluzole, edaravone and tofersen — have been approved by Health Canada and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

    Although riluzole and edaravone are only modestly effective, they remain the only widely approved pharmacological options for all forms of ALS. Tofersen is the first gene therapy recently approved to treat hereditary ALS caused by SOD1 gene abnormalities. Other treatments are being evaluated worldwide.

    This marks only the beginning of such treatment approaches to not only hereditary ALS but also non-hereditary ALS, which makes up about 90 per cent of all cases.



    Read more:
    A promising new study could lead to a reduction in symptoms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

    For those affected by ALS and their families, ample resources are provided by various organizations, including ALS Canada and related provincial organizations, including the ALS Society of BC.

    Future hope

    Canadians generally trust science and scientists more than citizens of other countries and, on the whole, value science and believe in our government’s support for the work that scientists do.

    But in this time of geopolitical upheaval, vast incursions of disinformation and reversals of prior evidence-based human and health rights abroad means keeping up this level of trust — trust that leads to hope — will only become more challenging.

    The disproportionate suffering and impact on people who are marginalized by serious health conditions will only grow if dubious treatment offerings become normalized in Canada.

    Erik P Pioro consults for MT Pharma, which manufactures edaravone (Radicava) and for Biogen, which manufactures tofersen (Qalsody). He has received funding support for ALS research from the ALS Association and the National Institutes of Health.

    Judy Illes does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. There is no known cure for ALS, but medical tourism exploits desperation for profit – https://theconversation.com/there-is-no-known-cure-for-als-but-medical-tourism-exploits-desperation-for-profit-261057

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking: US announces withdrawal from UNESCO again

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    WASHINGTON, July 22 (Xinhua) — The United States on Tuesday announced its decision to withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), two years after rejoining it.

    According to a statement from the US State Department, the decision was made in connection with UNESCO’s policy, which Washington believes “promotes divisive social and cultural initiatives” against the backdrop of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. –0–

    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.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China urges US to strengthen mutual understanding through dialogue and contacts /detailed version-1/

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 22 (Xinhua) — China hopes the United States will work with China to enhance mutual understanding, reduce misunderstandings and enhance cooperation through dialogue and communication, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Tuesday.

    Guo Jiakun thus answered a question regarding Chinese-American trade and economic relations at a regular press conference.

    China’s position on tariff issues is consistent and clear, a Chinese diplomat said.

    “We hope that the US will work with China to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state during the phone call and give full play to the role of the China-US economic and trade consultation mechanism,” the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said.

    He called on the US to work with China to promote stable, healthy and sustainable development of bilateral relations. -0-

    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 USA: Statement on the Departure of PCAOB Chair Erica Y. Williams

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    Today, Erica Williams steps down as the Chair of the PCAOB. While I was disheartened last week to read of her compelled resignation, I am nothing but grateful for her exemplary service and stewardship of the PCAOB. Chair Williams has served the Board, the Commission, the investing public and markets with honor and distinction. 

    During her tenure, the PCAOB has updated, refined and modernized auditing standards and rules, and improved overall audit quality; sharpened the inspections program and helped reduce deficiencies across audit firms; and, effectively held wrongdoers to account, helping to deter future bad actors and making our markets safer for investment. It has overseen inspections in over 50 jurisdictions around the world – including for the first time in China. And, the Board has made firm inspection reports more useful, and accelerated their publication, to the benefit of investors, audit committees, and the markets. 

    Chair Williams has also been a leader and a mentor to the PCAOB’s deeply talented and irreplaceably expert staff, who I know will sorely miss her unwavering, tenacious advocacy on their behalf. 

    The PCAOB has a singular mission – to regulate the audits of public companies and SEC-registered brokers and dealers in order to protect investors and further the public interest in the preparation of informative, accurate, and independent audit reports. Chair Williams and her staff have carried out this mission with grace, integrity and with clear, unwavering purpose. Our markets are more robust and reliable for their service. 

    On behalf of myself and the millions of investors who have benefitted from your commitment and dedication – thank you, Chair Williams.

    To Board Member Botic, who tomorrow steps into some big shoes, I wish you the best of luck. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Swedish Man Who Licensed Rights to Late Colombian Drug Lord Pablo Escobar Pleads Guilty to Fraud, Money Laundering Charges

    Source: US FBI

    LOS ANGELES – A Swedish national who licensed the rights of the late Colombian narco-terrorist Pablo Escobar pleaded guilty today to six federal criminal charges for defrauding investors by marketing and selling products – including flamethrowers and cellphones – that he never delivered.

    Olof Kyros Gustafsson, 32, a.k.a. “El Silencio,” pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud, one count of wire fraud, one count of mail fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, one count of concealment money laundering, and one count of international concealment money laundering.

    Gustafsson has been in federal custody since March 28, when he was extradited to the United States from Spain, where he was arrested in December 2023. 

    According to his plea agreement, Gustafsson was the CEO of Escobar Inc., a corporation registered in Puerto Rico that held successor-in-interest rights to the persona and legacy of Pablo Escobar, the deceased Colombian narco-terrorist and late head of the Medellín Cartel. Escobar Inc. used Pablo Escobar’s likeness and persona to market and sell purported consumer products to the public.

    From July 2019 to November 2023, Gustafsson identified existing products in the marketplace that were being manufactured and sold to the public. He then used the Escobar persona to market and advertise similar and competing products purportedly being sold by Escobar Inc., advertising them at a price substantially lower than existing counterparts being sold by other companies.

    Gustafsson then purportedly sold the products – including an Escobar Flamethrower, an Escobar Fold Phone, an Escobar Gold 11 Pro Phone, and Escobar Cash (marketed as a “physical cryptocurrency”) – to customers, receiving payments via PayPal, Stripe, Coinbase, among other payment processors, as well as bank and wire transfers.

    Despite receiving customer payments, Gustafsson did not deliver the Escobar Inc. products to paying customers because the products did not exist.

    In furtherance of the scheme, Gustafsson sent crudely made samples of the purported Escobar Inc. products to online technology reviewers and social media influencers to attempt to increase the public’s demand for them. For example, Gustafsson sent Samsung Galaxy Fold Phones wrapped in gold foil and disguised as Escobar Inc. phones to online technology reviewers to attempt to induce victims who watched the online reviews into buying the products that never would be delivered.

    Also, rather than sending paying customers the actual products, Gustafsson mailed them a “Certificate of Ownership,” a book, or other Escobar Inc. promotional materials so there was a record of mailing from the company to the customer. When a paying customer attempted to obtain a refund when the product was never delivered, Gustafsson fraudulently referred the payment processor to the proof of mailing for the Certificate of Ownership or other material as proof that the product itself was shipped and that the customer had received it so the refund requests would be denied.

    Gustafsson also caused bank accounts to be opened under his name and entities he controlled to be used as funnel accounts – bank accounts into which he deposited and withdrew proceeds derived from his criminal activities. The purpose was to conceal and disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the proceeds. The bank accounts were located in the United States, Sweden, and the United Arab Emirates.

    United States District Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha scheduled a December 5 sentencing hearing, at which time Gustafsson will face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each fraud-related count and up to 10 years in federal prison for each money laundering-related count. 

    As part of his plea agreement, Gustafsson agreed to pay up to $1.3 million in restitution to victims, as well as to forfeiture to funds that were proceeds of the fraud schemes, including money currently held in a bank account in Sweden.

    IRS Criminal Investigation, the FBI, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation-Office of Inspector General are investigating this matter, with assistance from the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, the United States Marshals Service, Eurojust, Spanish authorities, and French judicial authorities.

    Assistant United States Attorney Joshua O. Mausner of the Violent and Organized Crime Section is prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Swedish Man Who Licensed Rights to Late Colombian Drug Lord Pablo Escobar Pleads Guilty to Fraud, Money Laundering Charges

    Source: US FBI

    LOS ANGELES – A Swedish national who licensed the rights of the late Colombian narco-terrorist Pablo Escobar pleaded guilty today to six federal criminal charges for defrauding investors by marketing and selling products – including flamethrowers and cellphones – that he never delivered.

    Olof Kyros Gustafsson, 32, a.k.a. “El Silencio,” pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud, one count of wire fraud, one count of mail fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, one count of concealment money laundering, and one count of international concealment money laundering.

    Gustafsson has been in federal custody since March 28, when he was extradited to the United States from Spain, where he was arrested in December 2023. 

    According to his plea agreement, Gustafsson was the CEO of Escobar Inc., a corporation registered in Puerto Rico that held successor-in-interest rights to the persona and legacy of Pablo Escobar, the deceased Colombian narco-terrorist and late head of the Medellín Cartel. Escobar Inc. used Pablo Escobar’s likeness and persona to market and sell purported consumer products to the public.

    From July 2019 to November 2023, Gustafsson identified existing products in the marketplace that were being manufactured and sold to the public. He then used the Escobar persona to market and advertise similar and competing products purportedly being sold by Escobar Inc., advertising them at a price substantially lower than existing counterparts being sold by other companies.

    Gustafsson then purportedly sold the products – including an Escobar Flamethrower, an Escobar Fold Phone, an Escobar Gold 11 Pro Phone, and Escobar Cash (marketed as a “physical cryptocurrency”) – to customers, receiving payments via PayPal, Stripe, Coinbase, among other payment processors, as well as bank and wire transfers.

    Despite receiving customer payments, Gustafsson did not deliver the Escobar Inc. products to paying customers because the products did not exist.

    In furtherance of the scheme, Gustafsson sent crudely made samples of the purported Escobar Inc. products to online technology reviewers and social media influencers to attempt to increase the public’s demand for them. For example, Gustafsson sent Samsung Galaxy Fold Phones wrapped in gold foil and disguised as Escobar Inc. phones to online technology reviewers to attempt to induce victims who watched the online reviews into buying the products that never would be delivered.

    Also, rather than sending paying customers the actual products, Gustafsson mailed them a “Certificate of Ownership,” a book, or other Escobar Inc. promotional materials so there was a record of mailing from the company to the customer. When a paying customer attempted to obtain a refund when the product was never delivered, Gustafsson fraudulently referred the payment processor to the proof of mailing for the Certificate of Ownership or other material as proof that the product itself was shipped and that the customer had received it so the refund requests would be denied.

    Gustafsson also caused bank accounts to be opened under his name and entities he controlled to be used as funnel accounts – bank accounts into which he deposited and withdrew proceeds derived from his criminal activities. The purpose was to conceal and disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the proceeds. The bank accounts were located in the United States, Sweden, and the United Arab Emirates.

    United States District Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha scheduled a December 5 sentencing hearing, at which time Gustafsson will face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each fraud-related count and up to 10 years in federal prison for each money laundering-related count. 

    As part of his plea agreement, Gustafsson agreed to pay up to $1.3 million in restitution to victims, as well as to forfeiture to funds that were proceeds of the fraud schemes, including money currently held in a bank account in Sweden.

    IRS Criminal Investigation, the FBI, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation-Office of Inspector General are investigating this matter, with assistance from the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, the United States Marshals Service, Eurojust, Spanish authorities, and French judicial authorities.

    Assistant United States Attorney Joshua O. Mausner of the Violent and Organized Crime Section is prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: First Financial Corporation Reports Second Quarter Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TERRE HAUTE, Ind., July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — First Financial Corporation (NASDAQ:THFF) today announced results for the second quarter of 2025.

    • Net income was $18.6 million compared to $11.4 million reported for the same period of 2024;
    • Diluted net income per common share of $1.57 compared to $0.96 for the same period of 2024;
    • Return on average assets was 1.34% compared to 0.94% for the three months ended June 30, 2024;
    • Provision for credit losses was $2.0 million compared to provision of $3.0 million for the second quarter 2024; and
    • Pre-tax, pre-provision net income was $24.9 million compared to $16.2 million for the same period in 2024.1

    The Corporation further reported results for the six months ended June 30, 2025:

    • Net income was $37.0 million compared to $22.3 million reported for the same period of 2024;
    • Diluted net income per common share of $3.12 compared to $1.89 for the same period of 2024;
    • Return on average assets was 1.34% compared to 0.93% for the six months ended June 30, 2024;
    • Provision for credit losses was $3.9 million compared to provision of $4.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2024; and
    • Pre-tax, pre-provision net income was $50.6 million compared to $31.2 million for the same period in 2024.1

    ________________________
    1    Non-GAAP financial measure that Management believes is useful for investors and management to understand pre-tax profitability before giving effect to credit loss expense and to provide additional perspective on the Corporation’s performance over time as well as comparison to the Corporation’s peers and evaluating the financial results of the Corporation – please refer to the Non GAAP reconciliations contained in this release.

    Average Total Loans

    Average total loans for the second quarter of 2025 were $3.88 billion versus $3.20 billion for the comparable period in 2024, an increase of $680 million or 21.25%. On a linked quarter basis, average loans increased $35 million or 0.92% from $3.84 billion as of March 31, 2025. Increases in average loans year-over-year were a combination of the acquisition of SimplyBank on July 1, 2024, and organic growth.

    Total Loans Outstanding

    Total loans outstanding as of June 30, 2025, were $3.90 billion compared to $3.20 billion as of June 30, 2024, an increase of $693 million or 21.62%. On a linked quarter basis, total loans increased $42.6 million or 1.11% from $3.85 billion as of March 31, 2025. The year-over-year increase was impacted by the $467 million in loans acquired in the SimplyBank acquisition in July 2024. Organic growth was primarily driven by increases in Commercial Construction and Development, Commercial Real Estate, and Consumer Auto loans.

    Norman D. Lowery, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented “We are pleased with our second quarter results, as we have experienced our 7th consecutive quarter of loan growth. We also had another record quarter of net interest income and saw our net margin expand to 4.15%. We expect continued improvement in coming quarters.”

    Average Total Deposits

    Average total deposits for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, were $4.65 billion versus $4.11 billion as of June 30, 2024, an increase of $537 million, or 13.06%. On a linked quarter basis, average deposits remained stable when compared to March 31, 2025. Increases in average deposits year-over-year were mostly a result of the acquisition of SimplyBank.

    Total Deposits

    Total deposits were $4.66 billion as of June 30, 2025, compared to $4.13 billion as of June 30, 2024. On a linked quarter basis, total deposits increased $22.9 million or 0.49% from $4.64 billion as of March 31, 2025. $622 million in deposits were acquired in the SimplyBank acquisition in July 2024. Non-interest bearing deposits were $860 million, and time deposits were $710 million as of June 30, 2025, compared to $749 million and $586 million, respectively for the same period of 2024.

    Shareholders’ Equity

    Shareholders’ equity at June 30, 2025, was $587.7 million compared to $530.7 million on June 30, 2024. During the last twelve months, the Corporation has not repurchased any shares of its common stock. 518,860 shares remain available for repurchase under the current repurchase authorization. The Corporation paid a $0.51 per share quarterly dividend in April and declared a $0.51 quarterly dividend, which was paid on July 15, 2025.

    Book Value Per Share

    Book Value per share was $49.59 as of June 30, 2025, compared to $44.92 as of June 30, 2024, an increase of $4.67 per share, or 10.40%. Tangible Book Value per share was $39.74 as of June 30, 2025, compared to $37.12 as of June 30, 2024, an increase of $2.62 per share or 7.06%.

    Tangible Common Equity to Tangible Asset Ratio

    The Corporation’s tangible common equity to tangible asset ratio was 8.58% at June 30, 2025, compared to 9.14% at June 30, 2024.

    Net Interest Income

    Net interest income for the second quarter of 2025 was a record $52.7 million, compared to $39.3 million reported for the same period of 2024, an increase of $13.4 million, or 34.0%. Interest income increased $13.4 million and interest expense increased $29 thousand year over year. As mentioned by in the president’s comments above, loan growth has continued for seven consecutive quarters, which contributed to steadily increasing net interest income.

    Net Interest Margin

    The net interest margin for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, was 4.15% compared to the 3.57% reported at June 30, 2024.

    Nonperforming Loans

    Nonperforming loans as of June 30, 2025, were $9.8 million versus $15.9 million as of June 30, 2024. The ratio of nonperforming loans to total loans and leases was 0.25% as of June 30, 2025, versus 0.50% as of June 30, 2024. On a linked quarter basis, nonperforming loans were $10.2 million, and the ratio of nonperforming loans to total loans and leases was 0.26% as of March 31, 2025.

    Credit Loss Provision

    The provision for credit losses for the three months ended June 30, 2025, was $2.0 million, compared to $3.0 million for the same period 2024.

    Net Charge-Offs

    In the second quarter of 2025 net charge-offs were $1.7 million compared to $4.7 million in the same period of 2024.

    Allowance for Credit Losses

    The Corporation’s allowance for credit losses as of June 30, 2025, was $47.1 million compared to $38.3 million as of June 30, 2024. The allowance for credit losses as a percent of total loans was 1.21% as of June 30, 2025, compared to 1.20% as of June 30, 2024. On a linked quarter basis, the allowance for credit losses as a percent of total loans decreased one basis point from 1.22% as of March 31, 2025.

    Non-Interest Income

    Non-interest income for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024 was $10.4 million and $9.9 million, respectively.

    Non-Interest Expense

    Non-interest expense for the three months ended June 30, 2025, was $38.3 million compared to $32.7 million in 2024.

    Efficiency Ratio

    The Corporation’s efficiency ratio was 59.37% for the quarter ending June 30, 2025, versus 64.56% for the same period in 2024.

    Income Taxes

    Income tax expense for the three months ended June 30, 2025, was $4.2 million versus $2.2 million for the same period in 2024. The effective tax rate for 2025 was 18.58% compared to 16.29% for 2024.

    About First Financial Corporation

    First Financial Corporation (NASDAQ:THFF) is the holding company for First Financial Bank N.A., which is the fifth oldest national bank in the United States, operating 83 banking centers in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Georgia. Additional information is available at www.first-online.bank.

    Investor Contact:
    Rodger A. McHargue
    Chief Financial Officer
    P: 812-238-6334
    E: rmchargue@first-online.com

                                   
        Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
        June 30,    March 31,   June 30,    June 30,    June 30, 
           2025      2025      2024      2025      2024
    END OF PERIOD BALANCES                              
    Assets   $ 5,602,969   $ 5,549,094   $ 4,891,068   $ 5,602,969   $ 4,891,068
    Deposits   $ 4,662,889   $ 4,640,003   $ 4,132,327   $ 4,662,889   $ 4,132,327
    Loans, including net deferred loan costs   $ 3,896,563   $ 3,854,020   $ 3,204,009   $ 3,896,563   $ 3,204,009
    Allowance for Credit Losses   $ 47,087   $ 46,835   $ 38,334   $ 47,087   $ 38,334
    Total Equity   $ 587,668   $ 571,945   $ 530,670   $ 587,668   $ 530,670
    Tangible Common Equity (a)   $ 470,894   $ 451,874   $ 438,569   $ 470,894   $ 438,569
                                   
    AVERAGE BALANCES                              
    Total Assets   $ 5,529,225   $ 5,508,767   $ 4,813,308   $ 5,518,996   $ 4,808,836
    Earning Assets   $ 5,213,220   $ 5,194,478   $ 4,556,839   $ 5,203,849   $ 4,561,650
    Investments   $ 1,244,208   $ 1,266,300   $ 1,279,278   $ 1,255,254   $ 1,293,800
    Loans   $ 3,877,246   $ 3,841,752   $ 3,197,695   $ 3,859,499   $ 3,188,921
    Total Deposits   $ 4,651,051   $ 4,650,883   $ 4,113,826   $ 4,650,967   $ 4,079,832
    Interest-Bearing Deposits   $ 3,843,143   $ 3,837,679   $ 3,413,752   $ 3,840,411   $ 3,369,921
    Interest-Bearing Liabilities   $ 269,338   $ 261,174   $ 152,303   $ 265,256   $ 186,864
    Total Equity   $ 576,288   $ 564,742   $ 517,890   $ 570,515   $ 520,305
                                   
    INCOME STATEMENT DATA                              
    Net Interest Income   $ 52,671   $ 51,975   $ 39,294   $ 104,646   $ 78,214
    Net Interest Income Fully Tax Equivalent (b)   $ 54,091   $ 53,373   $ 40,673   $ 107,464   $ 80,970
    Provision for Credit Losses   $ 1,950   $ 1,950   $ 2,966   $ 3,900   $ 4,766
    Non-interest Income   $ 10,381   $ 10,511   $ 9,905   $ 20,892   $ 19,336
    Non-interest Expense   $ 38,276   $ 36,759   $ 32,651   $ 75,035   $ 66,073
    Net Income   $ 18,586   $ 18,406   $ 11,369   $ 36,992   $ 22,293
                                   
    PER SHARE DATA                              
    Basic and Diluted Net Income Per Common Share   $ 1.57   $ 1.55   $ 0.96   $ 3.12   $ 1.89
    Cash Dividends Declared Per Common Share   $ 0.51   $ 0.51   $ 0.45   $ 1.02   $ 0.90
    Book Value Per Common Share   $ 49.59   $ 48.26   $ 44.92   $ 49.59   $ 44.92
    Tangible Book Value Per Common Share (c)   $ 38.78   $ 38.13   $ 36.04   $ 39.74   $ 37.12
    Basic Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding     11,851     11,842     11,814     11,847     11,809

    ________________________
    (a)   Tangible common equity is a non-GAAP financial measure derived from GAAP-based amounts. We calculate tangible common equity by excluding goodwill and other intangible assets from shareholder’s equity.
    (b)   Net interest income fully tax equivalent is a non-GAAP financial measure derived from GAAP-based amounts. We calculate net interest income fully tax equivalent by adding back the tax equivalent factor of tax exempt income to net interest income. We calculate the tax equivalent factor of tax exempt income by dividing tax exempt income by the net of tax rate of 75%.
    (c)   Tangible book value per common share is a non-GAAP financial measure derived from GAAP-based amounts. We calculate the factor by dividing average tangible common equity by average shares outstanding. We calculate average tangible common equity by excluding average intangible assets from average shareholder’s equity.

                                   
    Key Ratios      Three Months Ended     Six Months Ended  
        June 30,         March 31,        June 30,         June 30,         June 30,   
        2025     2025     2024           2025     2024  
    Return on average assets   1.34 %   1.34 %   0.94 %   1.34 %   0.93 %
    Return on average common shareholder’s equity   12.90 %   13.04 %   8.78 %   12.97 %   8.57 %
    Efficiency ratio   59.37 %   57.54 %   64.56 %   58.46 %   65.87 %
    Average equity to average assets   10.42 %   10.25 %   10.76 %   10.34 %   10.82 %
    Net interest margin (a)   4.15 %   4.11 %   3.57 %   4.13 %   3.55 %
    Net charge-offs to average loans and leases   0.18 %   0.19 %   0.59 %   0.18 %   0.39 %
    Credit loss reserve to loans and leases   1.21 %   1.22 %   1.20 %   1.21 %   1.20 %
    Credit loss reserve to nonperforming loans   480.72 %   460.57 %   240.85 %   480.72 %   240.85 %
    Nonperforming loans to loans and leases   0.25 %   0.26 %   0.50 %   0.25 %   0.50 %
    Tier 1 leverage   10.91 %   10.63 %   12.14 %   10.91 %   12.14 %
    Risk-based capital – Tier 1   12.86 %   12.70 %   14.82 %   12.86 %   14.82 %

    ________________________
    (a)   Net interest margin is calculated on a tax equivalent basis.

                                   
    Asset Quality   Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
           June 30,       March 31,      June 30,       June 30,       June 30, 
        2025   2025   2024   2025   2024
    Accruing loans and leases past due 30-89 days   $ 22,303   $ 17,007   $ 14,913   $ 22,303   $ 14,913
    Accruing loans and leases past due 90 days or more   $ 1,917   $ 1,109   $ 1,353   $ 1,917   $ 1,353
    Nonaccrual loans and leases   $ 7,878   $ 9,060   $ 14,563   $ 7,878   $ 14,563
    Other real estate owned   $ 383   $ 560   $ 170   $ 383   $ 170
    Nonperforming loans and other real estate owned   $ 10,178   $ 10,729   $ 16,086   $ 10,178   $ 16,086
    Total nonperforming assets   $ 13,087   $ 13,631   $ 18,978   $ 13,087   $ 18,978
    Gross charge-offs   $ 2,928   $ 3,241   $ 6,091   $ 6,169   $ 9,283
    Recoveries   $ 1,230   $ 1,394   $ 1,414   $ 2,624   $ 3,084
    Net charge-offs/(recoveries)   $ 1,698   $ 1,847   $ 4,677   $ 3,545   $ 6,199
                   
    Non-GAAP Reconciliations   Three Months Ended June 30, 
           2025      2024
    ($in thousands, except EPS)              
    Income before Income Taxes   $ 22,826     $ 13,582  
    Provision for credit losses     1,950       2,966  
    Provision for unfunded commitments     100       (300 )
    Pre-tax, Pre-provision Income   $ 24,876     $ 16,248  
                   
    Non-GAAP Reconciliations   Six Months Ended June 30, 
           2025      2024
    ($ in thousands, except EPS)              
    Income before Income Taxes   $ 46,603     $ 26,711  
    Provision for credit losses     3,900       4,766  
    Provision for unfunded commitments     100       (300 )
    Pre-tax, Pre-provision Income   $ 50,603     $ 31,177  
     
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (Dollar amounts in thousands, except per share data)
     
           June 30,       December 31, 
        2025   2024
        (unaudited)
    ASSETS            
    Cash and due from banks   $ 97,265     $ 93,526  
    Federal funds sold     853       820  
    Securities available-for-sale     1,169,956       1,195,990  
    Loans:            
    Commercial     2,222,015       2,196,351  
    Residential     987,738       967,386  
    Consumer     681,538       668,058  
          3,891,291       3,831,795  
    (Less) plus:            
    Net deferred loan costs     5,272       5,346  
    Allowance for credit losses     (47,087 )     (46,732 )
          3,849,476       3,790,409  
    Restricted stock     17,528       17,555  
    Accrued interest receivable     25,888       26,934  
    Premises and equipment, net     79,741       81,508  
    Bank-owned life insurance     130,072       128,766  
    Goodwill     98,229       100,026  
    Other intangible assets     18,545       21,545  
    Other real estate owned     383       523  
    Other assets     115,033       102,746  
    TOTAL ASSETS   $ 5,602,969     $ 5,560,348  
                 
    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY            
    Deposits:            
    Non-interest-bearing   $ 859,699     $ 859,014  
    Interest-bearing:            
    Certificates of deposit exceeding the FDIC insurance limits     143,780       144,982  
    Other interest-bearing deposits     3,659,410       3,714,918  
          4,662,889       4,718,914  
    Short-term borrowings     149,512       187,057  
    FHLB advances     122,677       28,120  
    Other liabilities     80,223       77,216  
    TOTAL LIABILITIES     5,015,301       5,011,307  
                 
    Shareholders’ equity            
    Common stock, $.125 stated value per share;            
    Authorized shares-40,000,000            
    Issued shares-16,190,157 in 2025 and 16,165,023 in 2024            
    Outstanding shares-11,850,645 in 2025 and 11,842,539 in 2024     2,020       2,018  
    Additional paid-in capital     146,391       145,927  
    Retained earnings     712,271       687,366  
    Accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss)     (118,234 )     (132,285 )
    Less: Treasury shares at cost-4,339,512 in 2025 and 4,322,484 in 2024     (154,780 )     (153,985 )
    TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY     587,668       549,041  
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY   $ 5,602,969     $ 5,560,348  
     
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
    (Dollar amounts in thousands, except per share data)
     
        Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
        June 30,    June 30, 
           2025      2024      2025      2024
                      (unaudited)
    INTEREST INCOME:                          
    Loans, including related fees   $ 64,775     $ 51,459     $ 128,387     $ 101,511  
    Securities:                           
    Taxable     5,915       5,833       11,917       11,764  
    Tax-exempt     2,622       2,601       5,226       5,204  
    Other     865       878       1,679       1,695  
    TOTAL INTEREST INCOME     74,177       60,771       147,209       120,174  
    INTEREST EXPENSE:                              
    Deposits     18,495       19,694       36,694       37,425  
    Short-term borrowings     1,398       959       3,091       1,935  
    Other borrowings     1,613       824       2,778       2,600  
    TOTAL INTEREST EXPENSE     21,506       21,477       42,563       41,960  
    NET INTEREST INCOME     52,671       39,294       104,646       78,214  
    Provision for credit losses     1,950       2,966       3,900       4,766  
    NET INTEREST INCOME AFTER PROVISION                              
    FOR LOAN LOSSES     50,721       36,328       100,746       73,448  
    NON-INTEREST INCOME:                             
    Trust and financial services     1,490       1,318       2,883       2,652  
    Service charges and fees on deposit accounts     7,554       6,730       15,139       13,437  
    Other service charges and fees     256       286       572       509  
    Securities gains (losses), net     (3 )     —       (3 )     —  
    Interchange income     180       135       394       314  
    Loan servicing fees     326       414       492       683  
    Gain on sales of mortgage loans     430       299       655       475  
    Other     148       723       760       1,266  
    TOTAL NON-INTEREST INCOME     10,381       9,905       20,892       19,336  
    NON-INTEREST EXPENSE:                              
    Salaries and employee benefits     19,689       17,380       38,937       34,710  
    Occupancy expense     2,472       2,201       5,148       4,560  
    Equipment expense     4,587       4,312       9,092       8,456  
    FDIC Expense     795       501       1,545       1,163  
    Other     10,733       8,257       20,313       17,184  
    TOTAL NON-INTEREST EXPENSE     38,276       32,651       75,035       66,073  
    INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES     22,826       13,582       46,603       26,711  
    Provision for income taxes     4,240       2,213       9,611       4,418  
    NET INCOME     18,586       11,369       36,992       22,293  
    OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)                              
    Change in unrealized gains/(losses) on securities, net of reclassifications and taxes     2,946       3,535       14,046       (7,561 )
    Change in funded status of post retirement benefits, net of taxes     2       74       5       147  
    COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)   $ 21,534     $ 14,978     $ 51,043     $ 14,879  
    PER SHARE DATA                              
    Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share   $ 1.57     $ 0.96     $ 3.12     $ 1.89  
    Weighted average number of shares outstanding (in thousands)     11,851       11,814       11,847       11,809  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Empowers Small Traders to Ride the Bull Market: No KYC, 100x Leverage, and 100% Deposit Bonus

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With Bitcoin soaring to $120,000 and Ethereum approaching $3,700, the long-anticipated crypto bull market is in full swing. As traders scramble to seize the moment, BexBack is leveling the playing field for retail investors with a powerful trio of features: No KYC, up to 100x leverage, and a 100% deposit match bonus.

    Whether you’re a seasoned futures trader or just entering the market, BexBack enables you to turn small deposits into large opportunities — without compromising your privacy. Unlike traditional platforms requiring lengthy identity checks, BexBack allows users to start trading instantly with no KYC requirements.

    To celebrate the bullish momentum, BexBack has launched an exclusive promotion:

    • 100% Deposit Bonus: Double your initial capital with a matching bonus (min. 100 USDT or 0.001 BTC).
    • $50 Welcome Bonus: Get started instantly after your first qualifying deposit and trade — no strings attached.
    • 100x Leverage: Maximize your profit potential by riding every price swing.

    The platform supports over 50 major crypto assets and offers a seamless trading experience optimized for both desktop and mobile users. Advanced risk-control mechanisms and real-time order execution ensure traders stay in control — even in fast-moving markets.

    “At BexBack, we believe that financial growth should be accessible to everyone — not just whales or institutional players,” said the company’s Operations Director. “This bull run is a rare opportunity, and our platform is designed to help small traders make the most of it.”

    With zero KYC barriers, generous trading incentives, and industry-grade security, BexBack stands out as one of the most user-friendly and rewarding crypto futures platforms of the 2025 bull market.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

    High-Leverage Trading: Offers up to 100x leverage, maximizing investors’ capital efficiency.

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    Comprehensive Trading Options: Feature-rich trading available via Web and mobile applications.

    Convenient Operation: No slippage, no spread, and fast, precise trade execution.

    Global User Support: Enjoy 24/7 customer service, no matter where you are.

    Lucrative Affiliate Rewards: Earn up to 50% commission, perfect for promoters.

    About BexBack

    BexBack is a global cryptocurrency futures exchange offering up to 100x leverage, zero KYC onboarding, and industry-leading bonuses. Headquartered in Singapore, the platform has earned the trust of users in over 200 countries and regions. BexBack is fully compliant with FinCEN MSB regulations in the United States.

    Sign Up Now on BexBack — Break the 100x Leverage and KYC Barriers, Get Double Deposit Bonus and $50 Welcome Bonus Instantly.

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack 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/3618bf87-e7b8-4196-8187-7a3e204125b9

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5c4cd6bd-5af2-4d2c-8f0b-a6db55ea2646

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    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7d81e034-8dea-46f2-ba8e-906b37fe636d

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sens. Budd, Blunt Rochester Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Streamline American Manufacturing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina)
    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), members of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, introduced the bipartisan Streamlining American Manufacturing Strategy Act. The bill would amend the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act to align the timelines for multiple advanced manufacturing initiatives to every four years on the same cycle.
    “Unleashing the next generation of technological innovation will make Americans’ everyday lives easier, create new jobs, and help American companies stay competitive in the global market. North Carolina has one of the most talented workforces in the nation, which has made the Old North State a leader in advanced manufacturing. I am proud to partner with my colleague, Senator Blunt Rochester, on this common-sense bill to ensure that our nation has a clear vision to keep American manufacturers ahead in the technological race and driving our economy forward,” said Senator Budd.
    “I have spent my career in Congress working to strengthen American manufacturing to create jobs and lower costs for hardworking people in Delaware and across the nation. The introduction of our bipartisan Streamlining American Manufacturing Strategy Act is another critical step in that effort. This bill will ensure everyone can be on the same page and cut unnecessary red tape across the American manufacturing sector. I am grateful to Senator Budd for his partnership on this effort on behalf of our constituents and look forward to working with our colleagues on the Commerce Committee and throughout the Senate to get this bill passed into law,” said Senator Blunt Rochester.
    “The U.S. Manufacturing Innovation Council welcomes the introduction of the Streamlining American Manufacturing Strategy Act. This legislation is a beneficial, commonsense, and bipartisan step that will improve the alignment of important national strategy initiatives for domestic advanced manufacturing.  The USMIC appreciates this effort to improve the national planning process,” said Franz Wuerfmannsdobler, Executive Director of the U.S. Manufacturing Innovation Council.
    Read the full bill text HERE.
    BACKGOUND
    As it currently stands, the Manufacturing USA Strategic Plan establishes a 3-year planning cycle for updating the 17 Manufacturing USA Institutes, as mandated by the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act. However, the National Strategy for Advanced Manufacturing is updated every four years on a different cycle.
    The alignment established under the Streamlining American Manufacturing Strategy Act will set clear goals, synchronize data collection, and increase collaboration for U.S. advanced manufacturing stakeholders.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Langworthy Leads ZIP Code Fix for Pendleton and Wheatfield

    Source: US Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Nick Langworthy announced that the U.S. House of Representatives has passed the bipartisan ZIP Code Act, H.R. 3095, legislation he proudly cosponsored and helped advance through the House Oversight Committee in partnership with Congresswoman Lauren Boebert. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.

    The legislation directs the U.S. Postal Service to assign unique ZIP codes to more than 65 underserved communities across the country—including the Towns of Pendleton and Wheatfield in Western New York.

    For decades, Pendleton and Wheatfield have shared ZIP codes with neighboring municipalities—leading to misdirected mail, delayed deliveries, inaccurate sales tax distribution, inflated insurance rates, and slower emergency response times.

    “This has been a long-standing problem that’s impacted nearly every household and business in Pendleton and Wheatfield,”said Congressman Langworthy.“I made it a top priority to fix it. Now that the House has passed this bill, we’re one step closer to giving these communities the recognition, reliability, and services they deserve.”

    Langworthy is calling on the Senate to act swiftly and deliver long-overdue relief to these growing Western New York towns.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Langworthy Announces $800,085 DEC Grant for Fitzpatrick and Weller, Inc. to Support Forest Management and Rural Jobs

    Source: US Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) announced Fitzpatrick and Weller, Inc. was awarded $800,085 by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Specifically, the funding will be used to install advanced wood energy emissions control systems at two of the company’s manufacturing facilities, helping the company meet state environmental compliance requirements, and ensure our lumber industry can continue to thrive in Upstate New York.

     

    “The hardwood and lumber industry are a backbone of our local economy, and I’m proud to have helped secure this federal grant for Fitzpatrick & Weller, Inc. to support rural job retention and advance sustainable forest management right here in Western New York,”said Congressman Nick Langworthy.“’Made in America’ means something in the Southern Tier, and I will always stand with our manufacturers to strengthen our domestic supply chain. While New York’s manufacturing sector continues to battle burdensome regulations, I’m committed to fighting for businesses like this one in Cattaraugus County to ensure American lumber production remains resilient and competitive.”

     

    “Congressman Langworthy was a huge advocate for us on this project, and we are very grateful for his commitment to protecting jobs in the hardwood industry here in the Southern Tier,” said Greg Fitzpatrick, President of Fitzpatrick & Weller, Inc. “This grant is essential to our business and will allow us to invest in the necessary equipment to stay up to standard while continuing to operate, grow, and offer a truly American product from the forests of Cattaraugus County. Made in America means investing in America, and we are grateful to have the Congressman’s support.”

     

    This investment not only helps preserve local jobs but also supports responsible use of forest resources in the Southern Tier and across Western New York.

     

    ###

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Southern Africa Enhances Early Warning Systems as Event-Based Surveillance Guidelines are Launched in Three Countries

    Source: APO


    .

    Three Southern African countries now have Event-Based Surveillance (EBS) Guidelines—a critical tool for detecting and responding to emerging health risks. Event-based surveillance systems collect and analyse information from diverse sources, including communities, the media, and healthcare workers, to detect unusual health events in real time. They complement traditional indicator-based surveillance and are designed to support rapid public health responses.

    Botswana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe were supported in developing their guidelines by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC).

    The Botswana Event-Based Surveillance Guidelines were launched on 24 June in Gaborone.

    “By institutionalising a robust early warning system, the health sector will be empowered to detect signals of potential disease threats at their earliest stages,” said Dr Stephen Modise, MP, Minister of Health and Wellness.

    Speaking on Dr Modise’s behalf, Dr Rex Kealebile Segadimo, Acting Secretary for Specialised Health Care, said the launch of these guidelines marks a significant milestone in Botswana’s efforts to strengthen its public health system.

    “This will enable the country to assess risks with precision and respond in a science-based manner, preventing threats from escalating into full-blown crises.”

    Dr Modise further stated: “The institutionalisation of a robust early warning system will enable us to stay ahead of emerging health risks and respond effectively to protect the health and well-being of our citizens.”

    Dr Lul Riek, the Africa CDC Regional Director for Southern Africa, reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Botswana and all AU Member States in operationalising these guidelines. This support will include capacity building, mentorship, digital tools, and regional coordination—as well as fostering peer learning and cross-border collaboration—recognising that no country can achieve health security in isolation.

    With these guidelines in place, Botswana is now better equipped to respond quickly and effectively to emerging health threats, ultimately protecting the health and well-being of its citizens.

    Officiating the launch in Windhoek, Namibia, also on 24 June, the country’s Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr Esperance Luvindao, noted that EBS plays a critical role in addressing the increasing number of public health emergencies in the country. The new surveillance system is a timely intervention, as the country faces rising risks of communicable diseases such as malaria and cholera, increasingly influenced by climate-related factors.

    She described the launch as a true demonstration of Namibia’s commitment to being proactive in disease preparedness. “Real-time detection of public health threats is essential to mitigate the impact of outbreaks, especially in the face of shifting disease patterns,” she said.

    The Minister also called for a multifaceted approach to health security and emphasised the importance of establishing and prioritising National Public Health Institutes (NPHIs) to coordinate preparedness, response, and mitigation efforts.

    The Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) in Zimbabwe launched its EBS Guidelines on 18 June in Harare.

    “We are not gathered here merely to unveil a policy document,” said Dr Aspect Maunganidze, Secretary for Health and Child Care. “We are here to affirm a national commitment—to declare that the health and safety of every Zimbabwean is our highest priority.”

    He explained that the EBS guidelines represent a strategic shift from reactive to proactive preparedness, empowering health authorities to detect early warning signs of public health threats before they escalate.

    Ms Batsirai Mbodza, Regional Programme Lead for Africa CDC, emphasised the critical importance of implementation.

    “Guidelines alone will not stop outbreaks. The real impact lies in how well they are implemented,” she said. “These tools must reach health workers in clinics, surveillance officers in the field, and community leaders, often the first to sense when something is amiss.”

    On behalf of UNICEF, Mr Diop Daouda stressed the need for inclusivity in the country’s surveillance systems.

    “Surveillance systems must be inclusive, they must reach the most remote villages, informal settlements, and border communities,” he said, adding: “They must consider gender dynamics, disability, and cultural norms. No signal should go unnoticed, because no life is dispensable.”

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illinois Tax Preparer Sentenced for Role in $3.6M Covid-19 Fraud Scheme

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    An Illinois man was sentenced yesterday to 42 months in prison for his role in a scheme to fraudulently obtain over $3.6 million in small business loans under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and COVID19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program implemented by the Small Business Administration (SBA). 

    According to court documents, Farooq Khan, 31, of Chicago, owned and operated Hannan Tax Services (Hannan Tax), a tax preparation company located in Chicago. From approximately May 2020 through October 2021, through Hannan Tax, Khan prepared and facilitated the submission of at least 30 fraudulent applications for loans through the PPP and EIDL program. At the time Kahn prepared and submitted the applications, he knew that the companies for which he sought the loans were non-operational and did not qualify. He also knowingly falsified the information contained in the applications, including the number of employees and tax records attributed to the defunct companies. Khan caused approximately $3.6 million to be fraudulently distributed by the SBA and PPP lenders. He also attempted to obtain at least an additional $588,900 in loans through other EIDL applications that were never funded for nonexistent companies. He personally obtained approximately $1.2 million of the fraudulent loan proceeds.     

    Khan pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud on Feb. 19. At sentencing, he was also ordered to pay $3,645,104 in restitution. 

    Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Special Agent in Charge Douglas S. DePodesta of the FBI Chicago Field Office, and Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew J. Scarpino of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) Chicago made the announcement.   

    The FBI Chicago Field Office and ICE-HSI are investigating the case. 

    Trial Attorney Claire Sobczak Pacelli of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is prosecuting the case. 

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 8667205721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: ASIA/SOUTH KOREA – Like a hidden treasure. Korean Catholics treasure the memory of their martyrs

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    [embedded content]
    by Pascale RizkSeoul (Fides Agency) – “If we follow the example of the martyrs and believe in the word of the Lord, then we will understand the sublime freedom and joy with which they went to their death.” These were the words of Pope Francis to the Korean people during the Mass for the beatification of Paul Yun Ji-Chung and his 123 fellow martyrs, celebrated on Saturday, August 16, 2014, at Gwanghwamun Gate in Seoul, during his apostolic journey to South Korea.In a Korea that hardly resembles that of three centuries ago, the joy and freedom of the martyrs of the past continue to attract many Koreans and lead them to encounter Christ.It is the places, the descendants, and even the soil that today hold “like a treasure” the memory of those who, with simple courage and the gift of self, left everything behind so as not to be “separated from the love of Christ” (Rom 8:35).This July, the Catholic Church in Korea pauses to commemorate the centenary of the beatification of its first 79 martyrs, canonized in 1984.Pilgrimages in the footsteps of martyrsIn recent years, the emotion felt by many Koreans who visit the sites of their martyrdom seems to be growing and becoming increasingly intense.In 2011, bishops and priests responsible for places of martyrdom in various dioceses created an ideal itinerary entitled “Shrines of Catholicism in Korea,” an initiative that has become a valuable guide for pilgrims. It collects and lists 167 references to shrines dear to the memories of the Church, 69 of which are places of martyrdom. The guidebook includes a prayer to begin the pilgrimage and another to conclude it. In its revised edition published in 2019, the guide distinguishes between shrines, places of martyrdom, and places of pilgrimage.The most well-known and popular places are the itineraries proposed by the Archdiocese of Seoul as pilgrimage routes, which were also approved by the Holy See on September 14, 2018. Three itineraries, presented as the ‘ Good News Road’, ‘the Eternal Life Road’ and ‘the Unity Road’, offer visitors the chance to walk through the streets of the capital, visiting the most important monuments in the history of the Catholic Church on the peninsula, such as Gwanghuimun Gate, where the bodies of martyred Catholics were carried, hence its nickname ‘Gate of the Dead’. Other significant sites include the Jeoldusan Shrine, a rocky promontory where thousands of baptized Christians were martyred, and the Gahoe-dong Church, where the first Mass was celebrated in 1795. At other points identified along the route, such as the site of the house of John the Baptist Yi Byeok, who welcomed the first Korean Christians, only commemorative plaques remain, after centuries of destruction and reconstruction have radically altered the urban landscape.The descendants honor their ancestorsIn September, the Catholic Church in Korea commemorates its 103 saints and 124 blessed. The former were canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1984, while the latter were proclaimed blessed by Pope Francis in 2014. The relics presented to public worship a few days ago, on July 2, in Seoul, belong to four Korean saints. The relics belong to three French missionaries of the Societé des Missions Etrangères de Paris (Bishop Laurent Imbert, Priests Pierre Maubant and Jacques Chastan), together with the first Korean priest, Andrea Kim Tae-gon. The Korean Bishops’ Conference received these relics on February 19, previously kept by the Sisters of St. Benedict of Olivetano in Korea. In particular, they are a fragment of Andrew Kim’s foot bone and hair from the others. Kim was martyred at the age of 25 on September 16, 1846, while the French missionaries were beheaded on September 21, 1839, in Saenamteo, on the north bank of the Han River, in the Yongsan-gu district of Seoul. The ceremony was part of a series of commemorative events for the centenary of the holy month of the beatification of the 79 martyrs.New faces of martyrdomCurrently, the Catholic Church in Korea is pursuing the beatification process for two other groups of baptized Christians who were killed during the persecutions. The first is that of the Servant of God John Baptist Yi Byeok and his 132 lay companions killed during the Joseon dynasty between 1785 and 1879. Yi Byeok played a key role in the first Korean Christian community and his companions included Francis Xavier Kwon Il-shin and Ambrose Kwon Cheol-shin.The second group is that of Bishop Francis Borgia Hong Yeong-ho and his 80 companions who lived in modern times, some of whom died in the 1901 massacre in Jeju and others killed after the division of Korea, including 20 priests and 3 foreign missionary nuns. Among them are Sister Marie Mechtilde of the Blessed Sacrament and Sister Teresa of the Child Jesus of the Carmelite monastery in Seoul who, together with three other foreign sisters, founded the small convent in Hyehwa-dong, desired by Bishop Won Larriveau in 1940. All of them had the opportunity to flee abroad, but decided to remain with the Korean nuns: two of them were kidnapped and tortured. Eventually, during the infamous “death march” from Pyongyang to Chunggangjin on the Amnok River, they were martyred and buried in North Korea. The other three were repatriated to their country of origin, France, thanks to a prisoner exchange.The Maryknoll missionary Patrick Byrne, the first bishop of Pyongyang, who was originally from the United States, also chose to remain in Korea during the war. Refusing to denounce the United States, the United Nations, and the Vatican, he was sentenced to death by the North Koreans but managed to survive, albeit after suffering brutal treatment. He later joined other prisoners on a forced march led by a ruthless commander known as “the Tiger.” Despite his suffering and exhaustion, Byrne assisted dying soldiers, praying and giving blessings along the way. On the third day of the march, while giving general absolution to the soldiers kneeling with him in the snow-covered mountains, he fell seriously ill and died in a freezing North Korean hospital with no medicine, known to the prisoners as “the morgue.”The investigation for the beatification process was completed in June 2022 in Korea, and the relevant material was sent to the Congregation for the Causes of Saints.The hidden shrine of HantiDuring the Joseon dynasty, Catholics fled to the south of the country and sought refuge in the mountains. They tried to stay close to or at least in secret contact with their families who had been imprisoned and arrested in various places. Thus, the first Christian families arrived at the mountain called Hanti, located 600 meters above sea level, northwest of Palgongsan and north of the city of Daegu, in the province of Gyeongsang. After the persecutions of Eulhae (1815), Jeonghae (1827), and Gihae (1839), and during a period of easing tensions in the middle of the century, the presence of Catholics in the country had become significant. This is also attested to by the letter sent in 1862 to François-Antoine Albrand, Superior General of the Paris Foreign Missions Society, by Siméon-François Berneux, Vicar Apostolic of Korea (1854-1866), which reads: “I went to a very isolated village on the side of a large mountain, and about 40 Christians received Holy Communion.”With the Byeongin persecution (1866), which followed the Gyeongsin persecution (1860), the tribulations of Korean Catholics reached their peak of violence, becoming extermination: nearly 8,000 out of 10,000 were killed. Then came the Mujin persecution (1868), which struck the inhabitants of Hanti, martyred on the spot for apostasy.The first pilgrimages to the site began a hundred years later, and in 1988 six martyrs’ graves were exhumed and transferred. Present at the site, Joo-gang Thomas Aquinas, professor of anatomy at the National University of Kyeongpook’s medical school, recounts in an article in a Catholic newspaper: “The body in front of me was decapitated. The neck was bent at the waist and the lower part of the body was lying on the ground. I carefully examined the cervical vertebrae. There were no fractures and the number matched; it seemed that only the flesh had been cut with a sharp knife. Tears streamed from my eyes.“ Today, 37 tombs of the “countless unknown martyrs” rest on Hanti Hill in the metropolitan archdiocese of Daegu.The soil soaked with the blood of martyrsThere were just as many nameless martyrs in the diocese of Daejeon, 157 kilometers from Daegu. “In 2014, Father Peter Kim Dongyum oversaw the transfer of the graves of the nameless Korean martyrs, who belonged to the lowest social class and were killed in the 19th century in Deoksan, Haemi, and Hongju, cities located in the diocese. This intervention was necessary because rising water levels threatened the integrity of the graves,“ says Father Agostino Han, head of the office at the Dicastery for Evangelization. ”The graves were transferred to a plot of land adjacent to the Silli Shrine. In Silli, Saint Marie-Nicolas-Antoine Daveluy, M.E.P., fifth bishop of the Korean peninsula, secretly carried out his pastoral ministry for 21 years. During the transfer, Peter Kim felt compelled to preserve some of the soil around the graves, believing that it might contain relics of the Martyrs, who had been buried without proper funeral rites due to the harsh persecutions of the time. For this reason, he reserved a portion of that soil for the creation of ceramic crucifixes and rosary beads, incorporating the soil taken from the tombs of the Martyrs. It can therefore be assumed that these rosary beads contain soil imbued with the blood and bone fragments of those Martyrs who offered their lives in witness to their faith. It is a way of honoring them, their faith, and their memory.”(Fides Agency 22/7/25)Share:

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stanislaus County Mother-Son Duo Sentenced to Prison for Inmate Unemployment Insurance Claims Conspiracy

    Source: US FBI

    Jaime Ornelas, 27, formerly of Modesto, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Dena Coggins to three years and one month in prison and ordered to pay $150,000 in restitution for conspiracy to commit mail fraud arising from fraudulently submitted unemployment insurance benefits, Acting U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Sanchez announced.

    On June 6, 2025, Jaime Ornelas’s mother and co-defendant Misty Ornelas, 48, of Turlock, was sentenced to 18 months in prison.

    According to court documents, beginning in June 2020, Jaime Ornelas and Misty Ornelas operated a scheme to submit fraudulent unemployment insurance benefit claims to the California Employment Development Department (EDD). Jaime Ornelas, who was then-incarcerated at the High Desert State Prison in Lassen County, provided Misty Ornelas personally identifiable information of fellow inmates. Misty Ornelas then used that information to submit fraudulent unemployment insurance benefit applications to EDD. The submitted applications misrepresented the eligibility of the inmates, including that they had last worked within the prior few months and had become unemployed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The fraudulent claims were worth more than $150,000.

    This case was the product of an investigation by Federal Bureau of Investigation and EDD. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chan Hee Chu and Denise N. Yasinow prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of the California COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force, which is one of the interagency COVID-19 fraud strike forces established by the United States Department of Justice. The California Strike Force combines law enforcement and prosecutorial resources in the Eastern and Central Districts of California, and focuses on large-scale, multistate, and egregious pandemic relief fraud. The strike force uses prosecutor-led, and data analyst-driven, teams to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief money.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stanislaus County Mother-Son Duo Sentenced to Prison for Inmate Unemployment Insurance Claims Conspiracy

    Source: US FBI

    Jaime Ornelas, 27, formerly of Modesto, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Dena Coggins to three years and one month in prison and ordered to pay $150,000 in restitution for conspiracy to commit mail fraud arising from fraudulently submitted unemployment insurance benefits, Acting U.S. Attorney Kimberly A. Sanchez announced.

    On June 6, 2025, Jaime Ornelas’s mother and co-defendant Misty Ornelas, 48, of Turlock, was sentenced to 18 months in prison.

    According to court documents, beginning in June 2020, Jaime Ornelas and Misty Ornelas operated a scheme to submit fraudulent unemployment insurance benefit claims to the California Employment Development Department (EDD). Jaime Ornelas, who was then-incarcerated at the High Desert State Prison in Lassen County, provided Misty Ornelas personally identifiable information of fellow inmates. Misty Ornelas then used that information to submit fraudulent unemployment insurance benefit applications to EDD. The submitted applications misrepresented the eligibility of the inmates, including that they had last worked within the prior few months and had become unemployed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The fraudulent claims were worth more than $150,000.

    This case was the product of an investigation by Federal Bureau of Investigation and EDD. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chan Hee Chu and Denise N. Yasinow prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of the California COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force, which is one of the interagency COVID-19 fraud strike forces established by the United States Department of Justice. The California Strike Force combines law enforcement and prosecutorial resources in the Eastern and Central Districts of California, and focuses on large-scale, multistate, and egregious pandemic relief fraud. The strike force uses prosecutor-led, and data analyst-driven, teams to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief money.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Soitec Held Its Annual General Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SOITEC HELD ITS ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

    Bernin (Grenoble), France – July 22, 2025 – Soitec (Euronext Paris) held its Annual General Meeting today, chaired by Frédéric Lissalde.

    Shareholders approved in particular the following key items:

    • the Company’s statutory and consolidated financial statements for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, as well as the appropriation of earnings;
    • the re-election of Bpifrance Participations, CEA Investissement, and Fonds Stratégique de Participations as Directors for a term of three years;
    • the compensation components paid or granted to corporate officers for the 2024-2025 fiscal year;
    • the compensation policies for corporate officers for the 2025-2026 fiscal year;
    • various financial authorizations and delegations to the Board of Directors; and
    • several by-law amendments.

    The 27th resolution, concerning the amendment to the article of the bylaws defining the thresholds above which shareholders are required to disclose their shareholding to the Company -a matter for the extraordinary general meeting- received 60.15% of the votes and was therefore not adopted.

    Following the non-renewal of Kai Seikku’s term as a Director, Soitec’s Board of Directors is now composed of 13 members, of whom 45% are women and 64% are independent (excluding the employee Directors).

    Kai Seikku is replaced on the Sustainability Committee by Françoise Chombar.

    The presentation given at the General Meeting and the detailed voting results are available on the Company’s website (www.soitec.com) in the section Investors – Shareholders & Analysts – Shareholders’ General Meetings. The summary of the meeting will be made available shortly in the same section of the Company’s website.

    *****
    About Soitec

    Soitec (Euronext – Tech Leaders), a world leader in innovative semiconductor materials, has been developing cutting-edge products delivering both technological performance and energy efficiency for over 30 years. From its global headquarters in France, Soitec is expanding internationally with its unique solutions, and generated sales of 0.9 billion Euros in fiscal year 2024-2025. Soitec occupies a key position in the semiconductor value chain, serving three main strategic markets: Mobile Communications, Automotive and Industrial, and Edge and Cloud AI. The company relies on the talent and diversity of more than 2,200 employees, representing 50 different nationalities, working at its sites in Europe, the United States and Asia. Nearly 4,300 patents have been registered by Soitec.

    Soitec, SmartSiC™ and Smart Cut™ are registered trademarks of Soitec.

    For more information: https://www.soitec.com/en/ and follow us on LinkedIn and X: @Soitec_Official

    *****

    Media Relations: media@soitec.com

    Investor Relations: investors@soitec.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Thomas Financial Group Secures $19.975 Million USDA Loan for Major Mendocino Hotel Restoration

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATLANTA, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Thomas Financial Group, a wholly owned subsidiary of Community Bankshares Inc., is proud to announce the successful closing of a $19.975 million USDA Business & Industry (B&I) loan for the refinance and full renovation of two historic hospitality assets in downtown Mendocino: The Mendocino Hotel & Garden Suites and Hill House Inn.

    This milestone project, originated and underwritten by Thomas Financial Group, was financed through the USDA’s B&I program. The project will preserve and revitalize all guest rooms across the two properties, relaunch a centerpiece food and beverage destination, reactivate the largest indoor event space on California’s North Coast, and create over 50 new high-paying jobs, tripling the current staff and restoring these historic landmarks to full operation.

    Once thriving anchors of the Mendocino community, both the Mendocino Hotel & Garden Suites and Hill House Inn had fallen into disrepair. With this USDA loan, the new owners, Castle Peak Holdings, will launch a comprehensive restoration that enhances the guest experience while preserving the charm and history that define this iconic coastal village.

    The planned improvements include:

    • Expansive renovations across both properties.
    • Restoration of a three-meal restaurant and historic lobby bar at Mendocino Hotel.
    • Reopening of North Coast’s largest indoor wedding venue.
    • Upgrades to room layouts, ADA compliance, and coastal-facing suites.
    • Activation of public gathering spaces for locals and tourists alike.

    The Mendocino Hotel & Garden Suites, the only full-service hotel in the downtown district, will be a dynamic center of gravity for the North Coast on Mendocino’s historic Main Street, while Hill House Inn – famed as the setting for the drama TV series “Murder She Wrote” – will be restored as a hilltop retreat featuring the largest and most flexible meeting and event spaces on the North Coast, with ocean views and walking access to downtown Mendocino. Both properties will feature authentic local design elements and highlight regional artisans and makers through curated programming.

    “This is what rural revitalization looks like,” said Zach Chandler, SVP, Government Guaranteed Lending for Thomas Financial Group. “We delivered a complex, long-term loan structure to support two of Northern California’s most irreplaceable hospitality assets, and did it with the stability of USDA financing.”

    With an 80% USDA guarantee, a 30-year term, and no balloon payments, the loan provides unmatched peace of mind for the borrower, particularly in a volatile rate environment.

    Situated in a town with a regulatory moratorium on new hotel development, these properties represent a significant portion of Mendocino’s total hotel room inventory. With over 2 million annual visitors and no new supply on the horizon, the business case for reinvesting in these assets is as compelling as the historic preservation effort itself.

    “This project is about more than restoring two historic hotels,” said David Better, Partner at Castle Peak Holdings. “It’s about breathing life back into community gems, reactivating jobs, and celebrating the unique cultural legacy and spirit of Mendocino. These hotels are deeply woven into the historic fabric of what makes Mendocino special. Everyone in the area has a story about these hotels; whether they worked there as a kid, had their high school prom there, or shared a memorable meal there with family and friends. We look forward to delivering a successful project and creating the next generation of memories, for locals and guests alike. The USDA loan gave us the ability to do that in a thoughtful, sustainable way—and the team at Thomas Financial made the process seamless from start to finish.”

    This project is part of a growing trend where USDA financing is used to support economic development in iconic rural destinations, and Thomas Financial Group is leading the charge.

    “We’re not just closing loans—we’re reactivating communities,” added Chandler. “If you have a hospitality, manufacturing, or rural development project in the pipeline, we can help you close faster, structure smarter, and build for the long term.”

    If you’re looking to fund a rural acquisition, repositioning, or expansion project and need a lender who can bridge the gap and deliver USDA takeout, contact Thomas Financial Group today.

    About Thomas Financial Group

    Thomas Financial Group, a wholly owned subsidiary of Community Bankshares Inc., is a nationally recognized leader in USDA and SBA lending. In partnership with Phoenix Lender Services and Community Bank & Trust, TFG specializes in complex capital solutions that support rural economic development, small business growth, and infrastructure expansion.

    About Community Bankshares Inc.

    Community Bankshares Inc. is a privately held financial holding company headquartered in LaGrange, Georgia, with subsidiaries including Community Bank & Trust, Thomas Financial Group, and Phoenix Lender Services. Through its network of specialized financial institutions, Community Bankshares Inc. delivers innovative, relationship-driven banking and lending services across the United States, with a strong emphasis on rural development and community reinvestment.

    Media Contact
    Abigail Davison
    Uproar by Moburst for Community Bankshares, Inc.
    abigail.davison@moburst.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Vietnamese national dies in ICE custody

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    SAN ANTONIO — Tien Xuan Phan, a 55-year-old citizen of Vietnam in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, was pronounced deceased by the Methodist Hospital Northeast at 5:48 p.m. July 19. The cause of death is still under investigation.

    Phan was being detained at the Karnes County Immigration Processing Center in Karnes City. Phan was taken to Otto Kaiser Memorial Hospital on July 18 for evaluation due to seizures, vomiting and unresponsiveness, and was later airlifted to the Methodist Hospital Northeast for further evaluation. 

    ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations deportation officers arrested Phan June 2. Phan was ordered removed by an immigration judge on April 2, 2012, but failed to leave the U.S. as ordered. 

    Consistent with ICE policy, ERO notified the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Office of Inspector General, and the ICE Office of Professional Responsibility via the Integrity Coordination Center. ERO provided notification of the death to the Vietnam Embassy.

    ICE makes official notifications to Congress, nongovernmental organization stakeholders, and the media upon an official report of a detained illegal alien’s death and posts a news release with relevant details on the ICE public website within two business days per agency policy. This information may be accessed in the ICE.gov Newsroom. Additionally, congressional requirements described in the DHS Appropriations Bill of 2018 require ICE to make public all reports regarding an in-custody death within 90 days.

    These reports may be accessed on the Detainee Death Reporting page.

    ICE remains committed to ensuring that all those in its custody reside in safe, secure, and humane environments. Comprehensive medical care is provided from the moment individuals arrive and throughout the entirety of their stay. All people in ICE custody receive medical, dental and mental health intake screening within 12 hours of arriving at each detention facility, a full health assessment within 14 days of entering ICE custody or arrival at a facility, access to medical appointments and 24-hour emergency care. At no time during detention is a detained illegal alien denied emergent care.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Illinois Tax Preparer Sentenced for Role in $3.6M Covid-19 Fraud Scheme

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    An Illinois man was sentenced yesterday to 42 months in prison for his role in a scheme to fraudulently obtain over $3.6 million in small business loans under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and COVID19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program implemented by the Small Business Administration (SBA). 

    According to court documents, Farooq Khan, 31, of Chicago, owned and operated Hannan Tax Services (Hannan Tax), a tax preparation company located in Chicago. From approximately May 2020 through October 2021, through Hannan Tax, Khan prepared and facilitated the submission of at least 30 fraudulent applications for loans through the PPP and EIDL program. At the time Kahn prepared and submitted the applications, he knew that the companies for which he sought the loans were non-operational and did not qualify. He also knowingly falsified the information contained in the applications, including the number of employees and tax records attributed to the defunct companies. Khan caused approximately $3.6 million to be fraudulently distributed by the SBA and PPP lenders. He also attempted to obtain at least an additional $588,900 in loans through other EIDL applications that were never funded for nonexistent companies. He personally obtained approximately $1.2 million of the fraudulent loan proceeds.     

    Khan pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud on Feb. 19. At sentencing, he was also ordered to pay $3,645,104 in restitution. 

    Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Special Agent in Charge Douglas S. DePodesta of the FBI Chicago Field Office, and Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew J. Scarpino of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) Chicago made the announcement.   

    The FBI Chicago Field Office and ICE-HSI are investigating the case. 

    Trial Attorney Claire Sobczak Pacelli of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is prosecuting the case. 

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 8667205721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Hermandad de Pistoleros Latinos gang member sentenced to 100 months for heroin trafficking

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    LAREDO, Texas – A 33-year-old Laredo man has been sentenced for possession with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Raul Garcia Jr. aka Rule pleaded guilty Aug. 6. 2024.

    U.S. District Judge Keith P. Ellison has now ordered Garcia to serve 100 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by four years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard about Garcia’s numerous prior convictions and contacts with law enforcement. In handing down the sentence, the court noted this was a serious crime.

    The investigation began in January 2024 when law enforcement learned Garcia may have been selling fentanyl in the Laredo area. Over the next three months, authorities discovered Garcia was selling narcotics out of his home.

    A search warrant in March of that year resulted in the discovery of heroin packaged for street sale. A month later, law enforcement obtained a second search warrant and again found heroin. Similar to previously found drugs, the heroin was also packaged for street sale.

    The searches also revealed methamphetamine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, marijuana, money and stolen firearm.

    At the time of his plea, Garcia admitted to possessing the drugs located and seized throughout the investigation.

    He will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    The Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Laredo Police Department’s Narcotics Division conducted the investigation with assistance from Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations and Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steven Chamberlin and Leslie Cortez prosecuted the case.

    This case is being prosecuted as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF is the largest anti-crime task force in the country. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: China urges US to enhance mutual understanding through dialogue, communication

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

    China hopes the United States will work with China to enhance mutual understanding, reduce misunderstanding and strengthen cooperation through dialogue and communication, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Tuesday.

    Guo made the comment at a regular news briefing in response to a question concerning China-U.S. economic and trade issues.

    China’s position on tariff issues is consistent and clear, Guo said.

    “We hope the U.S. can work with China to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state during their telephone conversation and give full play to the role of the economic and trade consultation mechanism,” he said.

    He called on the U.S. to work with China to promote the stable, healthy and sustainable development of bilateral ties.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: PSB Holdings, Inc. Reports Record Quarterly Earnings of $0.89 Per Diluted Share; Net Interest Margin Improves For Fifth Consecutive Quarter

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WAUSAU, Wis., July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PSB Holdings, Inc. (“PSB”) (OTCQX: PSBQ), the holding company for Peoples State Bank (“Peoples”) serving Northcentral and Southeastern Wisconsin reported second quarter earnings ending June 30, 2025 up 48% relative to the prior quarter to $0.89 per diluted common share on net income of $3.8 million, compared to $0.60 per diluted common share on net income of $2.6 million during the first quarter ending March 31, 2025, and $0.56 per diluted common share on net income of $2.4 million during the second quarter ending June 30, 2024.

    PSB’s second quarter 2025 operating results reflected the following changes from the first quarter of 2025: (1) a stronger net interest margin as asset yields rose; (2) higher non-interest income from higher mortgage banking income; and (3) lower non-interest expenses due to lower salaries and employee benefit expenses.

    “We are proud to report record earnings for the second quarter, highlighted by an improving net interest margin and cost controls that have lowered our non-interest expenses and improved our efficiency ratio to 63%. Over the past year, we increased tangible book value per share by 13.1% while paying $0.64 per share in dividends to our shareholders. As loans continue to reprice at higher rates and new loans are originated at higher levels than current yields, we expect our net interest margin to continue to expand from current levels. While non-performing assets have grown, they represent a small number with special circumstances, and we expect favorable resolutions for certain significant non-performing assets by the end of the calendar year,” stated Scott Cattanach, President and CEO.

    June 30, 2025, Highlights:

    • Net interest income increased $470,000 to $10.7 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, from $10.3 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, due in part to higher yields on loans and one additional day during the quarter.
    • Noninterest income increased $230,000 to $2.1 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, compared to $1.9 million the prior quarter due primarily to higher mortgage banking revenues.
    • Noninterest expenses decreased $776,000 to $8.2 million during the quarter ended June 30, 2025 from $9.0 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, reflecting lower salary and benefit expenses.
    • Net loans increased $12.9 million, or 1% in the second quarter ended June 30, 2025, to $1.11 billion compared to March 31, 2025, largely due to increased commercial line usage. Allowance for credit losses remained at 1.12% of gross loans.
    • Non-performing assets increased $2.6 million to $15.6 million, or 1.04% of total assets at June 30, 2025 compared to the previous quarter. One existing non-performing loan relationship increased during the quarter as an additional loan in this relationship was moved to non-performing status. The underlying security of these loans is undergoing a sales process by the owner. Additionally, an unrelated new loan relationship was added to non-performing status.
    • Total deposits increased $47.5 million to $1.18 billion at June 30, 2025 from $1.13 billion at March 31, 2025, with the increase largely consisting of non-interest bearing demand deposits and time deposits with balances greater than $250,000. Core deposits increased $32.3 million while brokered deposits decreased $13.7 million. A portion of the overall deposit increase relates to an established customer making a large time deposit near the end of the quarter.
    • Return on average tangible common equity was 13.11% for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, compared to 9.21% the prior quarter and 9.34% in the year ago quarter.
    • Tangible book value per common share was up 13.1% over the past year to $27.77 at June 30, 2025, compared to $24.55 at June 30, 2024. Additionally, PSB paid dividends totaling $0.64 per share during the past year.

    Balance Sheet and Asset Quality Review

    Total assets increased $46.8 million during the second quarter to $1.51 billion at June 30, 2025, compared to $1.46 billion at March 31, 2025. Cash and cash equivalents increased $34.9 million to $57.5 million at June 30, 2025 from $22.7 million at March 31, 2025 as new deposits replenished reserves used to fund new loans. Investment securities available for sale increased $1.7 million to $184.3 million at June 30, 2025, from $182.6 million one quarter earlier.

    Gross loans receivable increased $10.7 million to $1.15 billion at June 30, 2025, compared to one quarter earlier, due primarily to increased commercial & industrial lending. Commercial & industrial loans increased $11.2 million to $135.3 million at June 30, 2025, and commercial real estate loans increased $3.6 million to $566.5 million at June 30, 2025, compared to three months earlier. Commercial real estate construction and development loans decreased $9.2 million to $77.9 million at June 30, 2025, while residential real estate loans increased $3.3 million from the prior quarter to $337.1 million. Agricultural loans increased $1.6 million to $13.2 million at June 30, 2025 compared to three months earlier. The loan portfolio remains well diversified with commercial real estate and construction loans totaling 56.1% of gross loans, followed by residential real estate loans at 29.4% of gross loans, commercial non-real estate loans at 14.1% and consumer loans at 0.4%.

    The allowance for credit losses remained at 1.12% of gross loans at June 30, 2025 while annualized net charge-offs to average loans were zero for the quarter ended June 30, 2025. Non-performing assets increased $2.6 million to $15.6 million, or 1.04% of total assets at June 30, 2025 up from 0.89% at March 31, 2025. The increase reflects a loan relationship that was non-performing in the prior quarter having an additional loan move to non-performing status in the second quarter and a separate loan relationship within the timber industry where the customer has experienced irregular cashflows. Approximately 80% of the non-performing assets consisted of five loan relationships.

    Total deposits increased 4% quarter over quarter, with 23% of the deposit portfolio being uninsured at June 30th. Overall, core deposits increased $32.3 million during the quarter while brokered deposits decreased $13.7 million.

    At June 30, 2025, non-interest bearing demand deposits increased to 23.6% of total deposits from 21.7% the prior quarter, while interest-bearing demand and savings deposits decreased to 27.4% at June 30, 2025 from 29.4% one quarter earlier. The additional deposit inflow helped to decrease FHLB advances during the quarter by $4.3 million and brokered deposits by $13.7 million.

    Tangible stockholder equity as a percentage of total tangible assets decreased to 7.95% at June 30, 2025, compared to 8.05% at March 31, 2025, and 7.32% at June 30, 2024.

    Tangible net book value per common share increased $3.22 during the quarter to $27.77, at June 30, 2025 compared to $24.55 one year earlier, an increase of 13.1% after dividends of $0.64 were paid to shareholders. Relative to the prior quarter’s tangible book value per common share of $26.94, tangible net book value per common share increased primarily due to earnings and an increase in the fair market value of the investment portfolios. The accumulated other comprehensive loss on the investment portfolio was $15.8 million at June 30, 2025, compared to $16.7 million one quarter earlier.

    Operations Review

    Net interest income increased to $10.7 million (on a net margin of 3.09%) for the second quarter of 2025, from $10.3 million (on a net margin of 3.03%) for the first quarter of 2025, and increased from $9.4 million (on a net margin of 2.84%) for the second quarter of 2024. The higher net interest income in the current period primarily relates to higher loan yields during the quarter. Earning asset yields increased to 5.40% during the second quarter of 2025 from 5.35% the prior period and cost of funds increased four basis points to 3.06% compared to 3.02% during the first quarter of 2025. Relative to one year earlier, earning asset yields were up 19 basis points while the overall cost of funds was flat.

    The increase in earning asset yields was due to higher yields on loan originations, loan renewals and security repricing. Loan yields increased during the second quarter of 2025 to 5.91% from 5.82% for the first quarter of 2025. Taxable security yields on a smaller average balance relative to the prior quarter were 3.24% for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, compared to 3.35% for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, while tax-exempt security yields remained at 3.35% for the quarter ended June 30, 2025.

    Total noninterest income increased $230,000 during the second quarter of 2025 to $2.1 million. An increase of $161,000 in mortgage banking income during the quarter accounted for the majority of the change.

    Noninterest expenses decreased $776,000 to $8.2 million for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $9.0 million for the first quarter of 2025, and decreased $202,000 from $8.4 million for the second quarter of 2024. On a linked quarter basis, salary and benefits expense decreased $474,000 as the first quarter results reflected an increase in variable commercial sales incentive expense. Occupancy and facilities costs decreased $67,000, data processing and other office operation expenses decreased $12,000, a gain on the sale of foreclosed real estate was $58,000 and various other noninterest expenses decreased $225,000 during the second quarter ended June 30, 2025. Partially offsetting the expense reductions was an increase in advertising and promotion expenses of $60,000.

    Income taxes increased $279,000 during the second quarter to $752,000, from $473,000 one quarter earlier on higher income levels. The effective tax rate for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, was 16.6% compared to 15.6% for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    About PSB Holdings, Inc.

    PSB Holdings, Inc. is the parent company of Peoples State Bank. Peoples is a community bank headquartered in Wausau, Wisconsin, serving northcentral and southeastern Wisconsin from twelve full-service banking locations in Marathon, Oneida, Vilas, Portage, Milwaukee and Waukesha counties. Peoples also provides investment and insurance products, along with retirement planning services, through Peoples Wealth Management, a division of Peoples. PSB Holdings, Inc. is traded under the stock symbol PSBQ on the OTCQX Market. More information about PSB, its management, and its financial performance may be found at www.psbholdingsinc.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about PSB’s business based, in part, on assumptions made by management and include, without limitation, statements with respect to the potential growth of PSB, its future profits, expected stock repurchase levels, future dividend rates, future interest rates, and the adequacy of its capital position. Forward-looking statements can be affected by known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, including, but not limited to, strength of the economy, the effects of government policies, including interest rate policies, risks associated with the execution of PSB’s vision and growth strategy, including with respect to current and future M&A activity, and risks associated with global economic instability. The forward-looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date on which they are made and PSB does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this release.

     
    PSB Holdings, Inc.
    Consolidated Balance Sheets
    June 30, and March 31, 2025, September 30, and June 30, 2024, unaudited, December 31, 2024 derived from audited financial statements
                 
        Jun. 30, Mar. 31, Dec. 31, Sep. 30, Jun. 30,
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)     2025     2025     2024     2024     2024  
                 
    Assets            
                 
    Cash and due from banks   $ 23,022   $ 19,628   $ 21,414   $ 23,554   $ 16,475  
    Interest-bearing deposits     2,890     702     3,724     5,126     251  
    Federal funds sold     31,624     2,351     15,360     58,434     69,249  
                 
    Cash and cash equivalents     57,536     22,681     40,498     87,114     85,975  
    Securities available for sale (at fair value)     184,320     182,594     189,086     174,911     165,177  
    Securities held to maturity (fair values of $75,016, $77,375, $79,654, $82,389 and $79,993 respectively)     83,123     85,373     86,748     86,847     86,825  
    Equity securities     2,885     2,847     2,782     1,752     1,661  
    Loans held for sale     349     734     217     –     2,268  
    Loans receivable, net (allowance for credit losses of $12,553, $12,392, $12,342, $12,598 and $12,597 respectively)     1,109,296     1,096,422     1,078,204     1,057,974     1,074,844  
    Accrued interest receivable     5,006     5,184     5,042     4,837     5,046  
    Foreclosed assets     –     300     –     –     –  
    Premises and equipment, net     13,397     13,522     13,805     14,065     14,048  
    Mortgage servicing rights, net     1,684     1,717     1,742     1,727     1,688  
    Federal Home Loan Bank stock (at cost)     9,297     8,825     8,825     8,825     8,825  
    Cash surrender value of bank-owned life insurance     25,067     24,897     24,732     24,565     24,401  
    Core deposit intangible     330     353     195     212     229  
    Goodwill     3,495     3,495     2,541     2,541     2,541  
    Other assets     10,832     10,828     11,539     10,598     12,111  
                 
    TOTAL ASSETS   $ 1,506,617   $ 1,459,772   $ 1,465,956   $ 1,475,968   $ 1,485,639  
                 
    Liabilities            
                 
    Non-interest-bearing deposits   $ 277,239   $ 245,672   $ 259,515   $ 265,078   $ 250,435  
    Interest-bearing deposits     900,303     884,364     887,834     874,035     901,886  
                 
    Total deposits     1,177,542     1,130,036     1,147,349     1,139,113     1,152,321  
                 
    Federal Home Loan Bank advances     165,950     170,250     162,250     181,250     184,900  
    Other borrowings     6,250     6,343     6,872     6,128     5,775  
    Senior subordinated notes     4,784     4,783     4,781     4,779     4,778  
    Junior subordinated debentures     13,075     13,049     13,023     12,998     12,972  
    Allowance for credit losses on unfunded commitments     622     672     672     477     477  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities     15,118     13,554     14,723     12,850     13,069  
                 
    Total liabilities     1,383,341     1,338,687     1,349,670     1,357,595     1,374,292  
                 
    Stockholders’ equity            
                 
    Preferred stock – no par value:            
    Authorized – 30,000 shares; Issued – 7,200 shares            
    Outstanding – 7,200 shares, respectively     7,200     7,200     7,200     7,200     7,200  
    Common stock – no par value with a stated value of $1.00 per share:            
    Authorized – 18,000,000 shares; Issued – 5,490,798 shares            
    Outstanding – 4,041,573, 4,084,708, 4,092,977, 4,105,594 and 4,128,382 shares, respectively     1,830     1,830     1,830     1,830     1,830  
    Additional paid-in capital     8,659     8,608     8,610     8,567     8,527  
    Retained earnings     144,548     142,277     139,838     138,142     135,276  
    Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax     (15,764 )   (16,692 )   (19,314 )   (15,814 )   (20,503 )
    Treasury stock, at cost – 1,449,225, 1,406,090, 1,397,821, 1,385,204 and 1,362,416 shares, respectively     (23,197 )   (22,138 )   (21,878 )   (21,552 )   (20,983 )
                 
    Total stockholders’ equity     123,276     121,085     116,286     118,373     111,347  
                 
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY   $ 1,506,617   $ 1,459,772   $ 1,465,956   $ 1,475,968   $ 1,485,639  
    PSB Holdings, Inc.
    Consolidated Statements of Income
                     
        Quarter Ended Six Months Ended
    (dollars in thousands,   Jun. 30, Mar. 31, Dec. 31, Sep. 30, Jun. 30, June
    except per share data – unaudited)     2025     2025     2024     2024     2024     2025     2024  
                     
    Interest and dividend income:                
    Loans, including fees   $ 16,510   $ 15,782   $ 15,646   $ 15,634   $ 15,433   $ 32,292   $ 30,542  
    Securities:                
    Taxable     1,566     1,641     1,545     1,345     1,295     3,207     2,492  
    Tax-exempt     506     517     522     522     521     1,023     1,047  
    Other interest and dividends     332     345     948     699     265     677     608  
                     
    Total interest and dividend income     18,914     18,285     18,661     18,200     17,514     37,199     34,689  
                     
    Interest expense:                
    Deposits     5,934     5,884     6,027     5,905     5,838     11,818     11,920  
    FHLB advances     1,899     1,792     1,890     2,038     1,860     3,691     3,310  
    Other borrowings     48     47     57     57     58     95     118  
    Senior subordinated notes     58     59     59     59     58     117     117  
    Junior subordinated debentures     250     248     252     252     255     498     506  
                     
    Total interest expense     8,189     8,030     8,285     8,311     8,069     16,219     15,971  
                     
    Net interest income     10,725     10,255     10,376     9,889     9,445     20,980     18,718  
    Provision for credit losses     110     117     –     –     100     227     195  
                     
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses     10,615     10,138     10,376     9,889     9,345     20,753     18,523  
                     
    Noninterest income:                
    Service fees     366     358     362     367     350     724     686  
    Mortgage banking income     411     250     414     433     433     661     741  
    Investment and insurance sales commissions     335     326     226     230     222     799     343  
    Net loss on sale of securities     –     (1 )   (511 )   –     –     661     (495 )
    Increase in cash surrender value of life insurance     170     163     166     165     159     (1 )   316  
    Other noninterest income     814     770     620     648     742     1,584     1,359  
                     
    Total noninterest income     2,096     1,866     1,277     1,843     1,906     3,962     2,950  
                     
    Noninterest expense:                
    Salaries and employee benefits     4,828     5,302     4,691     4,771     5,167     10,130     10,290  
    Occupancy and facilities     719     786     691     757     733     1,505     1,454  
    Loss (gain) on foreclosed assets     (58 )   –     –     1     –     (58 )   –  
    Data processing and other office operations     1,189     1,201     1,111     1,104     1,047     2,390     2,069  
    Advertising and promotion     189     129     141     164     171     318     300  
    Core deposit intangible amortization     23     23     17     17     20     46     44  
    Other noninterest expenses     1,303     1,528     1,351     1,337     1,257     2,831     2,563  
                     
    Total noninterest expense     8,193     8,969     8,002     8,151     8,395     17,162     16,720  
                     
    Income before provision for income taxes     4,518     3,035     3,651     3,581     2,856     7,553     4,753  
    Provision for income taxes     752     473     524     593     410     1,225     579  
                     
    Net income   $ 3,766   $ 2,562   $ 3,127   $ 2,988   $ 2,446   $ 6,328   $ 4,174  
    Preferred stock dividends declared   $ 122   $ 122   $ 122   $ 122   $ 122   $ 244   $ 244  
                     
    Net income available to common shareholders   $ 3,644   $ 2,440   $ 3,005   $ 2,866   $ 2,324   $ 6,084   $ 3,930  
    Basic earnings per common share   $ 0.90   $ 0.60   $ 0.73   $ 0.69   $ 0.56   $ 1.49   $ 0.95  
    Diluted earnings per common share   $ 0.89   $ 0.60   $ 0.73   $ 0.69   $ 0.56   $ 1.49   $ 0.95  
    PSB Holdings, Inc.
    Quarterly Financial Summary
     
    (dollars in thousands, except per share data)   Quarter ended
        Jun. 30, Mar. 31, Dec. 31, Sep. 30, Jun. 30,
    Earnings and dividends:     2025     2025     2024     2024     2024  
                 
    Interest income   $ 18,914   $ 18,285   $ 18,661   $ 18,200   $ 17,514  
    Interest expense   $ 8,189   $ 8,030   $ 8,285   $ 8,311   $ 8,069  
    Net interest income   $ 10,725   $ 10,255   $ 10,376   $ 9,889   $ 9,445  
    Provision for credit losses   $ 110   $ 117   $ –   $ –   $ 100  
    Other noninterest income   $ 2,096   $ 1,866   $ 1,277   $ 1,843   $ 1,906  
    Other noninterest expense   $ 8,193   $ 8,969   $ 8,002   $ 8,151   $ 8,395  
    Net income available to common shareholders   $ 3,644   $ 2,440   $ 3,005   $ 2,866   $ 2,324  
                 
    Basic earnings per common share (3)   $ 0.90   $ 0.60   $ 0.73   $ 0.69   $ 0.56  
    Diluted earnings per common share (3)   $ 0.89   $ 0.60   $ 0.73   $ 0.69   $ 0.56  
    Dividends declared per common share (3)   $ 0.34   $ –   $ 0.32   $ –   $ 0.32  
    Tangible net book value per common share (4)   $ 27.77   $ 26.94   $ 25.98   $ 26.41   $ 24.55  
                 
    Semi-annual dividend payout ratio     22.58 % n/a   23.27 % n/a   33.61 %
    Average common shares outstanding     4,070,721     4,088,824     4,094,360     4,132,218     4,139,456  
                 
                 
    Balance sheet – average balances:            
    Loans receivable, net of allowances for credit loss   $ 1,111,004   $ 1,091,533   $ 1,064,619   $ 1,066,795   $ 1,088,013  
    Assets   $ 1,480,851   $ 1,462,862   $ 1,479,812   $ 1,445,613   $ 1,433,749  
    Deposits   $ 1,142,279   $ 1,140,397   $ 1,151,450   $ 1,110,854   $ 1,111,240  
    Stockholders’ equity   $ 123,077   $ 118,576   $ 118,396   $ 114,458   $ 110,726  
                 
                 
    Performance ratios:            
    Return on average assets (1)     1.02 %   0.71 %   0.84 %   0.82 %   0.69 %
    Return on average common stockholders’ equity (1)     12.61 %   8.88 %   10.75 %   10.63 %   9.03 %
    Return on average tangible common stockholders’ equity (1)(4)     13.11 %   9.21 %   11.07 %   10.96 %   9.34 %
    Net loan charge-offs to average loans (1)     0.00 %   0.02 %   0.02 %   0.00 %   0.00 %
    Nonperforming loans to gross loans     1.39 %   1.15 %   0.95 %   0.97 %   1.15 %
    Nonperforming assets to total assets     1.04 %   0.89 %   0.71 %   0.71 %   0.84 %
    Allowance for credit losses to gross loans     1.12 %   1.12 %   1.13 %   1.18 %   1.16 %
    Nonperforming assets to tangible equity plus the allowance for credit losses (4)     12.64 %   10.71 %   8.85 %   8.71 %   11.09 %
    Net interest rate margin (1)(2)     3.09 %   3.03 %   2.96 %   2.90 %   2.84 %
    Net interest rate spread (1)(2)     2.34 %   2.33 %   2.23 %   2.16 %   2.15 %
    Service fee revenue as a percent of average demand deposits (1)     0.54 %   0.58 %   0.53 %   0.56 %   0.56 %
    Noninterest income as a percent of gross revenue     9.98 %   9.26 %   6.40 %   9.20 %   9.81 %
    Efficiency ratio (2)     63.00 %   72.88 %   67.59 %   68.43 %   72.52 %
    Noninterest expenses to average assets (1)     2.22 %   2.49 %   2.15 %   2.24 %   2.35 %
    Average stockholders’ equity less accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) to average assets     9.31 %   9.22 %   9.08 %   9.06 %   9.03 %
    Tangible equity to tangible assets (4)     7.95 %   8.05 %   7.76 %   7.85 %   7.32 %
                 
    Stock price information:            
                 
    High   $ 25.70   $ 26.50   $ 27.90   $ 25.00   $ 21.40  
    Low   $ 23.65   $ 25.60   $ 25.00   $ 20.30   $ 19.75  
    Last trade value at quarter-end   $ 23.89   $ 25.70   $ 26.50   $ 25.00   $ 20.40  
                 
    (1) Annualized
    (2) The yield on federally tax-exempt loans and securities is computed on a tax-equivalent basis using a federal tax rate of 21%.
    (3) Due to rounding, cumulative quarterly per share performance may not equal annual per share totals.
    (4) Tangible stockholders’ equity excludes goodwill and core deposit intangibles.
    PSB Holdings, Inc.
    Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
                 
        Quarter Ended
        Jun. 30, Mar. 31, Dec. 31, Sep. 30, Jun. 30,
    (dollars in thousands – unaudited)     2025     2025     2024     2024     2024  
                 
    Net income   $ 3,766   $ 2,562   $ 3,127   $ 2,988   $ 2,446  
                 
    Other comprehensive income, net of tax:            
                 
    Unrealized gain (loss) on securities available for sale     972     2,551     (3,955 )   4,738     184  
                 
    Reclassification adjustment for security loss included in net income     –     1     404     –     –  
                 
    Accretion of unrealized loss included in net income on securities available for sale deferred tax adjustment for Wisconsin Act 19     (35 )   –     (76 )   –     –  
                 
    Amortization of unrealized loss included in net income on securities available for sale transferred to securities held to maturity     91     89     90     90     89  
                 
    Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swap     (87 )   (6 )   65     (101 )   39  
                 
    Reclassification adjustment of interest rate swap settlements included in earnings     (13 )   (13 )   (27 )   (38 )   (40 )
                 
                 
    Other comprehensive income (loss)     928     2,622     (3,499 )   4,689     272  
                 
    Comprehensive income (loss)   $ 4,694   $ 5,184   $ (372 ) $ 7,677   $ 2,718  
    PSB Holdings, Inc.            
    Nonperforming Assets as of:            
                 
        Jun 30, Mar 31, Dec 31, Sep 30, Jun 30,
    (dollars in thousands)     2025     2025     2024     2024     2024  
                 
    Nonaccrual loans (excluding restructured loans)   $ 15,333   $ 12,404   $ 10,109   $ 10,116   $ 12,184  
    Nonaccrual restructured loans     13     17     18     25     28  
    Restructured loans not on nonaccrual     295     280     286     292     299  
    Accruing loans past due 90 days or more     –     –     –     –     –  
                 
    Total nonperforming loans     15,641     12,701     10,413     10,433     12,511  
    Other real estate owned     –     300     –     –     –  
                 
    Total nonperforming assets   $ 15,641   $ 13,001   $ 10,413   $ 10,433   $ 12,511  
                 
    Nonperforming loans as a % of gross loans receivable     1.39 %   1.15 %   0.95 %   0.97 %   1.15 %
    Total nonperforming assets as a % of total assets     1.04 %   0.89 %   0.71 %   0.71 %   0.84 %
    Allowance for credit losses as a % of nonperforming loans     80.26 %   97.57 %   118.52 %   120.75 %   100.69 %
    PSB Holdings, Inc.
    Nonperforming Assets >= $500,000 net book value before specific reserves
    At June 30, 2025
             
    (dollars in thousands)        
          Gross Specific
    Collateral Description   Asset Type Principal Reserves
             
    Real estate – Recreational facility   Nonaccrual   3,940     145  
    Real estate – Equipment dealership   Nonaccrual   2,708     560  
    Real estate – Non owner occupied rental properties   Nonaccrual   4,227     0  
    Real estate – Wood products   Nonaccrual   1,707     271  
             
             
    Total listed nonperforming assets     $ 12,582   $ 976  
    Total bank wide nonperforming assets     $ 15,641   $ 1,180  
    Listed assets as a % of total nonperforming assets       80 %   83 %
    PSB Holdings, Inc.            
    Loan Composition by Collateral Type            
                 
    Quarter-ended (dollars in thousands)   Jun 30, 2025 Mar 31, 2025 Dec 31, 2024 Sep 30, 2024 Jun 30, 2024
                 
    Commercial:            
    Commercial and industrial   $ 135,313   $ 124,074   $ 116,864   $ 115,234   $ 125,508  
    Agriculture     13,219     11,632     11,568     11,203     11,480  
    Municipal     12,805     12,878     15,733     12,596     11,190  
                 
    Total Commercial     161,337     148,584     144,165     139,033     148,178  
                 
    Commercial Real Estate:            
    Commercial real estate     566,526     562,901     551,641     541,577     544,171  
    Construction and development     77,905     87,080     79,377     60,952     70,540  
                 
    Total Commercial Real Estate     644,431     649,981     631,018     602,529     614,711  
                 
    Residential real estate:            
    Residential     266,203     268,490     271,643     269,954     270,944  
    Construction and development     31,439     26,884     28,959     34,655     36,129  
    HELOC     39,425     38,364     36,887     36,734     33,838  
                 
    Total Residential Real Estate     337,067     333,738     337,489     341,343     340,911  
                 
    Consumer installment     4,886     4,683     5,060     4,770     4,423  
                 
    Subtotals – Gross loans     1,147,721     1,136,986     1,117,732     1,087,675     1,108,223  
    Loans in process of disbursement     (26,496 )   (28,752 )   (27,791 )   (17,836 )   (21,484 )
                 
    Subtotals – Disbursed loans     1,121,225     1,108,234     1,089,941     1,069,839     1,086,739  
    Net deferred loan costs     624     580     605     733     702  
    Allowance for credit losses     (12,553 )   (12,392 )   (12,342 )   (12,598 )   (12,597 )
                 
    Total loans receivable   $ 1,109,296   $ 1,096,422   $ 1,078,204   $ 1,057,974   $ 1,074,844  
    PSB Holdings, Inc.
    Selected Commercial Real Estate Loans by Purpose
     
        Jun 30, Mar 31, Dec 31, Sept 30, June 30,
    (dollars in thousands)     2025     2025     2024     2024     2024  
                           
        Total Exposure % of Portfolio (1) Total Exposure % of Portfolio (1) Total Exposure % of Portfolio (1) Total Exposure % of Portfolio (1) Total Exposure % of Portfolio (1)
    Multi Family   $ 145,523   14.0 % $ 143,674   13.9 % $ 140,087   14.0 % $ 140,307   14.7 % $ 146,873   15.2 %
    Industrial and Warehousing     105,256   10.2     109,366   10.6     103,794   10.4     96,995   10.2     96,286   9.6  
    Retail     29,407   2.8     29,285   2.8     23,438   2.3     25,263   2.7     26,154   2.7  
    Hotels     25,299   2.4     25,719   2.5     25,892   2.6     26,057   2.7     29,035   3.0  
    Office     7,131   0.7     7,254   0.7     6,234   0.6     6,378   0.7     6,518   0.7  
                           
    (1) Percentage of commercial and commercial real estate portfolio and commitments.
    PSB Holdings, Inc.
    Deposit Composition
                           
    Insured and Collateralized Deposits   June 30, March 31, December 31, September 30, June 30,
    (dollars in thousands)     2025     2025     2024     2024     2024  
        $ % $ % $ % $ % $ %
                           
    Non-interest bearing demand   $ 225,916   19.2 % $ 206,562   18.3 % $ 204,167   17.8 % $ 210,534   18.5 % $ 202,343   17.5 %
    Interest-bearing demand and savings     304,779   25.9 %   314,957   27.9 %   315,900   27.6 %   305,631   26.8 %   304,392   26.5 %
    Money market deposits     113,161   9.6 %   118,047   10.4 %   141,024   12.3 %   138,376   12.2 %   137,637   12.0 %
    Retail and local time deposits <= $250     165,368   14.0 %   158,066   14.0 %   155,099   13.5 %   155,988   13.7 %   149,298   13.0 %
                           
    Total core deposits     809,224   68.7 %   797,632   70.6 %   816,190   71.2 %   810,529   71.2 %   793,670   69.0 %
    Retail and local time deposits > $250     28,000   2.4 %   26,750   2.3 %   25,500   2.2 %   23,500   2.1 %   22,500   2.0 %
    Broker & national time deposits <= $250     748   0.1 %   1,241   0.1 %   1,241   0.1 %   1,241   0.1 %   1,490   0.1 %
    Broker & national time deposits > $250     65,917   5.6 %   79,090   7.0 %   56,164   4.9 %   56,164   4.9 %   56,328   4.9 %
                           
    Totals   $ 903,889   76.8 % $ 904,713   80.0 % $ 899,095   78.4 % $ 891,434   78.3 % $ 873,988   76.0 %
                           
                           
    PSB Holdings, Inc.                      
    Deposit Composition                      
                           
    Uninsured Deposits   June 30, March 31, December 31, September 30, June 30,
    (dollars in thousands)     2025     2025     2024     2024     2024  
        $ % $ % $ % $ % $ %
                           
    Non-interest bearing demand   $ 51,323   4.4 % $ 39,110   3.5 % $ 55,348   4.8 % $ 54,544   4.8 % $ 48,092   4.1 %
    Interest-bearing demand and savings     17,983   1.5 %   17,262   1.5 %   20,934   1.8 %   18,317   1.6 %   32,674   2.8 %
    Money market deposits     157,998   13.4 %   150,222   13.3 %   153,334   13.4 %   157,489   13.8 %   177,954   15.4 %
    Retail and local time deposits <= $250     –   0.0 %   –   0.0 %   –   0.0 %   –   0.0 %   –   0.0 %
                           
    Total core deposits     227,304   19.3 %   206,594   18.3 %   229,616   20.0 %   230,350   20.2 %   258,720   22.3 %
    Retail and local time deposits > $250     46,349   3.9 %   18,729   1.7 %   18,638   1.6 %   17,329   1.5 %   19,613   1.7 %
    Broker & national time deposits <= $250     –   0.0 %   –   0.0 %   –   0.0 %   –   0.0 %   –   0.0 %
    Broker & national time deposits > $250     –   0.0 %   –   0.0 %   –   0.0 %   –   0.0 %   –   0.0 %
                           
    Totals   $ 273,653   23.2 % $ 225,323   20.0 % $ 248,254   21.6 % $ 247,679   21.7 % $ 278,333   24.0 %
                           
                           
    PSB Holdings, Inc.                      
    Deposit Composition                      
                           
    Total Deposits   June 30, March 31, December 31, September 30, June 30,
    (dollars in thousands)     2025     2025     2024     2024     2024  
        $ % $ % $ % $ % $ %
                           
    Non-interest bearing demand   $ 277,239   23.6 % $ 245,672   21.7 % $ 259,515   22.6 % $ 265,078   23.3 % $ 250,435   21.6 %
    Interest-bearing demand and savings     322,762   27.4 %   332,219   29.4 %   336,834   29.4 %   323,948   28.4 %   337,066   29.3 %
    Money market deposits     271,159   23.0 %   268,269   23.7 %   294,358   25.7 %   295,865   26.0 %   315,591   27.4 %
    Retail and local time deposits <= $250     165,368   14.0 %   158,066   14.1 %   155,099   13.5 %   155,988   13.7 %   149,298   13.0 %
                           
    Total core deposits     1,036,528   88.0 %   1,004,226   88.9 %   1,045,806   91.2 %   1,040,879   91.4 %   1,052,390   91.3 %
    Retail and local time deposits > $250     74,349   6.3 %   45,479   4.0 %   44,138   3.8 %   40,829   3.6 %   42,113   3.7 %
    Broker & national time deposits <= $250     748   0.1 %   1,241   0.1 %   1,241   0.1 %   1,241   0.1 %   1,490   0.1 %
    Broker & national time deposits > $250     65,917   5.6 %   79,090   7.0 %   56,164   4.9 %   56,164   4.9 %   56,328   4.9 %
                           
    Totals   $ 1,177,542   100.0 % $ 1,130,036   100.0 % $ 1,147,349   100.0 % $ 1,139,113   100.0 % $ 1,152,321   100.0 %
    PSB Holdings, Inc.
    Average Balances ($000) and Interest Rates
    (dollars in thousands)
                             
        Quarter ended June 30, 2025   Quarter ended March 31, 2025   Quarter ended June 30, 2024
        Average   Yield /   Average   Yield /   Average   Yield /
        Balance Interest Rate   Balance Interest Rate   Balance Interest Rate
    Assets                        
    Interest-earning assets:                        
    Loans (1)(2)   $ 1,123,460   $ 16,558   5.91 %   $ 1,103,895   $ 15,830   5.82 %   $ 1,100,518   $ 15,520   5.67 %
    Taxable securities     193,926     1,566   3.24 %     198,426     1,641   3.35 %     172,563     1,295   3.02 %
    Tax-exempt securities (2)     76,774     641   3.35 %     79,282     654   3.35 %     79,564     659   3.33 %
    FHLB stock     9,189     166   7.25 %     8,825     241   11.08 %     7,931     182   9.23 %
    Other     14,571     166   4.57 %     8,960     104   4.71 %     8,241     83   4.05 %
                             
    Total (2)     1,417,920     19,097   5.40 %     1,399,388     18,470   5.35 %     1,368,817     17,739   5.21 %
                             
    Non-interest-earning assets:                            
    Cash and due from banks     15,498           16,292           17,345      
    Premises and equipment, net     13,527           13,728           13,930      
    Cash surrender value ins     24,960           24,795           24,297      
    Other assets     21,402           21,021           21,865      
    Allowance for credit losses     (12,456 )         (12,362 )         (12,505 )    
                             
    Total   $ 1,480,851     $ 1,462,862     $ 1,433,749  
                             
    Liabilities & stockholders’ equity                            
    Interest-bearing liabilities:                            
    Savings and demand deposits   $ 315,978   $ 1,450   1.84 %   $ 339,909   $ 1,567   1.87 %   $ 331,740   $ 1,467   1.78 %
    Money market deposits     262,015     1,572   2.41 %     280,396     1,685   2.44 %     271,336     1,835   2.72 %
    Time deposits     294,750     2,912   3.96 %     268,821     2,632   3.97 %     257,006     2,536   3.97 %
    FHLB borrowings     173,080     1,899   4.40 %     164,968     1,792   4.41 %     174,596     1,860   4.28 %
    Other borrowings     8,843     48   2.18 %     6,321     47   3.02 %     6,870     58   3.40 %
    Senior sub notes     4,784     58   4.86 %     4,782     59   5.00 %     4,777     58   4.88 %
    Junior sub. debentures     13,062     250   7.68 %     13,036     248   7.72 %     12,960     255   7.91 %
                             
    Total     1,072,512     8,189   3.06 %     1,078,233     8,030   3.02 %     1,059,285     8,069   3.06 %
                             
    Non-interest-bearing liabilities:                            
    Demand deposits     269,536           251,271           251,158      
    Other liabilities     15,726           14,782           12,580      
    Stockholders’ equity     123,077           118,576           110,726      
                             
    Total   $ 1,480,851     $ 1,462,862     $ 1,433,749  
                             
    Net interest income     $ 10,908         $ 10,440         $ 9,670    
    Rate spread       2.34 %       2.33 %       2.15 %
    Net yield on interest-earning assets           3.09 %       3.03 %       2.84 %
                             
    (1) Nonaccrual loans are included in the daily average loan balances outstanding.
    (2) The yield on federally tax-exempt loans and securities is computed on a tax-equivalent basis using a federal tax rate of 21%.
    PSB Holdings, Inc.
    Average Balances ($000) and Interest Rates
    (dollars in thousands)
     
        Six months ended June 30, 2025   Six months ended June 30, 2024
        Average   Yield/   Average   Yield/
        Balance Interest Rate   Balance Interest Rate
    Assets                
    Interest-earning assets:                
    Loans (1)(2)   $ 1,113,731   $ 32,388   5.86 %   $ 1,097,419   $ 30,719   5.63 %
    Taxable securities     196,162     3,207   3.30 %     172,176     2,492   2.91 %
    Tax-exempt securities (2)     78,021     1,295   3.35 %     79,999     1,325   3.33 %
    FHLB stock     9,008     407   9.11 %     7,215     347   9.67 %
    Other     11,790     270   4.62 %     10,562     261   4.97 %
                     
    Total (2)     1,408,712     37,567   5.38 %     1,367,371     35,144   5.17 %
                     
    Non-interest-earning assets:                
    Cash and due from banks     15,893           17,356      
    Premises and equipment, net     13,627           13,557      
    Cash surrender value ins     24,878           24,221      
    Other assets     21,215           21,534      
    Allowance for credit losses     (12,409 )         (12,445 )    
                     
    Total   $ 1,471,916     $ 1,431,594  
                     
    Liabilities & stockholders’ equity Interest-bearing liabilities:                
    Savings and demand deposits   $ 327,878   $ 3,017   1.86 %   $ 341,119   $ 3,139   1.85 %
    Money market deposits     270,785     3,257   2.43 %     272,591     3,732   2.75 %
    Time deposits     281,857     5,544   3.97 %     260,832     5,049   3.89 %
    FHLB borrowings     169,046     3,691   4.40 %     158,761     3,310   4.19 %
    Other borrowings     7,589     95   2.52 %     7,712     118   3.08 %
    Senior sub. notes     4,783     117   4.93 %     4,776     117   4.93 %
    Junior sub. debentures     13,049     498   7.70 %     12,947     506   7.86 %
                     
    Total     1,074,987     16,219   3.04 %     1,058,738     15,971   3.03 %
                     
    Non-interest-bearing liabilities:                    
    Demand deposits     260,522           249,909      
    Other liabilities     15,492           12,881      
    Stockholders’ equity     120,915           110,066      
                     
    Total   $ 1,471,916     $ 1,431,594  
                     
    Net interest income     $ 21,348         $ 19,173    
    Rate spread       2.34 %       2.14 %
    Net yield on interest-earning assets   3.06 %       2.82 %
                     
    (1) Nonaccrual loans are included in the daily average loan balances outstanding.
    (2) The yield on federally tax-exempt loans and securities is computed on a tax-equivalent basis using a federal tax rate of 21%.

    Investor Relations Contact
    PSB Holdings, Inc.
    1905 Stewart Avenue
    Wausau, WI 54401
    888.929.9902
    InvestorRelations@bankpeoples.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc. Announces Financial Results for the Second Quarter of the Year Ending December 31, 2025 and Declaration of a Quarterly Dividend

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ASHEVILLE, N.C., July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE: HTB) (“Company”), the holding company of HomeTrust Bank (“Bank”), today announced preliminary net income for the second quarter of the year ending December 31, 2025 and approval of its quarterly cash dividend.

    For the quarter ended June 30, 2025 compared to the quarter ended March 31, 2025:

    • net income was $17.2 million compared to $14.5 million;
    • diluted earnings per share (“EPS”) were $1.00 compared to $0.84;
    • annualized return on assets (“ROA”) was 1.58% compared to 1.33%;
    • annualized return on equity (“ROE”) was 11.97% compared to 10.52%;
    • net interest margin was 4.32% compared to 4.18%;
    • provision for credit losses was $1.3 million compared to $1.5 million;
    • gain on the sale of our two Knoxville, Tennessee branches was $1.4 million compared to $0;
    • quarterly cash dividends continued at $0.12 per share totaling $2.1 million for both periods; and
    • 78,412 shares of Company common stock were repurchased during the current quarter at an average price of $35.74 compared to 14,800 shares repurchased at an average price of $33.64 in the prior quarter.

    For the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to the six months ended June 30, 2024:

    • net income was $31.7 million compared to $27.5 million;
    • diluted EPS were $1.84 compared to $1.61;
    • annualized ROA was 1.46% compared to 1.25%;
    • annualized ROE was 11.26% compared to 10.73%;
    • net interest margin was 4.25% compared to 4.08%;
    • provision for credit losses was $2.8 million compared to $5.4 million;
    • tax-free death benefit proceeds from life insurance were $0 compared to $1.1 million;
    • cash dividends of $0.24 per share totaling $4.1 million compared to $0.22 per share totaling $3.7 million; and
    • 93,212 shares of Company common stock were repurchased during the six months at an average price of $35.41 compared to 23,483 shares repurchased at an average price of $27.48 in the same period last year.

    The Company also announced today that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.12 per common share payable on August 28, 2025 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on August 14, 2025.

    “Given the current economic uncertainty, we are pleased to report another quarter of strong financial results,” said C. Hunter Westbrook, President and Chief Executive Officer. “These results reflect HTB’s commitment to remain nimble and be prudent balance sheet managers. Our earnings story over recent quarters has primarily been driven by our top quartile net interest margin, which expanded to 4.32% this quarter, and our ability to limit growth in our expense base.

    “HTB previously set a goal to be a consistently high-performing regional community bank that is a regionally and nationally recognized ‘Best Place to Work.’ As a result of this strong financial performance, for the second year in a row, the Company was named one of Forbes’ America’s Best Banks for 2025 and recognized as a Top 50 Community Bank in the 2024 S&P Global Market Intelligence annual rankings, awards based on the overall financial performance and strength of financial institutions. The Company was also recently included in the coveted 2025 KBW Bank Honor Roll, a distinction granted to only 5% of eligible banks based on their best-in-class earnings growth over the past ten years. Over the last year, HTB has been recognized as a best place to work in all five states we serve as well as nationally by Newsweek and American Banker.

    “Lastly, during the quarter we completed the previously announced sale of our two Knoxville, Tennessee branches. This transaction reflects our efforts to tighten our geographic footprint, improve our branch efficiencies, and allow us to better allocate capital to support long-term growth in other core markets.”

    WEBSITE: WWW.HTB.COM

    Comparison of Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025
    Net Income.  Net income totaled $17.2 million, or $1.00 per diluted share, for the three months ended June 30, 2025 compared to $14.5 million, or $0.84 per diluted share, for the three months ended March 31, 2025, an increase of $2.7 million, or 18.4%. Results for the three months ended June 30, 2025 benefited from a $1.3 million increase in net interest income and a $2.1 million increase in noninterest income due to a $1.4 million gain on the sale of two branch locations. Details of the changes in the various components of net income are further discussed below.

    Net Interest Income.  The following table presents the distribution of average assets, liabilities and equity, as well as interest income earned on average interest-earning assets and interest expense paid on average interest-bearing liabilities. All average balances are daily average balances. Nonaccruing loans have been included in the table as loans carrying a zero yield.

      Three Months Ended
      June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025
    (Dollars in thousands) Average
    Balance
    Outstanding    		   Interest
    Earned /
    Paid    		   Yield /
    Rate    		   Average
    Balance
    Outstanding    		   Interest
    Earned /
    Paid    		   Yield /
    Rate
    Assets                      
    Interest-earning assets                      
    Loans receivable(1) $ 3,804,502     $ 60,440   6.37 %   $ 3,802,003     $ 58,613   6.25 %
    Debt securities available for sale   149,611       1,658   4.45       152,659       1,787   4.75  
    Other interest-earning assets(2)   149,175       1,543   4.15       206,242       3,235   6.36  
    Total interest-earning assets   4,103,288       63,641   6.22       4,160,904       63,635   6.20  
    Other assets   263,603               266,141          
    Total assets $ 4,366,891             $ 4,427,045          
    Liabilities and equity                      
    Interest-bearing liabilities                      
    Interest-bearing checking accounts $ 563,817     $ 1,251   0.89 %   $ 573,316     $ 1,324   0.94 %
    Money market accounts   1,329,973       9,004   2.72       1,345,575       9,177   2.77  
    Savings accounts   182,340       37   0.08       183,354       38   0.08  
    Certificate accounts   868,321       8,564   3.96       951,715       9,824   4.19  
    Total interest-bearing deposits   2,944,451       18,856   2.57       3,053,960       20,363   2.70  
    Junior subordinated debt   10,154       206   8.14       10,129       205   8.21  
    Borrowings   31,154       350   4.51       12,301       160   5.28  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   2,985,759       19,412   2.61       3,076,390       20,728   2.73  
    Noninterest-bearing deposits   744,585               719,522          
    Other liabilities   59,973               70,821          
    Total liabilities   3,790,317               3,866,733          
    Stockholders’ equity   576,574               560,312          
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 4,366,891             $ 4,427,045          
    Net earning assets $ 1,117,529             $ 1,084,514          
    Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities   137.43 %             135.25 %        
    Non-tax-equivalent                      
    Net interest income     $ 44,229           $ 42,907    
    Interest rate spread         3.61 %           3.47 %
    Net interest margin(3)         4.32 %           4.18 %
    Tax-equivalent(4)                      
    Net interest income     $ 44,660           $ 43,325    
    Interest rate spread         3.65 %           3.51 %
    Net interest margin(3)         4.37 %           4.22 %

    (1)  Average loans receivable balances include loans held for sale and nonaccruing loans.
    (2)  Average other interest-earning assets consist of FRB stock, FHLB stock, SBIC investments and deposits in other banks.
    (3)  Net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.
    (4)  Tax-equivalent results include adjustments to interest income of $431 and $418 for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025, respectively, calculated based on a combined federal and state tax rate of 24%.

    Total interest and dividend income for the three months ended June 30, 2025 did not vary significantly when compared to the three months ended March 31, 2025. Regarding the components of this income, loan interest income increased $1.8 million, or 3.1%, primarily due to an increase in yield on loans and an additional day in the current quarter, which was offset by a $1.7 million, or 52.3%, decrease in other investments and interest-bearing deposits income, mainly due to a $1.0 million, or 78.9%, decrease in SBIC investment income where significant investment appreciation was recognized in the prior quarter. Accretion income on acquired loans of $1.0 million and $322,000 was recognized during the same periods, respectively, and was included in interest income on loans.

    Total interest expense for the three months ended June 30, 2025 decreased $1.3 million, or 6.3%, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2025. The decrease was primarily the result of a decline in the average balance of certificate accounts, specifically brokered deposits, and a decline in the average cost of funds across funding categories.

    The following table shows the effects that changes in average balances (volume), including the difference in the number of days in the periods compared, and average interest rates (rate) had on the interest earned on interest-earning assets and interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities:

      Increase / (Decrease)
    Due to    		   Total
    Increase /
    (Decrease)
    (Dollars in thousands) Volume   Rate  
    Interest-earning assets          
    Loans receivable $ 703     $ 1,124     $ 1,827  
    Debt securities available for sale   (17 )     (112 )     (129 )
    Other interest-earning assets   (878 )     (814 )     (1,692 )
    Total interest-earning assets   (192 )     198       6  
    Interest-bearing liabilities          
    Interest-bearing checking accounts   (8 )     (65 )     (73 )
    Money market accounts   (7 )     (166 )     (173 )
    Savings accounts   —       (1 )     (1 )
    Certificate accounts   (767 )     (493 )     (1,260 )
    Junior subordinated debt   3       (2 )     1  
    Borrowings   249       (59 )     190  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   (530 )     (786 )     (1,316 )
    Increase in net interest income         $ 1,322  


    Provision for Credit Losses.      The provision for credit losses is the amount of expense that, based on our judgment, is required to maintain the allowance for credit losses (“ACL”) at an appropriate level under the current expected credit losses model.

    The following table presents a breakdown of the components of the provision for credit losses:

      Three Months Ended    
    (Dollars in thousands) June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   $ Change   % Change
    Provision for credit losses              
    Loans $ 1,385     $ 800     $ 585     73 %
    Off-balance-sheet credit exposure   (82 )     740       (822 )   (111 )
    Total provision for credit losses $ 1,303     $ 1,540     $ (237 )   (15 )%

    For the quarter ended June 30, 2025, the “loans” portion of the provision for credit losses was the result of the following, offset by net charge-offs of $2.0 million during the quarter:

    • $0.3 million benefit driven by changes in the loan mix.
    • $1.6 million benefit due to changes in qualitative adjustments, partially offset by a slight worsening of the projected economic forecast, specifically the national unemployment rate. Of note, we released the $2.2 million qualitative allocation previously established for the potential impact of Hurricane Helene upon our loan portfolio which had been established in the quarter ended September 30, 2024. Any residual impact of the Hurricane is believed to have now been reflected elsewhere within the ACL calculation.
    • $1.3 million increase in specific reserves on individually evaluated loans.

    For the quarter ended March 31, 2025, the “loans” portion of the provision for credit losses was the result of the following, offset by net charge-offs of $1.3 million during the quarter:

    • $0.6 million benefit driven by changes in the loan mix.
    • A slight improvement in the projected economic forecast, specifically the national unemployment rate, was offset by changes in qualitative adjustments.
    • $0.1 million increase in specific reserves on individually evaluated loans.

    For the quarter ended June 30, 2025, the amount recorded for off-balance-sheet credit exposure was the result of an increase in the balance of loan commitments offset by changes in the projected economic forecast and qualitative allocation as outlined above. For the quarter ended March 31, 2025, the amount recorded for off-balance-sheet credit exposure was the result of an increase in the balance of loan commitments and changes in the loan mix and projected economic forecast as outlined above.

    Noninterest Income.  Noninterest income for the three months ended June 30, 2025 increased $2.1 million, or 26.5%, when compared to the quarter ended March 31, 2025. Changes in the components of noninterest income are discussed below:

      Three Months Ended    
    (Dollars in thousands) June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   $ Change   % Change
    Noninterest income              
    Service charges and fees on deposit accounts $ 2,502     $ 2,244     $ 258     11 %
    Loan income and fees   548       721       (173 )   (24 )
    Gain on sale of loans held for sale   2,109       1,908       201     11  
    Bank owned life insurance (“BOLI”) income   852       842       10     1  
    Operating lease income   1,876       1,379       497     36  
    Gain on sale of branches   1,448       —       1,448     100  
    Gain on sale of premises and equipment   28       —       28     100  
    Other   794       933       (139 )   (15 )
    Total noninterest income $ 10,157     $ 8,027     $ 2,130     27 %
    • Gain on sale of loans held for sale: The increase was primarily driven by sales of the guaranteed portion of SBA commercial loans during the period. There were $7.3 million in sales of the guaranteed portion of SBA commercial loans with gains of $570,000 for the current quarter compared to $4.6 million sold and gains of $366,000 for the prior quarter. There were $108.8 million of HELOCs originated for sale which were sold during the current quarter with gains of $954,000 compared to $89.4 million sold with gains of $1.1 million in the prior quarter. There were $30.3 million of residential mortgage loans sold for gains of $558,000 during the current quarter compared to $18.8 million sold with gains of $473,000 in the prior quarter. Our hedging of mandatory commitments on the residential mortgage loan pipeline resulted in a net gain of $27,000 for the current quarter compared to a net gain of $13,000 for the prior quarter.
    • Operating lease income: The increase was primarily the result of a reduction in losses recognized on the sale of previously leased equipment. We recognized net losses of $358,000 and $745,000 during the three months ended June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025, respectively.
    • Gain on sale of branches: On May 23, 2025, we completed the previously announced sale of our two Knoxville, Tennessee branches, recognizing a gain of $1.4 million. The gain was primarily the result of a premium received on the deposits assumed by the purchasing institution, partially offset by expenses associated with the transaction.

    Noninterest Expense.  Noninterest expense for the three months ended June 30, 2025 increased $294,000, or 0.9%, when compared to the three months ended March 31, 2025. Changes in the components of noninterest expense are discussed below:

      Three Months Ended    
    (Dollars in thousands) June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   $ Change   % Change
    Noninterest expense              
    Salaries and employee benefits $ 18,208     $ 17,699     $ 509     3 %
    Occupancy expense, net   2,375       2,511       (136 )   (5 )
    Computer services   2,488       2,805       (317 )   (11 )
    Operating lease depreciation expense   1,789       1,868       (79 )   (4 )
    Telephone, postage and supplies   561       546       15     3  
    Marketing and advertising   442       452       (10 )   (2 )
    Deposit insurance premiums   473       511       (38 )   (7 )
    Core deposit intangible amortization   411       515       (104 )   (20 )
    Other   4,508       4,054       454     11  
    Total noninterest expense $ 31,255     $ 30,961     $ 294     1 %
    • Computer services: At the end of the prior calendar year, we finalized the multiyear renewal of our largest core processing contract. The decrease in expense quarter-over-quarter is a reflection of the improved vendor pricing negotiated through this effort.
    • Other: The change was driven by an increase in loan workout expenses in addition to smaller increases across several other expense categories.

    Income Taxes.  The amount of income tax expense is influenced by the amount of pre-tax income, tax-exempt income, changes in the statutory rate and the effect of changes in valuation allowances maintained against deferred tax benefits. The effective tax rates for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and March 31, 2025 were 21.2% and 21.1%, respectively.

    Comparison of Results of Operations for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024
    Net Income.  Net income totaled $31.7 million, or $1.84 per diluted share, for the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to $27.5 million, or $1.61 per diluted share, for the six months ended June 30, 2024, an increase of $4.3 million, or 15.5%. The results for the six months ended June 30, 2025 were positively impacted by a $3.2 million increase in net interest income, a decrease of $2.6 million in the provision for credit losses, a $1.3 million increase in noninterest income, partially offset by a $1.6 million increase in noninterest expense. Details of the changes in the various components of net income are further discussed below.

    Net Interest Income.  The following table presents the distribution of average assets, liabilities and equity, as well as interest income earned on average interest-earning assets and interest expense paid on average interest-bearing liabilities. All average balances are daily average balances. Nonaccruing loans have been included in the table as loans carrying a zero yield.

      Six Months Ended
      June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024
    (Dollars in thousands) Average
    Balance
    Outstanding    		   Interest
    Earned /
    Paid    		   Yield /
    Rate    		   Average
    Balance
    Outstanding    		   Interest
    Earned /
    Paid    		   Yield /
    Rate
    Assets                      
    Interest-earning assets                      
    Loans receivable(1) $ 3,803,259     $ 119,053   6.31 %   $ 3,874,740     $ 122,113   6.34 %
    Debt securities available for sale   151,127       3,445   4.60       130,510       2,808   4.33  
    Other interest-earning assets(2)   177,551       4,778   5.43       135,936       3,848   5.69  
    Total interest-earning assets   4,131,937       127,276   6.21       4,141,186       128,769   6.25  
    Other assets   264,865               282,550          
    Total assets $ 4,396,802             $ 4,423,736          
    Liabilities and equity                      
    Interest-bearing liabilities                      
    Interest-bearing checking accounts $ 568,540     $ 2,575   0.91 %   $ 588,567     $ 2,870   0.98 %
    Money market accounts   1,337,731       18,180   2.74       1,289,758       19,340   3.02  
    Savings accounts   182,844       75   0.08       189,887       84   0.09  
    Certificate accounts   909,787       18,389   4.08       895,242       19,162   4.30  
    Total interest-bearing deposits   2,998,902       39,219   2.64       2,963,454       41,456   2.81  
    Junior subordinated debt   10,142       411   8.17       10,042       470   9.41  
    Borrowings   21,780       510   4.72       95,235       2,902   6.13  
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   3,030,824       40,140   2.67       3,068,731       44,828   2.94  
    Noninterest-bearing deposits   732,123               789,565          
    Other liabilities   65,367               50,224          
    Total liabilities   3,828,314               3,908,520          
    Stockholders’ equity   568,488               515,216          
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 4,396,802             $ 4,423,736          
    Net earning assets $ 1,101,113             $ 1,072,455          
    Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities   136.33 %             134.95 %        
    Non-tax-equivalent                      
    Net interest income     $ 87,136           $ 83,941    
    Interest rate spread         3.54 %           3.31 %
    Net interest margin(3)         4.25 %           4.08 %
    Tax-equivalent(4)                      
    Net interest income     $ 87,985           $ 84,645    
    Interest rate spread         3.58 %           3.35 %
    Net interest margin(3)         4.29 %           4.11 %

    (1)  Average loans receivable balances include loans held for sale and nonaccruing loans.
    (2)  Average other interest-earning assets consist of FRB stock, FHLB stock, SBIC investments and deposits in other banks.
    (3)  Net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.
    (4)  Tax-equivalent results include adjustments to interest income of $849 and $704 for the six months ended June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024, respectively, calculated based on a combined federal and state tax rate of 24%.

    Total interest and dividend income for the six months ended June 30, 2025 decreased $1.5 million, or 1.2%, compared to the six months ended June 30, 2024, which was driven by a $3.1 million, or 2.5%, decrease in interest income on loans, partially offset by a combined $1.6 million, or 23.5%, increase in interest income on debt securities available for sale and other interest-bearing assets. Accretion income on acquired loans of $1.3 million and $1.4 million was recognized during the same periods, respectively, and was included in interest income on loans. The overall decrease in average yield on interest-earning assets was mainly the result of a decline in average balances, specifically for the loan portfolio where we continue to be focused on prudent loan growth.

    Total interest expense for the six months ended June 30, 2025 decreased $4.7 million, or 10.5%, compared to the six months ended June 30, 2024. The change was primarily the result of a decrease in the average balance of borrowings in addition to the cost of funds across all funding sources.

    The following table shows the effects that changes in average balances (volume), including the difference in the number of days in the periods compared, and average interest rates (rate) had on the interest earned on interest-earning assets and interest paid on interest-bearing liabilities:

      Increase / (Decrease)
    Due to    		   Total
    Increase /
    (Decrease)
    (Dollars in thousands) Volume   Rate  
    Interest-earning assets          
    Loans receivable $ (2,583 )   $ (477 )   $ (3,060 )
    Debt securities available for sale   434       203       637  
    Other interest-earning assets   1,165       (235 )     930  
    Total interest-earning assets   (984 )     (509 )     (1,493 )
    Interest-bearing liabilities          
    Interest-bearing checking accounts   (105 )     (190 )     (295 )
    Money market accounts   669       (1,829 )     (1,160 )
    Savings accounts   (3 )     (6 )     (9 )
    Certificate accounts   260       (1,033 )     (773 )
    Junior subordinated debt   4       (63 )     (59 )
    Borrowings   (2,240 )     (152 )     (2,392 )
    Total interest-bearing liabilities   (1,415 )     (3,273 )     (4,688 )
    Increase in net interest income         $ 3,195  


    Provision for Credit Losses.      The following table presents a breakdown of the components of the provision for credit losses:

      Six Months Ended      
    (Dollars in thousands) June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024   $ Change   % Change  
    Provision for credit losses                
    Loans $ 2,185     $ 5,445     $ (3,260 )   (60 )%
    Off-balance-sheet credit exposure   658       (20 )     678     3,390  
    Total provision for credit losses $ 2,843     $ 5,425     $ (2,582 )   (48 )%

    For the six months ended June 30, 2025, the “loans” portion of the provision for credit losses was the result of the following, offset by net charge-offs of $3.3 million during the period.

    • $0.9 million benefit driven by changes in the loan mix.
    • $1.6 million benefit due to changes in qualitative adjustments, partially offset by a slight worsening of the projected economic forecast, specifically the national unemployment rate. Of note, we released the $2.2 million qualitative allocation previously established for the potential impact of Hurricane Helene upon our loan portfolio which had been established in the quarter ended September 30, 2024. Any residual impact of the Hurricane is believed to have now been reflected elsewhere within the ACL calculation.
    • $1.4 million increase in specific reserves on individually evaluated loans.

    For the six months ended June 30, 2024, the “loans” portion of the provision for credit losses was the result of the following, in addition to net charge-offs of $4.9 million during the period:

    • $1.3 million benefit due to changes in the projected economic forecast, specifically the national unemployment rate, and changes in qualitative adjustments.
    • $1.8 million increase in specific reserves on individually evaluated loans which was proportional to the increase in the associated loan balances which increased from $8.1 million to $16.3 million during the six month period, concentrated in the equipment finance and SBA portfolios.

    For the six months ended June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024, the amounts recorded for off-balance-sheet credit exposure were the result of changes in the balance of loan commitments, loan mix and projected economic forecast as outlined above.

    Noninterest Income.  Noninterest income for the six months ended June 30, 2025 increased $1.3 million, or 7.4%, when compared to the same period last year. Changes in the components of noninterest income are discussed below:

      Six Months Ended    
    (Dollars in thousands) June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024   $ Change   % Change
    Noninterest income              
    Service charges and fees on deposit accounts $ 4,746     $ 4,503     $ 243     5 %
    Loan income and fees   1,269       1,325       (56 )   (4 )
    Gain on sale of loans held for sale   4,017       3,285       732     22  
    BOLI income   1,694       2,642       (948 )   (36 )
    Operating lease income   3,255       3,450       (195 )   (6 )
    Gain on sale of branches   1,448       —       1,448     100  
    Gain (loss) on sale of premises and equipment   28       (9 )     37     411  
    Other   1,727       1,728       (1 )   —  
    Total noninterest income $ 18,184     $ 16,924     $ 1,260     7 %
                                 
    • Gain on sale of loans held for sale: The increase in the gain on sale of loans held for sale was primarily driven by HELOCs and residential mortgage loans sold during the period. During the six months ended June 30, 2025, there were $198.2 million of HELOCs sold during the current period for gains of $2.0 million compared to $40.7 million sold and gains of $473,000 for the corresponding period in the prior year. There were $49.1 million of residential mortgage loans originated for sale which were sold with gains of $1.0 million compared to $36.6 million sold with gains of $667,000 for the corresponding period in the prior year. There were $11.9 million of sales of the guaranteed portion of SBA commercial loans with gains of $936,000 compared to $25.6 million sold and gains of $2.1 million for the corresponding period in the prior year. Our hedging of mandatory commitments on the residential mortgage loan pipeline resulted in a net gain of $40,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2025 versus a net loss of $3,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2024.
    • BOLI income: The decrease was due to $1.1 million in tax-free gains on death benefit proceeds in excess of the cash surrender value of the policies recognized in the prior period, partially offset by higher yielding policies as a result of restructuring the portfolio at the end of the prior calendar year.
    • Gain on sale of branches: As discussed earlier, during the current period we completed the previously announced sale of our two Knoxville, Tennessee branches, recognizing a gain of $1.4 million in the current period.

    Noninterest Expense.  Noninterest expense for the six months ended June 30, 2025 increased $2.1 million, or 3.6%, when compared to the same period last year. Changes in the components of noninterest expense are discussed below:

      Six Months Ended    
    (Dollars in thousands) June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024   $ Change   % Change
    Noninterest expense              
    Salaries and employee benefits $ 35,907     $ 33,584     $ 2,323     7 %
    Occupancy expense, net   4,886       4,856       30     1  
    Computer services   5,293       6,204       (911 )   (15 )
    Operating lease depreciation expense   3,657       3,565       92     3  
    Telephone, postage and supplies   1,107       1,165       (58 )   (5 )
    Marketing and advertising   894       1,251       (357 )   (29 )
    Deposit insurance premiums   984       1,085       (101 )   (9 )
    Core deposit intangible amortization   926       1,329       (403 )   (30 )
    Other   8,562       7,580       982     13  
    Total noninterest expense $ 62,216     $ 60,619     $ 1,597     3 %
                                 
    • Salaries and employee benefits: The increase was primarily the result of increases in both pay and incentive compensation.
    • Computer services: As discussed earlier, the decrease in expense year-over-year is a reflection of the improved vendor pricing associated with the multiyear renewal of our largest core processing contract.
    • Marketing and advertising: The decrease was the result of a reduction in spending in the six months ended June 30, 2025 when compared to the same period of the prior year, as we re-evaluated our marketing strategy for future periods.
    • Core deposit intangible amortization: The intangible recorded associated with the Quantum merger is being amortized on an accelerated basis, so the rate of amortization slowed year-over-year.
    • Other: The increase period-over-period was driven by increases of $274,000 in losses on the sale repossessed equipment, $234,000 in community association banking deposit line of business referral fees, and $224,000 in consulting fees.

    Income Taxes. The amount of income tax expense is influenced by the amount of pre-tax income, tax-exempt income, changes in the statutory rate and the effect of changes in valuation allowances maintained against deferred tax benefits. The effective tax rate was 21.1% for both the six months ended June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024.

    Balance Sheet Review
    Total assets decreased by $17.4 million to $4.6 billion and total liabilities decreased by $44.9 million to $4.0 billion, respectively, at June 30, 2025 as compared to December 31, 2024. These changes can be traced to the use of the proceeds of both loan sales and the maturities of debt securities and certificates of deposit to fund loan growth. Total deposits declined by $113.0 million over the same period. The decrease was mainly the result of a reduction in brokered deposits of $96.5 million and $34.3 million of deposits which were assumed by the purchaser of our two Knoxville, Tennessee branches. Borrowings increased by $77.0 million to provide additional liquidity.

    Stockholders’ equity increased $27.5 million to $579.3 million at June 30, 2025 as compared to December 31, 2024. Activity within stockholders’ equity included $31.8 million in net income and $2.2 million in stock-based compensation and stock option exercises, partially offset by $4.1 million in cash dividends declared and $3.3 million in stock repurchases. In addition, accumulated other comprehensive income improved by $1.4 million due to a reduction in the unrealized loss on available for sale securities due to changes in market interest rates.

    As of June 30, 2025, the Bank was considered “well capitalized” in accordance with its regulatory capital guidelines and exceeded all regulatory capital requirements.

    Asset Quality
    The ACL on loans was $44.1 million, or 1.20% of total loans, at June 30, 2025 compared to $45.3 million, or 1.24% of total loans, at December 31, 2024. The drivers of this change are discussed in the “Comparison of Results of Operations for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2025 and June 30, 2024 – Provision for Credit Losses” section above.

    Net loan charge-offs totaled $3.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025 compared to $4.9 million for the same period last year. Annualized net charge-offs as a percentage of average loans were 0.18% for the six months ended June 30, 2025 as compared to 0.25% for the six months ended June 30, 2024.

    Nonperforming assets, made up of nonaccrual loans and repossessed assets, increased by $2.5 million, or 8.9%, to $30.5 million, or 0.67% of total assets, at June 30, 2025 compared to $28.0 million, or 0.61% of total assets, at March 31, 2025. Owner occupied commercial real estate (“CRE”) made up the largest portion of nonperforming assets at $8.9 million and $8.6 million, respectively, at these same dates. One relationship made up $5.0 million of the totals at both dates but no loss is anticipated. In addition, equipment finance loans made up $6.0 million and $5.1 million, respectively, at these same dates, concentrated in the transportation sector. The ratio of nonperforming loans to total loans was 0.81% at June 30, 2025 compared to 0.74% at March 31, 2025.

    Nonperforming assets increased by $1.7 million, or 6.1%, to $30.5 million, or 0.67% of total assets, at June 30, 2025 compared to $28.8 million, or 0.63% of total assets, at December 31, 2024, with the composition of nonperforming assets remaining consistent between periods. The ratio of nonperforming loans to total loans was 0.81% at June 30, 2025 compared to 0.76% at December 31, 2024.

    Classified assets increased by $8.2 million, or 20.0%, to $48.8 million, or 1.07% of total assets, as of June 30, 2025 when compared to the balance of $40.7 million, or 0.89% of total assets, at March 31, 2025. The drivers of the change were increases of $3.2 million in Equipment Finance loans, $2.3 million in commercial and industrial loans, and $1.6 million in owner-occupied CRE loans. Classified assets increased by $69,000, or 0.14%, to $48.8 million, or 1.07% of total assets, as of June 30, 2025 when compared to the balance of $48.8 million, or 1.06% of total assets, at December 31, 2024. The largest portfolios of classified assets at June 30, 2025 included $14.5 million of owner-occupied CRE loans, $8.6 million of equipment finance loans, $6.5 million of both 1-4 family residential real estate and commercial and industrial loans, $5.4 million of HELOCs, and $4.7 million of non-owner occupied CRE loans.

    Lastly, in an effort to assist customers in their post-Hurricane Helene recovery and clean-up efforts, at the end of the prior calendar year we granted payment deferrals of up to six months to provide short-term relief to impacted customers. The outstanding balance of these deferrals declined from $136.0 million at December 31, 2024 to $18.9 million at June 30, 2025. As stated earlier, after reassessing the remaining exposure and the sufficiency of the ACL in place, in the current quarter we released the $2.2 million qualitative allocation previously established for the storm upon our loan portfolio which had been established in the quarter ended September 30, 2024. To date, $27,000 in charge-offs have been recognized which were directly related to Hurricane Helene.

    About HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc.
    HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE: HTB), headquartered in Asheville, North Carolina, is the holding company for HomeTrust Bank, a state-chartered community bank operating over 30 locations across North Carolina, South Carolina, East Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, and Georgia. With total assets of $4.6 billion as of June 30, 2025, the Company’s goal is to continue to be recognized as a high-performing, regional community bank, while our strategy to reach that goal is to be a best place to work. As a reflection of these efforts, the Company has been named one of Bank Director’s “Best U.S. Banks,” one of Forbes’ “America’s Best Banks”, one of S&P Global’s “Top 50 Community Banks”, and named to the 2025 KBW Honor Roll. In addition, the Company has been recognized as one of American Banker’s “Best Banks to Work For”, received a “Most Loved Workplace” certification by Best Practices Institute, named as one of Best Companies Group’s “America’s Best Workplaces”, as well as being named a “Best Place to Work” in all five states in which the Company operates.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact, but instead are based on certain assumptions including statements with respect to the Company’s beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, expectations, assumptions and statements about future economic performance and projections of financial items. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results anticipated or implied by forward-looking statements. The factors that could result in material differentiation include, but are not limited to, natural disasters, including the lingering effects of Hurricane Helene; expected revenues, cost savings, synergies and other benefits from merger and acquisition activities might not be realized to the extent anticipated, within the anticipated time frames, or at all, costs or difficulties relating to integration matters, including but not limited to customer and employee retention, might be greater than expected, and goodwill impairment charges might be incurred; increased competitive pressures among financial services companies; changes in the interest rate environment; changes in general economic conditions, both nationally and in our market areas; legislative and regulatory changes; and the effects of inflation, a potential recession, and other factors described in the Company’s latest Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission – which are available on the Company’s website at www.htb.com and on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Any of the forward-looking statements that the Company makes in this press release or in the documents the Company files with or furnishes to the SEC are based upon management’s beliefs and assumptions at the time they are made and may turn out to be wrong because of inaccurate assumptions, the factors described above or other factors that management cannot foresee. The Company does not undertake, and specifically disclaims any obligation, to revise any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements.

    Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)

    (Dollars in thousands) June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   December 31,
    2024    (1)    		   September 30,
    2024    		   June 30,
    2024
    Assets                  
    Cash $ 16,662     $ 14,303     $ 18,778     $ 18,980     $ 18,382  
    Interest-bearing deposits   280,547       285,522       260,441       274,497       275,808  
    Cash and cash equivalents   297,209       299,825       279,219       293,477       294,190  
    Certificates of deposit in other banks   23,319       25,806       28,538       29,290       32,131  
    Debt securities available for sale, at fair value   143,942       150,577       152,011       140,552       134,135  
    FHLB and FRB stock   15,263       13,602       13,630       18,384       19,637  
    SBIC investments, at cost   17,720       17,746       15,117       15,489       15,462  
    Loans held for sale, at fair value   1,106       2,175       4,144       2,968       1,614  
    Loans held for sale, at the lower of cost or fair value   169,835       151,164       202,018       189,722       224,976  
    Total loans, net of deferred loan fees and costs   3,671,951       3,648,609       3,648,299       3,698,892       3,701,454  
    Allowance for credit losses – loans   (44,139 )     (44,742 )     (45,285 )     (48,131 )     (49,223 )
    Loans, net   3,627,812       3,603,867       3,603,014       3,650,761       3,652,231  
    Premises and equipment held for sale, at the lower of cost or fair value   616       8,240       616       616       616  
    Premises and equipment, net   62,706       62,347       69,872       69,603       69,880  
    Accrued interest receivable   16,554       18,269       18,336       17,523       18,412  
    Deferred income taxes, net   9,968       9,288       10,735       10,100       10,512  
    BOLI   92,576       91,715       90,868       90,021       89,176  
    Goodwill   34,111       34,111       34,111       34,111       34,111  
    Core deposit intangibles, net   5,670       6,080       6,595       7,162       7,730  
    Other assets   59,646       63,248       66,606       67,514       66,051  
    Total assets $ 4,578,053     $ 4,558,060     $ 4,595,430     $ 4,637,293     $ 4,670,864  
    Liabilities and stockholders’ equity                  
    Liabilities                  
    Deposits $ 3,666,178     $ 3,736,360     $ 3,779,203     $ 3,761,588     $ 3,707,779  
    Junior subordinated debt   10,170       10,145       10,120       10,096       10,070  
    Borrowings   265,000       177,000       188,000       260,013       364,513  
    Other liabilities   57,431       69,106       66,349       65,592       64,874  
    Total liabilities   3,998,779       3,992,611       4,043,672       4,097,289       4,147,236  
    Stockholders’ equity                  
    Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized, none issued or outstanding   —       —       —       —       —  
    Common stock, $0.01 par value, 60,000,000 shares authorized(2)   175       176       175       175       175  
    Additional paid in capital   174,900       176,682       176,693       175,495       172,907  
    Retained earnings   408,178       393,026       380,541       368,383       357,147  
    Unearned Employee Stock Ownership Plan (“ESOP”) shares   (3,703 )     (3,835 )     (3,966 )     (4,099 )     (4,232 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)   (276 )     (600 )     (1,685 )     50       (2,369 )
    Total stockholders’ equity   579,274       565,449       551,758       540,004       523,628  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 4,578,053     $ 4,558,060     $ 4,595,430     $ 4,637,293     $ 4,670,864  

    (1)  Derived from audited financial statements.
    (2)  Shares of common stock issued and outstanding were 17,492,143 at June 30, 2025; 17,552,626 at March 31, 2025; 17,527,709 at December 31, 2024; 17,514,922 at September 30, 2024; and 17,437,326 at June 30, 2024.


    Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited)

      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Dollars in thousands) June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024
    Interest and dividend income              
    Loans $ 60,440     $ 58,613     $ 119,053     $ 122,113  
    Debt securities available for sale   1,658       1,787       3,445       2,808  
    Other investments and interest-bearing deposits   1,543       3,235       4,778       3,848  
    Total interest and dividend income   63,641       63,635       127,276       128,769  
    Interest expense              
    Deposits   18,856       20,363       39,219       41,456  
    Junior subordinated debt   206       205       411       470  
    Borrowings   350       160       510       2,902  
    Total interest expense   19,412       20,728       40,140       44,828  
    Net interest income   44,229       42,907       87,136       83,941  
    Provision for credit losses   1,303       1,540       2,843       5,425  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses   42,926       41,367       84,293       78,516  
    Noninterest income              
    Service charges and fees on deposit accounts   2,502       2,244       4,746       4,503  
    Loan income and fees   548       721       1,269       1,325  
    Gain on sale of loans held for sale   2,109       1,908       4,017       3,285  
    BOLI income   852       842       1,694       2,642  
    Operating lease income   1,876       1,379       3,255       3,450  
    Gain on sale of branches   1,448       —       1,448       —  
    Gain (loss) on sale of premises and equipment   28       —       28       (9 )
    Other   794       933       1,727       1,728  
    Total noninterest income   10,157       8,027       18,184       16,924  
    Noninterest expense              
    Salaries and employee benefits   18,208       17,699       35,907       33,584  
    Occupancy expense, net   2,375       2,511       4,886       4,856  
    Computer services   2,488       2,805       5,293       6,204  
    Operating lease depreciation expense   1,789       1,868       3,657       3,565  
    Telephone, postage and supplies   561       546       1,107       1,165  
    Marketing and advertising   442       452       894       1,251  
    Deposit insurance premiums   473       511       984       1,085  
    Core deposit intangible amortization   411       515       926       1,329  
    Other   4,508       4,054       8,562       7,580  
    Total noninterest expense   31,255       30,961       62,216       60,619  
    Income before income taxes   21,828       18,433       40,261       34,821  
    Income tax expense   4,618       3,894       8,512       7,336  
    Net income $ 17,210     $ 14,539     $ 31,749     $ 27,485  

    Per Share Data

        Three Months Ended    Six Months Ended
        June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024
    Net income per common share(1)                
    Basic   $ 1.01     $ 0.84     $ 1.85     $ 1.61  
    Diluted   $ 1.00     $ 0.84     $ 1.84     $ 1.61  
    Average shares outstanding                
    Basic     17,006,141       17,011,359       17,008,699       16,871,383  
    Diluted     17,106,448       17,113,424       17,109,842       16,888,550  
    Book value per share at end of period   $ 33.12     $ 32.21     $ 33.12     $ 30.03  
    Tangible book value per share at end of period(2)   $ 30.92     $ 30.00     $ 30.92     $ 27.73  
    Cash dividends declared per common share   $ 0.12     $ 0.12     $ 0.24     $ 0.22  
    Total shares outstanding at end of period     17,492,143       17,552,626       17,492,143       17,437,326  

    (1)  Basic and diluted net income per common share have been prepared in accordance with the two-class method.
    (2)  See Non-GAAP reconciliations below for adjustments.


    Selected Financial Ratios and Other Data

      Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
      June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024
    Performance ratios(1)          
    Return on assets (ratio of net income to average total assets) 1.58 %   1.33 %   1.46 %   1.25 %
    Return on equity (ratio of net income to average equity) 11.97     10.52     11.26     10.73  
    Yield on earning assets 6.22     6.20     6.21     6.25  
    Rate paid on interest-bearing liabilities 2.61     2.73     2.67     2.94  
    Average interest rate spread 3.61     3.47     3.54     3.31  
    Net interest margin(2) 4.32     4.18     4.25     4.08  
    Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities 137.43     135.25     136.33     134.95  
    Noninterest expense to average total assets 2.87     2.84     2.85     2.76  
    Efficiency ratio 57.47     60.79     59.07     60.10  
    Efficiency ratio – adjusted(3) 58.59     60.29     59.43     60.36  

    (1)  Ratios are annualized where appropriate.
    (2)  Net interest income divided by average interest-earning assets.
    (3)  See Non-GAAP reconciliations below for adjustments.

      At or For the Three Months Ended
      June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   December 31,
    2024    		   September 30,
    2024    		   June 30,
    2024
    Asset quality ratios                  
    Nonperforming assets to total assets(1) 0.67 %   0.61 %   0.63 %   0.64 %   0.54 %
    Nonperforming loans to total loans(1) 0.81     0.74     0.76     0.78     0.68  
    Total classified assets to total assets 1.07     0.85     1.06     0.99     0.91  
    Allowance for credit losses to nonperforming loans(1) 147.98     165.96     163.68     166.51     194.80  
    Allowance for credit losses to total loans 1.20     1.23     1.24     1.30     1.33  
    Net charge-offs to average loans (annualized) 0.21     0.14     0.19     0.42     0.27  
    Capital ratios                  
    Equity to total assets at end of period 12.65 %   12.41 %   12.01 %   11.64 %   11.21 %
    Tangible equity to total tangible assets(2) 11.91     11.65     11.25     10.88     10.44  
    Average equity to average assets 13.20     12.66     12.28     12.02     11.78  

    (1)  Nonperforming assets include nonaccruing loans and repossessed assets. There were no accruing loans more than 90 days past due at the dates indicated. At June 30, 2025, $6.1 million, or 20.4%, of nonaccruing loans were current on their loan payments as of that date.
    (2)  See Non-GAAP reconciliations below for adjustments.


    Loans

    (Dollars in thousands) June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   December 31,
    2024    		   September 30,
    2024    		   June 30,
    2024
    Commercial real estate                  
    Construction and land development $ 267,494     $ 247,539     $ 274,356     $ 300,905     $ 316,050  
    Commercial real estate – owner occupied   561,623       570,150       545,490       544,689       545,631  
    Commercial real estate – non-owner occupied   877,440       867,711       866,094       881,340       892,653  
    Multifamily   113,416       118,094       120,425       114,155       92,292  
    Total commercial real estate   1,819,973       1,803,494       1,806,365       1,841,089       1,846,626  
    Commercial                  
    Commercial and industrial   367,359       349,085       316,159       286,809       266,136  
    Equipment finance   360,499       380,166       406,400       443,033       461,010  
    Municipal leases   168,623       163,554       165,984       158,560       152,509  
    Total commercial   896,481       892,805       888,543       888,402       879,655  
    Residential real estate                  
    Construction and land development   53,020       56,858       53,683       63,016       70,679  
    One-to-four family   640,287       631,537       630,391       627,845       621,196  
    HELOCs   205,918       199,747       195,288       194,909       188,465  
    Total residential real estate   899,225       888,142       879,362       885,770       880,340  
    Consumer   56,272       64,168       74,029       83,631       94,833  
    Total loans, net of deferred loan fees and costs   3,671,951       3,648,609       3,648,299       3,698,892       3,701,454  
    Allowance for credit losses – loans   (44,139 )     (44,742 )     (45,285 )     (48,131 )     (49,223 )
    Loans, net $ 3,627,812     $ 3,603,867     $ 3,603,014     $ 3,650,761     $ 3,652,231  


    Deposits

    (Dollars in thousands) June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   December 31,
    2024    		   September 30,
    2024    		   June 30,
    2024
    Core deposits                  
    Noninterest-bearing accounts $ 698,843     $ 721,814     $ 680,926     $ 684,501     $ 683,346  
    NOW accounts   561,524       573,745       575,238       534,517       561,789  
    Money market accounts   1,323,762       1,357,961       1,341,995       1,345,289       1,311,940  
    Savings accounts   179,980       184,396       181,317       179,762       185,499  
    Total core deposits   2,764,109       2,837,916       2,779,476       2,744,069       2,742,574  
    Certificates of deposit   902,069       898,444       999,727       1,017,519       965,205  
    Total $ 3,666,178     $ 3,736,360     $ 3,779,203     $ 3,761,588     $ 3,707,779  

    Non-GAAP Reconciliations
    In addition to results presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles utilized in the United States (“GAAP”), this earnings release contains certain non-GAAP financial measures, which include: the efficiency ratio, tangible book value, tangible book value per share and the tangible equity to tangible assets ratio. The Company believes these non-GAAP financial measures and ratios as presented are useful for both investors and management to understand the effects of certain items and provide an alternative view of its performance over time and in comparison to its competitors. These non-GAAP measures have inherent limitations, are not required to be uniformly applied and are not audited. They should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for total stockholders’ equity or operating results determined in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP measures may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

    Set forth below is a reconciliation to GAAP of the Company’s efficiency ratio:

        Three Months Ended   Six Months Ended
    (Dollars in thousands)   June 30, 2025   March 31, 2025   June 30, 2025   June 30, 2024
    Noninterest expense   $ 31,255     $ 30,961     $ 62,216     $ 60,619  
                     
    Net interest income   $ 44,229     $ 42,907     $ 87,136     $ 83,941  
    Plus: tax-equivalent adjustment     431       418       849       704  
    Plus: noninterest income     10,157       8,027       18,184       16,924  
    Less: BOLI death benefit proceeds in excess of cash surrender value     —       —       —       1,143  
    Less: gain on sale of branches     1,448       —       1,448       —  
    Less: gain (loss) on sale of premises and equipment     28       —       28       (9 )
    Net interest income plus noninterest income – adjusted   $ 53,341     $ 51,352     $ 104,693     $ 100,435  
    Efficiency ratio   57.47 %   60.79 %   59.07 %   60.10 %
    Efficiency ratio – adjusted   58.59 %   60.29 %   59.43 %   60.36 %

    Set forth below is a reconciliation to GAAP of tangible book value and tangible book value per share:

        As of
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share data)   June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   December 31,
    2024    		   September 30,
    2024    		   June 30,
    2024
    Total stockholders’ equity   $ 579,274     $ 565,449     $ 551,758     $ 540,004     $ 523,628  
    Less: goodwill, core deposit intangibles, net of taxes     38,477       38,793       39,189       39,626       40,063  
    Tangible book value   $ 540,797     $ 526,656     $ 512,569     $ 500,378     $ 483,565  
    Common shares outstanding     17,492,143       17,552,626       17,527,709       17,514,922       17,437,326  
    Book value per share   $ 33.12     $ 32.21     $ 31.48     $ 30.83     $ 30.03  
    Tangible book value per share   $ 30.92     $ 30.00     $ 29.24     $ 28.57     $ 27.73  

    Set forth below is a reconciliation to GAAP of tangible equity to tangible assets:

        As of
    (Dollars in thousands)   June 30,
    2025    		   March 31,
    2025    		   December 31,
    2024    		   September 30,
    2024    		   June 30,
    2024
    Tangible equity(1)   $ 540,797     $ 526,656     $ 512,569     $ 500,378     $ 483,565  
    Total assets     4,578,053       4,558,060       4,595,430       4,637,293       4,670,864  
    Less: goodwill, core deposit intangibles, net of taxes     38,477       38,793       39,189       39,626       40,063  
    Total tangible assets   $ 4,539,576     $ 4,519,267     $ 4,556,241     $ 4,597,667     $ 4,630,801  
    Tangible equity to tangible assets   11.91 %   11.65 %   11.25 %   10.88 %   10.44 %

    (1)  Tangible equity (or tangible book value) is equal to total stockholders’ equity less goodwill and core deposit intangibles, net of related deferred tax liabilities.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Liberty Gold to Present at the Metals & Mining Virtual Investor Conference July 23, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Liberty Gold Corp. (TSX:LGD; OTCQX:LGDTF), (“Liberty Gold” or the “Company”), based in Vancouver, B.C. and focused on developing open pit oxide deposits in the Great Basin of the United States, today announced that Jon Gilligan, President and CEO, will present live at the Metals & Mining Virtual Investor Conference hosted by VirtualInvestorConferences.com on July 23, 2025.

    DATE: July 23, 2025
    TIME: 11:30AM ET
    LINK: REGISTER HERE
    Available for 1×1 meetings: July 23 and 24, 2025

    This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real-time. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event.

    It is recommended that online investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates.  

    Learn more about the event at www.virtualinvestorconferences.com.

    ABOUT LIBERTY GOLD
    Liberty Gold is focused on developing open pit oxide gold deposits in the Great Basin of the United States, home to large-scale gold projects that are ideally suited for open-pit mining and heap leach processing. This region is one of the most prolific gold-producing regions in the world and stretches across Nevada and into Idaho, Utah and Arizona. The Company is advancing the Black Pine Project in southeastern Idaho, a past-producing, Carlin-style oxide gold system with a large, growing resource and strong economic potential. We know the Great Basin and are driven to acquire, discover and develop significant gold deposits that can be mined profitably through open-pit heap leaching scenarios and in an environmentally responsible manner.

    About Virtual Investor Conferences®
    Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors.

    Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access. Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors.

    CONTACTS:
    Susie Bell, Manager Investor Relations
    Liberty Gold Corp.
    Phone: 604-632-4677 or Toll Free 1-877-632-4677
    info@libertygold.ca
    For more information, visit libertygold.ca

    Virtual Investor Conferences
    John M. Viglotti
    SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access
    OTC Markets Group
    (212) 220-2221
    johnv@otcmarkets.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Liberty Gold to Present at the Metals & Mining Virtual Investor Conference July 23, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Liberty Gold Corp. (TSX:LGD; OTCQX:LGDTF), (“Liberty Gold” or the “Company”), based in Vancouver, B.C. and focused on developing open pit oxide deposits in the Great Basin of the United States, today announced that Jon Gilligan, President and CEO, will present live at the Metals & Mining Virtual Investor Conference hosted by VirtualInvestorConferences.com on July 23, 2025.

    DATE: July 23, 2025
    TIME: 11:30AM ET
    LINK: REGISTER HERE
    Available for 1×1 meetings: July 23 and 24, 2025

    This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real-time. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event.

    It is recommended that online investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates.  

    Learn more about the event at www.virtualinvestorconferences.com.

    ABOUT LIBERTY GOLD
    Liberty Gold is focused on developing open pit oxide gold deposits in the Great Basin of the United States, home to large-scale gold projects that are ideally suited for open-pit mining and heap leach processing. This region is one of the most prolific gold-producing regions in the world and stretches across Nevada and into Idaho, Utah and Arizona. The Company is advancing the Black Pine Project in southeastern Idaho, a past-producing, Carlin-style oxide gold system with a large, growing resource and strong economic potential. We know the Great Basin and are driven to acquire, discover and develop significant gold deposits that can be mined profitably through open-pit heap leaching scenarios and in an environmentally responsible manner.

    About Virtual Investor Conferences®
    Virtual Investor Conferences (VIC) is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for publicly traded companies to seamlessly present directly to investors.

    Providing a real-time investor engagement solution, VIC is specifically designed to offer companies more efficient investor access. Replicating the components of an on-site investor conference, VIC offers companies enhanced capabilities to connect with investors, schedule targeted one-on-one meetings and enhance their presentations with dynamic video content. Accelerating the next level of investor engagement, Virtual Investor Conferences delivers leading investor communications to a global network of retail and institutional investors.

    CONTACTS:
    Susie Bell, Manager Investor Relations
    Liberty Gold Corp.
    Phone: 604-632-4677 or Toll Free 1-877-632-4677
    info@libertygold.ca
    For more information, visit libertygold.ca

    Virtual Investor Conferences
    John M. Viglotti
    SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access
    OTC Markets Group
    (212) 220-2221
    johnv@otcmarkets.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Schurz Communications Appoints John Smarrella as General Counsel

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MISHAWAKA, Ind., July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Schurz Communications, Inc. (“Schurz”) today announced that John Smarrella, Esq. has been appointed as General Counsel, effective July 28, 2025. As General Counsel, Smarrella will join the executive leadership team to manage and direct Schurz’s legal and enterprise risk management operations.

    “We are excited to welcome John to the Schurz team,” said John Reardon, President and CEO, Schurz Communications. “He brings decades of legal expertise and a wealth of knowledge of our family-owned business, having worked as outside counsel to the Company for the past decade. He is a team player who works productively with our shareholders, executives, and board to achieve successful results. John will be a valuable addition to the business as we continue to grow and expand.”

    Smarrella brings more than two decades of legal expertise as a corporate and M&A transactional attorney with a strong background of serving as outside counsel for closely held and family-owned businesses. Prior to joining Schurz Communications, he was a partner at Barnes & Thornburg, one of the 100 largest law firms in the United States. With a concentration in corporate and business law, he has deep experience in acquisitions, joint ventures, minority investments, as well as contracts, regulations, policies, and more. Smarrella earned a J.D. (magna cum laude) from the University of Notre Dame and holds a Bachelor of Science (magna cum laude) in Business and History/Political Science from Greenville University.

    “Schurz is a multi-generational family business that has stood the test of time, evolving and advancing to become a leader in connecting and empowering people through innovative technologies,” said Smarrella. “I greatly admire the entire team and am excited to join this dynamic company. I look forward to contributing to the future of the business.”

    Smarrella will be based in the Schurz Communications headquarters office in Mishawaka, Indiana.

    About Schurz Communications
    Schurz is a family-owned corporation that has been helping businesses, communities and individuals make meaningful connections for five generations. The Schurz legacy began in newspaper publishing, radio, and television, and today, the company remains committed to making information more accessible through the platforms and technology of the digital age. Schurz Communications’ recent investments include regional broadband companies and cloud managed services providers, and the company’s portfolio also includes a variety of minority investments. For more information, visit: www.schurz.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Applied Rating Index Q2 2025 Results Released

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Toronto, ON, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Applied Systems® today announced the second quarter of 2025 results of the Applied Rating Index™, the Canadian insurance industry’s premium rate index. In Q2 2025, average premiums for both Personal Auto lines and Personal Property lines increased year over year. Quarter over quarter, premium rate change increased for Personal Auto and for Personal Property compared to Q2 2024.

    For Personal Auto, all provinces experienced an increase year over year, with Ontario seeing the highest at 18.5% and Alberta the lowest at 10.6%. For Personal Property lines, all provinces experienced an increase in premium rate change year over year. Quebec saw the highest premium rate change at 10.1% and British Columbia experienced the lowest at 1.0%

    Key findings for Q2 2025 include:

    • Personal Auto: In Q2 2025, Personal Auto premium rate change increased 14.9% versus Q2 2024. Personal Auto premium rate change increased 3.3% versus Q1 2025.
    • Personal Property: In Q2 2025, Personal Property premium rate change increased 6.9% versus Q2 2024. Personal Property premium rate change increased 3.4% versus Q1 2025.
    • Provinces: Across Personal Auto, all provinces experienced increased premium rate change year over year with Alberta, Ontario, Quebec and the Atlantic Provinces seeing 10.6%, 18.5%, 13.7% and 15.7% respectively. Relative to Q1 2025, all provinces saw increases in premium rate change quarter over quarter with Alberta, Ontario, Quebec and the Atlantic Provinces at, 3.0%, 4.4%, 1.2% and 2.7% respectively.

    Personal Property lines experienced increased year over year premium rate change across all provinces. Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, the Atlantic Provinces and Saskatchewan & Manitoba saw increases in premium rate change year over year with 9.5%, 1.0%, 5.0%, 10.1%, 7.1% and 9.4% respectively. Relative to Q1 2025, Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, the Atlantic Provinces and Saskatchewan & Manitoba all saw increases quarter over quarter of 5.9%, 1.7%, 1.8%, 1.3%, 3.0% and 3.9%.

    “It is evident that rising auto premiums are not just a short-term fluctuation but a trend across the country,” said Steve Whitelaw, SVP and general manager, Applied Systems Canada. “We also see that the Homeowners rates are under similar upward pressure.  The Applied Rating Index will continue to monitor rates across both personal auto and property lines, serving as a reliable measure of overall market activity.”

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

    Access the complete quarterly report here.

    # # #

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Applied Rating Index Q2 2025 Results Released

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Toronto, ON, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Applied Systems® today announced the second quarter of 2025 results of the Applied Rating Index™, the Canadian insurance industry’s premium rate index. In Q2 2025, average premiums for both Personal Auto lines and Personal Property lines increased year over year. Quarter over quarter, premium rate change increased for Personal Auto and for Personal Property compared to Q2 2024.

    For Personal Auto, all provinces experienced an increase year over year, with Ontario seeing the highest at 18.5% and Alberta the lowest at 10.6%. For Personal Property lines, all provinces experienced an increase in premium rate change year over year. Quebec saw the highest premium rate change at 10.1% and British Columbia experienced the lowest at 1.0%

    Key findings for Q2 2025 include:

    • Personal Auto: In Q2 2025, Personal Auto premium rate change increased 14.9% versus Q2 2024. Personal Auto premium rate change increased 3.3% versus Q1 2025.
    • Personal Property: In Q2 2025, Personal Property premium rate change increased 6.9% versus Q2 2024. Personal Property premium rate change increased 3.4% versus Q1 2025.
    • Provinces: Across Personal Auto, all provinces experienced increased premium rate change year over year with Alberta, Ontario, Quebec and the Atlantic Provinces seeing 10.6%, 18.5%, 13.7% and 15.7% respectively. Relative to Q1 2025, all provinces saw increases in premium rate change quarter over quarter with Alberta, Ontario, Quebec and the Atlantic Provinces at, 3.0%, 4.4%, 1.2% and 2.7% respectively.

    Personal Property lines experienced increased year over year premium rate change across all provinces. Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, the Atlantic Provinces and Saskatchewan & Manitoba saw increases in premium rate change year over year with 9.5%, 1.0%, 5.0%, 10.1%, 7.1% and 9.4% respectively. Relative to Q1 2025, Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, the Atlantic Provinces and Saskatchewan & Manitoba all saw increases quarter over quarter of 5.9%, 1.7%, 1.8%, 1.3%, 3.0% and 3.9%.

    “It is evident that rising auto premiums are not just a short-term fluctuation but a trend across the country,” said Steve Whitelaw, SVP and general manager, Applied Systems Canada. “We also see that the Homeowners rates are under similar upward pressure.  The Applied Rating Index will continue to monitor rates across both personal auto and property lines, serving as a reliable measure of overall market activity.”

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

    Access the complete quarterly report here.

    # # #

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

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

    The MIL Network –